Electric bicycles have generally not been considered dependable modes of long-distance travel, both because of limited charge capacity and speed constraints. But a recent addition to the e-bike line-up could get you from Boston to New York on one charge and go as fast as 80 miles per hour.
The Hanebrink X-5 electric bicycle weighs 120 lbs and has a dual suspension monocoque chassis made of aircraft-grade aluminum tubing. Its lithium-ion liquid-cooled batteries will get 200 miles per charge, according to the manufacturer, while a 14-speed transmission allows the driver to reach a top speed of 80 miles per hour.
Should the bike’s battery run out, the pedals can be popped out and the bike can run on human pedal power.
According to Hanebrink, the bike’s manufacturer, “the benefit of a legal electric bicycle is, of course, that it does not require registration, drivers license, or special motorcycle permit, etc. and can be operated where motorcycles are not permitted.”
But how long can a bike that can go as fast as 80 miles per hour remain unregulated? If regulation does not presently exist for bikes that can reach this kind of speed, it likely will soon. But if your desire to own this bike is not dampened by its $16,940 price tag, you can pre-order for delivery in March 2013.
Photo: Hanebrink
via [Wired Autopia]
