Gocycle
electricbicycles.ie
The GoCycle (available in Ireland for around EUR 1500 from GreenAer, Sweetman's Ave, Blackrock, Co. Dublin) is a second generation electric bicycle that qualifies for the Bike-to-Work scheme. It's powered by a front-wheel electric motor and a battery pack hidden inside its frame. Pedal around and you'll discover its chain is totally enclosed--hidden away so you don't need trouser clips. Used power-free, it's a simple, around-town bicycle with a ride similar to Brompton's (wobbly) collapsible bikes. Its three-speed gearing is adequate but not hill-worthy. Hit the boost button on the handlebar and pedalling gets easier as the 250W front-wheel motor kicks in via a ceramic clutch. You can get up to 15 mph. Brake and the motor stops.
The Gocycle is powered by a 9Ah NiMH battery pack, which slots neatly inside the frame. It's good for a range of between 8 and 20 miles, depending on how lazy you feel. Recharging takes 3.5 hours from a normal mains socket.
The Gocycle folds neatly into a carry-on container and that means it discreetly packs away in your boot, on a train or a bus.
