Spark Tries To Reinvent The Biking Experience, Not The Wheel

We've seen a lot of attempts to sell electric bikes in one form or another, from finished retail products to crowdfunding pitches, but each of those have its own special trick to sell. Shocke Bikes is also taking a stab at the modernization of that age-old two-wheeled vehicle, but it is also singing a slightly different, more traditional tune. With Spark, Shocke Bikes wants to offer the best of all worlds: the unassuming look of a bicycle, the empowering features of an electric bike, and, most importantly, a price tag that won't eat into your paycheck.

Like any electric bike, Spark's power comes from a motor that gives riders an assist when they need it, especially in challenging terrain. That power is delivered by a 350W 36V toothed brushless high-speed motor. That, in turn, is powered by a 36V 12A lithium-ion battery. Used together, Spark delivers a 70 km range and a battery life that can last a whole day's worth of commuting. The battery can be easily taken out and swapped with a different one or charged while you rest. No screwdrivers required. With Spark's motor and use of quality and rugged parts, you can experience the joys of biking whether you're hitting the pavement or trekking mountains.

Despite that added power, you, the rider, are still in full control. Spark puts a control throttle and a 7-speed gear changer just within reach. Disk brakes on both front and back wheels also ensure not just control but also safety. Speaking of safety, the bike utilizes LED turn signal lights so that you don't need to raise your hand, which might not be visible in some lighting conditions, just to make a signal. Plus, there are also laser beam tail lights that give other drivers around and behind you a better visual cue of your bike path. The controls for all of these are located on the handlebars to make sure you won't have to take your hands off them.

Those features may sound standard fare, but that's just one part of the Spark deal. The rest is in the pricing. Some electric bikes offer the same features for prices in four digits. Others do come cheap, but you get what you pay for. And others, well, they sometimes offer you only a wheel. Spark? It's creators are putting it up for only $999.

Is there a catch? There almost always is. Spark isn't a finished retail product yet, so don't go off to your nearest bike shop asking for one. Shocke Bikes will be taking this idea to Kickstarter on Sunday, February 22, where you will be able to show your belief in that promise by pledging that amount.

SOURCE: Shocke Bikes