UBCO 2×2 Electric Utility Motorcycle
I like watching the proverbial fire and brimstone post-apocalyptic movies as much as the next person (think: Mad Max, Twelve Monkeys, The Book of Eli, I Am Legend etc.,), but the Hollywood creations often incorrectly portray motorcycle transportation with flashy visuals and entertainment over realism.
Speaking about realism, September is National Preparedness Month (NPM) which highlights a time to focus attention on the importance of preparing families and homes for disasters that might threaten our lives and property. It’s spearheaded by the U.S. government and this year’s overarching theme is “Prepared, Not Scared.”
I’m not sitting here eating peaches from a can and going all Eagle Scout on you, but being prepared when potential disasters occur by developing and practicing a family emergency response plan, assembling a disaster supply kit, signing up for alerts on mobile devices, setting aside emergency savings, and maintaining adequate insurance policies for our homes are important steps for disaster preparedness and valuable for everyone.
National Preparedness Month (NPM)
You’re likely thinking, hey Mac, the Harley is full of fuel, it get’s nearly 50mpg and I’ll just grab my “Bug Out Bag” and hit the road when the time comes. But, what happens in a major crisis when the fuel production and distribution stalls or ceases? Meaning Bob, the local tanker truck driver is going to stop making his rounds to the gas stations and go find his family so no new fuel is distributed.
For that type of scenario a small, efficient electric motorcycle might be a great option — yes, you guessed it — I’m suggesting that you purchase a new $30K LiveWire Motorcycle that Harley-Davidson introduced last month. Let’s call it the masterfully disguised “Prepper Bike” vs. an urban ride. I can even envision a Harley-Davidson marketing campaign to include a free survival knife and bandana when you purchase the motorcycle!
I’m being sarcastic, and was thinking about the UBCO 2×2 electric utility motorcycle. It can be charged from solar panels in an off-grid location, which offers good range and maneuverability. It has a lot of interest with those who need to bug out and want to keep a low profile. Any motorcycle enthusiast who grew up riding the Honda Trail 90, will instantly relate to the 2×2. The UBCO bike will only do 30mph, but it can carry up to 400 pounds (including rider) and cover 50 to 75 miles per charge. It’s nearly silent, and uses a 2-wheel-drive system for improved off-road performance — a feature that’s reminiscent of the classic ROKON gas-powered utility bikes. The battery packs are removable and interchangeable, so you can carry a spare to double the range. There are even USB ports and a 12V outlet for charging other devices such as your phone, GPS, lights, or tools. The UBCO 2×2 starts around $7K and a spare 48Ah battery pack is $2K.
A sidebar: The concept or story behind UBCO started in New Zealand. UBCO had been actively visiting and investigating the U.S. market when it was contacted by Technology Entrepreneur Bob Ralston. An investment opportunity was consolidated with Spring Capital in Eugene, Oregon and a dedicated distribution company was established in Eugene. The idea of a Utility Electric Vehicle (UEV) that would transform the way people ride, work and play rolled out.
Even if uninterested in the EUM (electric utility motorcycle), discover your inner Scout and learn about the 130 Survival uses for a Bandanna that you are likely already wearing!
I’ve said it often, and will say it again: emergency preparedness is valuable for everyone!
Photo courtesy of Ready.gov and UBCO
Preparedness Resources:
Off Grid: NPM 2019
Ready Gov: September 2019
Preppers Bandanna: 130 Uses
Financial Preparedness: Finances
Community Preparedness: Neighborhood Prep
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