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Karmic Kyoto — A modern electric bike built for women
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@dshan Thanks Derek! We didn't see any really great ebikes out there that weren't ridiculously expensive, so I started Karmic a few years ago to make a great bike at a more affordable price. After the success of the Koben, we talked to more people about why they *don't* ride. The Kyoto incorporates a lot of that user-research and feedback from Koben owners as well.
The ebike space is definitely heating up. There's just a convergence of better batteries, mid-drive motors and more public acceptance of riding bikes as transportation. It's only going to get better!
Hong,
No idea what makes it "for woman".
I'm sure you would have more pledge without this sexist statement.
@_pascalandy ? Bikes tend to be gender-built, you realize that right? The frames are different.
@dshan @_pascalandy In the US biking culture tends to see different frames as for men or women - although in a lot of countries the frame type seen here isn't gendered. I moved from Amsterdam to San Francisco and ride a "women's" bike, it's just way easier to get on and off it, and sitting upright is more comfortable.
That said, there are plenty of products that target a specific gender as a marketing strategy, I don't think that's sexist, but it might cut out some of the market. I'd agree that I don't see anything on this bike though that would make it less applicable to men. Perhaps there are cost savings by only building smaller frames?
@dshan I guess I'm not bike savvy enough LOL.
@rich Lowenberg 1000% agreeing
I own a scooter (piaggio), and I don't think there such a thing like a man or woman scooter and I guess this is where my logic is coming from.
I'm really looking for a electric bike solution. By the woman vs man thing is turns me off.
Beautiful design on this. After five years of regular use, what state will the battery be in and will it be easy to find a replacement?
@richlowenberg Thanks! This uses the Shimano battery, which is readily available and will likely be better and/or cheaper in 5 years. We designed the bike to be useful and easy to own, and hope people ride it for many years.
Hi Hunters!
Thanks for hunting us Eric! It means a lot that you're a Koben backer from last year, and then pledged for a Kyoto as soon as we launched. We love seeing a Karmic Family where everyone is riding together and having fun. I'm happy to be on PH and would love to answer any questions about the bike, starting up (in a garage, self-funding) and making great products for the Kickstarter community and beyond.
Cheers,
Hong
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