April, 2013
Last summer, FFR Trikes dominated the Pikes Peak bicycle race in Colorado (read story). In the last few weeks, the organizers of the “Pikes Peak Cycling Hill Climb” have announced that there will be no electric bikes (or trikes) allowed to compete in the race.
Last week FFR Trikes, now Outrider USA, made the following announcement:
“The name Outrider USA has emerged from the company formerly known as FFR Trikes in order to better align with the values and the vision of the company and the product. Outrider USA brings their ultralight adventure vehicles to the public, delivering the promise of a new adventure around every turn. Pedaling meets electric to offer the raw adventure of a cycling trip with unmatched performance and versatility”.
Back-story
Outrider USA (formerly FFR Trikes), grew from a desire to find a safer mode of transportation to and from class on the campus of Appalachian State University in Boone, NC. There was a need for a vehicle that could maintain the speeds of cars and trucks on narrow and busy roads (while allowing exercise by pedaling), was met by combining a high performance electric-drive system and a recumbent trike. The ensuing interest in the prototype led to a business opportunity for co-owners Tommy Ausherman, Daniel Rhyne and Jesse Lee.
From prototype to production, performance was the number one priority during the development of the electric drive system. Proof came with a 1-2 finish in a race up America’s Mountain at Pike’s Peak in Colorado. In the summer of 2012 Outrider USA set a course record of 23:32 for ultralight electric vehicles at Pike’s Peak.
Constantly pushing the envelope of performance has led to a vehicle that is much more than just a high-speed commuting machine. From camping trips on the Blue Ridge Parkway, to hauling mountain bikes to the trailhead, and tours from the mountains to the beach…Outrider USA has proved time and time again that their vehicles are adventure-ready.
Technology
Outrider ultralight adventure vehicles are capable of zero to 40 MPH in six seconds, a range of over 100 miles, and a
recharge time of just 180 minutes on a regular wall outlet – all in a package that weighs less than 100 pounds. You
sit in a padded, reclined seat which reduces stress on your neck, groin, and wrists, and the configuration of two
front wheels and one rear wheel makes balancing a cinch.
Each ultralight adventure vehicle is designed and built in Fletcher, North Carolina by co-owners Tom Ausherman,
Daniel Rhyne, and Jesse Lee of Outrider USA. The powerful electric drive gives you three styles of riding to choose
from – pedal only, electric drive only, or a combination of pedaling with electric assist.
Fully customizable models start at $6,900 and are available for purchase today.
Mission Statement
To accelerate ultralight adventure vehicle technology with respect to people, planet, profit and product.
Core Values
- Passion for innovation
- Pride in craftsmanship
- Sustainability through simplicity
- Performance bar none
