Oct 21, 2017
by Robert Rast

Moving Forward - Part 2 - Factory Change

Oct 21, 2017
by Robert Rast

We're changing factories.

After an exhaustive search, we were lucky enough to find a manufacturing partner that produced all FLX generation one bikes and the first thousand, generation two bikes. They’ve been great in accommodating our strict production standards and helping us implement a quality control system that can be difficult to find in China.

Our strict standards and attention to detail have clashed somewhat in a place where they're used to just building the bikes and sending them ‘as is’ to brands based in the West. We often end up taking precious resources from the customer service team, design team and often Pete and I ourselves to personally inspect every single bike that goes through the factory. Needless to say, this relentless pursuit of perfection can slow things down. Time and time again we had to choose between speed and quality and we chose the latter, causing delays for people eager to FLX around the world.

Quality is not optional.

You shouldn’t have to make the choice between the quality of the product and it’s speed of delivery. You deserve both in your quest for the best electric bikes for sale. That’s why things had to change.

Before launching the blade, we went on a hunt for another manufacturing partner with standards that matched ours closer. We were lucky enough to find one run by another foreign team, one famous for being sticklers in the industry. This factory makes frames to exacting standards, paints, assembles and does everything all under one roof. We were blown away by their attention to detail in every step of the process. Each extra quality control step that we had painstakingly put in place at our original factory, they had already implemented on their production lines. Not only that, but they also invested in complete systems to make control checks redundant and failsafe. For example, if a bike goes through with a crank bolt that's not tightened to appropriate spec, an alarm will go off and the whole production line stops to investigate. This attention to detail extends all the way to the packaging where samples are taken from each batch of cartons that comes in. If they're not up to the agreed stock, weight and hardness spec, the whole lot will be rejected. We were impressed more and more with each visit and decided we had to make Blade orders here.

We're moving all production to this factory and expect not only to continue to raise the quality of all bikes, but also to rely more on these professionals to implement the exacting QC standards that are at the heart of your FLX Bike. With the majority of QC work handled by our manufacturing partners, we'll be able to re-channel precious manpower where it's needed most…

Stay Tuned For Part 3!

Thank you for sticking by our sides as we beef up the supply chain, and for all your valued input in building a stronger bike company.

PS - If you missed part 1, check it out here.

We love you.

Rob, Pete and Team FLX

14 comments

- Oct 13, 2017
- by Robert Rast
Moving Forward - Part 1 - End Of An Era
- Nov 09, 2017
- by Robert Rast
Can you ride an electric bike in the rain?

Frequently Asked Questions

Have a question? We've got answers.

What's the best commuter ebike?

For daily commuting, the Babymaker II Pro is our most popular pick. It weighs just 35 lbs — light enough to carry up stairs or onto transit — and its Gates Carbon Belt Drive means virtually zero maintenance. A single charge gets you 20–70+ miles depending on assist level.

If you want cargo capacity and a more upright position, the Moonrider is a great alternative with dual racks and a Bafang mid-drive motor that handles hills with ease.

What's the best lightweight ebike?

The Babymaker II is our lightest model at just 33 lbs — significantly lighter than most ebikes on the market. Its minimalist frame and compact battery keep the weight down without sacrificing range or performance. Perfect if you need to carry it up stairs or store it under a desk.

Do I need a license to ride a Superhuman ebike?

In most US states, no license, registration, or insurance is required to ride an ebike — as long as it meets federal ebike classification standards. Most Superhuman models meet these requirements. Rules vary by state and municipality, so we recommend checking your local laws, especially for Class 3 bikes on trails or shared paths.

What's a fat tire ebike?

Fat tire ebikes feature oversized tires — typically 4 inches wide or more. Those wide tires give you more traction on loose surfaces like sand, gravel, and snow, better shock absorption, and increased stability at low speeds or in technical terrain. Great for riders who want to go off the beaten path or ride year-round regardless of conditions.

If you're looking for the best fat tire electric bike for all-terrain riding, the Superhuman Bikes Bomber is our top pick. The Bomber is a 750W scrambler-style fat tire ebike built to go anywhere — sand, trails, dirt roads, or city streets. It runs on a 48V 17Ah battery with 40+ miles of range, 20-inch fat tires for maximum grip, hydraulic brakes, dual suspension, a comfortable bench seat, and optional foot pegs for a moto-inspired feel. Available in multiple colors and two configurations, it's one of the most capable and versatile fat tire ebikes on the market.

What's the best ebike for beginners?

We recommend the Moonrider or the Photon for riders new to ebikes.

The Moonrider has a step-through frame (easy to mount and dismount), an intuitive mid-drive motor, and comes with front and rear racks so you can start using it for real errands right away. Its Shimano 10-speed lets you gradually learn how to blend pedal assist with gear selection.

The Photon is a great option if you want something lighter with a throttle option, so you can start by letting the bike do the work and increase your own pedaling input as you get comfortable. It ships 95% pre-assembled — front wheel, pedals, and handlebars and you're ready to ride. (And they glow in the dark!)

How long does shipping take?

All in-stock Superhuman bikes ship within 3–7 business days of order confirmation. You'll receive a tracking number via email once your order leaves our warehouse. For the most current availability on specific models, check the product page or contact our support team.

What's the longest range ebike in your lineup?

The Weapon leads the lineup with 70+ miles of range on its 840Wh battery — the highest-capacity battery we offer. The F5 Trail also carries an 840Wh battery and delivers 50+ miles per charge under typical conditions.

Real-world range depends on rider weight, terrain, wind, temperature, and how much you pedal vs. rely on the motor. Using lower assist levels and pedaling more actively will always extend your range.