Volt has increased the versatility of its Lite folding electric bike by adding a powerful Bafang M820 mid-drive motor.
The switch away from a front-hub motor opens up touring while maintaining commuting as the Lite’s primary focus, according to Volt.
The British electric bike brand says the Lite remains easy to fold up and carry.
Built around an alloy frame and fork, the Volt Lite is claimed to weigh 18kg including the 3kg 10AH battery. The lighter 7AH battery adds two kilos, according to Volt.
The Volt Lite will be available to buy soon for £2,899 (international pricing TBC).
Why move to a mid-drive motor?
Volt now specs the Lite with the Bafang M820 motor, which delivers 250W and 75Nm torque.
It’s unusual for an electric folding bike like the Volt Lite to use a mid-drive electric bike motor.
These are more common on electric mountain bikes and electric cargo bikes. They deliver a lot of power and torque necessary to assist off-road riding and carry heavy loads.
Whereas folding ebikes and electric hybrids tend to use front hub-based motors – as was the case with the previous-generation Lite – because commuting requires less power and torque.
That extra oomph should mean the new Volt Lite will accelerate quickly to 25km/h, the maximum speed electric bike laws allow in the UK.
A handlebar-mounted dial controls the assistance level, which is shown on an LCD.
Volt says the increased torque also helps the Lite ascend steep off-road inclines if you decide to take it out of town.
Despite its powerful motor, Volt doesn’t recommend adding child seats to the Lite. It has a maximum system weight (rider and luggage) of 100kg.
100km on a single charge
Volt claims the removable 36V, lithium-ion battery helps the Lite run for up to 100km on a single charge.
In its own testing, Volt says a moderately fit 70kg rider achieved this distance on flat terrain at a medium effort level.
The 3kg battery recharges in two to three hours and also powers integrated front and rear lights, according to the brand.
One size fits all
Volt claims the Lite's one-size-fits-all frame covers small to large sizes, like the Volt London. In addition, Lite has a height-adjustable handlebar.
The Lite folds in the middle of the top tube, halving in size down to 86cm long, 50cm wide and 70cm tall. A magnet holds the folded parts together.
Gates belt drive
The Volt Lite shifts with a three-speed Shimano Nexus internal gear hub and a Gates Carbon Belt CDX belt drive instead of a chain.
Puncture-resistant Schwalbe Big Ben tyres roll on 20in wheels.
Tektro hydraulic disc brakes, full mudguards, a kickstand and a Velo saddle round off the build.
