The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →The Copenhagen Wheel was a rear-wheel conversion system that added pedal assistance to an existing bicycle. In a June 2017 hands-on review, New Atlas found the assistance smooth and useful on hills, but the system had meaningful fit restrictions and a fiddly torque-arm clamp. Its reported specifications and $1,499 price are launch-era facts—not confirmation that the Wheel is sold or supported today.
What the Copenhagen Wheel was
The idea dates to 2009, when MIT’s SENSEable City team began developing the system in consultation with the City of Copenhagen. After production delays, the Wheel became commercially available in April 2017, according to New Atlas’s review and Superpedestrian’s April 11, 2017 announcement.
Instead of adding a separate motor and battery to different parts of a bicycle, the product integrated its motor, battery, sensors, wireless connection, and controls into a replacement rear wheel. Superpedestrian described the assistance as automatically responsive to pedaling and said riders could select modes in an app. The company also said braking could capture energy to recharge the battery; that was a manufacturer claim, not an independently quantified result in the review.
What the 2017 US review reported
These figures describe the US test model covered by New Atlas in 2017, not verified current specifications or a promise of real-world performance. The range was reported as a maximum and depended substantially on conditions such as terrain.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
#1 Best Overall
- Note: Use a 65W USB-C charger (not include). Compatible only with round seatposts (25-35mm). Check size before installation. Not suitable for children's bicycles, This product is a pedal-assist accessory only and is not a complete electric bike
- Quick Installation: LIVALL PikaBoost 2 assist device installs quickly and securely on your bike’s rear wheel without extra wires. Easily switch between pedal-assist riding and regular cycling without removing the unit
- Durable and Long-lasting Battery: Equipped with built-in 158Wh lithium battery with full BMS multi-layer safety protection to prevent overcharge, overheat and short circuit. Under ideal riding conditions, this electric bike kit delivers up to 50km / 31.07 miles assist range, perfect for daily short-distance urban commuting. Full charge within 3 hours via 65W Type-C PD fast charger (charger NOT included)
- Multi-Function Type-C Port & IPX5 Waterproof: Supports Type-C PD3.0 fast charging input, and reversely output power up to 100W for charging your phone, cycling lights and other portable devices. IPX5 waterproof rating handles light rainy commuting, no worry about splashes on your way to work or school
- Complete Starter Accessories & Basic Safety Warning Light: Package includes PikaBoost 2 Lite host, 158Wh battery, installation pack, mudguard, Type-C fast charging cable and quick start guide. Built-in warning light improves visibility during dusk and night rides. Note: This is only a pedal assist accessory, NOT a complete electric bicycle. Wireless remote controller, fall detection and cruise mode are not available on Lite version
| Specification | 2017 report |
|---|---|
| Motor | 350 W (New Atlas, 2017) |
| Battery | 48 V / 279 Wh lithium-ion (New Atlas, 2017) |
| Charge time | Four hours (New Atlas, 2017) |
| Assisted speed | Up to 20 mph (32 km/h); no throttle-only mode (New Atlas, 2017) |
| Reported range | Up to 30 miles (48 km), depending substantially on terrain and other conditions (New Atlas, 2017) |
| Tested wheel weight | 20 lb (9 kg) for the 700C version (New Atlas, 2017) |
| Launch retail price | $1,499, reported by Superpedestrian in 2017 and by New Atlas in June 2017; not a current price |
Will it fit your bicycle?
Not every bicycle was a match. New Atlas reported compatibility with single-speed and 7-, 8-, 9-, or 10-speed Shimano or SRAM drivetrains; the Wheel came with a cassette installed. The reviewed version was not compatible with disc brakes and was not recommended for carbon-fiber frames. Those are more useful checks than the manufacturer’s broad 2017 description of fit for “almost any bike.” Check the exact wheel, drivetrain, brake, and frame requirements before buying a used unit.
Installation and everyday controls
Replacing the rear wheel
Installation meant removing the bicycle’s existing rear wheel and fitting the Copenhagen Wheel in its place, working around the chain and derailleur. A torque arm then had to be fastened to the chainstay with the included steel hose clamp. The reviewer found that clamp fiddly and suggested owners might prefer to leave the Wheel installed once it was fitted. The system used its own torque and cadence sensors, so it did not need an external pedal sensor; the review noted that some front-wheel conversion systems could be simpler to install.
Rank #2
- 🚴【Kit Includes】1x 24V 250W DC Motor, 1x Chain, 1x Freewheel, 1x Freewheel Adapter, 1x Motor Controller, 1x Mounting Plate, 1x Accelerator Handle, 1x Left Handle Sleeve, All Accessories for Assembly (If you're unsure how to install it, please refer to the installation manual on the product details page or consult us.)
