EBike The Magazine - More relaxed commuting - Bosch eBike Systems
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
eBike The Magazine More relaxed commuting People who ride their eBike to work avoid wasting time in long traffic jams, getting where they want quickly and keeping fit at the same time. A report on a new way of life. All the fun of the trail The new eMTB Mode raises the Uphill Flow experience to the next level. For a natural, intuitive riding sensation and optimum control. Get moving, get healthy What are the health benefits of eBikes? What points need to be considered? An interview with physiotherapist Philipp Hausser.
Street Flow
That feeling of freedom in discovering the city anew. Getting around in a fast, healthy and
sustainable manner – on the way to work, out shopping or with the family. Bringing greater
quality to daily life and discovering the city streets with the eBike. That is the Bosch eBike
Street Flow. bosch-ebike.de/streetflow
Expand your life
#streetflow
2
What makes
Mobility Smart?
Welcome to our inaugural edition of eBike the
Magazine. We dedicate this first issue to women
and men throughout the world seeking out “Smart
Mobility”.
I’d like to better define this often-used term –
what makes it “smart”? What does it do that goes
beyond? In my perspective, it can be summarized
in three traits: smart mobility is resourceful,
revitalizing, and enjoyable. Combined, they create
the drive for Bosch, and numerous other innovators,
to create solutions for today’s city dwellers that go Enjoyable mobility means that our future
beyond “the drive.” transportation needs to be satisfying to use. I’d
Resourcefulness in mobility is capitalizing on like to challenge readers to find ways to make
today’s infrastructure with tomorrow’s technology transportation more fun. For instance, combine
and bridging distances that we otherwise thought an eBike with public transportation. A shared
impossible. With long-lasting batteries and powerful commute experience, either with co-workers or
assistance, eBikes elevate the practicality and with new acquaintances formed on public transit,
feasibility of cycling for commutes – combining the adds joy through comradery, yet another way that
cruising speeds needed for timely travel with the “smart” mobility can stimulate our mental health.
comfort of an electric tailwind, helping commuters Cycling naturally is social and leaves you feeling
reach the office while keeping the sweat to a refreshed.
minimum. The convenience and cost savings they So how will we explore our cities in the
offer cyclists is undeniable. Resourcefulness also future? One only needs to look at the agility of
includes treating our environment well – we owe my home country Germany and its rapid adoption
this to future generations. of repurposed roads, rails, and dedicated
Revitalizing transportation is heathy for the “eBikeexpressways” to see a glimpse of the
body and mind. Whether by creating relaxation possibilities for America. In the Netherlands, one
through exercise or by avoiding the stress of rush in every 3 bikes sold is electric. Much of Europe
hour traffic, “smart” mobility is energizing and truly and other countries around the world are moving
“invented for life.” eBikes make both this possible in the same direction. Is electricity a suitable
at the same time – we call it “commut-ercising”. In addition to the bicycle, often considered to be the
today’s super-connected world, we could all use ultimate means of human-powered transportation
a little less phone-in-face and more wind-in-hair. and celebrated for its elegance and efficiency? As
Pedal-assist eBikes preserve all the physical a lifelong cyclist, I can think of no more exciting
and mental health benefits of cycling, but make innovation for solving the challenges of connecting
the benefits of cycling more easily accessible people and places in an equally elegant and highly
by anyone. As you’ll see in many of the stories efficient manner.
throughout this magazine, eBikes enable more
people than ever to jump on a bike…to commute
to the office, to explore the hidden treasures of a
new town, to keep communities safe and secure,
or to just get a bit more exercise. A recent Portland
State University study found that among surveyed Yours,
eBike owners, the top five reasons for owning an Claudia Wasko,
eBike included replacing car trips, recreation, and General Manager
increasing fitness levels. Bosch eBike Systems Americas
3
eBike
FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT
bosch-ebike.com
Getting
Inside Outdoors
The City
People go on journeys, discover the world and
experience adventures. A gentle electric tailwind
will make this a whole lot easier.
Towns and cities are places for making
encounters. They shape people and
society. eBikes are an important part
18 Simply forgetting time
of urban mobility.
and the world
Uphill Flow offers the fun of the trail at its purest.
The new eMTB Mode raises the Uphill Flow
06 More relaxed commuting experience to the next level.
People who ride their eBike to work avoid
wasting time in long traffic jams, getting where 24 Who's Your Favorite
they want quickly and keeping fit at the same eBike Customer?
time. A report on a new way of life. Leading eBike retailers across North America
discuss who their favorite custmer is and why.
26 You can't get much higher!
12 Bosch 'N Blue
Four guys plan to take their eMountain bikes
Patrol Bikes of the Future Start with an "e"
to Chile on a cycling expedition to the world's
as more police departments ditch traditional
highest volcano at an altitude of 6,893 metres
bicycles for eBikes.
above sea level.
30 Suddenly the smile returns
16 Industry Execs Roundtable In a personal report, former World Cup rider
eBike executives from around the globe discuss Greta Weithaler explains what she owes to the
amongst other things why the time is now for eBike.
eBikes in the United States.
32 Great eMTB Rides
Adventure awaits with five great eMTB
destinations from coast to coast.
34 A perfect vacation on two wheels
For many people relaxation and exercise are part
of their holidays. In particular, cycling tours are
becoming increasingly popular.
38 Pete Way
Haibike adaptive brand ambassador Pete Way
feels like a kid again on his eMTB.
4
Bosch eBike Systems 2018
Magazine
Forward
Thinking
How will we live, work, move around in the
future? There are so many things we are
having to rethink. A look into the future.
06
40 Should we copy Copenhagen?
Mobility connects people, urban centers
and ideas. A new multi-mobile era is set to
transform our cities.
44 Get moving, get healthy
What are the health benefits of eBikes? What
points need to be considered? An interview
with physiotherapist Philipp Hausser.
46 Why an eBike is worthwhile
18 What began as a niche movement has become
a trend. There are three million eBikes on
German roads.
48 Shots from Instagram
From the heat to the snow consumers sound
off on their exciting eBike experiences.
50 2018 Boogaloo Race Series
This Class 1 pedal-assist mountain bike race
and demo has now grown to include for premier
mountain bike venues.
