Hybrid Bikes set to go global

This story first appeared in the June issue of AutoTalk – CLICK HERE to download the magazine FREE

Nelson’s Frank Witowski started making electric bikes out of carbon fibre two years ago because he wanted one but couldn’t find them to buy.

His Hybrid Bikes brand is now in 26 New Zealand stores.

Witowski says the bikes are about three to five kilograms lighter than standard e-bikes and made in China under licence to reduce costs, selling here for $4950.

“We want to be the top carbon fibre e-bike brand in the world,” Witowski says.

“We want to be number one.Right now, we are doing this.”

Hybrid Bikes is New Zealand owned and operated, founded with the intent to design superior e-bikes for adventurous and urban Kiwis.

The company has developed a half-tail mountain bike version, expanding its market.

Witowski says this is “new territory” but it appears to be doing well.

Electric bikes don’t have to be heavy and feel like farm machinery.

Carbon fibre bike frames, historically only available to high-level athletes, are super strong and light for a superior, efficient, responsive ride.

Consumer.org.nz rated 16 e-bikes, and Hybrid Bikes’ F18 Cruiser and M18 Speedmaster came second and third respectively, only behind Specialized’s turbo Vado 3.0.

“To see this ranking, all the hard work is starting to pay off,” Witowski says.

“Specialized rule the world! They are a billion dollar company.

We beat the other versions,” he says.

“For us little guys to make such a headway, it’s just amazing.

“It’s not cheap to enter this market.

We took a chance – either way it works or it doesn’t.”

Witowski’s talking with possible distributors in Europe and the US.

One company from the latter could ensure $5 million funding, if successful.

“We could cover America in one hit, if that happens, I’ll be blown away! This would be a really big deal,” Witowski says.

“We do carbon, no one else does carbon.Nobody is touching it.”

Hybrid e-bikes are designed for New Zealand conditions, whether commuting, trail riding or winery touring.

Witowski donated one to his local search and rescue organisation to prove it.