It’s taken SRAM a while to get into the e-bike game, and what they’ve come up with is, essentially, a 135mm OLD hub and battery pack combo. The E-matic electric assist system, to give it its full title, will fit on to any normal frame that has rack mounts, and runs any normal single-speed drivetrain (the company recommends a 44/17 gear ratio, but it’s really up to you). Then the SRAM-designed rack and battery pack unit attaches to the bike like any ordinary rack, and the battery connects to a hub via a single wire. And that’s it. No gears or handlebar controls; no unsightly bulbous ‘design’ bits on the frame; nothing.
The hub houses a processor, automatic transmission and motor, and power delivery is controlled by a ’sophisticated algorithm’. Which means, claims the company, that power is delivered intelligently, when you need it, and doesn’t take away from the bike-y feel of the bike. It also tails off the power gently, to prevent you hitting the wall when the maximum assisted speed is reached. In Europe, that’s 25km/h; in the States, that’s 20mph. Who likes hitting the wall at 25km/h? And who knew that Americans were allowed to go faster?
There are three battery pack options, weighing between 1 and 1.5kg, which give a claimed 60-95km maximum range - the largest pack being the top end. And you can run either rim or disc brakes.
Source: Road.cc
This looks actually interesting to me for summer commuting. Pity will it is not going to be an aftermarket fit at this stage.
Andrew
