E-bikes are comfortable, no question. But many models are a bit bulky, and the design leaves something to be desired in some areas. And they're certainly not cheap. Then there's the weight: Anyone who's ever carried an electric bike up three flights of stairs knows the problem. The guys at Ridetronic have come up with a solution that's both aesthetically pleasing and practical. And also affordable.
1. Who are you and what do you do? Please briefly introduce yourself and your product!
We are the startup Ridetronic and our motto is: “Stylish e-bikes made easy!”
Founder:
- Tom Janowski, 36, mechanical engineering
- Paul Klarhöfer, 27, electrical engineering
- Maximilian Gassner, 27, Business Innovation and Management Consulting.
Tom and Paul are former colleagues and started developing our drive concept together. Max joined the team during his time at Strascheg Center and has been responsible for business development ever since.
With the electrical retrofit kit from Ridetronic Any bicycle can be easily and quickly transformed into a lightweight, fully-fledged e-bike. The bike's classic design remains completely intact after the conversion. The battery and motor are neatly concealed and optimally integrated in the front and rear wheel hubs, respectively. Thanks to its compact design, the retrofit kit has a total weight of just 3.6 kg, enabling e-bike models weighing less than 12 kg without the need for expensive lightweight components.
The conversion is very simple. The bike's old wheels are removed, a power cable is attached to the frame, and then we install the new wheelset. For smart drive control, we've developed a proprietary app that allows you to access all relevant data such as battery level, remaining range, and speed via your smartphone, and set any riding mode. This allows the electric assistance to be optimally adapted to the user's needs.
Pimp my ride! No need to buy a new one
2. But that's been around for a long time!
Of course, e-bikes and other retrofit kits are already on the market. However, most have bulky and poorly integrated drive components. Many e-bikes weigh well over 25 kg and have the battery mounted on the luggage rack or frame bar, completely disrupting the bike's original design. Lightweight e-bikes (< 15 kg) also have a retail price of well over €3,500. With our drive, the drive components are perfectly integrated into the bike, with minimal additional weight. This gives customers the opportunity to transform their beloved bike into a stylish and lightweight e-bike without having to buy a new one.
3. What has been your biggest challenge so far?
The approval of the EXIST start-up grant.
4. Let’s get down to business: How is business going?
We are still in the prototype development phase and therefore unfortunately cannot provide any concrete figures yet.
Bike-friendly Munich
5. What does Munich mean to you?
Munich is a crucial location for us. Firstly, all three of us are from the city or the surrounding area, and we are well-connected and deeply rooted. With the Strascheg Center and the Munich University of Applied Sciences, we have also gained two important strategic partners for our project. Furthermore, we have come to know the people of Munich as curious, innovative, and, above all, cycling enthusiasts. All of these are important factors for successfully launching our product.
6. How will your startup become the next unicorn? Or will we see you soon at Epic Fail Night?
During the EXIST period, we'll be working hard to offer you the best possible cycling experience. Thanks to our unique product and our team, we'll be transforming the bikes of tomorrow.
7. Bavaria or '60?
Definitely: 1860!!!
