Saigo SUB eBike is happy on the road or the rough
Saigo has launched the world’s first sports utility bike (SUB). We are told that this is an entirely new category for ebikes.
The Saigo SUB is sturdy enough to be used off-road and, by combining a city-bike frame with the ruggedness of fat-bikes, it also offers a more comfortable all-around experience than a mountain bike.
The bike is aimed at those who want some pedal-assistance for commuting, running errands and weekend mountain biking trips. Additionally, you can head off the beaten track as this ebike can also handle off-road, including potholes, muddy roads and even sand.
Saigo SUB ebike
Weighing in at just 77 lbs including those 26×4 inch tyres you can ride it as a standard pushbike using the 8-speed Shimano gears. Alternatively, you can take advantage of its powerful 500W electric motor and improved cruising range. The motor is built to be durable and efficient, yet silent with a full charging time of only five hours, or three using a quick charger.
Using the throttle, the in-built 48V10.4Ah battery (499.2WH) hands you a maximum range of 25 miles. However, the Torque Sensor System (TSS) feature releases additional power while pedalling to increase the maximum mileage by 30%. This is further than other ebikes can go in pedal mode.
Other features include USB connectivity to charge mobile devices, an integrated locking system that makes it easy to detach the battery for rapid charging. Furthermore, the unique OLED screen keeps you up to date on cycling data as well as providing cruise functionality.
Saigo’s bike is equipped with an automated lighting system for ultimate road safety at night. Armed with both front and rear light sensors that incorporate a laser flashing light indicating a safe distance to ride. Also, there are turning signals, a set of two high-quality hydraulic disc brakes, and a comfortable suspension saddle.
Via the dedicated Saigo Soul iOS and Android apps you are able to monitor riding mileage, real-time power, and battery health. Through the app, you are also able to modify the parameters of your SUB including soft start level, torque working mode and throttle reaction time. An upgraded GPRS battery enables you to remotely monitor the location of your bike and easily find it, even when stolen.
Words
Ray Chow, Co-Founder of Saigo, told us:
We noticed a lifestyle trend – work and life are blending. We created the Saigo SUB line to bring the spirit of SUVs to cycling: convenient for everyday use, but rugged enough for play. We have combined state of the art technology with the latest features to create a stylish electric bicycle for off-roading or commuting to work.
Price and availability
The Indiegogo crowdfunding campaign launched on 10 October and has a target of $25,000 (which is just over £19,000) to put the ebike into mass production. It has an MSRP of $2,750, or £2,100.
Visit the Indiegogo campaign for further details on who this ebike is aimed at and what it can do: https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/saigo-world-s-first-sport-utility-ebike#/
Saigo SUB specifications at a glance
Frame | Aluminium |
Tires | Spoke Wheels / Magnesium Alloy Integrated Wheels |
Tire Size | 26×4 Inches |
Tire Weight | 35kg |
Motor Power | 500W /250W |
Battery Voltage | 48V |
Battery Capacity | 10.4AH /14AH |
Battery Power | 499WH / 672WH |
Charger Power | 96W / 144W |
Full Charge Time | 5 hours / 3 hours for quick charger |
Gears | Shimano 8 Speed |
Saddle | Suspension Saddle |
Disc Brake | Hydraulic disk brake |
Easy-change and Waterproof Cables | Yes |
Screen | OLED |
Electric Assistance Level | 6-Level |
Electric Assistance When Pushing | 3.7mph |
Data Display | Current speed, max speed, average speed, TRIP, ODO, riding time, remaining mileage, real time power consumption |
Bluetooth | Yes |
Lighting system | Equipped with front and rear lights as well as a laser flashing lamp and turning signals |
Bell | Yes |
Rear Rack | Yes |
Fenders | Yes |
USB Charging | Yes |
Cell Phone Holder | Yes |