Powered bikes have been around for a long time, and there are many electric bikes available now. But it seems that this new one is a significant change from prior versions.
The Faraday Bike doesn't even look like it could possibly be powered. But apparently it is. The frame is, more or less, the battery. The motor is small because electric motors can be small. It has a computer, and apparently, LED lights.
It does not operate without human power, but it adds power to your stroke, by about 300% (but that is adjustable) according to the manufacturer.
It costs a mere $3,500. But it is coming out very slowly; 200 will be shipped by some time in March.
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For many people, it is the time of the year to put the bikes away. I live in Louisiana, so now is the time to get the bikes out (too hot in the summer). Learning to ride a bike is a curious thing. Most parents use training wheels to get kids started. I do not think this is the best strategy.
Minneapolis is the City of Bikes. There are more bikes here per capita than any other US city, I'm told. Many Japanese cities have more bikes per capita and even less room, so the whole bike parking issue in Japan is pretty severe.
Dan Meyer at dy/dan just posted about teacher-student analogies. His analogy is that the student is like a weight lifter and the teacher is the spotter. I like this.
My friend J sent me a link to this gyrobike (http://www.thegyrobike.com/index.php). From what I can tell, it's a flywheel that you put in the front wheel of a bike. The site claims that this will help kids learn how to ride a bike.
Looks like it could be quite the thing for urbanites - as I have everything within easy walking distance (20 minutes most) I have no need for it - if I want a bike for exercise I'll get one with out any assist :)
This electric bike is a really unique model. In fact, both the electric motor and the battery pack are well integrated, making it similar to a traditional bicycle. It weighs about 17 kilos, has a 350 watt electric motor and provides a mileage of 20-30 kilometers. Would you you buy this electric bicycle?