[DigitalToday reporter Jinju Hong (홍진주)] Asus (ASUS) has unveiled a new conversion kit that turns existing bicycles into e-bikes, marking a full-scale entry into the electric bicycle market.
BikeRadar reported on March 25 that Asus recently showcased the E250G1 Intelligent Bike Booster at the Taipei International Cycle Show. The product provides electric assist by attaching to a conventional bicycle without additional modifications, and is being watched as a new competitor in the growing e-bike conversion kit market.
The E250G1 uses a friction-drive system that delivers power to the rear wheel. It works by applying pressure directly to the tyre without a separate chain connection, making installation simple and allowing it to be used on various bicycles. It has a similar structure to PikaBoost series products known in the market for using a similar approach.
The company also emphasised practicality in performance. It comes with a removable 159Wh battery for a maximum range of about 51 km, and offers three ride modes: Eco, Normal and Sport. Sport mode delivers maximum output, but reduces range accordingly.
The product weighs about 3.8 kg, which is relatively light, and it is said to be compatible with wheel sizes from 16 inches to 29 inches, including 700c. An internal swingarm presses the tyre steadily to transmit power without slipping, and a cadence sensor mounted on the crank operates wirelessly to provide natural assistance in line with pedalling.
It also includes safety and convenience features. A rear light is built in and turns on automatically when the bike slows through a brake-detection system. The battery charges via USB-C, and can be fully charged in about 2 hours with a 100W PD charger. It also supports an IPX5 water-resistance rating, and a dedicated app for Android and iOS can be used to manage ride data.
Hands-on experience at the venue drew assessments that its response speed and sensitivity are strong. The global launch schedule, including whether it will be released in some markets such as Britain, has not yet been confirmed.
The industry is paying attention to Asus as it seeks to expand from a business centred on PCs and electronic devices into mobility. Interest is building over how the new product, which emphasises easy installation and practicality, will be received in the e-bike market.
Another contender has emerged in the ebike conversion kit market, with Asus launching the E250G1 Intelligent Bike Booster at the Taipei International Cycle Show. The device clips onto any conventional bike and uses a friction-drive system to transfer power to the rear wheel… pic.twitter.com/gZPhIVuq2v