Hydroformed aluminium chassis braces the Model-F e-bike from Electric Bike Company

The California-based Electric Bike Company launched its much-awaited foldable e-bike, dubbed Model-F, featuring hydroformed aluminium chassis. The Model F sports a low-step through the frame and 24-inch wheels instead of the bigger cruiser's 26-inch wheels and the smaller 20-inch wheels often seen on other folding electric bikes.

Hydroforming involves pressing room-temperature material into a die with high-pressure hydraulic fluid. A hollow aluminium tube is put within a negative mould that mimics the final shape to hydroform aluminium into the frame rail of a car.

The 3′′ broad tyres are likewise a compromise between narrower street tyres and cushier fat tyres, more appropriately classified as balloon tyres. The bike is slightly more portable when folded thanks to the reduced diameter tyres, which are nevertheless sizable enough to provide a more conventional cruiser-like riding.

The hydroformed aluminium frame of the Model F employs a downtube-mounted integrated battery and a front suspension fork. The bike's battery may be either secured in place for charging or unlocked so it can be removed and charged independently.

Aluminium alloy frames are the most widely used base materials for e-bike constructions. Despite their low-weight feature, aluminium bike frames are solid and stable, making them ideal for various riders.

According to the manufacturer, the pedal-assist Model F electric bike can travel up to 80 kilometres on a single charge. The company says that the Model F can go around 40 km on a fully charged battery if the user uses only electric power and does not pedal.

The new folder is equipped with vegan leather grips, a wide comfort saddle that embodies the cruiser bike vibes of Electric Bike Company, a colour LCD, LED lighting in the front and back of the bike, corrosion-resistant hardware all over the bike, and an adjustable handlebar stem, just like the company's other models.