Skarper

Overview

Skarper develops a lightweight, portable drive system that attaches to standard bicycles' disc brake rotors to convert them into electric bikes. The company holds a patent for this technology and partners with Oracle Red Bull Racing for development. It has raised £12.8 million in funding as of 2024, with backing from investors including Sir Chris Hoy and Starry Group.¹²

History

Skarper was founded in 2020 by Alastair Darwood, following five years of R&D in motorsport-grade technology.¹² The company collaborated with Formula One team Oracle Red Bull Racing on its patented bicycle conversion system. By September 2024, it secured £4.5 million in funding from a syndicate led by Adjuvo, bringing total funding to £12.8 million; net assets rose to £5.41 million by July 2024.¹

Product Lines

Manufacturing

Products incorporate motorsport-grade technology developed through partnership with Oracle Red Bull Racing. Specific manufacturing locations and in-house versus outsourced details are not specified in available sources.¹²

Notable Products

• Skarper Drive - Lightweight system that connects to bicycle disc brake rotors to enable electric assistance.

Reputation

Skarper is recognized among cycling enthusiasts for its innovative, one-click e-bike conversion approach using patented technology. Backing from Sir Chris Hoy and Red Bull Racing lends credibility in performance-oriented circles. Investor interest and funding growth indicate positive perception in mobility tech, though long-term user reviews and reliability data remain limited.¹²