Flash, an electric bicycle company, will launch an Indiegogo campaign for its eponymous ebike Thursday. A limited quantity of Flash was available for $999 (plus free shipping) prior to the campaign’s launch, but sold out in a matter of minutes. Prices on Indiegogo will start at $1,199. Flash’s aircraft grade aluminum T6-6061 frame is available in white, silver and charcoal.
Flash aspires to remove the primary deterrents to bicycle riding: physical challenges, safety, and security.
Nick Vidinsky, Flash’s VP of Marketing, noted that “an estimated 20-30 million Americans are not riding bikes due to physical barriers.” With its powerful 500-watt electric motor, Flash supplements the strength and endurance of riders.
Under optimal conditions, a rider can travel up to 50 miles on a single charge. Of course, Vidinsky explained, there are important variables to consider such as rider weight, terrain, road conditions, and a cyclist’s own stamina. Flash offers five levels of pedal assist, so riders can choose how much to exert themselves while traveling. Worth noting is that the built-in 36 V 11.6Ah 417WH lithium ion battery is recharged through a DC charging port.
“An additional 40 million Americans are not riding due to safety concerns,” Vidinsky said. “From our powerful headlights and automatic brake lighting to our turn signals and 85-decibel electric horn, each component of Flash takes bicycle safety to a new standard. These safety features alleviate riders’ concerns while traveling on busy streets alongside automobile and bicycle traffic. Flash imbues riders with feelings of confidence and safety.”
Get The Latest Sports Tech News In Your Inbox!
Flash incorporates a high-resolution touch screen for navigation and an advanced security system (including a movement-triggered alarm and GPS location tracking). A connected app also allows riders to check the Flash’s battery status, and security alerts.
Although Flash weighs 49 lbs (about average for electric bicycles), one of the biggest differentiating factors is its affordability. While Flash was designed in the United States, the bicycle components are manufactured and assembled in Asia.
“Other premium electric bikes can retail anywhere from $3,000 to $6,000,” Vidinsky said. “At Flash, we have experience in supply-chain management and consumer products. We’ve been very efficient in our entire process and we’re able to deliver that price savings to our consumers.” While the company is headquartered in Seattle, Flash ships nationwide.