Swedish ebike manufacturer Vässla has announced the US debut of its award-winning Pedal model, which was first released in Europe last year. The Pedal is now available for pre-order across the United States, and New Yorkers have the exclusive opportunity to sign up for a subscription service starting at $109 per month.
The Vässla Pedal was designed in collaboration with Munich-based designer Christian Zanzotti and has won Gold in the 2023 German Design Awards. The ebike features a wide top tube on its aluminum frame, which is angled for easier rider access. A removable 360-Wh Li-ion battery, composed of Samsung 21700 cells, is housed within the frame.
The carbon-fiber fork features a Lezyne 65-lux front light, while the rear strip is positioned under the seat post. The Pedal is designed to accommodate riders ranging from 5 ft to 6.6 ft (1.55 – 2 m) tall and weighs in at 47 lb (21.4 kg).
Although the 250-W Limotec rear-hub motor may seem underpowered for the US market, it is reported to be capable of producing 45 Nm (33 lb.ft) of torque, enabling pedal-assist speeds up to 20 mph (32 km/h). A torque sensor is also included for a more responsive ride. The single-speed Pedal is equipped with a low-maintenance belt drive system and can travel up to 62 miles (100 km) on a single charge.
The Pedal rides on 24-inch wheels with 2.4-inch puncture-resistant CST tires featuring a reflective strip for added visibility. Tektro hydraulic disc brakes provide stopping power. The ebike also incorporates Bluetooth connectivity for pairing with a smartphone running a companion app and GPS-based anti-theft technology for added security.
The Pedal can be pre-ordered for a one-time purchase price of $2,690. New York residents have the option to join the Vässla Club and pay a monthly fee instead. Vässla first introduced its subscription platform in Europe after raising €9 million in a 2021 funding round.
NYC Club members can choose from three subscription options: the Flex package, which allows for cancellation at any time and costs $139 per month (plus a $49 setup fee); the Pro 6 package, a six-month subscription at $129 per month; or the Pro 12 annual membership package at $109 per month. All tiers include a bike helmet, lock, and phone holder, while Pro members also receive free maintenance from Vässla partner Cycle Haus.
Vässla’s founder and CEO, Rickard Bröms, highlighted the advantages of using ebikes in urban environments, stating, “The average speed for cars in NYC is 7.5 mph, which is half the speed of ebikes and slower than the horse and carriage we used 200 years ago.” He added that replacing cars, ride shares, and taxis with ebikes for short urban trips is the easiest way to reduce CO2 emissions and noise pollution in cities.
Source: Vässla Pedal
