The Sonder x Skarper Camino Solves the Two-Bike Problem with a Click - Yanko Design

"The Sonder x Skarper Camino collaboration bundles three gravel bike configurations with the Skarper DiskDrive system pre-installed, creating what both companies call a "two bikes in one" solution. The concept is straightforward: clip on the motor for assisted commutes, unclip it for unencumbered gravel riding. What makes this interesting is not the idea itself, which conversion kits have promised for years, but the execution and the factory integration that distinguishes it from aftermarket retrofits."

"Skarper's approach to electric assist differs fundamentally from hub motors or mid-drives. The DiskDrive unit locks onto a specially designed rear brake rotor and delivers torque through that interface rather than through the wheel axle or crankset. This rotor-drive architecture means the motor sits at the chainstay, clips on and off without tools, and leaves no permanent frame modifications when removed."

"The Skarper unit contains a 250W motor rated at approximately 45 to 50 Nm of torque depending on generation. Rather than spinning the wheel directly or pushing through the chain, it grips the proprietary DiskDrive rotor and rotates it, which in turn rotates the wheel. This mechanically simple layout avoids the planetary gears found in hub motors and bypasses the drivetrain entirely, which may reduce wear on chains and cassettes over time."

Sonder and Skarper deliver three gravel bike configurations with the Skarper DiskDrive pre-installed to enable detachable electric assist. The DiskDrive attaches to a proprietary rear brake rotor at the chainstay, transferring torque through the rotor instead of the axle or drivetrain. The unit houses a 250W motor producing roughly 45–50 Nm and pairs with a 240 Wh battery that charges in about 2.5 hours for an estimated 50–60 km in eco mode. The system clips on and off without tools, leaves no permanent frame modifications, and may reduce drivetrain wear compared with hub or mid-drive setups.

Read at Yanko Design - Modern Industrial Design News