52 Uphill Flow
34 The pleasure of getting around the natural
environment. To forget time and the world,
while still staying focused. At one with our
instincts – uphill with the eMountain bike.
That’s what Bosch eBike Uphill Flow is all about.
54 Tradeshows and events
From the Sea Otter Classic in Monterey, CA,
to Interbike in Reno, NV, Bosch eBike Systems
will be there.
55 New features 2018
Bosch eBike Systems has many new product
40 inovations for 2018 including PowerTube 500.
5
More relaxed
commuting
In Germany, there are some 30 million commuters.
One in two of these travel less than 6 miles to work.
Over these distances, the eBike is often the fastest mode of
transport. It therefore makes sense to rethink habits.
6
Inside The City
WATCH THE VIDEO
bosch-ebike.com/streetflow
Swing past Big Ben and take
a relaxing spin through London's
West End: the eBike guarantees
riding enjoyment.
7
More
riding enjoyment
eBike riding in both urban and
rural settings is becoming J ulia has been commuting by eBike on an almost
daily basis for more than two years now,
travelling from her home in London's Crouch End
even more comfortable
district to her office near Tower Bridge. The 6 mile
journey usually takes her about 35 minutes. German
by birth, she has been working as a computer
analyst in the British capital since 2004.
London, a city with a population of 8.6 million,
is set to become a bike city. The city authorities
have plans to invest around 1.3 billion euros in
infrastructure and political initiatives to quadruple
bicycle traffic. The plans include a 23-mile network
of cycle highways, called “Cycle Superhighways”,
with quieter “Quietways” and more than 10,000
rental bicycles. According to a study, the number
of inner-city bike trips already rose by 133 percent
between 2000 and 2015, reaching 670,000 daily.
The new Bosch Active Line provides
eBikers with moderate support eBikes may become an important factor here in
at a torque of up to 40 Nm the future. On its website, Transport for London
- ideal for everyday use. gives eBikes the thumbs up for their suitability for
commuting, environmental friendliness, speed and
performance.
A change in attitudes is vital. Already more
than 50 percent of the world's population lives in
cities. This figure will have risen to 75 percent by
2050. The city is the living concept for the future.
Ideas are developed in these dynamic centers. This
is where change is initiated. This is where trends
are set. However, cities also face a number of big
challenges: air pollution, water and energy supply
shortages, lack of space, and congested streets.
The list goes on and solutions are badly needed.
With a maximum torque of up to 50 Nm, Electromobility can make a contribution to
the Bosch Active Line Plus ensures
sustainable city development and a liveable urban
smooth acceleration and “extra”
riding enjoyment. environment. eBikes in particular offer enormous
opportunities as a means of transport. They help
save resources as well as reducing emissions
and noise.
In Copenhagen, the undisputed bicycle capital
of the world, 63 percent of residents now cycle
to work or school. Only nine percent use cars.
Since the 1970s, parking space for cars has been
consistently reduced at a rate of three percent year
on year in order to provide more space for bicycles.
The German government is also increasingly
moving towards pedal power. The “National Cycling
Plan 2020” was launched four years ago. The idea:
to make cycling more attractive to people by means
The PowerTube 500 combines modern
design with high-quality Bosch
of a comprehensive package of measures and
technology, for eBikers who are improved infrastructure, particularly for commuting
committed to a clean and timeless look. to work. The government aims to increase the
8
Inside The City
Easily accessible:
the new "in" place for
Londoners in the district
of Shoreditch (above).
Just around the corner:
an eBike trip along
Redchurch Street, right
next to Shoreditch High
Street Station (below).
9
Where will you find
the most bicycles?
Which modes of transport are the most
popular with living in cities? And what
is the proportion of bikes?
13 % 13 %
Berlin Frankfurt
Having fun commuting along the shores of Lake Michigan in
34 % 12 % Chicago, Illinois.
proportion of cycle traffic to 15 percent by 2020
Freiburg Hamburg (currently 12 percent). But are the measures being
implemented sufficient? Although the political will
4% 6%
exists to promote more bicycle traffic, things are
not developing as hoped, according to the ADFC
Source: Sources: Cyclecities; Greenpeace; Civitas; ECF; Transform, U.S. Census 2012-2016 5-yr Est.
(General German Bicycle Club) for example.
The ADFC points to the Netherlands as a model.
Cycling has been massively encouraged there since
the 1980s and bicycles now represent a 27 percent
share of all traffic. This is thanks, for example, to
Paris Vienna access restrictions for cars, higher parking charges
and, above all, an integrated network of cycle paths.
5% 23 % Ever more charging stations and secure parking
facilities are also currently being built.
A study has shown that most car commuters
in Germany could also switch to bikes. After all,
82 percent of commuters in the country cover less
than 16 miles on their daily commute to work, while
one in two travels less than 6 miles to work. These
distances do not pose any problem, especially by
Washington, DC Davis, CA
eBike.
2% 4% It is important to cycling commuters that cycle
paths be sufficiently safe and attractive. For example
so-called protected bike lanes, i.e. wide cycle paths
along the main traffic routes, physically separated
from cars and exclusively dedicated to cyclists. If
all of these elements are in place, the motivation
to switch to bicycles like the eBike comes naturally,
Chicago, IL San Francisco, CA
10Inside The City
Boris Palmer is the
Mayor of Tübingen and
“Germany's most bicycle-
friendly person of 2015”
“Competing with
the car”
You use an eBike to get to work. Why?
At first, I tried travelling by car, but after two years
I decided to get rid of it. I replaced it with an
Speed eBike. It's the fastest way to get around the
city, I'm in the fresh air and can even get some
exercise if I want. In Tübingen, a city with seven
hills and an altitude differential of 124 miles, I also
need to be able to get about in a suit without
breaking into a sweat. In winter I sometimes take
Cruising along the Riverwalk in Chicago with power assistance
the bus.
makes the ride much more enjoyable.
How many miles do you cover by bike each
year?
1,243 miles by Speed & Bike and up to 2,485 miles
by conventional bike.
As the town's mayor, you're currently
as London-based computer analyst Julia explains: planning a "bicycle transport infrastructure".
