Almost three years have passed since we originally reported on the Faraday Porteur electric bicycle, and following a successful Kickstarter campaign, it has finally hit the market. The stylish e-bike is available in British Racing Green and Classic White, and will set you back US$3,500.
Little has changed specs-wise since we last saw the Porteur. It still comes in three frame sizes, each costing the same price. Small measures 51 cm (20 in), medium measures 55 cm (21.6 in), while the largest frame size is 59 cm (23 in). Gears are handled by an 8-speed Shimano Alfine internally geared hub, and Shimano disc brakes provide stopping power. The tires measure 66 cm (26 in), and bike's total weight comes in at 17.6 kg (39 lb).
The Porteur sports an on/off button on the frame, while a handlebar-mounted thumb switch activates the pedal assist, which should last for around 20 miles (32 km) of assisted cycling. The same thumb switch also activates a boost which makes hills a little easier, but the bike requires no throttle control as the pedal-assist system simply adjusts to your pedaling pace. LED lights turn on automatically when darkness falls.
A battery charger ships with the bike, and recharging the 240 Wh Lithium batteries is reported to take less than three hours. The e-bike also ships with bamboo fenders as standard, but the front and rear racks are an optional extra, fetching $225 and $125 respectively, which brings the total price to $3,850 – it's certainly no budget bike.
The Porteur is available now from selected retailers and you can order direct from the website. We're awaiting confirmation on when shipping is due to start.
Source: Faraday Bikes