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Sinclair to launch X-1 electric recumbent in July 2011
Sir Clive Sinclair has come up with an electric-assist, velomobile-style vehicle - and prices apparently start at just �595!
Check out the Sinclair Research website where a new electric vehicle is announced:
go here for more details or here to watch a video.
The wheel size is 16", and a 190W motor is apparently linked to the rear wheel via a 'fixed gear drive train'. Weight is said to be around 30 kg. The canopy is apparently a "Waterproof acrylic bubble". Price is quoted as 'from �595' in several places, although on the video page �999 is mentioned. Delivery is "estimated July 2011".
A few thoughts:
- The price is amazingly low if true - it's barely possibly to buy a decent standard electric bike for that money, and the canopy etc must be relatively costly to produce...
- The 16" wheels are presumably the smaller '305' size (the '349' size is more commonly used, for example on Brompton folding bikes). That's about as small a wheel as is practical for serious bikes...
- No indication of whether the pedal drive system includes gearing...
- Or whether the seat is adjustable for leg length - a key failing of the earlier Sinclair C5.
- 30 kg is a very good weight - most other velomobiles weigh at least that, at many times the price.
- But if it comes through with decent performance and no key weak points it could be a really attractive package!
Naturally I'll be trying to get one to review absolutely ASAP :-)
Many thanks to Jonathan P for the tip-off. Cross posted to both Electric Bike and Velo Vision websites as it will be of serious interest to both readerships I'm sure!
Posted on 4 November 2010
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Your comments ...
| From: Wobbly John on 4 November 2010 | Looks like it is a belt drive, on the left. If it's got gears it's probably a custom system.
If it hasn't got any luggage capacity, then it's a dead duck. |
| From: LaidBack on 4 November 2010 | This will ignite a debate.
I have a Sinclair FM tuner from 78 that still works.
If only I thought this would match the reliability. |
| From: seamus on 5 November 2010 | | I hope it's as good as his computer |
| From: n-ick on 7 November 2010 | | Hey, perhaps he could an inboard computer/gyro system to stop it wobbling and wibbling at low speeds. |
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