E-BMX bike launching here April

Evolve Skateboards is launching its first electric bike product “Project BMX” in New Zealand in April 2024.

The limited-edition electric BMX features a nimble 24-inch design and classic Skyway Tuff wheels, 60km range (with pedal assist), a 36km/h top speed (with pedal assist and throttle), three-hour recharging, weighs 130kg, mechanical disc brakes, and a “Chromoly” frame.

The 36V 9.6AH Samsung 48X 21700 battery produces 345.6Wh and is integrated within the saddle, while the frame has a powerful Bafang M560 mid-drive motor.

Project BMX is available at the discounted pre-launch price of $4699 and will retail at $4999.

It has a one-year warranty.

“We’ve been making awesome electric skateboards for a long time as we’ve got a good 14 years under our belt now,” says Evolve founder Jeff Anning,

“And I’ve always been thinking, if ever we were going to do something different what would the product be?

“We’ve done a couple of other secret projects on the side,” says Anning.

“We feel like a really cool retro-looking BMX suits Evolve’s ethos.”

Evolve industrial designer Jared Gilsenan emphasises the commitment to retaining the bike’s traditional feel.

“It has all the adjustability and movement and feel of the traditional bikes.”

Gilsenan reckons the result is a sophisticated, perfectly balanced old-school BMX aesthetic that draws attention while maintaining the agility and fluidity of a traditional BMX design.

Project BMX introduces a distinctive 36V battery system crafted in collaboration with VELO which allows for effortless battery swapping.

The carefully calculated angles and weight placement on Project BMX lower the centre of gravity, enhancing stability and control, especially at higher speeds or during tight manoeuvres, says Evolve.

“This balance allows for a natural riding posture and facilitates intuitive control, improving the interaction between rider and machine.”

Gilsenan says; “In the last 18 months we had a new saddle design prototype coming out every month.

“We spent a lot of time playing with that shape in those contours, making sure that it wasn’t grabbing in any area, but you could still fit a battery underneath.”

Click here for more Evolve information.