Spanking the YikeBike
Posted on March 9th, 2010 by Grant - YikeBike
Thought we would share a video of some of the endurance testing the YikeBike is going through. We have put over 15,000 kms on the YikeBike and 16,000 stop/starts simulating years of use. The custom built test machines are designed to run 24 hours a day and replicate real life conditions as much as possible.
Battery testing has simulated 1300 full usage cycles with the battery still retaining 80% of original capacity. That would equate to a full year of 4 charges per day. The actual battery life will depend on how you use the YikeBike and environmental conditions.
We have tried to be thorough in testing and improving the YikeBike to make sure yours is totally reliable, but as with any new product there may be issues that arise over time. Because of this even if your YikeBike doesn't need a warranty service near the end of the one-year warranty we'll include a free door to door service (you don't even have to take it to a local shop, we will pick it up from your home or office). You can be assured our first customers will be particularly well looked after.
Comments
Saw your invention last year and have been keeping my eye open for developments. . .Wondering how this device compares to the USA's "Trikke CV" ie: The Electric PonE UPT?
TRIKKE's two models, 36 & 48 volts, at half the cost of the Yike may take a sizeable market share. Three wheels instead of two equates to better stability. Top speed, battery life and overall distance range are all factors one will consider when going for purchase. . . .I think there are niches for all. Good luck!
My hat is off and a bow to you for great design.
However,Price must come down -
I thought your yikebike a stunnig invention when it first appeared in the Time Mag. and still do.I hope you will consider my request to have the distribution rights for South Africa whenever you`re ready. Good luck. Helldane Keyser, S.A.
Wow! Great invention and I love your design very futuristic except the mileage is short need to recharge. Just a suggestion you may use the wheels as to recharge your battery like the dynamo concept. Like the good old days they use dynamo for the bike light. Secondly, if you are looking for a agent or distributor in Singapore or Asia region do let me know.
My other associate are perfecting a self-charging battery ( Using 2 batteries pararell with some electronic devices )for electric-car or motor-cycle.
Keep you posted.
Cheers!
Steve5
I can see the Chinese and others licking their lips at the prospect of making clones of these and raking it in! Hope you are patent protected worldwide.
Best wishes with this well-thought out invention and I want one!
Cheers,
Bill
Saw the yike at gadgetshowlive yesterday and was very impressed. It would be ace to take away on the motorhome as well as for commuting - the only downside for me would be distance on a charge and top speed. (Perhaps my expectations are too high) Also if motorhoming the issue of charging if not on a site with electric hookup - the pedal charging development would be a perfect solution to this.
The lights are unmissable, the two headlights mounted in the handlebars are BRIGHT, and the wraparound design of the indicators makes them clearly visible.
What's with the comment about marketing to an age range? I'm rising 60, and this looks like an easy alternative to my regular bike.
If I win the lottery I'll buy one.
What weight can it carry for its quoted range?
I don't see many people in your demos carrying anything.
Hi
Terrific concept!
I live in california and that would be a geat idea for this state. I was wondering what the shipping costs would be?
thanks
tim
Sorry we are not selling in the US at the moment. The price in Europe and UK includes all shipping and tax.
well, its time to import one from the UK
I love the brilliant videos about your bike and the design.
As an owner and designer of special camera bikes both electric and pedal I applaud your design ethic.
However I am concerned that you tout safety and yet do not see a helmet or any other kinds of protection in any materials on your site.
Living in Manhattan I have seen the results of unprotected riders involved in accidents and having a header is not an ideal thing.
If you really mean safety then please put it visually there and show it.
Sincerely yours,
Mark Forman
Mark Forman Productions, Corp.
New York, NY
The counties we are selling in cyclists typically don't wear helmets and the serious accident rate is far lower than countries wear helmets are compulsory.
As unlikely as it sounds "there is an active scientific debate, with no consensus, on whether helmets are useful for cyclists". There is actually significant evidence that shows why wearing helmets can increase risks for cyclists.
We encourage you to use a helmet where ever you do not feel safe on the roads.
Hi, very nice job on the bike. Hopefully you will get enough of the high end buyers to get some good production going and get that price down to an affordable level.
