Are you interested in including an electrical bike to your life, however not fairly able to half with $4,000 – $7,000 for a high-quality mannequin? Native retailer Intelligent Cycles may need an answer for you. They now supply an e-bike subscription service so you’ll be able to pay by the month earlier than taking the plunge.
Intelligent Cycles broke floor in 2007 as the primary store in Portland to import Dutch cargo bikes. One of many store’s unique co-owners, Todd Fahrner, was additionally a pioneer in electric-assist bikes along with his “Stokemonkey” add-on motor system that debuted in 2011.
With their new subscription service, Intelligent seems to maintain the stoke alive. They at present supply 5 fashions: front-loading cargo bikes from City Arrow and Dice, two helpful haulers from Tern, and a step-through metropolis bike from Dice. The month-to-month subscription charge ranges from $299 to $349 per 30 days, there’s a two-month minimal to get began, and a $500 safety deposit in case something occurs to the bike. Should you resolve to purchase the bike, you’ll be able to apply 15% of your subscription funds to the price of your new rig.
Intelligent Cycles Co-owner Dean Mullin says the transfer is, “Harking back to the software program trade’s shift from possession to subscription companies, and we’re beginning to see hints of one thing comparable in our trade.” It’s simply the newest concept from a store that’s by no means been afraid to attempt new issues. In any case, this is identical store that launched a sizzling tub rental service (delivered by bike!) in 2013.
“We’re simply arising with concepts to get individuals to have the ability to attempt e-bikes and see if it really works for them,” Mullin added. “We don’t see bikes as sporting gear. We deal with them like a device equivalent to a drill. We would like individuals to attempt drilling to see if they need their very own drill of their toolshed. The subscription permits individuals to attempt it with out spending 1000’s.”
Along with the decrease upfront price, Intelligent’s subscription plan comes with upkeep and repair at no further price. There are some limitations: bikes can’t be used for business companies (like courier or supply companies), the supply is barely out there in Portland, and all subscribers should be 17 years or older.
That is the primary e-bike subscription service I’ve heard of in Portland. The thought isn’t new nevertheless. An organization referred to as Wombi launched in Seattle final summer time. They provide subscription plans that begin at $135 a month.
In associated information, the Metropolis of Portland’s electrical bike rebate program is about to launch later this summer time. And a statewide rebate program is being thought-about within the Oregon Legislature.
For extra on Intelligent’s month-to-month e-bike subscription service, take a look at their web site.
