Bikes: and now, an electrically assisted BMX!


Florent Lanne

January 05, 2023 at 2:26 p.m.

3

SWFT BMX VAE 1 © SWFT BMX

© SWFT

SWFT unveils its latest creation, an electric BMX with resolutely urban lines.

Almost all types of bicycles have their own electrified version: mountain bikes, road bikes, folding bikes, hybrid bikes, etc. However, a name was missing, the BMX. The manufacturer SWFT, specializing in electrically assisted bicycles, is entering the field with its electric BMX model.

Features worthy of a real BMX

Featuring a low frame, high handlebars, 20-inch wheel, unsprung fork, and front and rear toe clips, this BMX has a visual description that matches any which lambda model of the category. Apart from the presence of a disc brake at the rear, the real difference lies in the electrification that SWFT offers for its BMX. Indeed, a 350 W motor is nestled in the rear hub of the two wheels. This can be activated using an accelerator on the handlebars, or be triggered automatically on command from the pedaling sensor.

A lithium-ion battery is integrated inside the frame of the BMX and can offer a maximum autonomy of 56 km, according to the data provided by the manufacturer. Considering the information on the battery, 36V – 7.5Ah, as well as its capacity of 270 Wh, the announced autonomy does not seem so high. In addition to the weight of the cyclist, the dynamic use planned for this type of bicycle will reduce this autonomy in a non-negligible way.

A BMX not intended for performing tricks

SWFT’s electric BMX weighs 18 kg and can transport its user at a maximum speed of 32 km/h. Compared to a more classic VAE, this model is rather light. This is explained in particular by the weight of the components integrated into the machine, namely the rather compact battery and the not so powerful motor. This choice of component weights is strategic and is established because of the design materials of a BMX which must be resistant to shocks. In return, note that the battery is not removable, this being one more reason to have a light bike.

SWFT BMX VAE 2

© SWFT

Although the format may lend itself to it, the manufacturer still indicates that his bike is not designed to perform tricks in the skatepark. Furthermore, the handlebar is not able to perform 360° rotations on itself, condemning a certain number of tricks in BMX. If seeing it land in extreme sports competitions is not on the agenda, this BMX could be an ideal choice for traversing the urban environment on short trips.

Source : Electrek



Source link -99