E-bike Festival in Unibike

On 17, 18 and September 19 attended the fair Unibike bike in Madrid, intending to know the latest developments in the world of cycling elécrica. One of the conclusions of the visit to the stands of the brands of bicycles and numerous discussions with exhibitors and visitors was to note the great boom that lives the sector.

Now, the major brands have opted for cycling power. The ebikes are the solution for many people who do not want to give up cycling or who simply want to do mountain outings or longer and / or demanding road.

Among local brands, the Basque manufacturer Orbea joins BH, present in the market for some years, and presented a very complete range of MTB bikes, trekking, walking and small wheel equipped with central motor Bosch or Shimano Steps, and prices of most attractive.

The Orbea Ebike range will be completed in early 2016, with high-end models aimed at the most demanding bikers.

Among the international brands, stressed electric models of the German manufacturer Bulls, KTM, Specialized, Trek, Kalkhoff or Kettler.

Most electric bikes mid and high range are equipped with central motor Bosch, although almost total hegemony that the German company had until now is beginning to break. The engine of another German producer, Brose, is increasingly present, but also open the way Shimano Steps and Yamaha engines.

At the same time, Chinese manufacturers give up not give market share in an economically very profitable segment. Bafang the eastern giant, one of the leading manufacturers of engines for electric bikes, is also present in the market with central motor Max Drive System unit.

We were able to try a bike equipped with this engine and the conclusion is most enthusiastic: Motor Max Drive System has a spectacular response. In a raise, almost stopped and assisted at the lowest level, responds vigorously to exert minimum pressure on the pedals thanks to the torque 80 newton provided. For some bikers response even it is excessive, but sure many others will appreciate it.

Benelli presented in Unibike with electric models already known and showed two prototype mountain bike equipped with the engine Bafang Max Drive System , the direction of the brand still has not decided whether it will sell in Spain.

Among the medium brands, drew attention four new models presented by Legend eBikes (Etna, Milano, Siena and Monza). Of these, three are folding and three built-in battery box. The Legend bikes, one of the leading brands in the Spanish market, higher quality components assembled, by which give a great leap forward and Siuan at a level that will satisfy the most demanding customers.

We could also see and test electric bicycles Chimobi, the superfoldables Fleby, Monty, Neomouv, electric scooters and cargo bikes or conventional bicycles equipped with electrical kits.

And we heard that Brompton has finally decided: after seven years of testing, London's most exclusive manufacturer of folding bike soon launch its electric version.

What we said: electric bikes are here to stay and to improve mobility in our cities. Now we just need to believe in it our authorities and bet decisively to improve cycling infrastructure.