Among electric assist bicycles, sporty models are collectively referred to as E-bikes.

There is already a wide range of models available, covering all types: cross bikes, road bikes, MTBs, and mini velos.

This time, to explore current trends, let's look at some representative models that are actually available on the market.

〈About the E-bikes introduced〉

These E-bikes are all equally attractive.

Here are their model names first.

① Cross Bikes

・Bridgestone TB1e

・Van Moof S3

・Specialized VADO SL 4.0

② Road Bikes

・Yamaha YPJ-ER

③ MTBs

・TREK Powerfly 5

④ Mini Velos

・BESV PSF1

⑤ E-bike Frames

・ICAN E02

These are the seven models.

Now, let's introduce them one by one.

1 Bridgestone TB1e

This is a cross bike type, and it's an incredibly popular model, ranking among the top sellers for all electric assist bicycles.

The price is reasonable at 142,780 yen (tax included).

It's an excellent E-bike with many noteworthy features, such as a regenerative motor that recharges while riding using energy from deceleration, a long cruising range of up to 130 km, and stability from its all-wheel drive.

While the regenerative motor makes the coasting feel less distinct and it only comes in one frame size (450mm), it's a very satisfactory bike.

2 Van Moof S3

This E-bike from the Netherlands is futuristic in every way.

Packed with high-tech features, it even offers a robot-like sensation.

The price is also surprisingly low for an E-bike at 250,000 yen (tax included), making it worth noting.

However, currently, it is not available in stores outside of Tokyo and is sold online.

It is expected that if dealership networks improve and its merits are recognized, it could have a significant impact on the industry.

3 Specialized VADO SL 4.0

This is a cross bike type E-bike from the renowned Specialized.

While most E-bike motor units are currently made by Shimano, BOSCH, or Yamaha, Specialized's development of its own unit is truly impressive.

At 363,000 yen (tax included), it's a high-end model typical of Specialized, but the battery is stylishly integrated into the downtube, it's lightweight at 15.9kg, making it easy to ride even without assist. Its influence on the E-bike industry cannot be ignored.

4 YAMAHA YPJ-ER

This is a road bike from Yamaha, a pioneer in electric assist bicycles.

Yamaha's proprietary motor unit is highly acclaimed for its powerful assist.

It is priced at 352,000 yen (tax included).

It features hydraulic discs, Shimano Tiagra components, and 700x35C tires. While it's a bit heavy at 19.6kg, it achieves a claimed long ride of 242km in Plus Eco mode.

With this, you can safely enjoy touring trips of around 100km.

5 TREK Powerfly 5

This is a MTB from the leading manufacturer, TREK.

MTBs are said to have good compatibility with E-bikes.

This is particularly evident on climbs, where it offers the luxury of enjoying the line choice while ascending, and a significant advantage in preserving energy for descents.

The battery is integrated into the downtube and is also removable, giving it a simple and stylish design.

It is equipped with BOSCH's highly-regarded high-end unit.

6 BESV PSF1

From the folding mini velo bike category, we introduce this model.

This is BESV, known for its stylish designs.

It achieves high rigidity by not folding the main frame.

Weighing 18.3kg, it's not suitable for carrying on public transport, but if considered a folding bike primarily for car transport, its purpose becomes clear.

The 20-inch (406) tires allow for surprisingly nimble riding.

7 ICAN E02

Finally, here's our ICAN E-bike frame.

It's a sturdy carbon frame for MTBs, priced at 75,300 yen (tax included).

The motor is exclusively for Shimano E8000, the frame weighs 2.35kg, and 27.5-inch wheels are specified. Building your own MTB will be an exciting experience.

We are flexible in our対応, so please feel free to consult us.

8 Summary

This time, we tried introducing other companies' products for the first time on the ICAN blog.

We picked out models that we believe have an impact on the E-bike world,

so we hope this will be helpful for understanding the current situation and future of E-bikes.

Personally, I'm interested in the Van Moof.

It's packed with features that link to smartphones, of course, and even its anti-theft mechanisms are high-tech, offering a full futuristic experience. However, the sales and service network is weak, and it would be great if it could be purchased at local shops sooner.

As you can see, ICAN is also focusing on E-bikes, developing MTB frames, among other things. Please keep an eye on ICAN's future developments.

【Reference Articles】

・Considering the New Era of E-bikes

・Electric Assist Bicycles: City Cycle Edition