Trek launch throttle assist e-bike in North America market

Trek has introduced the brand’s first throttle-assisted e-bike with the launch of the FX+ 1 throttle e-bike.

Designed specifically with commuters in mind, as well as appealing directly to those looking for a way to leave the car behind – when gridlock sees short journeys become a long, drawn-out, time suck – the all-new FX+ 1 is a step in a new direction for the brand, and for many of those whom it aims to make it newest customers.

At launch, the brand states, FX+ 1 seeks to give people the boost they need to ride farther, adventure longer, and get from point A to B without breaking a sweat. Of the bike, the brand highlights that it is “Lightweight, easy to charge, and even easier to use”, with the throttle e-bike empowering people to “take on any and every ride with confidence and control.”

The bike’s handlebar-mounted throttle offers riders the option of additional assistance at the touch of a button, making pedalling easier and riding appealing to a wider audience – people who don’t currently, and may never, call themselves a ‘cyclist’.

Transport solutions providers – in the form of shared mobility – are making an impact on the way people choose to travel, and it’s here that Trek clearly sees an opportunity, being the first global bike brand from the legacy industry to launch a throttle-assisted product.

Localisation for the NA marketplace

Due to e-bike class regulations differing by location, we offer two FX+ 1 models to help meet the requirements of where you live and ride.

This means the brand is delivering both Class 2 (for California) 20 mph enabled, and Class 3, which will throttle up to 20mph with pedal assist up to 28mph (which is not legal in California).

Specs and details

FX+ 1 is available in four sizes (S, M, L, and XL) and two frame styles. Both bike types come with a 540Wh battery and options for mudguards and racks. The 27.5 wheel size and 650×50 maximum tyre size aim at creating ride comfort. A hub-based motor offers 60Nm of support for users pedalling, as well as using the bar-mounted throttle.

Safety as a selling point

The Trek website places a clear emphasis on compliance and safety, with the following highlighted as a means to assure prospective customers: “The e-systems on all Trek e-bikes are third-party tested to comply with leading e-bike safety regulations, including the rigorous UL2849 standard set by Underwriters Laboratories — an independent organization that develops safety standards for a variety of industries”.

Image credit: Trek USA