The new EN 15194 standard for EPACs (Electrically Power Assisted Cycles) is far more complicated than the standards currently in force in the UK and Electro Magnetic Compatibility (EMC) requirements are already applied throughout Europe to all kinds of electric appliances and vehicles like cars, motorcycles and mopeds. EMC requirements are designed to, for instance, ensure the safety of people who use a pacemaker or hearing-aid when driving cars or e-Bikes.

To prepare an ebike for passing the EN 15194 certification process is extremely complicated, rigorous and, indeed, expensive.  What it does mean, though, is that each component used in the bike is subject to individual testing and therefore, as a whole, the bike is superb.

Although EN 15194 hasn't been entirely adopted for the UK market as yet, the certification allows us to ship this bike throughout Europe knowing that it will fully meet all of the regulations in each individual country.

As you can see from the photographs the bike itself is fantastic looking and is just an all round superb electric bicycle.

The quality of the welding and paintwork is second to none and the photos really don't do it justice.

The motor has excellent freewheeling capability, in operation is very quiet and is just brilliant on hills and the 36 Volt 10Ah Lithium Ion Battery Pack is, of course, lockable and removable and slots into the rear rack and mates with the controller box.

The big thing about the functionality of the Typhoon is though, the incorporation of the new AlienOcean "PowerMode" Display.  Not only does this system allow you to switch off the power altogether from the handlebar mounted control, it also enables you to have power on low, medium or high!

So, let's say that you are a bit unfit like me and want to use the bike to get you back into cycling without having a heart attack on a hill - simply use the bike on full power to start.  Once you get a bit fitter, reduce the power to medium and eventually low or no power at all.

On the other hand, say that you want to increase range and you're perfectly happy cycling along the flats, simply switch the system off by pressing the button.  You'll use no power at all and range will increase significantly.

EN 15194 is strictly pedal assist.  In other words you need to pedal to activate the system.  Now we know our customers in the UK so with the Typhoon you will receive a free AlienOcean "Throttle Conversion Kit".  Exactly!  Fit this and you have a full working PowerMode PAS bike AND full throttle control if you want it.  Not only that but the kit has a handlebar mounted switch allowing you to either have Pedal Assist only OR Throttle only.

I think that the throttle is a great help for those unfortunate enough to have problems with their back or knees and who need assistance taking off from a standstill.  or indeed those who (like me!) don't like pedalling at all.  It's just like riding an electric motorcycle.

The Typhoon is designed to suit adults who are looking for a bike for a height range from 5'5" to 6'4" or thereabouts.   Please note that the bike will arrive with a sprung saddle post which might prove to be too high for some riders.  You can though easily replace this with a standard, non-sprung, post if you need to - available from all bicycle dealers. 

SPECIFICATION

• Front fork: Double crown, suspension
• Handlebar & Stem: Alloy, Adjustable for both Height and Reach
• Rims: Alloy black, silver side edge
• Wheel size: 700c
• Frame: Alloy (Gloss Paint Finish)
• Derailleur: 7 Speed Shimano Acera
• Brakes: Front & Rear V Brake
• Motor: Brushless 250W
• AlienOcean "PowerMode" System
• Battery: 36V/10AH Lithium Ion
• Charger: UK CE Li-Ion
• Charging time: 4-6 hours
• Mileage: 25-50 Miles (Rider & Terrain dependent)
• Speed: 15 mph (UK Legal Max under power)
• Colour: White or Black
• Front and Rear Lights
• Weight: 25Kg incl. Battery
• Frame Size: 19" (measured from centre of crank to top of seat tube)
• Recommended Max. Rider Weight 140Kg
• Will suit riders from about 5'3" to around 6'2" or thereabouts 29-31" inside leg
• Includes free Throttle Conversion Kit