Enhancing Urban E-Bike Safety Through Drivetrain Innovation: The Case for Enduo
The rapid expansion of micromobility, particularly electric bicycles (e-bikes) is reshaping urban transportation across consumer (B2C), commercial (B2B), and governmental (B2G) sectors. E-bikes offer a low-emission, space-efficient, and accessible alternative to traditional transport modes. However, as adoption accelerates, so too must the safety and reliability of the mechanical systems that underpin these vehicles.
Micromobility Safety: Progress and Persistent Challenges
According to Micro-Mobility for Europe (MMfE), the serious injury rate for shared e-bikes is just 20.1 per million kilometres - a 13.3% improvement over the 2022–2024 average. Despite this progress, mechanical failures remain a critical concern, particularly in high-density urban environments where e-bikes operate in close proximity to pedestrians, vehicles, and infrastructure.
In the UK alone, 3,822 pedal cyclists were seriously injured and 82 were fatally injured in 2024 (UK Department for Transport). While not all incidents are attributable to mechanical failure, drivetrain reliability is a key factor in rider safety and operational continuity.
The Drivetrain: A Critical Yet Overlooked Safety Component
While batteries, braking systems, and frame integrity receive significant attention, the drivetrain specifically the chain and sprockets, remains under-scrutinised. This system is responsible for torque transmission, load handling, and rider control. In high-usage urban applications, drivetrain components are subject to accelerated wear, increasing the likelihood of:
· Chain snapping or derailment
· Sudden loss of propulsion or braking
· Rider instability and potential collisions
· Service disruptions in delivery and fleet operations
These risks are particularly acute in commercial applications, where couriers may travel 50–100 km per day, often under load and in variable weather conditions.
Enduo: A Paradigm Shift in Drivetrain Engineering
New Motion Labs has developed Enduo, a patented drivetrain system that re-engineers the sprocket, the historically neglected component of chain drive systems. Enduo introduces a dual-engagement tooth profile, enabling the chain to engage on both sides of the sprocket tooth simultaneously. This innovation delivers:
· Enhanced chain retention and stability
· Reduced wear and elongation
· Minimised risk of disengagement or failure
· Extended drivetrain lifespan
Enduo is the result of extensive R&D conducted at our UK-based testing facility, which houses 28 advanced test rigs across cycling, industrial, and motorcycle applications. Our engineering team specialises in drivetrain optimisation, with a focus on real-world performance and safety.
Tailored Solutions for Diverse Urban Applications
Enduo technology is available in two configurations:
· Enduo Ride: Compatible with standard bicycle chains, this solution offers up to 3× the chain lifetime of conventional systems, reducing maintenance frequency and failure risk without requiring a chain upgrade.
· Enduo Cargo: Designed for industrial-grade 3/8” chains with a tensile strength of 9 kN (approximately 20% higher than standard e-bike chains), this system supports high-load applications with corrosion resistance and a lifetime of up to 30,000 km.
These solutions are engineered for the operational demands of urban micromobility, not just recreational cycling, ensuring durability, safety, and performance in high-frequency, high-stress environments.
Supporting the Sector Through Innovation
New Motion Labs is committed to advancing micromobility, not by criticising current practices, but by elevating standards. We recognise that trust and safety are foundational to the sector’s continued growth. By addressing a critical failure point in e-bike systems, Enduo empowers operators, manufacturers, and municipalities to deliver safer, more reliable transport solutions.
Conclusion
Micromobility has demonstrated its transformative potential. With Enduo, the drivetrain can now match the ambition of the sector, delivering safety, reliability, and resilience at scale.
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