“I do it for purely practical reasons. It helps me What does that mean?
keep fit and saves money. The underground is The starting point is that bicycle traffic is often
moved onto pavements, or else you have to share
expensive,” explains the fortysomething German. It
the road with cars and feel unsafe. There are
is also a good way to break up the day, she explains, occasional sections of good cycle paths, but these
“I get to work feeling better when I travel by eBike are usually few and far between. Our aim is for
and I'm somehow more relaxed when I get home people to be able to get about safely and quickly
again in the evenings.” by bicycle. This means we need to close the gaps.
These are bridges or tunnels at rivers, mountain
So it's not just about saving time and money,
chains, railway lines or main roads. The
but also about quality of life and health: The fact electrification of two-wheeled transport will solve
is that the average adult spends 11.5 hours every air quality and traffic congestion problems.
day sitting down. People don't get enough exercise,
particularly if they have an office job. eBikes are Ten years ago, Tübingen approved a plan to
reduce CO 2 emissions by 70 percent.
perfect for commuters who want to increase their Where are you today?
stamina and fitness as an incidental benefit. We've reached 25 percent - a good level for
Moreover, people who opt for an eBike instead Germany. But it's not enough.
of a car are benefiting not just themselves, but
You're an advocate of the high-speed eBike. Is
also the environment. Based on an average
there a particular reason for this?
fuel consumption of eight litres per 62 miles Look at what eBikes are mostly used for: leisure.
for all commuter cars in Germany, this yields This is due to the fact that commuting distances
a consumption of almost 70 million liters of petrol have grown and that it takes too long to cover ten
per day. This results in 156,000 tons of CO2. eBikes kilometres at a maximum speed of 16 miles per
hour. The Speed eBikes allows you to compete
therefore offer enormous savings potential.
with the car. Out of town, you can travel at 35 to
And this is becoming more and more important 22 to 25 miles per hour, you don't have to look for
because the city as the center of life and as a parking space and you'll be at least as fast as
a meeting place is increasingly becoming the a car. That's what we really need. Persuading
centerof focus. The reason for this is that we are commuters to switch from their cars to suburban
train services is expensive and takes decades.
all rediscovering our cities. Speed & Bikes could solve the problems overnight.
Bringing commuting by bike up to speed: that's
my objective!
11Bosch 'N Blue
Patrol Bikes of the Future
Start with an ‘e’
P olice officers on bicycles are
nothing new; officers adopted
bicycle patrols as part of their
standard functions as early as the
19th century, and there’s been a
revival in the practice since the late
1980s – for good reason.
Bikes give officers access to
areas that would be difficult to
get around quickly in a squad car,
especially in cities congested with
traffic, and allow police to pursue
suspects in crowded areas or
through tight spaces, and even over
terrain a squad car can’t tackle.
Traditional bicycles have their
downsides, though. They require
a lot of energy to pedal, and can’t
go as fast as officers sometimes
need to move. Police officers also have to carry bicycle, allowing them to expand their patrol area
a lot of equipment with them, which makes a and cover more ground.
bicycle heavier and harder to ride uphill or for long Officers are still able to get into tight places and
distances. crowds, but now they can get there even faster.
There’s a way to get all the positives of a police When a call comes in, an officer can easily adjust
bicycle program and eliminate the negatives, the assist level into Turbo and quickly pedal up
however – with an eBike, or electric bicycle, which to 28 mph – that’s comparable with top Tour de
uses a pedal-activated electric motor and battery France pro rider speeds on flat terrain, and 9 to 10
that gives riders an extra tailwind to pedal faster mph faster than an average rider.
uphill and over longer distances. Officers not only get to a scene faster – they also
Improved Policing on eBikes arrive stronger. The boost from the motor means an
Electric bikes have been around almost as long officer arrives at a scene less fatigued than he or
as traditional bicycles, but advances in motor and she would be after powering a traditional bike at
battery technologies in recent years have been high speeds using just their legs, so they can use
driving consumer growth in places like Europe and more energy for police work and less for pedaling.
China – and now police departments in the United eBikes also provide the opportunity to get
States are taking notice of an eBike’s advantages. more officers involved in bike patrol. Officers who
With a boost from an electric motor, officers can aren’t sold on the physical demands of traditional
ride further and longer than they can on a standard bicycling now can get out, patrol and engage
12Inside The City
with the community because of the assistance the Tech-savvy police departments across the
eBike’s motor provides. country are exploring the implementation of an
Even bike patrol officers who crave the physical eBikes program to gain some of these benefits,
challenge of riding can appreciate an eBike, because and it’s crucial to know what to consider before
the beauty is that the rider can always choose how purchasing.
much assistance to get from it. When an officer is Case in Point: Green Bay Police Department
cruising the town on standard patrol, he or she can The Green Bay Police Department (GBPD),
have the motor assist on Eco (boosting their leg located in Green Bay, Wisconsin, is divided into four
power by 50 percent), making the experience very policing districts designed around factors like major
similar to traditional bike riding, and increasing the geographical boundaries and call volume. Each
eBike’s range to as high as 100 miles. But when district has an assigned captain and lieutenants
they need to get somewhere fast, they have the as well as community policing officers.
option to kick up the assistance level to Turbo – a When GBPD implemented its community police
300 percent boost. program in 1995, the department assigned each
A less tangible – but no less important – effect community police officer a mountain bike to use
of a police officer on an eBike is the approachability when patrolling.
the bike affords. Both kids and adults who might “They have the option of taking out a squad
never approach an officer in a squad car will greet car, but we tell them they should be walking
an officer on a bike, and the eBike’s motorized neighborhoods, biking and engaging the
feature gives it an extra “cool factor” that serves as community,” said Captain John Laux, captain of
a conversation starter, helping the officers engage GBPD’s District C.
the community and get some face time with local Traditional bicycles worked just fine when
citizens. officers were patrolling smaller neighborhoods,
13but when GBPD moved to district policing in there, they aren’t exhausted – and an exhausted
January 2012, community police officers had to officer is a vulnerable officer,” Laux said. “The
patrol larger areas spread over several square eBikes with the electrical assist takes exhaustion
miles, and it could be challenging on a standard out of the equation, so officers can be as effective
mountain bike, Laux said. as they would be coming out of a squad car.”
