Piaggio has taken the next step in bicycle transportation with its new “Wi-Bike,” launched at EICMA 2015, with a unique focus on changing the way riders see their daily commute.
The Wi-Bike’s electric motor, transmission, and battery are all fitted behind the seat tube and can assist riders in reaching a maximum speed of a little over 15 mph. The lithium-ion battery has a charge of about 75 miles in eco-mode and gives owners the option of charging phones or tablets through a USB port on the front display.
Through a smartphone app, the Wi-Bike offers its riders the ability to completely track everything on the bike from route, statistics information tracking—that can be shared to social media accounts through the app—to anti-theft built-ins through the GPS. The battery and motor are also connected by a unique code that will prevent the Wi-Bike from working if it is removed.
The Wi-Bike’s on-board screen utilizes Bluetooth to connect it to other fitness devices and also features a maps program to allow the bike to plan a rider’s route.