The expression “urban bike” refers to a search for comfort to cover various distances, within the framework of a utilitarian, recreational, even contemplative practice, offered by three types of electrically assisted city bikes.
City touring bike
Photo courtesy, Velec
The R48 model from Velec
Owners of an electrically-assisted bicycle intended for city riding “ride the bike like they are going for a walk. It’s an alternative to other activities,” explains Dominique Faure, co-owner, president and designer of the SPHERIK bicycle brand. They want to run errands in the neighborhood, take the pulse of the city, travel the Plains of Abraham, easily climb steep hills, etc. A basket at the rear (also possible at the front) allows you to carry a picnic or make small purchases, without having to use the car.
Velec’s R48 battery boasts an 80km range, but can be combined with a second to double the distance. Its wheels (26 inches in diameter and 1.95 inches wide) provide interesting dynamic movement. Its relatively upright position, its generous saddle, its powerful motor, its straight handlebars and its suspension, among other things, offer a lot of comfort to the cyclist pedaling recreationally.
Foldable and compact
Photo courtesy, Velec
The foldable and lightweight RX36 electric urban bike from Velec
To get to work, cross hills without sweating and park your bike in your office, there is the RX36 foldable electric urban bike from Velec. It also appeals to recreational vehicle enthusiasts who store it in a drawer of their RV and then use it at their destination.
Designed for utility use and for easy transport, this compact bike is not made for pedaling at very high speeds, but it takes its owner from point A to point B without any problem. Its small wheels, 20 inches in diameter and about 3 inches wide, give it better damping. Its handlebars are straight, just like the comfortable position it allows to adopt. Its battery discreetly integrated into its frame offers a range of approximately 50 km.
Hybrid urban bike
Photo courtesy, SPHERIK
SPHERIK’s SEU 3000 sneaks everywhere in town, and even further.
SPHERIK’s most popular SEU 3000 electrically assisted hybrid urban bike is the closest to a traditional road bike, particularly in terms of wheel diameter (700 mm) and geometry. Its tires (42 to 45 mm) offer superior rolling fluidity to a touring bike, while the very slightly inclined position that this bike proposes to adopt allows you to “better use your upper body to pedal while remaining relaxed. “, explains Mr. Faure.
It is ideal for touring Île d’Orléans or going to the Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré basilica from Parc de la Chute-Montmorency, for example.
“This bike offers a comfortable position and good mechanical performance for covering greater distances (up to 120 km) and overcoming obstacles, with a moderate speed target,” says Faure. Whether it’s to keep in shape or make it your main summer activity, this bike is suitable for recreational use. The next step towards a more sporty or performance practice will be to opt for a road bike.