Why is the PiCycle™ shaped like an arch?

The batteries and electronics must be cooled and protected from the elements. These components must also be easily serviced. Moreover, there needs to be sufficient excess capacity for addition of range extending battery modules, battery form factor changes, and enhancements such as locating electronics inside the tube. These factors in unison are only possible with the arch.  Any other approach results in premature obsolesce and unreliability. PiCycle™ distributes battery and electronic systems weight evenly between the axles using proven performance engineering concepts known as "mass centralization." For comparison, try riding an electric bike with the battery located over the rear wheel and note of the tendency for wheelies. Our design results in a balanced center of gravity that creates killer handling and allows you to easily throw your PiCycle™ over your shoulder to carry it up stairs.