Im always curious about what people do after founding a successful startup.
Many of us would live on an island or install a gin fountain in our kitchen.
But three founders are turning their passion for sustainability into disrupting an old form of transport bicycles.
Theyve createda new company called Dance.
The company has created Dance ebikes, which they offer as a subscription service.
Their users pay a monthly fee of 79 EUR covering their bikes and an all-inclusive support package.
I spoke with Eric Quidenus-Wahlforss to find out more.
Quidenus-Wahlforss interest in climate change peaked with the 2015 Paris agreement:
40% off TNW Conference!
And after 12 years in SoundCloud, it was just time for me to do something new.
How does it all work?
Users (referred to as members) download the Dance app and register.
The company delivers a fully assembled e-bike within 24 hours at the cost of 79 euros per month.
Not too shabby considering an ebike can cost over 2k to buy.
Even better, Dance builds all the software in-house for the service folks.
These are 40 plus people theyre hiring more!
with specialty training and in-depth knowledge of the bikes they repair.
A removable battery integrates with the frame and can last up to 55 km on a full charge.
Hydraulic disc brakes, carbon belts, and puncture-resistant tires help members ride through all conditions.
Front and rear light and reflective sidewall stripes on the tires provide visibility.
The package includes a bike lock, and theres a basket available.
Additionally, the ebike comes with an integrated Bluetooth lock that opens via the app.
Why do we need a Dance ebike subscription service?
Second, you have the convenience factor.
If you have your bike outside your house, you end up using it.
While subscription models are replacing ownership in many verticals, few people focus on bikes beyond short-term rentals.
Why Berlin?
The company has their assembly warehouse, workshop, and head office in Berlin.
Getting your bike stolen while it is unlocked results in a 1,200 Euro deductible.
Further, Dance approaches the challenge from a theft prevention perspective.
Ive learned there are all these secret Telegram groups set up by bike thieves.
We want to be known in those groups as the bike you dont want to steal.
Bike thieves traditionally butcher bikes into sellable parts.
The bike also has an alarm system and a tracking machine.
The company have around 200 bikes in their fleet with plans for rapid expansion.
This is definitely a trend to watch.
Story byCate Lawrence
Cate Lawrence is an Australian tech journo living in Berlin.