- 🚴【Wide Application】The conversion kit fits standard handlebars of 0.87 inches and wheels of 16-28 inches. It is compatible with most e-bikes, scooters, skateboards and other DIY projects
- 🚴【Good material】The conversion kit are made of high-grade aluminum, iron, copper materials, through the baking paint process, light weight, abrasion-resistant, impact-resistant, tough enough, not easy to be damaged, to ensure long-term use
- 🚴【Safety】The cables and connectors are well connected to ensure a low failure rate in long-term use. Powerful brushed controller and under-voltage protection (20v) make your whole riding process safer
- 🚴【Easy to Install and Clean】The electric bicycle motor kit comes with a mounting plate and bolts for quick installation and use. The simple structure allows you to clean it easily with water and a rag (not included)
Using the app
The iOS and Android app paired with the Wheel over Bluetooth and offered Eco, Standard, and Turbo modes. New Atlas said it could also track routes, show battery life, and lock the wheel. The reviewer tested that the motor continued working after the phone was turned off, so the review does not indicate that riders needed a live phone connection throughout a trip.
How it rode in the review
Reviewer Ben Coxworth reported that assistance engaged smoothly and immediately as he pedaled, and that hills became easier. He found Eco mode useful, described the construction as solid, and said the wheel did not rattle over bumps. With assistance switched off, he found the 20 lb test wheel heavy to pedal. These are the reviewer’s observations, not results from a new test.
Rank #3
- Premium Material: This product is made of aluminum, iron, copper, magnetic steel, aluminum alloy, and rubber butyl. All of these materials have good performances, making the kit durable, and not easy to rust. Therefore, you can use it for a long time without frequent replacement, which can save your use cost to a certain extent.
- High-Power 48V 1000W E-Bike Conversion Kit – Upgrade Your Ride: Transform your standard bike into an electric bike with this powerful 48V 1000W motor kit. Achieve speeds up to 53km/h with 45N.M torque and 440rpm, perfect for road use with a 120kg (264.55lbs) load capacity.
- Efficient & Smooth Riding Experience: The rear suspension motor delivers >80% efficiency with 3 LED lights for visibility. Ideal for commuting, leisure, or uphill rides—seamlessly integrates with your bike frame.
- Brushless and Toothless Motor: Our kit uses an upgraded 1000W brushless and toothless motor with an efficiency of more than 80%, which runs smoother with low noise than a brushed motor thus providing stable power to the bike. And brushless motors do not need to replace brushes, making maintenance easier.
- Universal Fit for DIY E-Bike Enthusiasts: Perfect for DIY e-bike conversions, this 48V motor kit suits most 26-inch bikes. Includes all accessories for assembly—turn your bike into an electric powerhouse effortlessly!
Can you buy or get support for one now?
Current sales and support could not be confirmed from an authoritative current source. Apple’s US App Store listing for the Wheel app remains listed and shows version 2.11.7 dated September 30, 2020, but that does not establish whether new Wheels are being sold, whether the app works reliably with current phones, or whether manufacturer service is available: Apple App Store listing.
If considering a secondhand Wheel, confirm that the particular unit is complete and operational, and check the bicycle fit and app situation before paying. The historical $1,499 launch price does not tell you what a used unit should cost today. A bicycle shop can assess compatibility and installation, but no particular current service provider or referral program is established here.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- 【Durable 36-Spoke Wheel & 265Lb Load】Crafted from aluminum, iron, and copper with a baked varnish finish, this 26-inch rear hub motor kit resists rust and wear. The reinforced 36-spoke design uniformly distributes stress, safely supporting up to 265 lbs for most adult riders.
- 【1000W Gearless Brushless Motor 33MPH】This 48V 1000W brushless gearless hub motor delivers 45N.m torque with over 80% efficiency. Enjoy a smooth, low-noise ride at speeds up to 33MPH without the hassle of brush replacements, ensuring long‑term reliable performance.
- 【Complete DIY Kit With Thumb Throttle】Everything you need is included: a responsive thumb throttle, pedal assist sensor, power‑off brake levers, waterproof controller bag, and all mounting hardware—making your bicycle‑to‑ebike conversion straightforward and budget‑friendly.
- 【Safer Riding & Night Visibility】Power‑off brake levers cut motor power instantly for safe stops. The thumb throttle’s built‑in LED light brightly illuminates the road at night, while the anti‑slip textured tire pattern enhances grip and cornering stability.
- 【Easy Installation & Wide Compatibility】Fits most 26‑inch bicycles with a rear dropout spacing of 135mm. Follow the detailed English manual for a quick, tool‑friendly conversion and get ready to chase the wind on your upgraded ride (battery not included).
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
