Remember when you thought that it would be awesome to be able to ride a bicycle on water? Well, now you can because Manta5 a New Zealand startup made it possible and debuted the Manta5 Hydrofoiler XE-1, the world first water bicycle or water e-Bike at the 2020 CES.
The Hydrofoiler XE-1 uses the same technology as the America’s Cup sailboats which opens up a whole new cycling frontier for the water lovers. According to Manta5, the XE-1 water e-Bike is suitable for a wide range of fitness levels, riders can explore ocean coastlines, train along waterways, or cruise lakeside with friends and family. Its fast, maneuverable and provides the thrill of cycling on the open water with no roads, no traffic or hills.
With parts made out of carbon fiber and aluminum, this water bicycle is suitable for saltwater and offers a variable pedal assist can be dialed up or down to fit the riders needs. It can hit a top speed of up to 12 mph (similar to traditional sailboats) and sports a modular design for quick assembly and transport to and from the water.
Manta5 Hydrofoiler XE-1
The Manta5 Hydrofoiler XE-1 carbon fiber foil design minimizes drag and extends effective wingspan offering the perfect balance between stability and maneuverability in all types of water-conditions. The Hydrofoiler XE-1 water bicycle uses an IP68 rated electric motor which is used for peddling assist and was designed to push the limits of what’s possible on water. It has proven resilient against rigorous maritime tests yet it produces no more than a quiet hum and inflicts zero harm on the environment with up to a 60 minute run time off a 5 hour battery charge.
The Hydrofoiler XE-1’s frame is made out of aircraft grade 6061-T6 aluminium and its gears are packed full of ingenious design details that stay true to the simplicity of a beautifully crafted e-bike. The water bicycle also features an easy maintenance crank-set sub-assembly, gearbox sub-assembly, and the propeller/shaft sub-assembly. All-in-all, this is innovation at its finest.
The cost to buy a Manta5 Hydrofoiler XE-1 is $7,490 and you can secure yours today with a 50% down payment. According to Manta5’s website, from April 2020 onward, they will only be producing and shipping limited production runs globally each month. Delivery is done on a first-in, first-served basis according to the date of your reservation. So, if you dream of foiling in Summer of 2020, be sure to reserve your XE-1 now and don’t miss out. If you want to see what they are or have been up to, be sure to follow Manta5 on Instagram.
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