“When our policing areas were small, it made Although police-grade eBikes have a higher
sense to patrol on a bike or on foot, but getting price tag than a standard police mountain bike,
from one end of the district to another quickly Laux believes the benefits of an eBike outweigh the
was problematic and not realistic,” he said. “Then additional cost, and was able to finance his district’s
I started hearing about eBikes.” eBikes through a combination of community
Over the summer of 2016, Laux began to do fundraising and grants from organizations like
some research on eBikes, browsing the Internet and the Wisconsin Public Service Foundation and
asking other departments about their experiences. Community Crime Prevention Grant Program.
He found Pete’s Garage, a local outdoor sports “Most of our budget goes to wages and benefits,
shop, and tapped store manager Derek Hughes and that will be the case with many departments,
for advice. Hughes, a veteran mountain and snow but it comes down to how badly you want them
biker, had experience with eBikes, and steered Laux and what you need to do to get them,” Laux said.
toward Cannondale eBikes, powered by the Bosch “It’s a big commitment, but if other departments
eBike system. are serious about having a mountain bike program,
“We brought in a couple of Cannondale demo there are grants out there, as well as generous
eBikes, and the officers absolutely loved these,” community members and stakeholders who want
Laux said. “Derek spoke highly of the Bosch battery to contribute to a way to enhance a police force.”
life and motor, and the dual suspension was huge.” Laux’s vision is to staff all 14 community police
GBPD purchased three Cannondale Moterras officers with eBikes.
with Bosch Performance CX motors and one “I don’t think there are limitations for this
Cannondale Contro-E Speed with a Bosch program,” he said. “All it took for our department
Performance Speed motor. to get these eBikes was some enthusiasm and time.
“eBikes give our officers the ability to respond If you want it, there are no limitations, not even
quickly from a longer distance, and when they get budget.”
14Inside The City
15Larry Pizzi Kevin Cox Ewoud van Leeuwen Sandra Wolf
Accell North America Electra Bicycle Company Gazelle Bikes Riese & Müller
Industry Execs Roundtable
eBike executives from around the globe discuss amongst other
things why the time is now for eBikes in the United States.
Q: Why do you think the time is now for eBikes not already riding. They can level the playing
in the United States? field to bring family and friends together so
that everyone, regardless of ability or fitness
EL: We see that there is more and more interest
in electric bikes across all price points and level, can experience the joy of bicycling.
value propositions. People are traveling more SW: Sustainability, environmental protection and
and may have visited Europe and seen and a responsible lifestyle are becoming more
experienced electric bikes and the advantages and more important to people in the United
that they offer. It is an easy, fun and healthy States. Mobility and bicycle mobility are
alternative to other modes of transport. It’s changing – especially in urban areas.
even more than that! We see sales are taking
off in certain pockets in North America where
there is good bicycling infrastructure and the Q: Some bicycle dealers are still reluctant or
culture to support it. apprehensive to carry eBikes. Why do you
think that is? And do you think these dealers
KC: I think we’re finally past the early adopter will eventually come around?
phase and quickly moving into the early
majority.More people are coming around EL: Retailers and people on the shop floor need
to the idea of eBikes…they’re hearing more to embrace the electric bike segment as a
about them, reading more about them, talking transportation alternative to the car instead of
more about them, and finally, they are test a threat to the bicycle. The latter part is super
riding them. And once someone test rides an important in order to become successful. Will
eBike…well, they’re hooked. you jump on your electric bike to bike to work
as a mechanic? Do you believe in the product?
LP: Today’s pedal-assist drive systems by Bosch Only then will the shop do well in selling the
turn the current generation of eBikes into product. Electric bikes are a great way of
a real game-changing experience. Bicycling getting around in the city. I use one for my trips
can be a life changing activity for so many to get coffee, get small groceries and bike to
people and what I love most about today’s work. I still use my MTB for recreational rides.
eBikes is the simple fact that they make I use my electric bike because it's a better and
bicycling more accessible for those that are more fun alternative over my car. Long answer
16Inside The City
short: I think electric bikes will take off once Q: How will your company/brand play an
retailers and their personnel embrace them integral role in getting us to where Europe
as a viable transportation alternative and is currently?
start bringing that message across to their EL: Gazelle's marketing efforts are centered
customers.
around getting people on electric bikes
KC: Many years ago when eBikes first started to and experience them, either through demo
surface in the U.S., the systems weren’t great events or favorable demo terms towards our
and the tech support was minimal. Dealers retailers. Additionally, most of our marketing
got burned in the process. Today, that is resources go into driving more people into
no longer the case and many retailers have our retailers through digital marketing and
already started coming around to eBikes we support advocacy groups to lobby for
again. Those who decide to embrace eBikes improved infrastructure. Next to that, we
will stick around in years to come. Those who have a program called "Gazelle Stories" where
refuse may miss out on an opportunity to do people can sign up in the major North America
more business with more customers. cities to try out one of our bikes for a month.
All we ask in return is a story... how they liked
LP: I think many North American bicycle dealers
it and share their experience with us and all
still see eBikes as counter intuitive to bicycling.
the potential other new Gazelle users. In the
In the U.S. and Canada, throttle actuated bikes
are legal and they have a difficult time with the end, we want all people to enjoy the ride and
idea of a bicycle that you don’t pedal. Also, the start Gazelling!
legal and legislative climate around eBikes is KC: Electra will keep doing what we’ve always
challenging in some states. As they experience done, create awesome, beautiful, easy-to-
the latest pedal-assist bikes and the BPSA / ride bikes that customers love. Our patented
People For Bikes, three-class legislation gets Flat Foot Technology creates a comfortable,
further adopted (now law in seven US States) ergonomic riding position. When you combine
clarifying where an eBike rider can legally ride, that with the Bosch systems, you give
I believe they will begin to further embrace the customers a truly awesome ride that inspires
category, experience success and become the confidence and delivers record-breaking
most successful channel for sales and service smiles per miles.
