In June 2022, we introduced the innovative Skarper e-bike conversion kit. The unique setup of the Skarper kit utilizes a two-in-one rotor to act as the bike’s rear brake and drive the rear wheel simultaneously. The project has since gained momentum with professional track cyclist and racing driver Chris Hoy endorsing the product.
More recently, Chris Hoy successfully brokered a collaboration between Skarper and the Oracle Red Bull Racing Formula 1 team. The purpose is to enhance the Skarper e-bike conversion kit to improve efficiency, compactness, and overall performance. Before delving into the details of the Skarper kit, let’s discuss why considering an e-bike conversion kit instead of purchasing a ready-made electric bicycle may be advantageous.
Firstly, the Skarper DiskDrive design boasts versatility. The motor, in its original configuration, can be easily detached from the bike, allowing for a seamless transition from e-bike to regular bike in minutes. Besides versatility, cost is also a factor. However, given the projected retail price of the Skarper DiskDrive at over $1,000 USD, this aspect may not be as applicable.
Following a substantial £4-million investment in Skarper in April 2023, the partnership with the Oracle Red Bull Racing team has been established, underscoring a surging interest in e-bike-focused technology. Christian Horner, the Team Principal for the Oracle Red Bull Racing team, was impressed by Skarper’s innovation, leading to a collaboration between the two to refine the kit and enhance its efficiency.
In an article by E-Bike Tips, Horner emphasized that the partnership exemplifies how F1 technology can be applied to everyday technology. He stated, “This partnership with Skarper demonstrates how F1 expertise can help to improve everyday technology for the benefit of the public.” Despite the vast difference between an e-bike conversion kit and a cutting-edge F1 car, having an e-bike co-developed by an F1 team is certainly appealing.
The current version of the Skarper e-bike kit is exceptionally compact, weighing just 3 kilograms. It includes the motor and battery, offering an impressive range of up to 60 kilometers on a single charge. With a nominal output of 250 watts and a torque rating of 50 Nm, the Skarper kit rivals the Bosch Performance Line SX motor.
Fitting the kit onto the bike’s chainstay is purported to be a quick and straightforward process. However, due to variations in bicycle design, actual installation may differ based on the brand, type, and frame size. Pre-orders for the kit are currently sold out and deliveries are expected to start between summer and winter of 2024. Nonetheless, Skarper is anticipating reopening orders with a price tag of £1,295, or approximately $1,647 USD.