Far from bursting, the e-bike bubble is getting more interesting. As the demand for e-bikes continues to grow and various manufacturers strive to beat the competition, we are entering a new stage in the so-called e-bike revolution – one that brings improved performance, higher quality materials, better technology , and a higher price.
Today, e-bikes are a fixture in most large cities, where adoption is higher due to their appeal. daily commuters that bring more convenience, more time efficiency, and a more fun way to pass the minutes or even hours of the commute than being stuck in traffic, reading a book or cursing rush hour.
The appeal of these motor-assisted two-wheelers extends beyond this, however, to include better sustainability credibility, health benefits, and, through the accompanying technology, a sense of belonging to a wider community. With the growing demand has come a higher diversity of models and, with the latter, cheaper price points. But that was just the beginning, it seems.
Now, we are at a point where mid-level bike manufacturers are turning to better materials and higher quality components to create e-bikes that are higher performing, better looking, more reliable and generally improved. Fiido is a good example in this sense, having just launched the Fiido Air, an electric bike in carbon fiber that contends for the title of the world’s lightest e-bike.
The Fiido Air Carbon Fiber Electric Bike, which is the full name, or Fiido Air for short, is a stylish, minimalist and technological electric bike – and the latest addition to Fiido’s already impressive lineup. According to the company, it is the direct result of customer demand for a lighter machine, one that removes the number one problem of most e-bikes: the extra weight carried by the motor and battery.
The Air tips the scales at just over 13 kg (29 lbs) because it uses carbon fiber extensively in critical components. The seat post, handlebar, diamond frame and fork are made of carbon composite, which offers an unprecedented weight reduction compared to aluminum alloy e-bikes.
Another way in which the Fiido Air reduces excess weight is to get rid of all “unnecessary” features, including fenders, a kickstand, a bell, a multi-speed transmission, or even the main display of the bike. This creates a sleek, minimalist and, according to Fiido, the most stylish machine that stands out in every way you can think of.
Photo: Fiido
Because Fiido also offers a companion app and a companion smartwatch (u Mate S3 we reviewed a while), one of these can replace the main display that has been removed from the cockpit. Both allow access to statistics and riding parameters, and the watch can do double duty as odo and speedometer.
The Fiido Air can also be operated through a fingerprint sensor, which is another Fiido first. The Air allows the user to lock/unlock the bike and cycle through the three levels of pedal assist (PAS) with a simple touch of the finger. You won’t have a visual of your actual speed or distance covered, but presumably, neither will matter as much when you’re having so much fun.
The Air is powered by a 250W Mivice motor with 40Nm of torque and a top speed electronically limited to 25 kph / 15.5 mph and unlockable at 30 kph / 18.6 mph. There is no torque button or thumb throttle, because this too, falls into the category of “unnecessary” items that add weight and visual clutter.
Photo: Fiido
The battery is a 208.8Wh, hidden in the frame with all the wiring and is not removable for charging. Estimated range for a 3-hour charge cycle is 80 km (55 miles).
Fiido says its testing revealed 100+-km (62+-mile) ranges for trips made only in Eco mode (which would be the first PAS, with the lowest level of assistance) by riders weighing 75 kg (165 lbs ). That said, a range extender is offered as an optional, which can be mounted on the frame and double the range. The maximum load is not more than 120 kg (264 lbs).
Another first with the Air is the use of a Carbon Drive CDN belt instead of the standard chain, ensuring minimal maintenance and a much smoother ride. The motor has a torque sensor, which adapts the assistance to the riding style of the rider. Stopping power is provided by Shimano BR-MT410 hydraulic brakes, and the Air comes with integrated front and rear lights, so it’s legal to use in traffic.
Photo: Fiido
The spec list also includes Kenda 700*40C tires and a Velo saddle designed for city riding.
Recognized with the Red Dot Design 2024 award, the Fiido Air is currently taking pre-orders, with a super early bird discount of $1,000. Shipments are expected to begin in August 2024, with an MRSP of $2,799 / €2,799, but riders eager to be among the first wave of riders of this new machine can get it for $1,799 / €1,799. The Mate smartwatch is included in this discounted price, which, as you may have noticed, is comparable to what you’ll pay for a mid-entry non-carbon fiber e-bike. An unbeatable deal, by all means.
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