City cycling rarely follows one consistent type of road. A route can move from flat streets to an incline, then back through traffic where frequent stopping and starting becomes unavoidable. In those conditions, managing gears manually isn't always the most interesting part of the ride.
The ADO Air 28 Pro uses a BAFANG rear-hub motor with an automatic dual-speed system. The motor is rated at 250W and produces 40N·m of torque, while a dual-sided torque sensor responds to the rider's pedalling input.
The system is particularly interesting because the two-speed transmission handles gear changes automatically. The bike also provides three levels of pedal assistance, giving the rider some control over how much electric assistance is used.
Beyond the drivetrain, the Air 28 Pro has an adjustable front suspension fork, hydraulic disc brakes and puncture-proof tyres. These components address different parts of everyday cycling rather than concentrating on the motor alone.
For urban riders, automatic gearing can therefore be less about having another electronic feature and more about reducing the number of things that need attention while riding through constantly changing streets.