A Rivian Spin-off Invests $305 Million in E-Bikes: My Experience Riding through NYC

For many in America, cars are seen as indispensable. Nevertheless, for myself and countless others, bicycles are our main mode of getting around.

My trusty steel Fuji road bike is like an extension of my body. Whether commuting to work, running errands, or visiting friends, it's my go-to transportation. Its maintenance is cost-effective, and it doubles as my gym. I even carry it on the subway during bad weather or when fatigue sets in.

In New York City, e-bikes, the modern evolution of the bicycle, are ubiquitous. They're embraced not just by 135,000 members of the city's bike-share program, Citibike, but by various businesses, such as delivery services and companies like Amazon aiming to ease traffic congestion and lower emissions.

Discovering Also's TM-B Model

A colleague sparked my interest in Also, a new e-bike company birthed from Rivian, a massive electric vehicle firm with a $21 billion valuation. The suggestion came at the perfect time as I was already considering an e-bike purchase.

Intrigued by the unique features highlighted in emails from Also, I seized the opportunity to try out their $4,500 TM-B model. Rivian, maintaining a stake in the company, suggests a duality in transport: cars and bikes. Also embraces this using Rivian's battery technology and a minimalist approach to design.

Riding Alongside Technology

Before Thanksgiving, I met with Saul Leiken, the director of product at Also, for a test ride through Manhattan's Chelsea district. I was impressed by the TM-B's adaptability, seeing it as a prime or secondary vehicle for American families.

The TM-B, or 'Transcendant Mobility Bike,' is a notch above traditional e-bikes. Unlike regular bikes with pedal chains, this model uses pedals to power a generator, feeding inputs to a system they call 'DreamRide,' which digitally determines the motor's power. Software updates occur over-the-air, much like modern smartphones.

An Organic Riding Experience

While utilizing the TM-B's 'All Purpose' setting, it felt incredibly intuitive. The pedal assist was easy to manage from a small screen, and despite the cold, flat terrain, the bike's design promised ease over tougher paths like the Manhattan Bridge on warmer days.

Switching to 'Sport' mode, the bike mimicked a conventional geared bicycle without the mechanical clanking—replaced instead by digital feedback through the pedals.

Rapid Yet Cooperative Travel

Due to evolving state and local regulations, e-bikes like the TM-B are categorized into three classes. As a Class 3 e-bike, it can reach 28 mph, mimicking speeds typical in NYC traffic, barring major highways.

During our ride, I occasionally reached near top speed, especially in 'pedal assist' mode, which was thrilling, akin to motorbike riding. Nevertheless, I remained vigilant about my safety and that of others.

The Evolving Market of E-Bikes

The competitive e-bike market in the U.S. sees annual sales of 1 to 2 million units. Its precise growth is tricky to pin down due to varied players and incomplete customs data, but future growth is projected at 14% to 25% annually till 2030.

Some companies face challenges, like Rad Power Bikes, reportedly running low on funds, and VanMoof, a Dutch brand, going bankrupt but attempting a comeback. In contrast, Leiken posits that Also has better timing, with a versatile business model that's less partner-dependent.

Innovations and Adaptations at Also

Some design aspects were still under development, including a digital bell with potential modifications to sound like a car horn, reminiscent of car sound designs mandated for pedestrian safety.

Also introduced the Alpha Wave helmet, equipped with light indicators, speakers, and a noise-canceling microphone. It boasts an innovative Release Layer System to minimize brain injury risks.

Embracing Versatility and Innovation

The TM-B offers exchangeable 'top frames' for adjustable seating, accommodating different rider sizes and cargo needs, a feature uncommon in other e-bikes.

The bike embodies the philosophy of bikes as everyday transport, potentially replacing cars for short distance commutes. Although its $4,500 price tag is substantial, it offers features typically found in much more expensive e-bikes.

While I remain attached to my current road bike and undecided about purchasing an e-bike, the TM-B represents a compelling choice for those seeking versatility and utility, especially as car costs soar.