of eBikes. LP: We will continue in our leadership role to
advance State vehicle code regulations while
working with land management agencies to
Q: Our projections are that the U.S. eBike market
accommodate appropriate places to ride
is roughly a decade behind Europe in terms
of sales and overall size of the market. Would Class-1, pedal assist eBikes on State and
you say that’s a fairly accurate assessment? Federal lands. Most importantly, we will
continue to deliver great value from our brands
KC: Yes, and that’s good news for the U.S.! (Raleigh, Haibike and IZIP) while providing the
Although the European bicycle culture is highest quality, innovative products to meet
different from that of the U.S., the eBike the needs and wants of consumer entering
provides us a great platform to help more the market today.
people get back on two wheels. From Baby-
SW: Together with our dealers, we will increase
Boomers to Gen X to Millennials, eBikes offer
people’s awareness of eBikes. Communication
a fun, unique and elevated riding experience.
wise we strongly work on generally improve
LP: That is probably right. eBikes went mainstream the image of eBikes and to convince people.
first in The Netherlands in 2004, on the back In terms of visibility, the Riese & Müller design
of our Sparta brand, and is still growing today. makes a difference on the streets and thus
Germany is now the largest market and it grew the brand helps to create impact. Riese
very quickly as our Haibike brand innovated & Müller will continue with its premium
into ePerformance. I expect that in the U.S. strategy in order to offer the best quality
and Canada, once we get to 15% of market, bikes to American customers with a focus on
we will begin to see exponential growth. commuter and cargo bikes.
17# uphillflow
Simply forgetting
time and the world
Uphill Flow offers the fun of the trail at its purest.
The new eMTB Mode raises the experience to the next level –
conquering peaks with the best possible support.
18Getting Outdoors
A tranquil moment after the
exhilaration of Uphill Flow,
when everything went
smoothly and perfectly.
FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT
bosch-ebike.com/uphillflow
19# uphillflow
T he pleasure of moving effortlessly through the
natural environment. To forget time and the
world, while still staying focused. At one with our
technical developments at Bosch eBike Systems.
The Performance Line CX is a drive that has been
specially designed for the demands of eMountain
instincts – uphill with the eMountain bike (eMTB). bikes. This drive is now optimally supplemented by
That's what Uphill Flow is all about. the new eMTB mode, which guarantees a natural
The term was coined some years ago by Claus and more intuitive riding sensation and maximum
Fleischer, Managing Director of Bosch eBike control – through adaptation of the software.
Systems, and professional eMTB rider Stefan eMTB Mode replaces the previous Sport Mode
Schlie. It describes the unique experience of cycling and switches between the Tour and Turbo riding
uphill with up to three times your own strength. modes. With a maximum torque of up to 75 newton
Mountain biking with electric support is now metres (Nm), the motor dynamically supports the
widely accepted, even among genuine athletes. rider's own pedal power by between 120 and
There have been some remarkable consequences: 300 percent. Without requiring any gear shifts,
year after year, bicycle manufacturers are setting the motor always provides optimum support for
new sales records. Specialist dealers are catering eMountain bikers, even at low cadences. Starting
to new, sometimes significantly younger prospective on steep slopes is problem free and off-road riding
customers, and even competitive athletes are using is made significantly easier.
electrically driven mountain bikes – whether for The degree of support depends on the pedalling
training, as a compensating factor on tours or to pressure. It starts when slight pressure is applied
extend their own technical boundaries. A new kind to the pedal, according to requirements and when
of sport is establishing itself, with longer circuits and greater pressure is exerted on the pedal, the drive
sections that would not be possible without an electric provides maximum thrust virtually without delay. As
motor. Not to mention that feeling of flow, when soon as the pressure is taken off the pedal, support
everything simply goes smoothly and is just right. is gently reduced.
During its development activities, Bosch takes The response from the bicycle industry has
inspiration from professional cyclist Stefan Schlie. been impressive: “I think this is the greatest
The runner-up Trials World Champion is a valuable development to date,” says Scott Product Manager
source of impetus and ideas. He is just one of a Andreas Ziegler. “Now the riding mode really does
number of well-known professionals who are adapt to the power of your legs.” John Riley,
fans of ultimate fun on the trail – each in his own Director Global Mountain Bike at Trek, comments:
very personal way. Former World Cup rider Greta “The bikes are increasingly getting closer to the
Weithaler, for example, who has inspired many riding experience of a conventional mountain bike.
women to take up biking with power assistance I think that eMTB Mode is the next logical step in
during her “Women's Camps”. Ace enduro bringing the riding sensation and experience even
rider René Wildhaber enjoys solo adventures in closer to that of a traditional bike.”
Switzerland on his eMTB. German champion André The success story of the eMountain bike is not
Wagenknecht can talk from experience about only measured in technical achievements. New
topics such as training and rehabilitation. They all technologies require infrastructure, trust and
show what is possible with the latest technology. responsibility.
Gary Fisher, the inventor of the mountain bike is With its Uphill Flow campaign, Bosch aims to
also convinced: “The eBike is really one of those educate people and establish a trail etiquette in
great inventions that works for us humans.” The order to ensure a friendly coexistence in a natural
ambassadors for this new experience continue to setting. Aiming to make the flow feeling available
share their knowledge and enthusiasm on group to even more people, the company launched two
tours and at festivals and trade fairs. projects in 2017: a special race format, the eMTB
15 percent of all eBikes sold in 2016 were Challenge, as well as the construction of the first
mountain bikes. Economic success and acceptance Bosch eBike Uphill Flow trail, which is specifically
in the MTB scene are closely linked to the designed for mountain bikes.
20Getting Outdoors
Fair on trails!
From warning hand signals to the person behind you when you encounter The Performance Line CX
oncoming traffic and friendly greetings to fellow road users, through to is a drive that has been
consideration for nature, trail etiquette should always be an indispensable specially developed for the
element on any eMTB tour: demands of eMountain bikes.
It has now been optimally
1
Always keep
2
Don't leave
complemented by the
eMTB Mode.
to the trails any traces
when riding behind you
3 4
Keep your eMountain
Respect others
bike under control
5
Show consideration
6
Plan ahead
for animalsWhy is
eMountain biking
the new way of
cycling?
Bosch enthusiasts will tell you:
eMTB
“I love technology myself,
especially when it works for me.