Questions (and I'm guessing some of these you will not be able to answer at this time).
1) What size of motor are you using in it?
2) There are very few LiFePo4 batt's available on the market right now, and I'd like to know how much testing you did on the ones that are available.....If you did much testing, please join up at RC-Monster.com, and join in the discussion on these batteries (would be in the brushless section). RCM was a leader in the advancment of brushless technology in the RC car/truck world. Lots of knowledge on that site.
3) you stated that there are possible battery options. Would that be LiPo, or just bigger packs of LiFEPo4's?
Thanks
1) The motor is a heavily modified 1 kW brush-less motor with position sensors
2) We have tested very rigorously and are confident to give a 1 year warranty (may not sound like a lot but many electric bicycles have shorter battery warranties)
3) There is likely to be an additional pack to fit in the hole in the front wheel with the same battery type that will double or triple range. We are also looking at offering alternative battery types that will that have a better power to weight ratio but will not last as long as the standard ones.
How long does the battery last assuming operated at full-speed? Based on the technical specs, I get around 24 mins...
With a brain like yours I would wear a helmet to protect it! Love the bike.8
Perfect for our island community of 8,500 people in the heart of the largest temperate rain forest in the northern hemisphere. The Yike Bike would be perfect with our 17 miles of paved main road (47 miles if you ask the city engineer and that includes side roads and driveways.) We could be your self contained "city" to test drive the YikeBike.
Please let us know when you will market in the US, which sadly lags in it's environmental concern. We'd be thrilled to model this in Sitka and really test out rain conditions.
wow.... that's truly amazing...
I live in the Gulf at the moment, and I can definitely see it catching on here.
People here especially love the new and unusual (and don't care as much for the price!)
Great job though... I definitely can't wait to get my hands on one!
If you ever consider selling them in the Gulf, let me know!
With a top speed of 15 mph and a range of 6 miles how will it compete with a pedal bike?
4000+ in america is hard to give up for it, does it do long distances, how many years till it drops in price you think?
If you market it right you can make it more appealing than a segway. You might get disney to like it, they have segway rentels that can go all day, if you give it the same battery life then people that hate to stand on those segways in line will love to use your yike bikes.
I live in florida and I learned that the best place to test this kind of thing is at coco beach, they get good pay and love to try new things.
What a splendid invention you have perfected. Anyone and everyone will want in on a distribution agreement to sell your Yikebike in their city or state. I live in central Fl and know what a big hit they would be here. Wonderful for elderly to get around on! Beats the heck out of a walker or a wheelchair. lol I would like more info on delivery time, production time, final shipping charges, warranty, and price break quanity.
Although I love this idea .... These questions occur to me as needing attention.
1. Since I perceive it as a device which would be limited in usability to an age group of about 15 years to 40 years ... what age group(s) will be marketed to?
2. For safety in limited lighting conditions such as early morning late afternoon/evening even night-time.... is there a headlight in development?
3. For versatility & adaptability in carrying "stuff" like paperwork/messages, books, groceries, work uniform or sports equipment is there a satchel or collapsible basket in development?
Wear a head torch if you thnk the handlebar lights are not sufficient.
1) We have had lots of interest from all age groups - initial markets we are focusing on are large European cities
2) The YikeBike has built in lights at front back and side for safety. The current videos don't show the latest bright lights - will put something up soon
3) We may develop a carry case but we have been finding a small back pack works very well. First version is not designed to carry much more.
i was thinking that something was missing when i watched your video....protective gears!!!.....you may also think of designing a helmet that goes with it, like one with a mirror to check what's behind you, and with good eye shields to protect eyes from the sun and dusts...your invention is really good....keep it up!!! Goodluck....
How does it work in rain? How much does it cost to recharge? Is it available in one size, or adjustable for smaller or larger people?
-All the electronics are designed for showers and the brakes work particularly well in the wet as they are anti-skid
-It only costs a few cents to recharge
-Just one size for now that fits people from 5'3" to 6'5" (163 cm - 193 cm)
I think the YIKE bike is incredible, love what y ou're doing.
