Evolve Skateboards is launching its first-ever electric bike product, Project BMX, in the United Kingdom in April 2024.
The latest innovation from Evolve is a pioneer in personal electric mobility, as it seamlessly merges electric technology with the iconic geometry of a traditional BMX.
The limited-edition electric BMX features a nimble 24” design and classic Skyway Tuff wheels, for a ride that effortlessly revives the nostalgia of childhood dreams with a modern twist, thanks to its innovative electric technology.
Evolve has meticulously retained the iconic BMX spirit by seamlessly integrating the battery within the saddle and embedding a powerful Bafang M560 Mid Drive Motor into the frame.
Jeff Anning, Evolve Founder, said: “We’ve been making awesome electric skateboards for a long time as we’ve got a good 14 years under our belt now. And I’ve always been thinking, if ever we were going to do something different, what would the product be?
“We’ve done a couple of other secret projects on the side. We feel like a really cool retro-looking BMX suits Evolve’s ethos.”
Jared Gilsenan, Industrial Designer at Evolve, emphasises the commitment to retaining the traditional feel of the bike: “It has all the adjustability and movement and feel of the traditional bikes. So despite the fact we put a battery in there, we haven’t compromised on the saddle itself.”
The result is a sophisticated, perfectly balanced old-school BMX aesthetic that draws attention while maintaining the agility and fluidity of a traditional BMX design. The Spoked 24”/Skyway Tuffs 24” wheels and Mechanical Disk brakes further enhance the overall riding experience.
Project BMX Key Specs
Range: Up to 60km/37 Miles With Pedal Assist
Speed: Up to 36kph/23mph Pedal Assist + Throttle
Motor: Bafang M560 Mid Drive Motor
Battery: 36V 9.6 AH SAMSUNG 48X 21700
WH (Watt-Hour): 345.6 WH
Charge Time: 3 Hours
Frame Material: Chromoly
Weight Limit: 130 kg
Saddle Material: Nylon + Carbon Fiber
Wheels: Spoked 24”/Skyway Tuffs 24”
Brakes: Mechanical Disk 160mm 24” (front V brake on Skyway)
Battery Innovation
Project BMX introduces a distinctive 36V battery system crafted in collaboration with VELO. Nestled within the saddle, this innovative system allows for effortless battery swapping, empowering riders to expand their adventures with added range without compromising the classic BMX cruiser frame aesthetic.
Many eBikes place their motors and batteries in positions that are the easiest, with little regard to the effects on the rider experience. Frame geometry and weight distribution are pivotal in electric bike design, optimising rider comfort and bike handling.
The carefully calculated angles and weight placement on Project BMX lower the centre of gravity, enhancing stability and control, especially at higher speeds or during tight manoeuvers.
This balance allows for a natural riding posture and facilitates intuitive control, improving the interaction between rider and machine.
Gilsenan added: “In the last 18 months, we had a new saddle design prototype coming out every month. We spent a lot of time playing with that shape in those contours, making sure that it wasn’t grabbing in any area, but you could still fit a battery underneath.”
Why Mid Drive?
The Project BMX utilises a mid-mounted Bafang M560 motor to optimise weight distribution, ensuring superior handling and a smoother pedal-assist feeling. This approach eliminates the drawbacks of adding rotational mass to the rear wheel, making it quieter, more efficient, and maximising the bike’s range.
Reviving Childhood Memories
Playing a pivotal role in retro BMX culture, Skyway Tuff Wheels contribute significantly to the aesthetic allure of Project BMX, seamlessly inviting riders to revisit cherished childhood memories. Our intricately designed hub mount, crafted to seamlessly accommodate a disk rotor on Skyway Tuffs, not only ensures a timeless appearance but also adds a modern touch with the option of a rear disk brake.
Project BMX is available at the discounted pre-launch price of £2,499 (will retail at £2,699) and it comes with a 12-month warranty.