And the eBike is really one of
The eMTB Challenge is not an ordinary MTB
those great inventions that race with electric tailwind, but rather a completely
works for us humans.” new and separate format. With a length of 19
Gar y Fisher, miles and an altitude difference of around 3281
mountain bike legend feet, the trail can be completed with a single
battery charge and the mix of uphill, downhill and
orienteering sections provides a real challenge
for riders. Above all, the no-feet zones – technical
passages that have to be completed without
letting your feet touch the ground – demand a
great deal from participants. This was tested for
the first time in Riva del Garda and Willingen, and
professionals, hobby bikers and the media were all
highly enthusiastic. Even freeride legends like Niels-
“The eMountain bike makes it Peter Jensen had great fun.
possible for people who may not Diddie Schneider proved to be the perfect
previously have had the partner for implementation of the idea of the
world's first Bosch eBike Uphill Flow trail,
confidence, to try out this sport.”
which was opened in the Bavarian Forest in May
Greta Weithaler, 2017. In order to achieve variety and fun for the
Ex-World Cup rider
various levels of difficulty, specific elements
were incorporated into the trail in addition to the
distance variants. These include numerous berms,
switch-backs and changes of direction that are
guaranteed to bring a smile to any rider's face,
particularly with an appropriately powerful drive
unit like the Performance Line CX. Similar trails are
currently being created in the French-Swiss tourist
destination of Portes du Soleil, as well as in the
“After their first ride, the greatest South Tyrolean community of Val Gardena, Italy.
No doubt, the variety of offerings linked to
eMTB opponents suddenly
the eMountain bike is increasing, as are the
come back with a huge opportunities to experience the joys of Uphill
grin on their faces.” Flow as a rider. The eMTB is increasingly becoming
André Wagenknecht, the benchmark in the sporting field, but also a
German Enduro Champion facilitator and a source of fun in everyday life.
22Getting Outdoors
With a maximum torque of up to 75 Nm, the motor
dynamically supports the rider's own pedal power
by between 120 and 300 percent in eMTB mode.
What you need to build
an Uphill Flow trail
“For me, the adventure lies in
The world's first Bosch eBike Uphill Flow trail was setting off, arriving and the
opened on the Geisskopf mountain in the Bavarian Forest tranquillity. And then the long
in May 2017, with plenty of features to enjoy. descent the next morning.
The eMountain bike supports
WATCH THE VIDEO
bosch-ebike.com/uphillflowtrail
me all the way.”
René Wildhaber,
Enduro pro
Machine days Amount of wood used
75 days 150 m2 of wooden
planking, 400 rm
“For me, Uphill Flow
Amount of sand used
means action,
30 truckloads of crusher experiencing nature,
dust from regional fitness and a new form of
sources mobility and freedom.”
Stefan Schlie,
runner-up Trials World Champion
Height Length
280 m 3 km
23Who's Your Favorite
eBike Customer?
Leading eBike retailers across North America discuss
who their favorite customer is and why.
Scooteretti
Ottawa, OT
shop.scooteretti.com
One of our amazing customers, Guylaine, is a proud owner
of three electric bicycles that she purchased from us with
two of them being powered by Bosch. One Haibike XDuro
Fatsix and one Cube Cross Hybrid Pro. She is a remarkable
woman who served in our Canadian Armed Forces. While on
deployment she was injured and her comments were that
owning an electric bicycle was part of her recovery from her
injury. We at Scooteretti appreciate her service to our country
as well as to the growth of the electric bike industry.
The Bike Gallery
Portland, OR
bikegallery.com
We have a customer Miriam who has been an avid cyclist for
a very long time and volunteers for almost every organized
ride in the area. She developed a cardiac condition which
limited her ability to ride just about any distance. She waited
patiently for the arrival of the Trek Crossrip +, and fell in love
at first ride. She now rides with her husband no matter what
the terrain is and can easily ride up their very steep hill to get
home. It has transformed her recreational experience despite
her health concerns.
24Getting Outdoors
Rocket Electric
Austin, TX
rocketelectrics.com
It took three eBikes to find the perfect one for Michael - the
Riese & Muller Delite GT. It is his third eBike and the only
one that can handle the cargo he carries and the mileage
he accumulates. He’s a passionate sustainable developer,
a lawyer, a former skydiver, and a community advocate for
affordable housing.
Propel Bikes
Brooklyn, NY
propelbikes.com
Chris is my favorite customer! He inspires me with all that
he does with his bike and the way he inspires others to use
eBikes. Whether he's riding to deliver wine to his customers or
bring his daughter to school; he's a true trendsetter. He carries
upwards of 400 lbs of wine with the addition of the trailer we
set up for him on his Riese & Müller Load.
American Cycle & Fitness
Walled Lake, MI
americancycleandfitness.com
John, a senior rider, recently purchased the new Trek Ueruct
Vervea + from us and says it has given him a new lease on
bike riding. He lives in a senior community and is head of the
bike club. He is now able to get up all the hills and able to ride
longer as a result of the extra assist from his new bike.
25You can't get much higher!
Four German men plan to cycle the Nevado Ojos del Salado, the world's highest volcano
on their eMountain bikes. This will take them to an altitude of 22,614 feet above
sea level. But is this an impossible task?
FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT
bosch-ebike.com/chile
Pushing ever further: Sebastian Gerl, the
sports scientist on the Chilian expedition,
at the handlebar and master craftsman Pitt
Schmidt at the saddle really give it their all
26Getting Outdoors
27Far from civilisation: the high-altitude tour in Chile crosses rocky terrain and plains to the volcano and includes camping.
B erlin native Mike Fuchs is a man of courage.
A photographer and adventurer, he has a real
weakness for snow and ice. He has already spent
achieve the impossible.” The foursome started out
on their quest at the start of 2017.
