Key Takeaways
1. Kamingo’s conversion kit turns standard bicycles into e-bikes with just three parts: a control unit, a battery, and a motor.
2. The control unit features a display for battery level and three assistance modes: Standby, Assist, and Cruise.
3. The battery has a capacity of 266 Wh, fits in standard water bottle holders, and can also serve as a USB-C power bank.
4. The motor is self-adjusting, tool-free setup, compatible with most tire types, and connects via cable or wireless.
5. The system has an IP66 rating for durability, Bluetooth locking for security, and is currently crowdfunding on Kickstarter at prices starting at $349.
Kamingo has come up with a conversion kit that can turn standard bicycles into e-bikes, even if they don’t have motors. The kit only needs three main parts: a control unit, a battery, and a motor. Putting the whole system together is claimed to take less than three minutes. After it’s set up, all the parts can be taken off and put back on in just 10 seconds, as per the manufacturer.
Easy-to-Use Control Unit
The control unit comes with a built-in display that attaches to the handlebars. It shows the battery level and lets users choose from three assistance modes: Standby, Assist, and Cruise. In Standby mode, you can ride the bike without any motor help. The Assist mode gives support up to speeds of 25 or 32 km/h. Meanwhile, the Cruise mode allows riding without pedaling, which is not allowed in some countries.
Powerful Battery Design
The battery, which is 266 Wh, is round and is made to fit in standard water bottle holders. It promises a steady output of 250 watts and can peak at 750 watts, making it easier for riders to go uphill. Additionally, the battery can also act as a USB-C power bank for smartphones or other compatible gadgets, with an output power of 5 watts. Recharging it fully is said to take about three hours.
Motor Features and Compatibility
The motor is placed on the seat post and is self-adjusting, meaning it can automatically change its distance from the tire. Kamingo is said to work with all types of tires except rough MTB ones. Once the initial setup is done, the motor can be easily put on or taken off without needing any tools. The motor connects to the gearshift lever through either a cable or a 2.4 GHz wireless connection.
System Durability and Security
The whole system has an IP66 rating, which means it is protected against dust and water. Also, the motor can be locked using Bluetooth, making it harder for thieves to steal. Moreover, Kamingo works with both iOS and Android devices.
While the concept of converting regular bikes into e-bikes isn’t brand new, several brands have similar offerings. Kamingo seeks to stand out with its fast assembly, compact size, and seamless motor assistance. Currently, the system is being funded on Kickstarter; the super early bird price is $349, while the regular retail price will be $589. Since this is a crowdfunding effort, backers should remember there is no surety that the product will actually be available for purchase.
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