There are two main ways to power an electric bicycle. Both have their advantages, but there's a clear winner in terms of efficiency, safety, ease of use and reliability.
Twist & Go aka Full Power aka Hub motor The easy way to build a powered bike is to put the motor in one of the wheels, hook it up to a battery and control power via a throttle. The big advantage is there is often no need to pedal but you will need a bigger battery to cover the same distance. There are often noise and other ergonomic issues to consider.
Pedal Assist aka Power Assist aka Pedelec aka Centre Motor aka Crank drive This is the best way to power an electric bike within the limitations imposed by physics and the law. A centre motor (as used in motorcycles) will efficiently multiply your own pedal power giving you total control over the motor at all times, a wider choice of gears and brakes plus far greater reliability and range, superior efficiency and hill-climbing. That's the theory - in practice it's a bike you'll want to ride every day.
Was £1695 - one left A new model that brings a dash of style and grace to the Kalkhoff electric bike range. Powerful Panasonic centre motor & 8-speed Shimano hub gears make for an impressive ride.
Only 1 left Kalkhoff's reinforced Agattu for carrying riders and loads up to 170kg (27 stone) with strengthened wheels, seatpost, forks and hydraulic brakes.
Was £2695 now £400 off introductory price Bosch meets Kalkhoff. Two German giants combine to create a formidable high performance electric bike. Available now!
The original Kalkhoff Sport - fast, light, beautiful to ride and well-equipped. The 2012 builds on previous successes with air suspension and latest B&M lightset. Now available.
Now in stock! A high performance touring and city bike - compact looks, big tyres and enormous power make this one of the most exciting 2012 Kalkhoff ebikes
Now in stock Kalkhoff's top-of-the-range 2012 Impulse model with 11-speed Alfine hub, multifunction LCD display and long-range battery. Something very special.
Gents version of the Agattu Impulse with Magura hydraulic brakes and 8-speed Shimano hub gears. Good-looking and well-equipped premium electric bike from Germany.
First 2012 stock has arrived The new version of the hugely popular Agattu, now with Kalkhoff's new 36 volt Impulse drive. Comfort and all-round performance.
New stock in Our best-selling Kalkhoff pedelec, now available with 8-speed gears, boosted assistance level and enormous range supplied by the new technology 18Ah Lithium battery.
New stock here We've waited years for a good electric trike to come along & Veliac in Barcelona have impressed us at last. Powerful, well-equipped with a unique system for confident cornering.