This Week in Startups E982: Karmic Bikes Founder Hong Quan on creating the “Tesla of E-Bikes” with OSLO, bootstrapping through Kickstarter, lowering costs as a strategy, insights on U.S. resistance to widespread E-Bike adoption, & why this vehicle is the future of transportation, plus Office Hours with Jason!
Oct 1, 2019
In this engaging discussion, Hong Quan, CEO and co-founder of Karmic Bikes, shares insights into creating the OSLO, dubbed the 'Tesla of E-Bikes.' He delves into the various e-bike classifications and their impact on adoption in the U.S. A highlight is his unique approach to lowering costs through Kickstarter. Hong also explores barriers to e-bike popularity in America, contrasting it with Europe’s embrace of these innovative vehicles. Plus, don’t miss his surprise rap performance, adding a fun twist to the micromobility conversation!
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Early Karmic Bikes
- Karmic Bikes initially sold hundreds of bespoke e-bikes.
- These used commodity parts and existing bike frames, with Karmic providing the branding.
US E-Bike Adoption Barriers
- E-bike adoption in the US is slow due to high prices and resistance from the bike industry.
- The industry initially saw e-bikes as "cheating", hindering early adoption.
Bike-Friendly Palo Alto
- Palo Alto is considered a bike-friendly city with protected lanes and European-style intersections.
- Many students ride bikes, but this habit drops off after they enter the workforce.