Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Skarper unit fit any bike?
Skarper is designed to fit disc brake bikes and has been tested on a wide selection of bicycle frames. The current Skarper unit fits bikes that can accept a 160mm disc rotor. If your bike has a 140mm rotor and you would like to use the Skarper eBike drive unit, a bike shop should be able to adapt your bicycle to Skarper’s 160mm rotor using an off-the-shelf 140mm to 160mm calliper adaptor – which can be purchased online or in most bike shops.
Skarper’s eBike drive system is designed to work with 26-29” wheels. If you are unsure about your bike, our network of Skarper installers can help you out or chat with us here.
If your bike does not have a disc brake and you would like to use Skarper, please reach out to our partner Poshbikes. They can check your bike and if applicable, provide a solution through their network of installers by changing the rear hub of your bike to one that can accept a centerlock adapter. More information can be provided by Poshbikes and select members of our installer network.
What if the Skarper doesn't fit my bike?
If your Skarper doesn’t fit, you can contact us for technical advice. If after receiving advice you still cannot fit it on your bike and your Skarper is unused, you can return it for a full refund within 14 days of receiving your product. We strongly recommend checking your bike’s compatibility before ordering. If you ordered Skarper and realised that your bike does not fit before delivery, you can simply contact us to cancel your order and receive a full refund. Full details about our returns policy can be found in our Terms & Conditions.
How can I install the Skarper on my bike?
You are invited to visit one of the members of our installer network who can install Skarper’s eBike drive system for you free of charge, or you can do it yourself. In order to install a Skarper you need to replace your bike’s disc brake rotor with our DiskDrive rotor. Our manual (provided with your Skarper) will contain all relevant information. Closer to the delivery time we will provide you with video tutorials and a digital version of the user manual. If you are unsure whether you can install Skarper, feel free to contact us.
How long does it take to install Skarper’s eBike drive system?
Installing Skarper on a bike is a very quick process. A bike shop will change a disc brake rotor for you in minutes. If you want to do it yourself, it should take about the same amount of time as changing a flat tyre.
Do I have a warranty for my Skarper?
Yes, Skarper comes with a 2-year warranty when used for its intended purpose. Our technicians and support network are available to assist with any issues. Full warranty details can be found in our Terms & Conditions.
Can I track my Skarper order?
Yes. You will receive a unique order reference number and our team will update you with the expected delivery date and how you can prepare for the delivery.
Can Skarper be used in all weather conditions?
The Skarper drive system has been designed to meet the IP55 standard for water protection, ensuring it can handle your daily commute, rain or shine. It is not designed to be submerged in water or jet washed as these activities will void the warranty and could cause your Skarper to stop working. The DiskDrive rotor is designed to meet IP54. It can handle all the mud, rain and dirt you can throw at it however take care with cleaning and simply use a damp cloth. Do not pressure wash the rotor as it may damage it.
What safety features does the Skarper have?
We are taking no chances when it comes to battery safety. Both our battery pack and our charger are designed, tested and certified against the most stringent quality standards in the industry. The battery meets ISO13849-1(functional safety), IEC62133-2, and UN38.3. While the charger is certified to EN60335.
The Skarper system, as a whole, has been independently tested to EN15194, the eBike standard and is certified to all relevant requirements including all aspects of safety for braking performance and drop tests.
In addition, Skarper has performed extensive testing of all features of the product. This includes longevity testing of all mechanisms and of the drive system. Skarper was also tested against vibration, drops, water and dust ingress. These tests give us confidence that Skarper can withstand whatever you put it through.
Are your rotors centerlock, 6 bolt or do you have options for both?
Our DiskDrive brake rotor is compatible with both 6-bolt and centerlock hubs. If you have a centerlock hub, you’ll need to use the 6-bolt to centerlock adapter provided with your Skarper to fit the DiskDrive rotor.
What is the value of Skarper versus other eBike drive systems?
Skarper’s new generation conversion kit gives you the flexibility to create your own high quality eBike while maintaining the ability to ride your bicycle normally whenever you choose. In terms of weight, power and overall experience, a regular bike powered by a Skarper eBike drive system compares favourably to more expensive eBikes. Skarper’s click-on, click off drive system is produced with high quality components and a strong attention to detail.
I am not from the UK, can I order one?
Currently, our sales are limited to the UK only. The Skarper eBike drive system is designed and tested to comply with UK regulations and we provide technical and warranty support in the UK only. However, we are actively working to make Skarper available in the EU and US markets with specific models for these markets. We also have plans to expand globally, please appreciate that we can’t provide a specific timeline just yet.