I have a suggestion.
when the bike is folded at the office or home, it would be really cool if a person could add some accessories which would enable the YIKEbike to double as a stationary bike! ie; if a person sat in a normal chair and was able to add pedals (think recumbent bike)- this would serve two purposes: 1) add to the battery charge 2) be consistent w/ your philosophy of providing a work-out to the urban dweller whose space is limited.
just an idea that your excellent "discovery channel" piece stimulated in my mind.
keep up the great work you're doing!
PacoSF
I am an avid electric-bicyclist ( have an EG BALI 18-speed mountain bike with LI battery-pack ). I am also the only person in Miami Beach with one.
I get comments and looks all the time ( about my bike, not me... ) and I am sure your 'YIKE' would be an absolute hit here. The only real thing that concerns me is the price-point.
The obvious advantage of your product is its' 'fold-ability' and its' need for small storage spaces, however, there are electric bikes available in the new store on South Beach that can go up to 40 MPH and cost less than $1,500 U.S.
If you could compete on THAT level your potential increased sales would, at least partially if not completely, make up for the initial lower price.
Cool design, unique, enviro-friendly and practical... who would want more?
Way to go!
Ray
Miami Beach
What is the range, and what is top speed?
Range for the first version is 10km (6.2 miles) although there will be battery upgrade options. The top speed is 25km/h (15.5 mph)
How long does the battery last assuming operated at full-speed? Based on the technical specs, I get around 24 mins...
I want to sell this in the USA, for you!!
The price and short range are the only factors that would keep me from buying this bike and if I had the money, I'm not sure the range would be much of an issue. Well thought out designs like this one should be supported even if they are initially a bit expensive, this is the kind of innovation and forward thinking that we need a lot more of in the world.
The design is good, the form and function are well put together and, looked at in detail it is even aesthetically appealing. Being able to fold it up into a small package and take it with you is a big advantage. I'll be watching the evolution and saving my pennies.
Outstanding work! Keep it up!
Will the Yike bike climb hills and in western PA we have good roads but they go up and down or down and up so tat is a need. When i commute to any where it would have to hill.
The Yike-Bike is light weight and store very compact, making them perfect for a motor home or private airplane.
Owning a motor home myself and converse with others on RV blogs, this seems a great alternative to towing a car, or at least a compliment.
A friend of mine owns a private airplane. He hauls fold-up bicycles which are heavy and take up a lot of space.
In an airplane and motor home, both space and weight are very precious.
Great Invention! I hope you sell millions of them.
In Canada, and North America generally, there is much "open space". The extremely limited range due to short battery life would entail carrying extra batteries as well as a charger without improvement in this area. The overall cost being discussed would be prohibitive for the average person. I live on a lake and what a grand thought it would be to ride in the open air the full 20 or so kilometers into town, however this would be way too far for the present indicated range of the Yike.
I also drive a Class A motorhome and snowbird to Arizona for the winter - its use within the large RV Park where we stay is a no-brainer, but not too much further unfortunately, and again, at what cost?!
I think there is a critical stop point here that will limit the Yike's sales to movie lots and small "richer" communities.
The CONCEPT is fantastic and you are to be highly congratulated for your innovative thinking. For me, however the economics and short range defeat large scale production for the masses. Perhaps in time with enough support from the monied sector the price point may drop greatly; the more it does, the greater its likelihood of acceptance across the broader spectrum.
Meanwhile, work on a self-charging prototype - here is the ideal candidate not for just a dynamo, but why not consider an aerodynamic solar panel - build it in to the back of a jacket worn by the rider that would be plugged in when riding. Would that generate enough to considerably extend the range? Could it be combined with output from a dynamo hub for better performance?
My thoughts for what they may be worth - if you overcome these obstacles, and in an economic manner, the Yike should be a real world-wide winner. Watch the orient however, if you don't, they will produce something that does the job cheaper and perhaps better and leave you in the dust.
Good luck!
bcinbc in British Columbia, Canada
it would but, if you target the entertainment industery for rentals it would make them cheaper, and give you the same cash for them.
I would like to know about US sales. I would be very interested in your terms for distribution rights in the state of North Carolina. I believe Yike Bikes would be a major hit on most America college campuses. $4,000+ retail might be a reach for most consumers.
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