"Car-Free Earth Day is a reminder that we only have one planet-and that our streets play a critical role in our fight against climate change," said NYC DOT Commissioner Mike Flynn in an official statement.
"This project is symbolic of what we've done over the last 12 years, reshaping the streets and the city," Christophe Najovski, the city's deputy mayor in charge of green spaces, stated during the opening ceremony.
A speed limiter is a built-in system that determines the maximum speed at which an electric bike's motor will continue to assist the rider. Once the bike reaches a certain speed, the motor gradually reduces power or stops assisting altogether. This system is controlled by the bike's controller, the small onboard computer that manages the motor, battery, and sensors.
Rad Power Bikes, a buzzy electric bike company that raised nearly $330 million in venture capital, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in December. The company had struggled for months prior to its bankruptcy filing, and had warned employees it might have to shut down without new capital.
After causing a splash at last year's CES with a pair of high-tech, high-powered e-bikes, Segway returned to the show with a little something more for everyone. The Ninebot-owned brand announced two new e-bikes - the seemingly conventional-looking Myon, and the low-step, short-tail Muxi - as well as a sharp-looking electric dirt bike called the Xaber 300. In previous years, Segway veered toward gimmicky reveals, like goofy self-balancing pods and paintball-shooting go-karts.
It adapts in seconds without any tools to comfortably fit riders of varying heights thanks to its low-entry frame, quick-release seat post, and height-adjustable handlebar. It also takes up less space than an ordinary bike with its 20-inch wheels, folding pedals, and a handlebar that twists to create a slim, wall-hugging profile that goes flat inside a car or train.