Overland News
We have been using 4th-generation UBCO electric adventure bikes in the field for several months, having fun (er, testing), using them for everything from commuting to backcountry scouting trips. What we originally thought would be a compliment to an overland trailer or expedition camper for scouting forays and trips to the market has turned out to be all that, and also a smile factory. There is something about a two-wheel burnout that just feeds the grins. In fact, Brian and I started laughing so hard on one ride that we lost all riding ability, our sides aching, tears blurring our vision. These bikes just seem to bounce and claw their way through almost anything, and they have proven to be extremely easy for new riders to learn.
And for 2020, UBCO has launched several new bikes and a new portable power pack system that utilizes the same 60 Ah battery as the 2×2 (along with 40 and 50 Ah variants). This growth clearly demonstrates UBCOs health and continued innovation, as they have also signed over 100 dealers in the past few years, many in the United States. “Our focus has been on developing a complete product platform which enables our customers to power their purpose,” says CEO Timothy Allan. “By providing a range of vehicles, power supplies, accessories, and subscription software, we are delivering an integrated product set that leverages the benefit of modern electric drive and battery technology without compromise; this is the biggest single release of product in the company’s history and represents two years of work from the whole team. ” More information at ubcobikes.com
UBCO has launched the following at UBCON19 in Queenstown, New Zealand:
• Two Variants of the 5th-Generation 2×2 Utility Bike.
The UBCO 2×2 has had 4 generations in use, and the 5th generation sees a huge range of advancements delivered through the introduction of two new models. Both bikes share a common new-generation drivetrain and power system, vehicle management system, telematics, control clusters, frame, and structure, significantly enhancing the application utility of both bikes.
CPO Tom Hayward led the team and provided an insight into their development “These new bikes are the culmination of 18 months of iterative development and we are stoked with the new 2×2. It delivers on so many areas where we have learnt from our customers and users, and it is satisfying to see the dealer and distributor responses to the new products.”
2x2ADV – The Adventure Bike. This continues to be UBCOs dual-purpose tradition with full road compliance in Australasia, the United States, and Europe. This model includes a portable power supply for those adventures on- or off-road. The Adventure is road registerable, and dual-purpose, intended for consumer applications, trail riding, and commuting duties.
2x2WK – The Work Bike is a return to UBCO’s roots. Simplified in all black with lever guards and off-road tires, UBCO has taken their utility bike roots and created a bike that is a workhorse for the farmer, off-road worker, hunter, trail rider, or conservationist. This is the lightest and simplest 2×2 UBCO has produced to date.
• 3 Variants of the KXH Portable Power System at 40, 50 and 60 Ah:
Portable power has been part of the 2×2 modular design since the outset with the power accessible from the console. In 2020, this functionality becomes stand-alone product capable. This new product comes in a rugged exo-frame with multiple handles to carry and lash the unit. With 12- and 5-volt ports out, it can power a wide range of devices, with a total capacity of 60Ah. The Exo frame enables it to be carried easily and attached to the bike, the garage, or your vehicle.
• The Freeride trail bike FRX1
We featured the new Freeride a few months ago, and are excited to see this lighter, more powerful offering. What is sacrificed in load capacity and utility, is made up for with speed and agility. Justin Pagirys notes, “ The FRX1 is targeted at the mainstream customer who would not traditionally have ridden a heavy motorcross bike, but it will equally appeal to the experienced rider, delivering a new riding format that will surprise “
• A Limited Edition UBCO 3 Wise Men Urban 2×2, with a complete Capsule range of clothing and accessories from 3 Wise men.
• Fully integrated telematics for both 4th and 5th Generation 2×2, enabling advanced individual and fleet management, along with UBCO Journeys—a Docked Ridesharing business targeting tourism locations globally.
For more information, visit UBCObikes.com
