"Transform Your Pushbike Instantly: Red Bull's £1,295 Kit Makes It an E-Bike in Seconds

 Attention car enthusiasts! While this may seem off-road for you, the innovation we're about to explore is cool, interesting, and entirely new. In the world of electric cars dominating headlines, there's a surprising twist: you can't transform your petrol car into an EV just by attaching a 4kg box. However, in the bike realm, a revolutionary gadget called Skarper, brought to you by Red Bull Advanced Technologies (RBAT), is turning heads. Let's delve into the details.

Introducing Skarper

Skarper is not your typical bike accessory. It's a sleek box of tricks designed to effortlessly attach to the back wheel of almost any regular bike with disc brakes, instantly transforming it into an electric powerhouse. Crafted through the collaboration between RBAT and a brilliant British inventor, Skarper is redefining the possibilities of electric biking.

Skarper's Detachable Drive Unit

At the core of this innovation lies the 4kg, 34cm-long detachable drive unit. Housing a 240Wh battery paired with a 250w motor, it's the powerhouse that makes the magic happen. What sets it apart is the ingenious gearbox nestled within Skarper's 'DiskDrive' replacement rear brake disc. This innovative design enables the brakes to function as usual while efficiently delivering torque to the back wheel through the hub.

Power Delivery Mechanism

The simplicity of Skarper's operation is a key highlight. Power is delivered to the bike through the chain on one side, while on the other, the Skarper box provides an added boost. The precise calculation of this boost is facilitated by a sensor clipped to the pedal arm and an inclinometer built into the drive unit, ensuring an optimal riding experience across various terrains.

Origin Story: A Lockdown Project

Skarper wasn't born in a traditional setting but emerged as a lockdown project that got out of hand. Dr. Alastair Darwood, a biomedical specialist who had previously collaborated with RBAT on ventilators during the Covid-19 pandemic, spearheaded this innovative venture. Interestingly, Skarper's first investor was none other than the legendary six-time Olympic champion, Sir Chris Hoy.

Performance Claims and Design Features

Skarper boasts an impressive claim of up to 60km (37 miles) of range and a quick 2.5-hour recharge time. The box's convenient clip-on and off feature makes it a practical choice for riders, allowing them to seamlessly switch between electric and regular biking. This makes it perfect for commuting – ride an electric bike to work and leave an affordable commuter bike chained for the day.

Cost Comparison

Considering the innovative features packed into Skarper, the £1,295 price tag is a reasonable investment. This cost is significantly more affordable than opting for the conversion of a classic V8 into an electric vehicle, making Skarper an enticing choice for those looking to embrace electric biking without breaking the bank.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Skarper represents a paradigm shift in the realm of electric biking. Red Bull Advanced Technologies' expertise, combined with Dr. Alastair Darwood's inventive prowess, has given birth to a game-changer. As electric vehicles continue to dominate conversations, Skarper provides a practical and cost-effective solution for those keen on exploring the electric biking trend.

FAQs

1. Is Skarper compatible with all types of bikes?

   • Yes, Skarper is designed to clip onto the back wheel of almost any regular bike with disc brakes.

2. How does Skarper calculate the boost for the bike?

   • The boost is calculated using a sensor clipped to the pedal arm and an inclinometer built into the drive unit to monitor the terrain.

3. What is the expected range of Skarper on a single charge?

   • Skarper claims up to 60km (37 miles) of range on a single charge.

4. Can Skarper be easily removed from the bike?

   • Yes, the box clips on and off in seconds, providing convenience for riders.

5. How does Skarper compare in cost to converting a regular bike into an electric vehicle?

   • Skarper, priced at £1,295, is a more cost-effective option compared to converting a classic V8 into an electric vehicle.
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