Folding electric bike specialist Vello, whose line-up includes lightweight models such as the Bike+, has launched a new SUB. No, it’s not a submarine or a soggy foot-long sandwich: it’s a Smart Utility Bike.
The new SUB electric bike range from the German manufacturer will launch with two models: a titanium version weighing 24kg, and a chromoly steel unit that weighs 28kg.
Both examples of the SUB will come with an impressive 210kg total system capacity, with space for two passengers and a front cargo rack, making it a potentially viable option for ditching the car on short journeys. While it’s a cargo bike by design and nature, it’s length is comparable that of a regular bike (180cm) and being a Vello bike, it’s also foldable to some degree.
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The handlebars are collapsible and pedals foldable, which makes it more attractive to those who live in homes without outside storage available to them – and also means the machine can be taken on some trains.
Bello has chosen the Bosch Cargo Performance Line mid-drive motor which provides an impressive 63lb ft (85 Nm) of torque. It will also come with twin 500Wh Bosch batteries which they claim will enable “a potential range of up to” 155 miles.
A Gates Cabon belt drive and Enviolo hub lower the maintenance requirements of the bike while providing plenty of gearing range (380 per cent, to be precise). It’ll also come with 20in wheels with ultra-wide Schwalbe tyres to take the edge off the road buzz.
Interestingly, the SUB has been designed to be ‘tool-free’, so all the accessories (child seats, cargo baskets etc.) can be altered without having to search far and wide for that allen key you lost six months ago.
Like the brand’s previous models, the Vello SUB will be available for pre-order on Indiegogo. It is available to order on that site now, with an expected date of delivery in autumn next year. Pre-order prices will be £2999 for single-speed or £3499 with gears, a significant discount from £3749 and £4249 respectively after the pre-order period.
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