Ebicycle

Electric or E-Bikes

E-Bikes come in all makes and models, but are distinguished by their use of electricity. Some offer the option to pedal, others work like miniaturized motorbikes. An electric bicycle can also be most of the kinds below, so long as it has the addition of electric power somewhere in the mix.

Trefecta DRT

The Trefecta DRT is an electric bike like no other and at present it’s the most expensive e-bike on sale with a price tag of $25,000. Designed primarily for military use, the DRT treads the ever-blurry line between an electric bicycle and an electric powered motorcycle. A 4Kw motor supplies an insane 250Nm of torque, enough to get 160kg (353lb) of rider and cargo up a 45 percent incline. Electronically adjustable suspension at each end plus brakes borrowed from downhill mountain bikes means the DRT can boldly go where few electric bikes dare travel. Look out for a closer look at the DRT later this week on BikeRadar.

Tiny Front Wheel

In the early 40s, an old Velocino cycle was commissioned by Benito Mussolini. He intended to offer Italians with a vehicle that was light, compact and handy to store anywhere.

The Abici Velocino has a long lineage. Its handlebars are positioned very low close to your knees. With a curving tail-like seat post, this design is not ergonomic. However, this tiny-wheeled strange design allows a rider to throw their arms outwards which prevents chances of collision with a pedestrian.

It looks like a convenient ride option for city cycling and portable to carry on public transportation.

Lastly, the thought of transporting any children or cargo is foolish with such a compact vehicle. It never took off and the project got canceled when Italy joined World War II. The mechanic involved in the project was so devastated by the news that he took his own life.