Can I buy a Skarper through Cycle To Work Scheme?
Yes! Please contact our team to order Skarper via the Cycle to Work scheme
Does Skarper work for off-road riding?
Skarper is purpose-built and has been rigorously tested for city commuting, road cycling, light off-road trails, and gravel riding. Our eBike drive system is designed to fit any bike with a 160mm rear disc rotor including gravel and hardtail mountain bikes. If you have a mountain bike with a 180mm rotor, it may be possible for a bike shop to change your rotor size to160mm. We do not recommend using Skarper for full-suspension bikes, or riding in extreme downhill or cross-country mountain biking. In the future, we will be developing an MTB specific version – this will be a 180/200mm rotor size so as to be compatible with the vast majority of mountain bikes and cross-country bikes.
How do I charge the unit? What's the range?
Skarper charges fully in 2.5 hours with a range of up to 50km in Eco mode. 30 minutes of charging will give 10 – 15 km of range.
Is the battery replaceable?
Skarper’s eBike drive system has a built-in battery pack. Our battery is specially designed by our engineering team and can only be handled by a licensed technician. If you have questions about the battery or feel that there is an issue with it, please reach out to our team for advice.
Can the bike be ridden like a normal bicycle once the eBike drive system is connected?
Skarper can be unclipped from your bike in seconds to ride the bike again normally. In addition, you can also ride the bike regularly with Skarper’s eBike drive system still attached and turned off or in pause mode. We designed the system to have a built-in free wheel so there is minimal drag from Skarper allowing you to go on a normal ride and only activate the eBike Drive System during the times you require extra help on your cycle.
What effect does this have on the balance of the bike?
Our cycling experts have carefully tested the balance of a bike with a Skarper attached. The weight of the Skarper’s eBike drive system is only slightly bigger than the drive chain system on the right hand side of the bike (Skarper mounts on the left). Just like you do not feel the weight of the derailleur – you will not notice the weight of the Skarper. This is because the unit is lightweight and is mounted low and close to the bike’s centre of gravity.
What effect will it have on a frame/wheels that are not designed for this technology?
There is no effect on the frame or wheels. Disc brake bicycles already exert huge forces on the brake calipers on the chainstay. The force applied by Skarper is much lower in comparison.
How does the unit detect the required assistance level?
We developed DynamicClimb® – a bespoke algorithm using a wireless pedal sensor and a suite of sensors inside the Skarper that measures the rider’s output, road incline and the speed of the drive unit to provide the support you need. All you need to do is attach our pedal sensor to the left pedal crank. Read more about it in our Technology page.
Does the unit apply drive to the braking surface?
NO. The braking surface remains unaffected and the DiskDrive brake rotor behaves exactly as a regular disc brake rotor. The driving force is applied to a gearbox built into a recess within the disc – not directly to the braking surface.
Are you selling spare discs so one unit can be shared between bikes?
Of course, you can find our kit for one Skarper for two bikes.
How do you change modes?
All controls are on the User Interface on your Skarper, where you can change between Turbo, Cruise, and Eco modes. You can even backpedal three times to send Skarper to Pause mode. In Pause mode Skarper is turned on but does not provide assistance, allowing you to enjoy riding your bike as you would normally. When you feel you need some assistance, simply backpedal three times again and Skarper will wake up and return to providing assistance. It is not possible to change support modes while riding at the moment, however the adaptive power delivery of Skarper that takes into account the road conditions including your incline meaning that whatever mode you enjoy riding, you do not need to go back and forth between modes to adapt to changing road conditions as you might with other eBikes. We have future plans for an add-on control unit and an app for changing control on your phone, so stay tuned.
Can you pause the Skarper eBike drive system in the middle of a ride?
Yes, you can backpedal three times to send Skarper to Pause mode. In Pause mode, Skarper’s eBike drive system is turned on but does not provide pedal assistance, allowing you to enjoy riding your bike as normal and conserve battery too. When you require assistance again, simply back pedal three times and the eBike drive system will wake up and return to the support mode you were in.
Does Skarper's eBike drive system slow down or drop out at 25 km/h?
Our eBike drive system will not provide support above 25 km/h as it complies with UK and EU regulations. However, it will not resist your efforts either. We engineered a very efficient freewheel into the system so there is minimal drag from the motor and you can easily cycle over 25km/h.
Can I lock the Skarper on my bike?
Skarper cannot be locked onto your bike. However, we designed it so it will be easy to carry. When you’ve finished your cycle, you can simply click-off the unit and take it with you. Light and small enough to fit in any average-sized backpack, taking Skarper with you is in our opinion the best solution against the growing concerns of eBike theft.
