The Curvway Classic is not an electric machine like any other. It actually promises to transcribe the sensations of a snowboard… but on asphalt this time. Designed by a Lyon company, this two-wheeler seeks to find a place in our urban landscape.
Electric bikes, electric scooters, monowheels, self-balancing scooters, hoverboards: today, there are many alternatives to the car for getting around town. There is something for all tastes and all prices. And now a new type of machine is trying to find a place for itself, with a strong proposition: rediscover the sensations of a snowboard, but on an electric board intended for riding on cycle paths.
This is the promise of Curvway, a Lyon-based company behind the Classic – which is also available in an all-terrain version. Through the voice of its founder Pierre Marabese – via BFM TV in April 2024 -, Curvway naturally seeks to make itself known. “We have a big topic on communication », began the person concerned. “I”.
Powerful as possible, but limited to 25 km/h
More concretely, what does the Curvway Classic electric board offer? The latter rests on 12-inch wheels that are relatively reassuring on paper. For comparison, the majority of today’s electric scooters have 10.5-inch tires. This can give you a frame of reference, which you must therefore imagine larger.
Source: Curvway
Source: Curvway
Source: Curvway
The motor is installed in the rear hub and develops a generous power of 3330 W, while remaining limited to 25 km/h to comply with current law. Why so much power? We asked the question to Paul Dubreuil, commercial director of the brand, who provides several explanations.
“We need a powerful motor to ensure high torque, essential for efficient starting with the Curvway. Unlike a traditional skateboard, where you can push several times, the Curvway, equipped with two wheels, requires a single push with the foot before getting on the board. Once you put your foot down, simply activate the accelerator for smooth and quick handling. Additionally, this power is necessary for the board to tackle climbs with ease, ensuring an optimal riding experience in all conditions. », he enlightens us.
Patented system
The 3300 W are also an interesting asset for standing starts in the middle of a hill (20% maximum according to the manufacturer), whatever the weight of the user. Note that the Curvway Classic can support up to 120 kg in total.
This electric board also benefits from a self-stability system from 5 km/h, a free front wheel and a patent on the caster angle of the front steering. “Thanks to our innovative steering system, we recreate the sensations of snowboarding on land, whatever the season. Our board also allows for leaning in turns up to 50 degrees, providing a unique and immersive gliding experience», firmly believes Paul Dubreuil.
Source: Curvway
Source: Curvway
Source: Curvway
Controllable from a control that you hold in your hand, the Curvway Classic also benefits from regenerative braking and a 720 Wh battery claiming a range of 50 km. The charging time is fast: 0 to 80% takes 2h30, for a full charge time in 3h.
All these components have a considerable impact on the weight of the machine: 18 kg in total, which makes it relatively heavy if you want to carry it by hand on a daily basis – even if a handle has been added to make your task easier. We make a similar statement for any electric scooter displaying this weight, and which we have recently been able to test.
Price and availability
Ground clearance of 12 cm, IP65, 140 x 23 x 28 cm, approved Spanninga lights and reflectors, optional GPS tracker: that’s the rest of the features to know. Last element, and not least: “Our product is also Made in France, manufactured in France and assembled in our premises here in Lyon“.
The Curvway Classic is sold at a price of 2990 euros, with 125 euros in delivery costs according to our simulation. An order placed at the end of May is delivered at the end of June 2024.