Hi-Power Cycles is a Los Angeles-based electric bike brand that has announced the opening of a new “defense division” known as HPC Defense. To kick things off, they’ve unveiled an 80 mph (130 km/h) military electric bike as one of the division’s first products.
Revolutionary Speed and Power
Currently electric bikes in the US are limited to a maximum speed of 28 mph (45 km/h). But the Revolution W electric bike breaks this conventional speed limits set for civilian e-bikes in the US, which are capped at 28 mph (45 km/h). The Revolution W is designed for military use, boasts a top speed of 80 mph (130 km/h), which makes it the “fastest factory military-grade e-bike in the world,” according to HPC Defense. This incredible speed is powered by a 10,500-watt motor, providing unmatched performance in its class.
Innovative Pedaling Technology
One of the standout features of the Revolution W is its ability to maintain efficient pedaling even at high speeds. This is made possible by the German-made Schlumpf High-Speed Drive, which allows riders to achieve pedal speeds over 50 mph. Riders can engage the 2.5x overdrive feature with a simple click of the heel, maximizing efficiency at these high velocities.
Extended Range and Superior Suspension
The Revolution W claims a throttle-only range of up to 100 miles (160 km), though this range is likely based on lower average speeds. The bike is also equipped with long-range travel suspension for rough terrain. It features 9 inches of rear suspension travel and 8 inches in the front, ensuring a smooth ride in demanding environments.
Manufacturing and Cost
The high speed military E-bike is fully manufactured in the US, that is reflecting the brand’s commitment to high-quality domestic production. However the brand has not disclosed the price of the e-bike but it is expected to be significant given the high-end components, such as the $1,800 to $2,000 forks.
Military E-Bikes in Modern Warfare
Military e-bikes are not a new concept even though they are becoming more common in modern warfare. As it seen the Russian invasion of Ukraine highlighted their strategic advantages, with Ukrainian forces using electric bikes to transport anti-tank missile teams and insert sniper units. Compared to traditional dirt bikes, electric bicycles offer lower weight, greater maneuverability, and the added benefit of pedal power as a backup propulsion method if the battery is depleted.
With the launch of HPC Defense, the company has also announced Bryan Maizlish as the new Advisor & Interim President/CEO. Maizlish brings a wealth of experience from leadership roles at Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman/TASC, Jacobs Engineering, and Human Security (HUMAN), a Goldman Sachs portfolio company. His expertise is expected to guide HPC Defense in establishing a strong foothold in the military e-bike market. As military e-bikes continue to gain traction, HPC Defense is poised to become a leading player in this evolving field, offering innovative solutions for modern tactical operations.
