Schwinn offers Quickcharging Electric Bike at CES

January 20th, 2009 |

At CES 2009 Schwinn Bicycles made its first appearance featuring its new Tailwind eBike which utilizes Toshiba’s Super Charge ion Battery (SCiB) technology to deliver an industry-leading 30-minute recharge time (through a standard residential electrical outlet), one-eighth (1/8th) the time of competing electric bikes (or less), setting a new standard for the electric bike industry.

From the Tailwind site:

Details on the Schwinn Tailwind eBike Disclosed

The Tailwind (like all Schwinn electric bicycles) is a so-called eBike hybrid and can be ridden in either motor-assist mode or as a conventional bike. The eight-speed Tailwind utilizes a lightweight, Schwinn-designed 6000 series aluminum alloy frame and an SR Suntour NEX-4610 suspension fork with lock-out.

The electric motor in the Tailwind is housed in the hub of the front wheel, an innovation found in all Schwinn electric bike models. In addition, all Schwinn eBike models (including the Tailwind) utilize the Plug N’ Drive removable battery pack which is built into stylishly designed rear bike rack systems, allowing riders to quickly detach the battery for recharging.

It is projected that Tailwind owners will realize an industry leading 2,000 recharge lifecycles with the eBike versus the industry standard of 1,000 charges before needing to replace the battery. Tailwind riders will find they can ride 25 to 30 miles per charge (depending upon such factors as climate, rider weight and terrain). The Tailwind also comes with a 20,000-mile or two-year limited warranty.

Other specs for Schwinn’s Tailwind include A Shimano Nexus 8-speed internal geared rear hub, A brushless motor with 180 watts of continuous power or 250 watts at peak power, Schwinn’s PowerDial™ on and off power assist system, with three pedal assist power settings, Rear roller braking system, Double wall alloy rims and Continental Town Ride tires (with flat protection and reflective sidewall), Inside-the-frame electric wire routing.

According to Schwinn, the Tailwind electric bike represents the next generation of eBike and will be available in early 2009 at a suggested retail price of $3199.99.