Smartmotion – The Smart IBD Alternative

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Unless you’ve been hiding under a rock for the past five years, you’ll know that there’s a huge market out there for ebikes. Smartmotion has a clear mission statement; and that’s to cater to the independent bicycle dealer with a range of high quality ebikes that are backed by a solid warranty, experienced staff and strong technical support.

Smartmotion drive systems were first developed in New Zealand for their postal service; a tough proving ground for any bike, as one year of use equates to around 10 years of regular riding. Rain, hail or shine, their posties ride over 250 days a year, carry heavy loads and the constant stop-start nature of the job places extremely high demands on their equipment. We’re told that some Smartmotion powered bikes are still using the same motor and battery after 4-5 years of use! The brand has also seen action with commercial hire fleets such as Uber Eats and Deliveroo and they’ve received recommendations from Choice and RideOn Magazine.

The success of the drive systems in commercial circles led to the creation of Smartmotion Electric Bikes. Their goal was to develop a line of affordable ebikes that featured solid construction and quality parts to complement the already proven drive system. Maintaining the same industrial/commercial design standards, Smartmotion expanded to become one of the top-selling brands in NZ by 2013.

Here in Australia, Smartmotion backs up their bikes with a six-year frame warranty while the electrics and battery are covered for two years. This support applies to all Smartmotion Electric Bikes, even when the power-assist settings have been adjusted to exceed the road-legal 25kph limit.

Smartmotion is focused on developing a network of bricks and mortar dealers with no internet-only sellers. They’ve put a lot of work into their B-to-B portal which can assist with pre-ordering, checking availability, automated warranty and monitoring forward shipments.

The bikes cover a wide gamut of applications; from commuters to sport and dual suspension models as well as folding bikes—they can even accommodate custom models for stores, commercial fleets or hire companies. All models carry EN15194 certification and include both 36V and 48V systems with battery sizes ranging from 10.4 to 21.0Ah.

Highlights include the X-City; an all-terrain step-through that packs knobbly 27.5-inch wheels and a 300w high-torque mid-drive Dapu motor (recommended retail $3,500). Their 250-350w hub-drive E20 folding step-through will fit in almost any car boot yet offers updated geometry that makes it comfortable enough for long-range tours (RR $2,199). At the opposite end of the spectrum, the Smartmotion HyperSonic is a 140mm travel dual suspension MTB that’s powered by a 250w Bafang mid-drive motor along with fat 27.5 x 2.6-inch tyres.

In addition to Smartmotion Electric Bikes, they also offer a wide range of high-quality electric scooters. They’ve proven to be fast sellers that offer good margins and fit neatly alongside their electric bike range.

According to Ian LeGarth, owner of Ride Electric, high-end stores have had great success with Smartmotion, as it offers a runway that leads people through the various price points. “Not everyone can afford a top end bike, however Smartmotion offers great quality and affordable pricing that allows you to lock-in sales on a daily basis.”

To browse the range and join the exclusive Smartmotion dealer network, go to www.smartmotionbikes.com.au