Roundtail Bike

Is it possible to improve upon the traditional diamond frame of a road bike without losing ground in efficiency? Avid cyclist,entrepreneur, and novelist, Lou Tortola, has given it a shot. After putting in over 3,000 miles on his bike last year and talking with his cycling friends in his age 50+ riding group who stopped riding or would shorten their rides due to discomfort or injuries, Mr. Tortola imagined a bicycle where the “straight to your bum” seat stay is replaced with shock-absorbing rings. The idea is to reduce road vibrations and impact to the rider’s spine. After coming up with a prototype and contacting bike builder, Paul Taylor, the Tortola Roundtail was built.

Roundtail's Shock-Absorbing Rings

According to the Roundtail website, which just launched today, the bike design provides ten times the vertical flex and over sixty times the vibration absorption of a traditional frame. Plans are underway to make carbon fiber and titanium road bikes as well as get into the commuter bike and mountain bike market. This design could work really well for bike commuters if it can combine the efficiency of a road bike with a more comfortable ride. One question would be, how much does it weigh? There aren’t any specs yet on the website, but the rings are hollow and made of lightweight aluminum. The components look good too- nice wheels.

Joe Parkin, of Paved magazine and Dog In A Hat fame, endorses the Roundtail design:

Being somewhat of a traditionalist, I am typically skeptical when it comes to new bicycle designs, but the Roundtail works really well. The bike is stiff, lively, and comfortable. What more could you ask for?

Roundtail is being unveiled at the San Diego Custom Bicycle Show with more bikes to come for Interbike in September. To learn more technical details about the bike click here.

Via: BikeRumor

The past year has seen an abundance of bike manufacturers entering into the electric bike arena with slick, lightweight and powerful bikes. Despite misconceptions, electric bikes allow commuters to increase their range safely and arrive to the office smelling fresh, while still getting exercise (yes, you still have to pedal an electric bike) and reducing their carbon footprint. They also continually beat cars in commuter races. An efficient electric bike may be just the push one needs to make the decision to give up the car and commute by bike. Electric bikes are also efficient for running errands, towing things (like kids), and for the elderly or for those with physical ailments. It can be difficult to navigate your way through all the options and styles available in an electric bike so we’ve done it for you. By studying forums and sites such as NYCeWheels, A to B Magazine, BikeForums.net, and Electric Bike Report, we’ve come up with a list of the best electric bikes for 2011.

What To Look For In An Electric Bike

The choice of an electric bike is quite personal, depending upon budget and the intended use. In it’s simplest definition an electric bike is a basic traditional bike with 3 things added to it: a motor, a battery, and a controller that administers the power. There are 2 different types of controllers: throttle and pedal-assist. The throttle-based system will give you the option to ride without pedaling. The pedal-assist is activated by pedaling, but you can control the level of assistance you get through a control panel on the handlebar. Some people find the pedal-assist more simple to use and more true to being a bicycle, while others prefer the throttle and like the idea of having moments where you don’t have to pedal. The best advice is to try each one out at your local bike shop to see which type you prefer.

When it comes to price the thing to keep in perspective is what you’ll be using it for. If you’re looking for an efficient commuter, then in comparison to a car, an electric bike is a bargain, not to mention all you’ll save in gas. If you’re looking for something strictly for recreation, then cost may be more of a consideration. It is also suggested that you purchase a high quality lock or three if you’ll be leaving it out and about and if the battery is removable bring it with you though some come with their own battery locks.

Kalkhoff Electric Bikes

Kalkhoff Pro Connect Sport 300

Made in Germany, Kalkhoff Bikes are perhaps the Mercedes of electric bikes. Kalkhoff has been providing European cyclists with high quality bikes for years and now they are available in the U.S.  NYCeWheels says the Pro Connect is “one of the most efficient electric bikes on the market”. Kalkhoff uses the Panasonic Pedelec brushless motor, the highest rated electric motor currently available. A to B gives the Kalkhoff 5 out of 5 stars. The integrated maintenance-free motor offers 3 levels of pedal-activated assistance using 300 watts with a top speed of 25 mph. At the moderate setting, you can expect to get 50 miles from a full charge. Bicycle purists like that the Kalkhoff looks like a regular bike. With a lightweight aluminum frame, Shimano components, and Continental puncture-resistant tires, the motor isn’t the only thing that’s top notch about this bike. Other features include a hydraulic braking system, on-board computer with speedometer, and front and rear integrated lighting.

