How do you explain the higher cost of the connected electric bike?
The connected electric bike, or smart bike, is a recent evolution of the traditional electrically assisted bike. Although the latter has been very successful in the last few years, this new category of bikes offers advanced functionalities and state-of-the-art technologies. This explains its higher cost compared to the traditional EAB. But in concrete terms, what do these connected bikes offer compared to other electric bikes? Is their higher price really justified?
Are you interested in a smart bike, but don't know if the investment is worth it? Let's take a look at the reasons why connected electric bikes are more expensive to buy than other electric models. Let's also look at their advantages, which partly explain this price.
What is a connected electric bike?
A connected electric bike is an electrically assisted bicycle (EAB) that incorporates advanced connectivity technologies to enhance the user experience.
These bikes typically offer a variety of innovative features, such as GPS tracking, a connection to a mobile app (real-time statistics, etc.) and safety systems such as smart lock.
The smart bike provides clear advantages in terms of safety, autonomy, bike monitoring and riding experience.
Why is a smart bike more expensive than a conventional electric bike?
There are several reasons for the higher cost of the connected electric bike. These include:
- the quality of the components;
- the price of the connected technology;
- the overall design of the vehicle;
- Research and development time.
Let's review these different arguments to better understand the price of the smart bike.
The quality of the components
A connected bike is a bike that must meet the requirements and expectations of cyclists. As such, it must be made of high quality components, like its frame, which is usually made of light and resistant materials such as aluminum or carbon.
The battery and the motor are also concerned, since these two elements must offer a long enough autonomy to guarantee an optimal electric assistance. This is also the case for the brakes, such as hydraulic disc brakes, which provide better control and increased safety.
Finally, the tires of connected EABs are designed to offer optimal comfort, as well as a good grip on different types of surfaces and terrains.
In short, while the smart bike is considered the top of the line of electric assist bikes, all of these components contribute to its higher price.
The price of connected technology
It goes without saying that the integration of connected technology into an electrically assisted bike brings with it additional costs simply because of the presence of these components. But, as is the case with high-tech products when purchased individually, the price of these components inevitably adds to the cost of the electric bike itself.
For example, connected EABs include advanced braking systems, which can be expensive. However, these are still essential to improve safety and braking efficiency. The same goes for the smart bike's drivetrain, which is optimized to provide better performance and an easier riding experience.
Power sensors allow for accurate measurement of rider performance, which can improve the efficiency and control of the electric assist.
Let's also not forget the monitoring systems built into connected electric bikes, which provide condition monitoring and alerts for problems or needed maintenance.
The overall design of the vehicle
The design of connected electric bikes combines aesthetics and functionality, with lines that are mostly clean and modern. Materials such as aluminum and carbon contribute not only to the weight of the smart bike, but also to its aesthetics. Similarly, the ergonomics of the connected electric assist bike impact its design, with the seat, grips and riding position influencing the overall look of the vehicle.
Research and development time
The research and development (R&D) of connected electric bikes requires significant investment from manufacturers. Only then can they develop innovative models with excellent performance. It would therefore be wrong to say that this has no impact on the final price of the smart bike.
The advantages of connected electric bikes or smart bikes
The reason why connected electric bikes are so expensive is also because they offer a number of advantages.
First of all, as you will have understood, they offer an improved riding experience, especially thanks to the real-time data provided by the mobile application. The cyclist can thus adapt his effort according to his needs and goals.
Secondly, the smart bike integrates advanced safety features, such as intelligent locking, powerful braking systems or GPS tracking. These elements inevitably contribute to improving the cyclist's safety on the road and preventing any theft attempt.
In addition, the sensors and diagnostic systems built into connected e-bikes enable constant monitoring of the condition of the EAB and its components. This allows users to detect potential problems and perform the necessary maintenance before they get worse. This automatically extends the life of the connected electric bike, in addition to avoiding potentially costly repairs.
Sports users also benefit from using connected electric bikes to improve their performance. This is especially the case since some mobile apps associated with connected EABs can allow them to plan and track personalized workouts. This allows them to set specific goals, such as improving their endurance, power or technique. Similarly, the data collected during each ride or session can be analyzed afterwards to identify areas for improvement.
Finally, let's not forget that since connected electric bikes are designed with comfort and ergonomics in mind, they lend themselves to long rides and intense workouts.
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