Technology | Riding an electric bike with an assistant

Most of the time associated with the world of motorcycles, the famous Harley-Davidson house nevertheless also has a division of electric bicycles with its Serial 1 model. Even though Harley is polishing up more and more on this avenue.

Posted at 11:45 a.m.

Bertrand Godin

Bertrand Godin
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Under this brand, the company recently launched its second generation electric bike, just as sober in appearance as the first, but even more sophisticated. A bike called Serial 1/CTY, which has the characteristic of being equipped with connectivity with Google Cloud thanks to a brand new application. This is likely to interest more than one.

With this function, Harley can now capture essential driving data and, as a result, significantly improve the safety of cyclists who have adopted this second generation Serial 1.

Safety and pleasure

This novelty is first and foremost related to security, which is not without pleasing me. With its new connectivity, cyclists will now be able to track their bike, monitor it, and even lock it remotely, no matter where they are.

The other great advantage of this new feature is that it will now be quite difficult for the user to be caught unawares on the routes he will take. Whether on bike paths, public roads or bike trails, users will be able to take advantage of precise data to guide themselves and plan their route.

And as long as we refine ourselves, we go even further, because the cyclist will also be able to find, with this function, a summary of each of his outings.

These summaries will be particularly useful for those who like to compare their performance from time to time, to see if they are improving over time.

Finally, on a practical level, the function allows the cyclist to know at any time at what speed he is going, what is the state of his battery, or his autonomy.

Finally, for those interested, know that the Serial 1/CTY is equipped with a USB-C charging cable under the handlebars, which allows the cyclist to charge his phone while riding. The bike is also equipped with high-performance connectivity equipment, which combines three technologies rather than one: Bluetooth, cellular data and good old GPS. Enough to honor the reputation of Harley-Davidson.

Funny throwback for Harley

By the way, concerning Harley-Davidson, I have to go with a nuance. If we want to be precise, the Serial 1 is an independent brand of electric bike, but which is partly owned by Harley-Davidson, and which is mainly powered by the reputable company. The signature is however undeniable, since this model was completely designed and developed by Harley.

Now, between you and me, that is not without helping to make this model known. Not surprising, too, that Google Cloud has chosen this brand as a partner to enter the world of electric bicycles.

Either way, you have to admit, it’s a lovely homecoming for Harley-Davidson, which, let’s remember, built its empire from making a bike in the very beginning. of the XXe century (1903), somewhere deep in Wisconsin.

For Harley, this is a great way to bet on the diversification of its products, faithful to a course of action adopted seven years ago. It’s also a great way to adapt to new trends and, let’s face it, to reach out to a greater number of consumers.

This aspect is not insignificant if we consider that according to studies by the American firm, 95% of Americans know the Harley-Davidson brand, but only 5% of them have their motorcycle license. It’s not to mention that nowadays, with environmental concerns and the transformation of urban transport habits, the electric bike is definitely popular. Moreover, the slogan of Serial 1 is evocative: Change how you move (free translation: Change the way you move)!

In short, let’s say Google Cloud and Harley-Davidson are a strong team to give riders a luxury e-bike experience.

Because obviously, we are talking about a very high-end bike here, which should retail for between $3,800 and $5,000 for the American market. However, for those who can afford it, this type of connectivity should offer cyclists pleasant and safe rides.

Here is a new technology which, in my opinion, will make its way over the next few years. Plan your schedule in advance; know before you leave which are the best cycling routes to take; avoiding bumpy paths and overcrowded roads is interesting.

The cycling enthusiast in me likes to think that I will be allowed, with this tool, to direct my concentration elsewhere than on the technical points and to adjust my “focus” on the present moment and the surrounding landscapes…


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