Gocycle Electric Pedal Bike

Commuters looking to cut their travel costs and emissions get the best of both worlds with this new bike from Karbon Kinetics.

The Gocycle has a dual power function, so you can pedal it like a normal bike and keep fit. Yet there’s also an instant electric boost at the touch of a button.

The manufacturer has a background in lightweight vehicle design, having worked extensively with McLaren, so the Gocycle weighs only 16kg and is easy to manoeuvre.

Its suspension provides a comfortable ride, while the upright sitting position and twist gearshift make it easy to operate. However, with only three gears, it runs out of steam when you’re using pedal power only.

Other neat features include a covered chain, which protects your clothes from grease and grime, and a bike lock that fits neatly at the base of the seat post. But try to remove it, to lock up or access the charging point, and it’s hard to put back. We also wish there was a battery guage - it's disappointing to discover you've no charge left.

While this isn’t a fold-up bike, it does come with a bag, in case you want to disassemble it. The Gocycle isn’t cheap – £1,158 if you buy online – but employer cycle to work discounts could slash that price almost in half.

In Detail

Gocycle electric pedal bike
Price: £1,158
Rating: 4/5
Contact: www.gocycle.com
Problems? Heavier than a standard fold-up bike, and the lock is very difficult to slot back in once you take it out of the seat post.
So why buy? The dual power technology means commuters get the best of both worlds.