So what’s not to like about the Kalkhoff? How about the price. A true case of if you want the best, you’re going to pay for it, the Pro Connect Sport 300 is listed at $3,899.00. However, this is their most expensive model. Other e-bikes in the Kalkhoff fleet go for around the $3,000 mark and the Pro Connect Sport 250 2009 model is currently on sale for $2,899.00. Kalhoff does offer free shipping and a 2 year warranty.

Check out the Kalkhoff line of electric bikes here or for information on trying one out click here.

eZee LiV Electric Bike

eZee LiV Electric Bike

The eZee LiV offers an affordable, yet reliable option for a lightweight, simple to operate electric bike. It has a range of 15-30 miles and a top speed of 20 mph. With a 200 watt brushed motor, it may not be the most powerful machine on the electric bike block, but it beats the others at a price of $1,199.00. NYCeWheels recommends this bike as best value for commuting or recreational riding if you have moderate hills and don’t plan on pulling anything or carrying a large load. eZee has a full line of throttle activated electric bikes priced under $2,000. The eZee LiV uses more basic components than the other bikes in the eZee line. It features a 3 speed drivetrain, front and rear lights, and mudguards.

Check out eZee bikes here.

2011 Kona Electric Ute Cargo Bike

2011 Kona Electric Ute Cargo Bike

Kona has added a 250 watt Pedelec motor with a 24 volt Samsung Lihium-Ion battery to it’s popular Ute cargo bike offering up one of the first electric-assisted bikes for utilitarian use. This would make a great bike for long distance touring, those who want to ditch the car to run errands, or family bike rides. In full power mode the Kona Electric Ute supplies an 18 mile range, 35 miles in normal mode, and 62 miles in economy mode.  It offers quality Shimano components, an acacia wood deck, Kona pannier bag, fenders, and a lifetime warranty on the aluminum butted frame. For a detailed review see MyCargoBike.net where criticisms include the use of a front v-brake as opposed to a disc brake and a small, but continuous electric whine of the motor. Pros included a well-proportioned, lightweight design and a conveniently integrated battery that can be removed for charging. At $2599.00, the Kona Electric Ute is considered to be competitively priced for an electric cargo bike.

For a Kona dealer near you, click here.

Schwinn Electric Bike: Tailwind

Schwinn Electric Bike: Tailwind

The Schwinn Tailwind flaunts a feature that the other electric bikes don’t have: the Toshiba battery designed specifically for this bike can recharge in an astounding 30 minutes as opposed to the usual 4 hour recharging time. The 6 pound battery can be removed easily from the rear fender rack and features the latest in lithium polymer technology. According to NYCeWheels, the lithium polymer Schwinn battery pack has about 1.4 times the power to weight ratio than lithium ion, discharges at a more consistent voltage, and has a longer life expectancy. It offers a range of 25-30 miles, depending on riding style and conditions.

The sophisticated brushless motor is designed to assist the rider, not take over. The motor kicks in after pedaling begins and shuts off when the brake is applied. Schwinn designed the Tailwind to offer a longer range for the traditional bike rider, yet still remaining true to the classic bike design. It does not offer regenerative braking, but it may be the perfect transition for those who prefer the old school look as opposed to the futuristic appearance of some of the other electric bikes. The Schwinn Tailwind MSRP is $2,679.00.

For a Schwinn dealer near you, click here.

