Ilaria Rosella Pagliaro Skarper, the modular system that transforms your bike into an e-bike without permanent modifications: flexible, easy and suitable for various types of bicycles
©Skarper
In the last couple of years, many cyclists have transformed their traditional bikes into e-bikes to make commutes and tough routes easier. Skarper is a bit particular because it has a module solution that utilizes the rear brake rotor for providing electric assistance and doesn’t require complex structural modifications.
Skarper DiskDrive system incorporates a custom disc brake rotor with an integrated motorised transmission. The idea is to make it easier to fit: you swap the regular rear rotor for a DiskDrive-compatible one, and the compact motor unit bolts on directly to the frame. Power is transmitted via the rotor, giving electric pedal assist in a very smooth fashion.
Installation and compatibility of the system
The system is quick to fit, with the rotor and motor unit able to be installed in only a few minutes. Compatibility is given to those bicycles fitted with 6.3-inch disc brakes and wheels from 26″ to 29″. The wide range of compatibility extends urban bikes, gravel bikes, and hardtail mountain bikes, with its excluded models being the ones with rim brakes and full-suspension mountain bikes.
Also, bikes with 5.5-inch rotors can step up to 6.3-inch rotors with an adapter, adding flexibility for many riders. However, for those bikers who use their bikes for serious activities such as downhill or extreme off-road trails, it will be a while as work is still being done on developing a dedicated MTB version.
The system provides two modes of pedal assistance: Eco and Turbo. The former offers a maximum range of about 50 km, although the latter, being more powerful, reduces it to about 30 km. The system fully charges in about 2.5 hours but can have a quick 30-minute charge for 10 to 15 km of assist, perfect for shorter trips.
Pros and Cons
Above all, the system has a number of evident advantages: due to its compact design and fast installation, combined with a non-invasive approach, switching between a traditional bike and an e-bike is user-friendly. There are no cables, so far as the eye could see, nor extra components compromising this clean, minimal look.
However, there are some cons. The retail price, being roughly £1,500 (about $1,800 USD), results in quite an investment. Besides that, compatibility remains limited: cyclists with rim brakes or even those who have non-standard rotors must make additional modifications, reducing overall flexibility in this system.
A promising alternative to the e-bike market
Skarper’s DiskDrive offers a modern, practical solution for those interested in non-invasive methods of turning any bike into an e-bike. It is meant primarily for daily urban riders or mixed-terrain cyclists who want to preserve the traditional look of their bike. At a cost and with compatibility limitations, Skarper offers a convincing alternative to more complex conversion systems, further democratizing access to e-bikes.
