I've noticed that there is a new category of electric bikes that resemble scooters like Vespas or electric mopeds. At first glance they look like gas powered vehicles because of the front and rear lights, turn signals and plastic body kits. They probably offer a safer street-riding experience due to the lights and mirrors but may feel a bit awkward on bike paths and sidewalks because they do look so much like motorized bikes.
One that I was recently shown is the Jetson Bike. The basic specs are as follows:
So if you compare the Jetson Bike to the Pedego Interceptor or the Pedego City Commuter you see the specs are pretty similar (battery is 40% larger for increased range and to handle the added weight). Considering the extended banana seat, you may even be able to fit two passengers but there isn't a lot of adjustability for actual pedaling. In a sense, it reminds me of the Subaru Brat which was a little pickup that had very basic jump seats in the bed, qualifying it as a sedan and removing a 25% import duty) source for Brat info and pic. The Jetson Bike by contrast, has very basic pedals and limited top speed but resembles a motorbike or electric scooter. As such, it enjoys the benefits of sidewalk riding and use without a license or insurance by people who want to save money, use less gas or who have lost or never got their licenses.
One that I was recently shown is the Jetson Bike. The basic specs are as follows:
- weight: 125lbs (roughly 2x a normal ebike)
- motor: 500 watt (higher end of ebikes but not uncommon)
- battery: 48 volt 17 amp hour (higher end in terms of power and size)
- speed: 20mph electronically limited (keeps it legal to ride on sidewalks etc. and doesn't require a license or insurance)
- price: $1,700 USD MSRP.
So if you compare the Jetson Bike to the Pedego Interceptor or the Pedego City Commuter you see the specs are pretty similar (battery is 40% larger for increased range and to handle the added weight). Considering the extended banana seat, you may even be able to fit two passengers but there isn't a lot of adjustability for actual pedaling. In a sense, it reminds me of the Subaru Brat which was a little pickup that had very basic jump seats in the bed, qualifying it as a sedan and removing a 25% import duty) source for Brat info and pic. The Jetson Bike by contrast, has very basic pedals and limited top speed but resembles a motorbike or electric scooter. As such, it enjoys the benefits of sidewalk riding and use without a license or insurance by people who want to save money, use less gas or who have lost or never got their licenses.