With the 2015 model year, Wheeler is presenting e-bikes with a mid-motor for the first time. This is called the "New Power Unit" and is manufactured in Japan by Yamaha. This mid-motor is compact, weighs just 3.5 kilograms and is a powerhouse: the maximum torque is 80NM and the power output is 250 watts. The combination of low weight and high performance promises dynamic riding characteristics. Wheeler will be offering three models with this mid-motor for 2015:

Number one for off-road

For off-road riding, the manufacturer recommends the "i-Rider" model, a sporty hardtail with 27.5-inch wheels and a battery with 400 watt hours capacity on the down tube. The aluminum frame provides a solid base, and with ten gears, the drivetrain with parts from Shimano's SLX and XT groupsets is also impressive. The "X-King" tires from Continental should also cut just as good a figure on asphalt as off-road.

Number two for trekking bikes

The "i-Vision" in the portfolio is designed for long rides on asphalt and the occasional dirt track detour. The bike is available in a version for women and men. Integrated into the Racktime luggage rack, the 500 Wh battery offers plenty of power resources. The eight gears of the Alfine hub from Shimano can be shifted while stationary and the 700C wheels make it easier to make rapid progress.

And lots of comfort to round off the portfolio

The "i-Vision DI" combines the comfort and safety of an aluminum frame with low step-through with the powerful Syncdrive mid-motor from Yamaha. Neatly integrated into the Racktime luggage rack, the battery offers a capacity of 500Wh. The 700C tyres and Alfine 8-speed gears are taken over by the comfort model from its sporty counterpart above.

www.wheeler.ch