Does the Skarper unit fit any bike?
Skarper is designed to fit disc brake bikes and has been tested on a wide selection of bicycle frames. The current Skarper unit fits bikes that can accept a 160mm disc rotor. If your bike has a 140mm rotor and you would like to use the Skarper eBike drive unit, a bike shop should be able to adapt your bicycle to Skarper’s 160mm rotor using an off-the-shelf 140mm to 160mm calliper adaptor – which can be purchased online or in most bike shops.
Skarper’s eBike drive system is designed to work with 26-29” wheels. If you are unsure about your bike, our network of Skarper installers can help you out or chat with us here.
If your bike does not have a disc brake and you would like to use Skarper, please reach out to our partner Poshbikes. They can check your bike and if applicable, provide a solution through their network of installers by changing the rear hub of your bike to one that can accept a centerlock adapter. More information can be provided by Poshbikes and select members of our installer network.
What if the Skarper doesn't fit my bike?
If your Skarper doesn’t fit, you can contact us for technical advice. If after receiving advice you still cannot fit it on your bike and your Skarper is unused, you can return it for a full refund within 14 days of receiving your product. We strongly recommend checking your bike’s compatibility before ordering. If you ordered Skarper and realised that your bike does not fit before delivery, you can simply contact us to cancel your order and receive a full refund. Full details about our returns policy can be found in our Terms & Conditions.
Does Skarper work for off-road riding?
Skarper is purpose-built and has been rigorously tested for city commuting, road cycling, light off-road trails, and gravel riding. Our eBike drive system is designed to fit any bike with a 160mm rear disc rotor including gravel and hardtail mountain bikes. If you have a mountain bike with a 180mm rotor, it may be possible for a bike shop to change your rotor size to160mm. We do not recommend using Skarper for full-suspension bikes, or riding in extreme downhill or cross-country mountain biking. In the future, we will be developing an MTB specific version – this will be a 180/200mm rotor size so as to be compatible with the vast majority of mountain bikes and cross-country bikes.
How can I install the Skarper on my bike?
You are invited to visit one of the members of our installer network who can install Skarper’s eBike drive system for you free of charge, or you can do it yourself. In order to install a Skarper you need to replace your bike’s disc brake rotor with our DiskDrive rotor. Our manual (provided with your Skarper) will contain all relevant information. Closer to the delivery time we will provide you with video tutorials and a digital version of the user manual. If you are unsure whether you can install Skarper, feel free to contact us.
How long does it take to install Skarper’s eBike drive system?
Installing Skarper on a bike is a very quick process. A bike shop will change a disc brake rotor for you in minutes. If you want to do it yourself, it should take about the same amount of time as changing a flat tyre.
Do I have a warranty for my Skarper?
Yes, Skarper comes with a 2-year warranty when used for its intended purpose. Our technicians and support network are available to assist with any issues. Full warranty details can be found in our Terms & Conditions.
Can I track my Skarper order?
Yes. You will receive a unique order reference number and our team will update you with the expected delivery date and how you can prepare for the delivery.
Can Skarper be used in all weather conditions?
The Skarper drive system has been designed to meet the IP55 standard for water protection, ensuring it can handle your daily commute, rain or shine. It is not designed to be submerged in water or jet washed as these activities will void the warranty and could cause your Skarper to stop working. The DiskDrive rotor is designed to meet IP54. It can handle all the mud, rain and dirt you can throw at it however take care with cleaning and simply use a damp cloth. Do not pressure wash the rotor as it may damage it.
What safety features does the Skarper have?
We are taking no chances when it comes to battery safety. Both our battery pack and our charger are designed, tested and certified against the most stringent quality standards in the industry. The battery meets ISO13849-1(functional safety), IEC62133-2, and UN38.3. While the charger is certified to EN60335.
The Skarper system, as a whole, has been independently tested to EN15194, the eBike standard and is certified to all relevant requirements including all aspects of safety for braking performance and drop tests.
In addition, Skarper has performed extensive testing of all features of the product. This includes longevity testing of all mechanisms and of the drive system. Skarper was also tested against vibration, drops, water and dust ingress. These tests give us confidence that Skarper can withstand whatever you put it through.
Are your rotors centerlock, 6 bolt or do you have options for both?
Our DiskDrive brake rotor is compatible with both 6-bolt and centerlock hubs. If you have a centerlock hub, you’ll need to use the 6-bolt to centerlock adapter provided with your Skarper to fit the DiskDrive rotor.
What is the value of Skarper versus other eBike drive systems?
