Sherco Launches Balance e-Bikes

Are you jack of your young kids spending way too much time on electronic devices? Well, here’s something that might be just the ticket for Christmas: a two-wheeled electronic device that’ll get them off their indoor screens and into the great outdoors – Sherco’s all-new electric balance bikes. The two Sherco models, the EB12 and EB16, cost $650 and $750, respectively, and are now available from your local Sherco dealer. Here’s an insight into the cool little e-machines from the crew at Mojo Motorcycles, the Australian importers of Sherco enduro, trial and now balance e-bikes…

Sherco Australia is pleased to introduce two super-lightweight electric balance bike models as part of its commitment to nurturing Australia’s next generation of enduro riders and trail warriors.

The Sherco EB12 and EB16 are specifically designed for children as they embark on their two-wheeled journey by way of forming the key foundations of motorcycling while also developing hand-eye coordination, balance and outdoor activity. On sale from your nearest Sherco dealer now, the Sherco EB12 and EB16 electric balance bikes have a recommended retail price of $649 and $749, respectively.

The EB12, with its 12-inch wheels, is suitable for children between the ages of two and six, or weighing up to 34kg, with little or no experience on a balance bike. Children should have an inseam of more than 14 inches (35cm) to adequately touch the ground with a slight bend in the knees for optimum sizing.

The 16-inch wheeled EB16, meanwhile, is suitable for children between five and six years of age with an 18” (45cm) inseam, or weighing up to 40kg, with some experience on a balance bike, or who are taller and need a larger platform.

Both bikes feature a simple twist-and-go throttle with a battery level display and a host of safety features to inspire confidence in the young rider as well as the supervising adult. These include selectable low/full power modes; a fully-enclosed chain cover; a rear drum brake activated via hand lever; as well as a power cut-off switch built into the brake lever, which automatically cuts power if the rider pulls in the lever, thus preventing a panic throttle twist. Also included is a height-adjustable seat, a front plate with number decals, as well as a 12-month parts-only warranty.

The EB12 is powered by a 100W brush motor and a 2.6Ah lithium-ion battery, which gives approximate top speeds of 7.5km/h and 15km/h (low/full power modes). The EB16 is paired with a larger 170W brush motor and a 5.2Ah lithium-ion battery for top speeds of 10km/h and 21km/h (low/full power modes). The EB12 tips the scales at just 9kg, while the EB16 weighs just 11kg.

Running time for both models is up to 60 minutes of constant use, however battery range will vary depending on speed setting, rider weight and riding conditions. Recharge time is up to three hours via an external charge port for convenient recharging. Additional batteries are available ($139 for 2.6Ah or $199 for 5.2Ah – both are compatible with either model) for a quick and convenient swap to keep the fun times rolling.

Other technical highlights include a lightweight aluminium frame and handlebar, chain drive, pneumatic all-terrain rubber tyres, as well as durable water-transfer frame decals. Each bike comes with an Australian 240V household charger, owners manual and toolkit.

Furthermore, children can learn to push, balance, and coast in the non-powered mode of both models, which makes for an excellent, gradual introduction. Once the child demonstrates proficient use and understanding of the brake and the ability to coast and brake while standing, then a low-power mode via the twist-and-go throttle can be introduced.

“The Sherco EB12 and EB16 are the ideal choice for little rippers. They’re fun, affordable and a great introduction into the world of two wheels,” Sherco Australia director Michael Poynton says. “The benefits, enjoyment and skills developed at such an early age are priceless. And they’ve arrived just in time for Christmas!”

OVERVIEW

Fun, silent and environmentally friendly
Forms key foundations of motorcycling
Develops hand-eye coordination, balance and outdoor activity
Height-adjustable seat
Simple twist-and-go throttle
Selectable low/full power modes plus non-powered mode for a gradual introduction
12” for ages 2-6
16” for ages 5-6
Run-time up to 60 minutes
Recharge time is up to three hours
Quick-change batteries (spare batteries sold separately)
12-month parts-only warranty
Front plate with number decals included
Spare batteries $139 or $199
RRP: EB12 $649; EB16 $749