Understanding electric-assist systems can be daunting. We hope to make it less so.
There are many articles that go in-depth on every aspect of e-assist systems (we have our own HERE), but our aim is to give a digestible overview of the main components of the Bike Friday electric-assist system, without information overload, to help you make the best decision. We’ll link to in-depth articles throughout for those of you who wish to dive deeper.
The first system component we are going to look at is the batteries.
While most electric bike companies highlight the range of their various battery sizes, Bike Friday first prioritizes the bike’s ability to travel. Because a large number of our customers frequently travel with their Bike Fridays, we wanted to ensure that airplane travel would not be inhibited. If you plan on flying with your Bike Friday then we suggest outfitting your e-assist with LiGo batteries. These batteries are airline legal and allow for you to travel the world with your pedal-assisted steed. Learn more about LiGo’s HERE.
Our extended ride option is for those cyclists who are utilizing their Bike Friday without airline travel, for instance, as a daily commuter, grocery-getter, or traveling by car to your adventure cycling destinations (did someone say “Vanlife?”).
But you know what the coolest part is? With the Bike Friday electric-assist system, you can use either! If you purchase an extended ride battery, you can always purchase the LiGo’s at a later date and just plug them in the same way. Versatility and compatibility are always a Bike Friday priority!
Next up, motor choice!
Mid-Drive Motor
The mid-drive motor replaces your bottom bracket and your crankset. The placement of the motor improves motor efficiency and battery life, even more so when climbing! This option is available on any of our non-folding bikes (Ever-E-Day, Haul-A-Day, Family Tandem).
Front Hub Motor
The front hub motor replaces your, you guessed it, FRONT HUB! The placement of this motor allows any of our folding pocket bikes to utilize them with full folding capabilities. The hub only adds around 10lbs to your overall bike weight, and can always be taken out and replaced with a normal wheel if you want to lighten it up.
Suggested electric-assist systems for each Bike Friday:
The above infographic is designed to help anyone new to e-assist understand the various Bike Friday models and how we normally see them outfitted for use with electric-assist. This is by no means an exhaustive list, just a starting point.
And that’s all there is to it!
Well, there are more parts to an electric-assist system, but these are the major variables to consider when choosing one for use with a Bike Friday. The controller, sensors, and display unit vary slightly depending on which motor you choose, but all function to enhance whichever motor and batteries you’ve chosen.
Okay, we get it, you’re hooked and want to know more! Read a series of articles that outline the Bike Friday Electric-Assist Systems (BF EAS), written by Bike Friday co-founder and designer, Alan Scholz – Designing in Twelve Dimensions.
If you have any other questions, are ready to talk to our bike experts and order your Bike Friday, or simply want a complete breakdown of all e-assist possibilities on a Bike Friday; email our bike experts at, Info@bikefriday.com.
