The global sales growth of electric 2-wheelers (E2W) is expected to be a staggering 466 million in the next six years, a recent report by cleantech market intelligence firm, Pike Research reveals. E2Ws being electric bicycles, electric motorcycles and electric scooters etc. E-bicycles lead the way with numbers just shy of 261 million or 1 e-bike per 1.1 persons in the United States.

Be prepared for the many designs coming on-stream that will try to capture your eyes and pockets. We have here a sprinkling of what’s already or almost on-board.

From Japan

Let’s kick off with Sanyo North America’s slick-looking lightweight Eneloop electric-assist bike that was presented to the city of Portland via Mayor Sam Adams last month. Its elegance belies the powerful capabilities it packs and for $2,300 (at Best Buy), it is poised to draw a lot of attention.

The bike weighs 50 pounds and takes 3.5 hours to fully charge. On a single charge-up, it can travel up to 17 miles (27 km) in Standard Mode i.e. no recharging during the ride.

This is a welcomed addition to its fleet and to a city whose sights are set on innovative, sustainable alternative transport throughout the region. Sanyo’s plans to build electric bike charging stations in Portland ties in well with that vision.

Our Northern neighbors

Then, our northern neighbors, Canada, plan to give their Bionx models away at the LifeBoat Events’ PressCamp in Deer Valley, Utah, this June 22-25.

Into its second year, PressCamp is a befitting hands-on suppliers and journalists meet-and-greet event, wherein they conduct tests and one-on-one product sessions for three days. This will be the first e-bike brand to be tested by them.

The Bionx is a very sophisticated, well-designed and well-built system. A patented software- driven proportional-assist system that is very natural as it adjusts to synchronize with your very own pedal stroke.

Across the Atlantic

From the adept German technology, there are the Kalkhoff bicycles and e-bikes – one of Europe’s largest and most recognized brands. They are being brought in by Greenlight Bikes. Unlike our more standard front or rear-mounted hubs, the Kalkhoff’s motor is mounted in the centre. It gives a smoother, predictable boost when compared to hub-based motors and is reflected in their $2,499 to $3,399 pricing.

Home-grown

To round off, we have our very own latest contribution from MIT. The GreenWheel is a wireless hub engine, and correct, no straggly wires to be seen.

Throttle aside, all the parts – batteries, electric motor and controller are enclosed in the aluminum frame and the wheel. The handlebar- mounted throttle connects wirelessly to the motor in the wheel. The motor is spoked into a standard wheel that is powered by batteries from MIT firm A123 Systems.

Its range is estimated at 25 miles (40 km). Provided the rider is not traveling at its top speed of 30 mph (48 kmh), its range can be doubled. Charging up can be by pedaling or plug in and it takes all of 15 minutes to complete. This e-bike is still in its test phases.

Many extensive developments are going on here and the world over. Undoubtedly, a best fit at more affordable prices can be found as even more options unfold.

Have you ridden an electric bicycle? What were some of its highlights or not so high-lights for you?

Photo courtesies / richardmasoner, magicfab and doommeer on flickr