Electric scooter company Bird will soon launch these weird 2-seater electric bikes

Santa Monica, California-based mobility startup Bird this week unveiled its new Bird Cruiser, an electric bike with a 52-volt battery and LCD screen that seats two riders.

The new shared-vehicle design is for sitting rather than standing and looks not unlike a miniature motorbike, features a padded seat that can accommodate up to two riders and an optional pedal-assist or peg, writes Kyle Wiggers at VentureBeat.

It will roll out this summer in unnamed test markets via Birds first-party service and its platform partners.

Excerpt:

The Cruiser, which Bird says was exclusively designed for ridesharing, has hydraulic disc brakes that reliably and quickly bring the vehicle to a stop. Its also powered by a 52-volt battery and boasts a built-in LCD display that shows route progress and other key trip details.

Even the motor is a custom job, apparently. Bird says it was specially engineered to ensure that rides arent disrupted by hills or inclines. Cruiser is an inclusive electric-powered option that is approachable, easy-to-ride, and comfortable on rough roads, added VanderZanden.

The Cruisers unveiling comes months after the company announced a monthly rental program to complement its existing on-demand service. For $25, Bird customers in San Francisco and Barcelona get unlimited rides on a personal scooter, with additional cities to follow.

Birds Cruiser is a two-seater electric bike with a 52-volt battery and LCD screen [venturebeat, image: Bird]

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