MIAMISBURG, Ohio — Since 2019, VAAST Bikes has prioritized environmental responsibility, so it's no surprise that its first e-bike will be manufactured with emphasis on sustainably sourced materials and packaged without plastic.
The pedal-assist E/1 also will stand out because of its full-suspension platform and high-end component spec'. It's billed as a multi-purpose urban adventure e-bike, designed to carry cargo or just riding solo.
"The whole market today is saturated with a lot of fantastic products that enable you to take your trips — what we call lifestyle 3.0 — within 3-5 miles in an urban setting and replacing those that were previously done with a motorized vehicle with electric products," said Morten Kristiansen, general manager of specialty retail at United Wheels, parent company to VAAST, Niner Bikes, and Batch Bicycles. "E-bikes really can change the way we commute."
Kristiansen led a video conference call in August to discuss the E/1.
VAAST, which initially launched with a performance bike line with frames that are 100% recyclable ALLITE Super Magnesium, has made sustainability a company priority. For example, it only works with vendors who share its sustainability goals. And last year, it revamped all bike shipping materials with 100% recyclable fiber-based packaging constructed from recycled products.
For the E/1, VAAST went with proven components from companies like Bosch, Rohloff, Shimano, Gates Drive Belt, and Enviolo to ensure long life and functionality. For the step-thru frame construction, Kristiansen said ALLITE Magnesium was first considered, but tooling and manufacturing could not be accomplished, so hydroformed aluminum was used. However, the seatpost is constructed out of carbon fiber polymer, which is recyclable.
"Normally, composite elements that are made with a certain carbon percentage in some cases will be put into landfills," he said. "But in some other cases they are recycled but never into structural elements. This material can be recycled and upcycled into structural elements."
The full-suspension design is called NAILD, and it's designed to separate pedaling movement from suspension engagement with a 100mm air shock. The suspension is complemented up front with a 110mm SunTour Durolux 36, and the bike rolls on 27.5 wheels. Bikes range in price from $7,499 to $9,999, depending on the drivetrain option.
All spec' lines will have integrated racks, lights, and powered by a Bosch 4 Performance CX Drive. Bikes in the U.S. will have assist up to 28 mph and in Europe 15.5 mph. The E/1 also has the latest Bosch KIOX stem-mounted controller display and Powertube 500 battery accessed in the seat tube after the saddle and post are removed via a one-push height adjustment lever.
Bike weights range from 74.6 to 80 pounds.
The E/1 will be available in the U.S., UK, and European markets beginning Oct. 1. VAAST also will showcase the E/1 at Eurobike beginning today and at the Sea Otter Classic in October.
