Is this yet another instance of the "Blue or Black" dress controversy?
For years, there has been an ongoing discussion about whether electric bikes are getting overly potent and efficient, verging on resembling motorcycles. Over time, manufacturers have continuously increased their power output and support levels, making the distinctions less clear-cut. However, despite these changes, electric bikes still maintain significant differences from motorcycles.
Yes, a Yamaha or GasGas The e-bike may offer plenty of electrical assistance at the turn of your wrist, yet fundamentally it remains a regular bicycle in appearance and function. Nevertheless, this appears to be viewed as an invitation for innovation by Segway.
What lies before you is Segway's The new Xyber is presented as an e-bike by its makers. However, when placed alongside various compact, fat-tire electric motorcycles, it might appear quite different. The Office's Pam in the image says "These pictures are identical." Everyone, this particular instance muddles the distinctions between them more than anything we've witnessed so far.
What precisely is this thing called the Xyber e-bike? To put it simply, dear readers of the internet, let’s avoid delving into specifics about how it came to be. Essentially, the Xyber is described by Segway as a “mid-range, light electric vehicle” (LEV). This particular LEV boasts a powerful 6,000-watt direct-drive motor which can propel it up to a maximum speed of 35 mph. While perhaps not breaking any land-speed records, it certainly offers brisk acceleration compared to most traditional e-bikes.
Additionally, there are pedals, seemingly out of place. I mention this because the design of the Xyber closely resembles that of a motorcycle.
If you avoid looking at the pedals, you'll notice a headlight that clearly says "BMW," a frame resembling one from a motocross bike, a sports-style rear shock system reminiscent of high-performance motorcycles, and front forks that seem taken directly from a Yamaha model. The tires, typically associated with regular bikes, appear as though they were borrowed from a Volcon all-electric off-road motorcycle. In a world where people struggled to agree on whether a dress was black or blue—a debate that swept across the internet—what’s preventing anyone from debating about this vehicle?
That's right, nothing, precisely why we've gathered here today.
Despite the cost being similar to a motorcycle, priced around $3,000. It’s worth noting that electric bikes typically span from approximately this price up to $10,000, though none would be mistaken for contemporary motorcycles available now. In terms of riding experience, I imagine it performs decently considering it has 4.5 inches of suspension travel both upfront and behind, along with thick tires and a comfortable saddle.
What’s preventing Segway from simply installing a more powerful motor and be done with it? Seriously, Segway, go ahead and do it.
Black or Blue
- Should an age limit be set for e-bikes? This California county thinks so.
- The New Zealand-Based Electric Bicycle Manufacturer UBCO Is Nearing Financial Collapse