They spent eleven days acclimatising high up in
time within the polar circle, camping at minus the mountains, then moving on to the Chilean west
45 degrees. He has also been on some of the coast and from there inland again in January of
world's highest mountains, including the 23,406 2017. They covered 224 miles, first on paved roads,
feet high Lenin peak in Kyrgyzstan and the Denali then on gravel tracks and steep mountain trails.
in Alaska. Most of the time he travels on foot or There were plenty of challenges along the way:
by sledge. the extremes of heat and cold, crossing a dry
In 2014 he felt like going on an eBike desert which also sometimes serves as a terrain
expedition. “Right from the start I found the for the Dakar Rally, sections on which the roadway
altitude more exciting than the distance,” says is made of corrugated iron, and up to 14,764 feet
Fuchs. A friend told him about this volcano in high mountain passes, a shortage of water and, in
Chile. It is located in the Atacama Desert and, at addition, an escort car that got stuck at an altitude
6,893 metres, is the highest volcano on earth. It of 17,060 feet owing to technical difficulties.
is possible to travel a significant distance up this In between there were thunderstorms with hail
mountain, named Nevado Ojos del Salado, which and sleet and ice-cold nights under canvas or out
translates as “Snowy Mountain of the Salty Eyes”, in the open.
by four-wheel drive. So why not do the same by “I think our expedition has shown just what
eMountain bike? Despite two attempts, no one had eBikes are capable of,” Mike Fuchs would say later.
ever reached this summit by bicycle. “The highlight for us as a team was that you can ride
As the initiator and leader of the expedition, around so easily at an altitude of more than 16,404
Mike Fuchs assembled an unusual team: diaSports feet. Even steep gradients didn't intimidate us.”
scientist Sebastian Gerl, master craftsman and Up to 81 miles and altitude differences of 8,202
type 1 diabetic Pitt Schmidt, who was accompanied feet per day were covered by three members of
by diabetes expert Jörg von Hübbenet. the team, with the fourth man driving the car as
To begin with they trained on the slopes of the medical backup.
Black Forest. The eMountain bikes have extra-thick The closer they came to the foot of the Ojos
tyres, a reinforced front fork and a high-torque del Salado, the more inhospitable the Andean
Performance CX motor from Bosch eBike Systems, landscape. A barren plateau in every conceivable
plus the dual battery technology, also from Bosch, earth tone. There was no real civilisation, not to
with a maximum capacity of 1,000 watt hours - mention other cyclists, within a radius of 124 miles.
in other words two rechargeable PowerPack 500 At the highest camp on the volcano, 19,685 feet
batteries combined. above sea level, it began to snow heavily. Fuchs
“The aim is always to achieve the perfect and Gerl helped a climber, who was caught out by
symbiosis of man and technology,” explained the snowfall in the middle of the South American
Fuchs before the start of the tour. “We believe that summer, and took him with them to the camp.
research and progress in mobility will help us to Finally, the day arrived when they would attempt
28Getting Outdoors
“My aim is to move people - not just literally on the bike, but also emotionally,” says expedition leader Mike Fuchs.
to reach the summit. It was now or never. At first, “Right from the start I found
the sun still shone, but progress was nonetheless
the altitude more exciting than
only made with difficulty. Dark clouds began to
gather again towards midday. the distance. Our aim was to
Three climbers returning from the peak reported achieve the impossible.”
that the volume of snow at 19,688 feet meant there Mike Fuchs
was no way through. “We slowly began to realise
that we wouldn't make it to the top,” explained
Fuchs. After a long deliberation, the men decide to
break camp and descend from an altitude of 20,505
feet, making sure to take some photos of the summit.
They were happy nonetheless, particularly because
the bikes and materials had proven to be so resilient.
As a courageous photographer and adventurer, CHILE
Mike Fuchs is already planning a new eBike
expedition. This time he's planning to explore the
CHILE
frozen wastes of the Antarctic.
Caldera Ojos del 124 miles
Salado
eBiking on a volcano 62 miles
Onwards and upwards
A distance of more than 149 miles with an altitude difference of
more than 19,685 feet.
End point of the expedition
19,685 feet
Distance: approx. 250 miles
13,123 feet Altitude difference:
22,966 feet
6,562 feet
0 feet
Caldera – Laguna Refugio Refugio Ojos del World record: No one has reached greater heights on an eBike
Pacific coast Verde Atacama Tejos Salado than Sebastian Gerl, Mike Fuchs and Pitt Schmidt (left to right).
29Suddenly the smile returns
She won World Cup mountain bike races, but then simply gave up
competitive sport. What the South Tyrolean Greta Weithaler,
who today organises training camps for women, has to thank the
eBike for is revealed in her personal report.
I 'd like to tell you a story. Not a grand or special
story. But one that I believe is worth writing down.
It began many years ago when my father taught
passion soon became my main purpose in life.
Training, competitions, training. Region-wide,
Italy-wide, worldwide. Cycling was my guiding star,
me to ride a bike on the road in front of our house. my everyday life revolved around it – with great
I really wasn't very good at it and kept stubbornly success. I was fascinated by both aspects of the
using my feet as a brake. competitive sport because while the training and
A bumpy start to my cycling career. But things events placed restrictions on me and challenged
changed: my hobby became a passion, and the me, cycling also gave me a certain freedom.
FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT
bosch-ebike.com/womenscamp
“I realized how easy everything
was if you don't make it
complicated for yourself.”
Greta Weithaler
30Getting Outdoors
And, to be honest, I can't exactly remember when after the birth of a child is also a big topic. Hitch the
this changed – or why. child trailer to the back of the eBike and a beautiful
When I look back at that time today, I see Sunday is simply guaranteed! Moreover, the eBike
more than victories, successes or great pictures gives you greater self-confidence once you have
on Instagram. I see a dark evening after school overcome your own prejudices. Women can ride
in winter, 15 degrees below zero, wind, and stretches the they would never have thought
a mountain in front of me, which I climb time and possible before. What do we women do differently
again on my skis. I see that I couldn't eat anything to men on the eBike? We're simply much more
on the morning before a race because I was so sensitive, encourage each other and are maybe
excited and nervous, and I also see the critical look a little more considerate towards one another.
of a girl in the mirror and the anxiety about not We also like to stop and have a “Ratscherle” –
being good enough. which means “a brief chat” in South Tyrolean – and
I stopped. I put my bike as far back as possible
in the garage and didn't touch it again. I didn't
want anything to do with cycling. But I was missing
something. A year passed before I knew what. And
another year, during which I got used to the idea and
started having fun again. The decisive factor was an
encounter, an experiment, a moment. I'd never sat
on an eMountain bike before. On a beautiful, sunny
autumn afternoon, I tried one out on a trail outside
my front door. And then something happened in
me, something that I'd been fighting for two years:
The joy returned, the fun and the fascination. I was
smiling again while riding my bike.
