In recent years, many cyclists have chosen to transform their bikes into e-bikes to easily tackle both urban and more demanding journeys. Skarper stands out in the sector by offering a modular solution that uses the rear brake rotor to provide electrical assistance, without complex structural interventions.
Skarper DiskDrive it is a system based on a disc brake rotor, modified to integrate a motorized transmission. The basic idea is to simplify installation as much as possible: the normal rear rotor of the bike is replaced with a compatible DiskDrive, which allows the small drive unit to be connected directly to the frame. The system delivers power through the rotor, offering pedaling assistance.
System installation and compatibility
The system is simple to install and requires only a few minutes to assemble the rotor and drive unit. It is compatible with bicycles equipped with disc brakes 160 mm and with wheels measuring between 26” and 29”. This allows for a wide range of compatibility for urban bikes, gravel and hardtail mountain bikes, but excludes rim brake models and full-suspension mountain bikes.
For bikes with 140mm rotors, you can still use an adapter to go to 160mm, making the installation flexible for many riders. However, those who use the bike for particularly intense activities such as downhill or extreme off-road routes will have to wait for the version specifically designed for MTB, which is still in the development phase.
Furthermore, it offers pedaling assistance in two modes: Echo And Turbo. Eco mode allows a maximum autonomy of approx 50kmwhile the Turbo, which offers greater power, reduces the range to around 30 km. The system fully recharges in approximately 2.5 hoursbut a half-hour quick charge can provide between 10 and 15 km of assistance, enough for small trips.
Pros and cons
The system has some obvious advantages. Its compactness, combined with relatively quick installation and technology that requires no permanent modifications to the bicycle, allows you to easily switch between traditional bike and e-bike. Additionally, there are no cables or other visible elements, contributing to a clean, minimalist aesthetic.
However, there are also some less favorable aspects. The price, which is around 1,500 pounds (approximately 1,700 euros)makes it an investment that is not within everyone’s reach. Compatibility also remains limited: those who own bikes with rim brakes or rotors other than 160 mm must resort to further modifications, reducing the flexibility of the system.
The system represents a technologically advanced and practical solution for those looking for a non-invasive method of transforming their bike into an e-bike. The system is particularly suitable for those who use the bike daily in the city or for mixed routes and do not want to compromise the traditional appearance of the vehicle. Despite costs and compatibility limitations, Skarper offers a viable alternative to more complex conversion models, making the e-bike concept accessible to a wider audience.
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