BikeBiz Bicycle and cycling retail news
Edinburgh-based e-bike drivetrain business Intra Drive has shared the news that its GD8 gearbox powertrain is now set for pilot production, with this scheduled to get underway in October.
Critically, the business has already confirmed that it has a number of bike brand launch partners for the GD8 gearbox powertrain.
In sharing the news of the pilot production run, a spokesperson for the business has highlighted that “Limited units are still available for forward-thinking product managers eager to elevate their e-bike offerings.”
Critically, for bike brands considering new options for its e-bike range, the Intra Drive system “uses the same frame mounting points as Shimano EP8, making it easy for bike brands to integrate into their range
Built to last
Circular design ensures our products are repairable, upgradable, and recyclable at end of life. Intra Drive aims to maximise product lifetime, and, in a move that is still far too rare across the e-bike motor space, will make affordable spare parts available.
Here the business points out that “Long lasting, maintainable products reduce total cost of ownership, and dramatically reduce environmental impact.”
For bike brands, this means there is more to be gained from a partnership, where the brand benefits from “GD8’s low maintenance, high performance, and sustainability features”.
Key highlights of the GD8 powertrain:
- Rapid electronically shifted gearbox delivers an intuitive ride experience
- Protected drivetrain for the holy grail of long-lasting performance and minimal maintenance
- Off-the-shelf spare parts availability in the unlikely event that repairs are needed
- Centralised mass for superior handling
The GD8 features integrated, patent-pending, electronic gear shifting, and patent-pending motor technology. The hardened steel gears are protected from the elements, inside a sealed, oil-lubricated aluminium case. The GD8 is also available with battery, electronic shifter, and display, offering bike brands a plug-and-play solution.
The increasing number of integrated motor and gearbox units being offered in the e-bike space all point to a common development: Removing the rear derailleur. This has also increased interest in the use of belt drive, replacing the conventional link-based chain.
As Intra Drive point out, even when a chain is used, a “straight chain line, means less chain wear and longer chain life”. Factor in eight gears and a motor, with a wide 470% gear range, and the appeal of an integrated motor and gearbox is clear for all to see.