Skarper’s new generation conversion kit gives you the flexibility to create your own high quality eBike while maintaining the ability to ride your bicycle normally whenever you choose. In terms of weight, power and overall experience, a regular bike powered by a Skarper eBike drive system compares favourably to more expensive eBikes. Skarper’s click-on, click off drive system is produced with high quality components and a strong attention to detail.
I am not from the UK, can I order one?
Currently, our sales are limited to the UK only. The Skarper eBike drive system is designed and tested to comply with UK regulations and we provide technical and warranty support in the UK only. However, we are actively working to make Skarper available in the EU and US markets with specific models for these markets. We also have plans to expand globally, please appreciate that we can’t provide a specific timeline just yet.
Can I buy a Skarper through Cycle To Work Scheme?
Yes! Please contact our team to order Skarper via the Cycle to Work scheme
How do I charge the unit? What's the range?
Skarper charges fully in 2.5 hours with a range of up to 50km in Eco mode. 30 minutes of charging will give 10 – 15 km of range.
Is the battery replaceable?
Skarper’s eBike drive system has a built-in battery pack. Our battery is specially designed by our engineering team and can only be handled by a licensed technician. If you have questions about the battery or feel that there is an issue with it, please reach out to our team for advice.
Can the bike be ridden like a normal bicycle once the eBike drive system is connected?
Skarper can be unclipped from your bike in seconds to ride the bike again normally. In addition, you can also ride the bike regularly with Skarper’s eBike drive system still attached and turned off or in pause mode. We designed the system to have a built-in free wheel so there is minimal drag from Skarper allowing you to go on a normal ride and only activate the eBike Drive System during the times you require extra help on your cycle.
What effect does this have on the balance of the bike?
Our cycling experts have carefully tested the balance of a bike with a Skarper attached. The weight of the Skarper’s eBike drive system is only slightly bigger than the drive chain system on the right hand side of the bike (Skarper mounts on the left). Just like you do not feel the weight of the derailleur – you will not notice the weight of the Skarper. This is because the unit is lightweight and is mounted low and close to the bike’s centre of gravity.
What effect will it have on a frame/wheels that are not designed for this technology?
There is no effect on the frame or wheels. Disc brake bicycles already exert huge forces on the brake calipers on the chainstay. The force applied by Skarper is much lower in comparison.
How does the unit detect the required assistance level?
We developed DynamicClimb® – a bespoke algorithm using a wireless pedal sensor and a suite of sensors inside the Skarper that measures the rider’s output, road incline and the speed of the drive unit to provide the support you need. All you need to do is attach our pedal sensor to the left pedal crank. Read more about it in our Technology page.
Does the unit apply drive to the braking surface?
NO. The braking surface remains unaffected and the DiskDrive brake rotor behaves exactly as a regular disc brake rotor. The driving force is applied to a gearbox built into a recess within the disc – not directly to the braking surface.
Are you selling spare discs so one unit can be shared between bikes?
Of course, you can find our kit for one Skarper for two bikes.
How do you change modes?
All controls are on the User Interface on your Skarper, where you can change between Turbo, Cruise, and Eco modes. You can even backpedal three times to send Skarper to Pause mode. In Pause mode Skarper is turned on but does not provide assistance, allowing you to enjoy riding your bike as you would normally. When you feel you need some assistance, simply backpedal three times again and Skarper will wake up and return to providing assistance. It is not possible to change support modes while riding at the moment, however the adaptive power delivery of Skarper that takes into account the road conditions including your incline meaning that whatever mode you enjoy riding, you do not need to go back and forth between modes to adapt to changing road conditions as you might with other eBikes. We have future plans for an add-on control unit and an app for changing control on your phone, so stay tuned.
Can you pause the Skarper eBike drive system in the middle of a ride?
Yes, you can backpedal three times to send Skarper to Pause mode. In Pause mode, Skarper’s eBike drive system is turned on but does not provide pedal assistance, allowing you to enjoy riding your bike as normal and conserve battery too. When you require assistance again, simply back pedal three times and the eBike drive system will wake up and return to the support mode you were in.
Does Skarper's eBike drive system slow down or drop out at 25 km/h?
Our eBike drive system will not provide support above 25 km/h as it complies with UK and EU regulations. However, it will not resist your efforts either. We engineered a very efficient freewheel into the system so there is minimal drag from the motor and you can easily cycle over 25km/h.
Can I lock the Skarper on my bike?
Skarper cannot be locked onto your bike. However, we designed it so it will be easy to carry. When you’ve finished your cycle, you can simply click-off the unit and take it with you. Light and small enough to fit in any average-sized backpack, taking Skarper with you is in our opinion the best solution against the growing concerns of eBike theft.