Sanyo Eneloop Electric Bike

Sanyo Eneloop Electric Bike

An entry from last year’s list, the Sanyo Eneloop continues to be a solid entry for a high-tech electric bike. Eneloop means that the regenerative brake system recharges the battery, so pressing on the rear brake lever actually generates energy. The 250 watt brushless motor supports 2 modes of pedal-assist plus an auto mode. Standard mode output matches the energy output of the rider. Power-Up mode doubles the energy output (for hills), while the auto mode automatically switches between these 2 modes depending upon riding conditions. The Sanyo Eneloop may appeal more to the female commuter because it’s, well… pretty. Similar to the styling of a Dutch city bike, the step-through frame makes it easy to get on and off. Range is 17-35 miles depending on the mode. Customer reviews on the Sanyo Eneloop are glowing, raving that the bike is quiet, smooth, and doesn’t feel like you’re riding an electric bike. Check out NYCeWheel’s review here.

The Sanyo Eneloop currently sells on Amazon for $1,499.99.

Dahon Boost Folding Electric Bike

Dahon Boost Folding Electric Bike

For commuters who need to lug their bikes up stairs or maneuver it onto public transportation, a folding electric bike such as the Dahon Boost would be a good choice. It offers all of the advantages of an electric-assisted bike at a weight of only 43 pounds. Dahon is a leader in high quality folding bikes. The Boost folds down to the same size as their 20″ folding bike in 15 seconds. The 250 watt brushless motor offers up 3 pedal-assist modes. Features an integrated rear rack, front and rear lighting, and a control panel on the handlebar. It can go about 30 miles on a charge. With a step-through frame and adjustable seat and handlebars, this bike serves as a versatile commuter bike.

The Dahon Boost sells for $2,499.00 on Amazon or at NYCeWheels.

Trek Valencia

Trek Valencia

Trek has thrown it’s hat into the electric bike ring and maybe just the catalyst to bring the lycra set and the commuters together. They’ve turned their standard Valencia commuter bike into a electric assist hybrid with a 350 watt brushless BionX rear hub motor and regenerative braking. Trek has added electric motors to some of their other bikes as well, such as the FX and the Transport- you’ll notice a plus sign next to these to indicate the hybrid model.  Four different pedal-assist modes vary from 25% assistance to 200% assistance. In regenerative mode, you can add on average a 10% increase in battery capacity. There aren’t many reviews out yet on the Trek e-bikes, but you can read specs about them here and some first impressions by users at bike forums here.

A2B Electric Bikes by Ultra Motor

A2B Metro

Don’t be fooled by it’s size. The A2B electric bikes by Ultra Motor pack a powerful punch with a 500 watt motor, 7 speeds, and high torque for hill climbing. Treehugger says it has “the heart of a bicycle and the soul of a scooter”. You can read their full review here. The lithium-ion battery is fully integrated into the downtube. The range is 20 miles on a single charge, but that can be extended to 40 miles with the purchase of an optional second battery. Top speed is 20 mph. The throttle is on the handlebar, meaning you can pedal or not. It does weigh in at a hefty 72 pounds so it may be better for short commutes, recreational fun or a cool option for college students to get around campus. The A2B Metro sells for around $2,700.00.

NYCeWheels is an authorized dealer or you can find a dealer near you here.

IZip Metro

2011 IZip Metro Electric Bike

Now wouldn’t this be fun to zip down to the grocery store? It features a 500 watt brushless hub motor and lithium-ion battery with a top speed of 20 mph and a range of 20-35 miles. It uses both pedal-assist and throttle power and weighs in at 55 pounds. The IZip Metro retails for $2,299.00.

Other Electric Bike Manufacturers We Like:

Ohm Cycles- pictured at the beginning of this article, Ohm Cycles is a Canadian company that makes high end electric bikes.

Giant- Giant made the ever classic Lafree electric bike, which has since been discontinued, but they continue to make the Twist Freedom and Twist Express.

EcoBike- Using both a pedal-assist and manual throttle, the EcoBike is one of the easiest electric bikes to operate. They offer 3 models around the $1,500 range.

You can also purchase electric conversion kits, which is especially helpful if you already have a bike that you’re comfortable with. The BionX conversion kit is considered to be the highest in quality and can be purchased at NYCeWheels. We also like AmpedBikes, which you can read about in this post.

