There are already a number of retrofit solutions to turn a classic bicycle into an e-bike. With Skarper, a new e-bike drive system for retrofitting is now coming onto the market. According to its own statements, it wants to revolutionize nothing less than the world of e-bikes.
Skarper, from the London start-up of the same name, is an innovative and novel solution for converting a conventional bicycle into an e-bike. To do this, the motor is simply attached to the rear wheel for “clipping”, which, according to the manufacturer, works with a “click”. With the unique and patent-protected disc brake drive system, the power is then transmitted to the brake disc on the rear wheel.
Before the motor can be used, the manufacturer’s own DiskDrive disc must be mounted on the rear wheel. The motor then uses this for propulsion. According to the manufacturer, the drive develops a torque of up to 50 Nm from 250 watts of power. The maximum speed is 32 km/h, although this can also be restricted to 25 km/h depending on the legal situation.
Thanks to a series of sensors and control algorithms, the motor reacts intelligently to the terrain and provides the precise support, according to Skarper. There are three modes to choose from: Eco, Standard and Turbo. Both the mode selection and other information such as the battery level and Bluetooth connectivity can be viewed and adjusted via smart buttons and lights on the device.
Skarper offers a clip-on motor and battery
The battery is also integrated in Skarper’s easily attachable and detachable drive unit. According to the manufacturer, with a capacity of 202 Wh, a range of up to 60 km should be possible. Of course, this should depend heavily on the weight of the bike and rider and other factors. The charging time is given as 2.5 hours, with a range of around 15 to 20 km in the “tank” after just 30 minutes. The weight of the Skarper disc brake drive system is given as 3 kg plus 300 g for the DiskDrive disc.
The Skarper drive is scheduled to hit the market in 2023. However, it should be possible to take pre-orders soon.
The start-up Skarper was able to rely on prominent supporters during the development. Among others, the six-time Olympic champion and eleven-time world champion in track cycling, Sir Chris Hoy, was involved in product development. “What excites me most about Skarper is that we are offering something completely new. You no longer have to choose between a bike and an e-bike, you can clip on the motor whenever you want electric support. I firmly believe that this freedom and flexibility to change the way you drive in a matter of seconds will have a significant impact on the industry. Cycling will be made accessible to a much wider audience.”