New opportunities opened up for me, downhill
and now, suddenly, uphill as well – so different from
cross-country, and yet so similar. I was able to go
mountain biking again.
Today, I'm still really enthusiastic about this Former professional cyclist Greta Weithaler gives women tips on
form of biking and share my experience as a guide eMountain biking technique at “Women’s Camps”.
and riding skills trainer at “Women's Camps”. Here,
I notice one thing above all: no matter whether they
are full-time mothers, career women or female
students – as different as they may be, all the we enjoy ourselves more. This enjoyment factor is
women have one thing in common: when they sit particularly evident on an eBike tour.
on an eBike for the first time, the reaction is always I also get the impression that we women are
the same – they smile. more sensitive to our own needs, are good at
They smile because an eBike is simply fun. assessing our limits and can simply get off or just
Because they can also ride up trails, because they say no.
get up the mountain faster and usually on a level With all these new possibilities, the eBike gives
playing field at my training camps. These new us a amazing amount of self-assurance, both uphill
possibilities surprise many women. Everything's so and downhill. Suddenly you can say: “Hey, I can get
simple and relaxed. Genuine Uphill Flow, in other up there, even though it's a technical uphill section,
words. And that's where the real fun lies. and I would never ever have considered riding up
I don't want to put forward any stereotypes, but something like that.”
in sports in particular, women are often weaker This care-free aspect of eBiking, not having
than men. And in my experience, the eBike as to worry whether you can physically manage a
a leveller is really interesting and appealing to particular tour, is always a big topic among us
women in particular. All of a sudden, they are able women. It means that fun is guaranteed, so we
to cycle together with their partners again without get on our bike and spend time outdoors in nature
it being a struggle. Returning to the world of cycling much more often.
31Great
eMTB
Rides
PeopleforBikes offers this great online map that's updated daily with the latest
information on where to ride your eMTB.
Wilder Ranch
Santa Cruz, California
Wilder Ranch State Park is located just north of the iconic city
of Santa Cruz, California. Riders are free to explore over 35
miles of trails, from beginner to black diamond, spread across
7,000 acres of the Santa Cruz Mountains and coastal bluffs.
The Wilder Ranch Coast Trail runs along the coastal bluffs and
wave-cut terraces overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Over 14 miles
of single track wander through rolling meadows and majestic
redwood groves. An eMTB, allows riders to experience all the
trails the park has to offer and have still have plenty of time to
pause at the tide pools or sea caves where they may find
pelicans, seals, and sea otters.
Rothrock State Forest
State College, Pennsylvania
Located just south of State College, Pennsylvania, the home of
Penn State University, Rothrock State Forest is only one of
several wildlife preserves open to eMTBs in the area. Rothrock
welcomes riders of all proficiencies with over 100 miles of
trails and 190 miles of roads open to biking. Riders create their
own adventure from the park’s rolling forest hills, easy
meadows and logging roads, steep climbs and rocky ridge-top
trails. Get lost in the views of the Mid State Trail or turn down
the assist to break a sweat, either way you’ll find yourself back
in time to reward yourself with a cold brew in one of the
country’s best college towns.
32Getting Outdoors
Arches National Park and
Canyonlands National Park
Moab, Utah
Few places are more synonymous with mountain biking than
Moab, Utah. Over 250 trails weave through the dramatic desert
landscape dotted with canyons, mesas, and giant rock
formations. eMTB riders can experience the freedom of the
American west while riding miles of flowy or technical single
track or venture into Arches National Park for truly iconic
views. Those looking for an extended bikepacking trip may
choose to ride the 100-mile White Rim Road in Canyonlands
National Park. Moab is a playground for adventure seekers
looking to get the most out of their eMTBs, just remember to
pack plenty of water.
Crested Butte
Crested Butte, Colorado
Ride through fields of wildflowers and aspen forests while
being treated to breathtaking views of the Colorado Rockies
and over 700 miles of eMTB ready trails. Make sure your
batteries are fully charged because you’ll want to get lost on all
that Crested Butte has to offer – everything from single track,
hike-a-bike sections, and technical rock formations. Take an
extended vehicle supported overnight camping bike tour of the
mountains led by local experts.
Pace Bend Park
Austin, Texas
eMTB riders will enjoy rockin’ and rollin’ at Pace Bend Park just
outside of Austin, Texas, the “live music capital of the world”.
The 1,300 acre park sits on a rocky peninsula along Lake Travis
and features over 15 miles of single track and a skills-builder
park for mountain bikers. Riders will discover limestone cliffs
and numerous rocky coves which provide panoramic views of
the lake, especially at sunset. The biggest bonus after a day at
Pace Bend park is Austin’s famous nightlife, Tex-Mex and BBQ
eats!
Learn more about these adventures and more using People for
Bike’s interactive eMTB map at https://peopleforbikes.org/emtb/
33ON TOUR
A perfect
vacation on
two wheels
For many people relaxation and
exercise are part of their holidays.
In particular, cycling is
becoming increasingly popular.
Bosch eBike Systems supports
projects that ensure riding
enjoyment with electric support.
C ombining exercise and relaxation: For more
and more people this is what really makes a
perfect holiday. “On your bike!” is the motto.
The latest statistics of the German ADFC cycling
association reflect this trend: 5.2 million Germans
went on a bike tour lasting several days in 2016.
20 million people undertook a total of 150 million
cycling day trips. In Germany alone cycling tourism
accounts for a turnover of EUR 9.2 billion per year.
It is hard to think of any other type of holiday
experiencing such dynamic growth. And the
popular choice is increasingly an eBike. Last year,
13 percent of all touring bikes in Germany were
already equipped with electric support. The length
of an average leg on a ride is now 40 miles. This is
probably due in no small measure to electric motors.
But what is it that is encouraging more and
more people of various age groups to choose
eBikes? Hans-Peter Engelhart is head of the tourist
information office in Münsingen in the Swabian
Jura. In May 2016, the town opened a mobility
center, where visitors can rent eBikes almost
exclusively.
The reasons: “We're offering our visitors seven
recommended bike tours of various lengths in
34You can also read
