This Chainless Pedaling System May Be The Future of Electric Bike Technology

After discussing the benefits of belt drive technology in a recent article, I couldn't help but go down the rabbit hole of innovative technology regarding bicycle drivetrains. It didn't take long to come across this concept e-bike, a collaboration between cycling giant Look Bicycles and the team at Cixi, a French-based design company that has created one of the most unique breakthroughs in cycling propulsion.

Released as a concept bike last year, Cixi and Look are planning on delivering the first production models of this bike sometime in 2024. The Rover 45 can reach a maximum assisted speed of 45 km/h, equipped with a 700 Wh battery, and a front and rear Pannier MIK compatibility. But the real beauty and innovation comes from the PERS technology, which stands for Pedaling Energy Recovery System.

When using the Pedal-Electric Regeneration System (PERS) on a bicycle, your pedaling effort is harnessed against resistance, simulating a normal pedaling sensation while simultaneously charging the battery. This energy is then transmitted to the rear hub motor, propelling the bike by your pedaling speed. Additionally, the system incorporates regenerative braking at the rear, something that has been incorporated into electric vehicles for years, contributing further to battery replenishment.

Unlike traditional gear systems, PERS employs a continuously variable 'transmission' facilitated by an algorithm that dynamically adjusts the behavior of the crankset. This allows for seamless adaptation to varying pedaling intensities, catering to individual preferences. Notably, PERS boasts the capability to control multiple motors simultaneously or operate a motor located at a considerable distance from the pedals.

Related: 10 Belt Drive Bikes That Will Have You Going Chainless (And Quite Possibly Never Going Back)

Cixi is basing its concepts and brand around the idea of 'active mobility', putting a focus on reducing the amount of passive activity we are doing by making their mobility vehicles more user-involved and leading to more conscious effort. On top of the PERS technology, Cixi is also working on an 'active vehicle' a micro-car that will be pedal-powered and can easily move at speeds up to 75 miles per hour. This vehicle is called the Vigoz and they are hoping to have production models on the road by 2027.

To check out more about Cixi and its unique approach to design, technology and their working environment, please visit their website. This forward-thinking company is one to keep an eye on as future leaders of the micromobility movement.