With the new folding model, Flyer manufacturer Biketec has introduced a stronger Panasonic drive unit with 7.2 Ah Lithium-Ion battery to the European market.
 

 
Swiss manufacturer and promotion company Biketec has extended its Flyer C-series: The new folding model comes with the silent bottom-bracket drive unit from Panasonic highlighted with “Plus“ for more power, Li-Ion battery, and a smart folding mechanism. The aluminum frame bike costs arount 2,200 Euros and is now sold in Europe.

The C-Flyer Plus system provides stronger motor assistance (1:1.3 meaning 100 Watts muscle power + 130 Watts motor power) than the original Panasonic unit does. It is optionally available with a bigger Li-Ion battery (7.2 Ah) to keep the range at approx. 50 km. The customer can choose between three battery sizes: 3.6 Ah, 6.6 Ah, and 7.2 Ah. A bigger battery delivers more range, but has higher weight and price. The new Folding Flyer uses the “Plus“ system as a standard. The C3 and C8 Flyer models (step-thru and cruiser style) are also available with the stronger drive unit which is compatible to all three battery sizes.

C-Flyer retail prices range from 1,990 EUR (Flyer C3 with 3.6 Ah Li-Ion battery) to 2,840 EUR (Flyer C8 Plus with 7.2 Ah battery). For spare batteries the customer has to spend between 445 EUR (3.6 Ah Li-Ion) and 695 EUR (7.2 Ah Li-Ion).

The batteries are manufactured at NEC Tokin, Japan; Panasonic is the system supplier. The motion sensor allows riding uphill in high gears, which is more fun but also drains more battery. The motor kicks off immediately when only touching the pedals. On hills, especially, this is an advantage.


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June 8, 2005