The Best Women's Commuter Bikes: GT Aerostream

If you’re looking for a ride to work that shrinks your carbon footprint and your rear end, picking up a commuter bike is a perfect choice. With space to hold your pocket book, briefcase or even your groceries, commuter bikes work as hard as you do. Here is a rundown of the best women’s commuter bikes.

For more great commuter bike’s, check out Justin’s Review of the best commuter bikes.

Electra Townie Euro 8D Step-Through Commuter Bike

The Best Women's Commuter Bikes: Electra Townie Euro 8D Women's Bike

In the biking world, few names are as associated with quality as Electra. The Euro 8D Step-Through Commuter Bike is no exception. With a lower center of gravity to increase a woman’s comfort and ability for full leg extension, eight speeds and linear-pull brakes for smooth braking, this bike offers the ultimate in comfort and smooth handling. Plus, the attached alloy rear rack with strap allows for increased hauling capabilities.

In Town Bicycles calls the Townie 8D “a smart bike” because of its practical luggage rack, “light responsive ride,” and jazzy fenders.

Biketopia, where this commuter received a 5-star rating, describes the Euro as “fully-equipped for all daily adventures.”

This bike is available at REI in Cadet Blue for $599.00

Schwinn Meridian Adult 3-Wheel Commuter Bike

The Best Women's Commuter Bikes: Schwinn Meridian Adult 3-Wheel Bike

If you’re looking for something to spice up your daily commute, the Schwinn Meridian Adult 3-Wheel Commuter Bike might be just the ticket. The super-squishy spring saddle, upright handlebars and reliable brakes make this bike a comfortable way to travel. The folding rear basket is ideal for bringing all the essentials with you.

Amazon reviewers, who gave this ride nearly five stars, rave about this bike, praising its style, comfort, sturdiness and ability to stop on a dime. This Schwinn, according to Sears reviewers, who gave it a full five stars, is also particularly well suited for anyone with disabilities, dizziness, injuries or special needs.

This bike is available at Sears for $299.99.

Giant Twist Freedom Commuter Bike

The new Giant Twist commuter bike from Giant features their “hybrid technology”. Basically, the bike intelligently adjusts to your pedaling power, making for a very smooth ride (you can read about all the details in this PDF).

The Giant Twist has two lithium-ion battery EnergyPaks for extended range. Giant says the charge lasts up to 70 miles in Economy mode, and the bike take four hours to recharge.

The entire range of Giant Electric Bikes are available from Bob’s Bicycles. They range in price from $1624 to $2,249.

The Sonoma Women’s Chainless Drive Evolution Urban Commuter Bicycle

The Best Women's Commuter Bikes: Sonoma Women's Chainless Urban Commuter Bicycle

For the ultimate in stress-free commutes, Sonoma created the Sonoma Women’s Chainless Urban Commuter so you never have to worry about a broken chain or tangled, grease-stained pant legs. The chainless feature makes for a quieter ride, while a satin seat, shock-absorbing fork and smooth handgrips create a comfortable experience no matter where you’re going. For picking up groceries or transporting necessities to work or school, the carrying rack is essential.

Discount Hybrid Bikes Reviews reports that this bike delivers “beauty,” “comfort” and “substance,” so you can get yourself — and your things — where you need to go in style.

This bike is available from Amazon for $389.49.

The Jango 7.0 Medium Commuter Bike by Topeak

The Best Women's Commuter Bikes: Jango 7.0 Medium Women's Commuter Bike by Topeak

For the woman who needs a smooth ride that can transport her and her necessities, the Jango 7.0 Medium Commuter Bike by Topeak is the ideal choice. This bike not only features an aluminum frame specially designed to ensure a woman’s comfort but also numerous different attachments to meet any busy woman’s needs. Topeak offers racks, bags, fenders and lights, many of which clip on and off without the use of tools, so you can be ready to go in a snap.

This bike is available at Amazon for $699.97.

Women's Dutch Bikes

An upright and relaxed ride. A single speed for effortless cruising. Peerless, artistic styling. What more could a girl want from a bike? If this sounds like you, check out these fabulous Dutch bikes that fit the description above. There’s sure to be a style (and price) that suits your taste.

