Spark a Revolution - Boulder ElectroRide
Jul 29th, 2008 by contributor
A group of local inventors are building an electric motorcycle. Called “The Spark”, the ride is clean, fast, ridiculously fun and completely silent. We had a chance to catch up with the Spark and its creator, Blair Keller, near the power plant on the north end of town and grab some photos. What did we learn? That riding the Spark is probably more fun than taking pictures of it!
According to Blair, the design for the motorcycle has its roots in the “naked bike” concepts touted by name European motorcycles such as Triumph and others. All the components are on display, and since it’s electric, there are few of those! The 180 pound Spark is assembled on a welded steel frame, with mostly off-the-shelf bike components. One of the design goals of the Spark was to be accessible to regular commuters. 
Meaning the cost of the ride had to be comparable to a scooter. They’ve done this by keeping the custom parts down, and enabling easy access to basic components to keep maintenance cost low.
If you’re thinking an eco-friendly ride means you have to go slow and look square, Boulder ElectroRide’s founders have some news for you. It goes fast (50 MPH) and it looks like, well, a chopper. The “no-clutter” concept extends beyond the look and structure of the Spark. Because it is running a motor on a battery, the only sound it makes is a small whizzing as it passes by. The spark slated to be ready in October, 2008, and in production by December. For more info, check them out at www.boulderelectroride.com.
Check out the Spark at this week’s Green tech meet-up on Thursday, August 14th at ATLAS Auditorium (1125 18th Street)–> 5:30 - 6:30 Networking; 6:30 - 6:45 Settle, Intro, Announcements (Attendees announce Green Tech news: business news, job openings, fundings, events, etc.; 6:45 - 7:45 Presentations from several front range businesses to share their new Green Tech (short presentation, short Q&A). [ http://alternativeenergy.meetup.com/171/ ]
I saw The Spark for the first time at the Eco-Fair in downtown Denver. The product intrigues and impresses me. How can I find out more?
Mac
check out their site: www.boulderelectroride.com for more information. boulderspace will be showcasing their designs and discussing design and functional alterations in the future. LIkewise, we will be posting where you can purchase one as they are in production. It would be great to hear your feedback on the Spark, and what specifically intrigues you.