Electric bike styling

[indalo]

Much as I find the much vaunted Tonaro models interesting, I'm bound to say that I feel their styling leaves a lot to be desired.

Now, I know they say beauty is in the eye of the beholder but am I the only one who finds the style just downright ugly? When I look at the new sporty models from the likes of Haibike or Kudos, I think they look great and very purposeful but maybe others find those ugly.

Having said that, I look forward to reading a full review by SteveinDenmark of his recent acquisition of a Tonaro.

Indalo

 

[eddieo]

Ditto......I think it is laughable

 

[flecc]

As ever, eye of the beholder.

To many younger people the more traditional frame styles are boring and ugly and they welcome a change, despite there often being a lack of sensible functionality.

The car world is a precedent for useless styling of course, countless slippery shaped streamlined high performance cars spending their entire lives in traffic queues at low speeds.

 

[Scottyf]

I don't think many people use Ferrari's to commute in really...

Anyway I love the look of the single speed bikes, basic triangle shapes with accents of colour.

However I also have my Marin work commuter which in my eyes has alot to be desired but it is functional. If not a bit dorky.

 

[flecc]

I wasn't speaking of Ferraris Scotty, just the majority of today's often over-powered and over-performing slippery shaped saloons and hatchbacks. e.g. giving just a few, Ford Mondeo, Vauxhall Insignia, Honda Civic, Vauxhall Corsa et al.

 

[Scottyf]

But these things need to be styled to sell. If everyone brought into things that are just practical we would live in a very boring and dull world without any outlet to create our own personality.

Thats why design is just as important as how well a car performs. Alfa have been doing it for years...

I understand what you are saying though but it is much needed in society.

 

[flecc]

I agree Scotty, just making the point that e-bikes will exhibit the same styling peccadillos in today's world.

Marketing rules!

 

[Mussels]

I don't mind the new styling but would be concerned how functional it would be, there's a good reason many bicycle frames look alike.

 

[mike killay]

I have a Tonaro Enduro. Personally, I would prefer it to look more traditional, but I am 68 years old.
The bike functions well, but it is difficult to fit panniers, and there is not any rear mud guard. For a pleasure cyclist , the styling is a bit OTT, but I see so many other simlar looking bikes about, that the old fashioned Raleigh Tourer type looks just that, out of date.
However, if Tonaro do offer a trad type bike in the future, I willl get one.
Must say that I am delighted with the Tonaro. But it must be understood that it is more of a moped than a stealth racer.
I know that many on this forum are primarily cyclists. Newer members such as myself are not cyclists (I gave up 10 years ago) and are looking for a machine that will allow us to use the cycle paths etc. without the hassle of a petrol motor and yet overcome the disablities that come with age.

 

[Scottyf]

I like how everyone knows the conventional triangle is the strongest basic shape.
But its how small tweaks to angles, materials colours can help it stand out. Even small bends in the basic frame can give a design charateristic that will appeal.

I'm hoping my next bike that will be a single speed low value bike for just going a couple miles here and there or down to the shop will be quite a stylish bike. It will probably be awful to ride comfort wise but it won't get used for long periods at a go.

However some bikes do look a bit goolish at best or a bit like they have been overdone.


Although there are some really neat, stylish examples hitting the affordable market at the moment that look very promising.

 

[flecc]

Mind you, bends in the basic triangle frame have become functional now that frames are alloy, rigid and uncomfortable. The curvy frame a la Wisper has some "give" to soften the ride.