Batavus BUB Women’s Dutch Bike

Women's Dutch Bikes: Batavus BUB bike

Inspired by the shape of a paper clip, the Batavus Bub Bicycle features a step-through frame, three speeds and a coaster brake. The upright ride allows for a more comfortable commute. The Commuter Bike Store describes this bike as the point where “minimalism meets maximum practicality” and calls it “a sculpture on wheels.” As a bonus, front and rear racks can be purchased, in case you need to carry anything while you’re cruising around town.

This bike is available from the Commuter Bike Store, in a variety of colors, for $599.99.

Breukelen Bike by Bowery Lane

Women's Dutch Bikes: Breukelen Bike by Bowery Lane

The Dutch inspired Breukelen Bike is made right here in the USA, with American Steel and solar power, in New York City. Sustainable cork grips make this bike even greener. And the tan leather saddle and wooden crate — which holds two six packs — add vintage style in droves.

If you want to look good while you’re traveling, this bike is available from the Commuter Bike Store for $695. If you can pick it up in NYC, they manufacturers will give you $50.00 off!

Electra Women’s Amsterdam Girard 3 Bike

Women's Dutch Bikes: Electra Women's Amsterdam Girard 3

If you’re looking for a ride that is also a work of art, the Electra Women’s Amsterdam Girard 3, is the bike for you. Designed by folk artist Alexander Girard, this bike is make of a classic, steel, Dutch frame and features a low-maintenance 3-speed drivetrain that is easy to pedal. With a rear rack and pedal-powered headlight, this bike will get you home from work as safely as it got you there.

This Electra is available from Bob’s Bicycles for $749.99

Republic Plato Dutch Bike

Women's Dutch Bikes: Republic Plato Dutch Bike

For those ladies who don’t want just the average bike,The Republic Plato Dutch Bicycle allows the opportunity to create a totally customizable, upright ride, so that every girl gets the bike of her dreams.  Orange frame, red seat, black tires? Sure. White frame, tan seat, pink tires? No problem. With the Plato, you can express your style everywhere from the beach to the street.

For $399, Republic Bike gives you a bike that is, in their words “built by us and you.”

The sales of commuters bikes in the U.S. have grown quickly in the last couple years. Commuter bikes are those that include features useful for commuting to work or around town — like fenders, chain guards, storage racks, comfortable seats, lights and puncture-resistant tires. You may also be interested our reviews of folding bikes and electric commuter bikes and women’s commuter bikes.

Update: See our article Best Commuters Bikes For 2011.

Let’s take a look at some the best commuter bikes of 2010:

Raleigh Detour Deluxe 2010 Commuter Bike

The Detour Deluxe is designed specifically for commuters — it comes standard with a rack, fenders, a headlight and a comfortable seat. The aluminum frame is lightweight but strong enough to carry cargo around town.

The Basta Pilot light system is a nice addition for the commuter. Both the headlight and taillight is powered by the generator in the hub of the bike. The lights can be set to automatic. When you hit a dark patch the lights will automatically flip on and when you come out into the light again they’ll turn back off.

The Raleigh Detour Deluxe Commuter Bike is available from REI for around $740.

Electra Townie Euro 24D Commuter Bike

The Electra Townie Euro is a comfortable bike with many practical features for commuters.

It includes dynamo-powered halogen headlight, a battery-powered LED rear light, kickstand and an alloy rear rack with strap.

The bike’s geometry places pedals well ahead of the seatpost, resulting in leg movement that many people find more stable than other designs.

The tires have a Kevlar puncture-resistant casing and reflective sidewalls. Nice!

It’s available from REI for $700.

Giant Twist Freedom Commuter Bike

The new Giant Twist commuter bike from Giant features their “hybrid technology”. Basically, the bike intelligently adjusts to your pedaling power, making for a very smooth ride (you can read about all the details in this PDF).

The Giant Twist has two lithium-ion battery EnergyPaks for extended range. Giant says the charge lasts up to 70 miles in Economy mode, and the bike take four hours to recharge.

The entire range of Giant Electric Bikes are available from Bob’s Bicycles. They range in price from $1624 to $2,249.

Schwinn World Avenue One Commuter Bike

The Schwinn World Avenue is an affordable commuter bike that is built for comfortable urban riding. It has a large saddle, and a seat post with built-in suspension. The World Avenue also comes with Planet Bike fenders and rear carrier, a full chain guard, a kickstand and a bell.

The World Avenue is priced around $500 from Amazon.

Huffy Commuter Bike

If you’re looking for an inexpensive commuter bike, Huffy sell this commuter bike under $150. The bike comes standard with fenders and a rear rack. However, at this price level, bike components tend to be cheaply made, so owners may find that they need to pay for repairs and replacements quite soon. But if you are on a budget, and need an entry-level commuter bike, you might consider this one.

The Huffy Commuter bike is available from Sears for about $180.

The Kona Ute Cargo Bike

The Kona Ute is a good choice if you’ll be carrying cargo around town.

The Ute features a huge rack which is capable of carrying four panniers. This bike’s geometry is designed to make carrying groceries on your bike a breeze. It has an extended utility frame made out of butted 7005 aluminum for heavy load-carrying ability. It also comes with some nice additions like fenders and quality handlebar grips.

The Ute is available at Bike Sale.

Felt Cafe 8 Deluxe Commuter Bike

The Felt Cafe 8 Deluxe is a lightweight commuter bike, that Felt describes as “a real-world answer to bicycle commuting and any local store runs.” It’s priced around $600.

Biria Lite 3 Speed Trekking and Commuter Bike

Biria bikes are designed in Germany. The Biria Trekking Lite is a quality commuter bike for under $500.

This three-speed bike has Shimano Nexus internal gear hub. This means there is no external derailleur for shifting — it’s all internal for low maintenance and ease-of-use. The Trekking Lite includes a chainguard, kickstand, rack and fenders.

It’s available from BikeMania for $490.

More Commuter Bikes

You can also find a good range of commuter bikes at the Commuter Bike Store.

I’ve been testing a folding commuter bike, the Dahon Jack. This is a good quality bike that feels solid when riding. I like the ergonomic grips on the handlebars and the full-size 26 inch wheels. I get a lot of flats, so the bike’s Schwalbe Big Apple tires were a welcome inclusion. Dahon says that these tires, which include Kevlar anti-puncture lining, offer lower rolling resistance than thinner tires.

The Dahon Jack fairly light at 13.6 kg (30 lbs.), and fold down easily to 38 x 69 x 91 cm (14″ x 27″ x 36″).

This bike cost me $450. I’m planning on converting it to an electric bike at some point, using anAmped Bike kit.

Dahon offers some other full-sized commuter bikes like the Cadenza Solo and the Espresso.

The Strida was designed from the ground up to be a very low-maintenance folding bike. It weighs 19-22 pounds and folds down in about ten seconds. Once folded, you can wheel it around (instead of having to carry it like most folding bikes). This makes it easy to bring the bike on trains or into the office. In place of a conventional bike chain, the bike has a simple cogged band to turn the wheels. There’s no grease is involved.

According to the Strida blog:

There is no gear-system to fail, no brake pads to replace, no chain to stretch, no gear teeth to wear out, no rims to retrue, no head-set to loosen, no wheel hub cones to wear-out, no derailleurs to bend / break, virtually no parts susceptible to rust, and no paint to chip.

The latest “5.0″ version of the Strida was released this month. It incorporates alloy wheel rims and hubs (instead of nylon and plastic) and disc brakes (instead of hub brakes).

Click here to view the embedded video.

Click here to view the embedded video.

The bike is available for $475 (version 3.2) or $775 (version 5).

You can read a review of the bike on Cool Tools.

Mark Sander, the inventor of the Strida bike has a new folding bike in development.

Link: Strida

This is a new bike from Kona, called the Ute, to be released in 2008. With a cargo rack as part of its design, it will be one of the few bikes designed with the commuter in mind. The bike also comes with two grocery-style pannier bags that include a raincover. You can also opt to get a four bag version. The plastic deck on the rear is machined from 100% post consumer recycled material. The design is similar to the Xtracycle bike extender. Via Bike Hugger