In a move that’s sent shockwaves through the micromobility world, Rivian—the same company that brought us the R1T electric truck and R1S SUV—has officially entered the e-bike market. And they didn’t just slap a motor on a frame. No, Rivian went full sci-fi, unveiling a trio of products under a new (and slightly confusing) sub-brand called Also: the TM-B commuter e-bike, the TMQ delivery e-bike, and the Alpha Wave smart helmet.
But the real headline? A pedal-by-wire system that completely reimagines how human power and electric assist interact.
At first glance, it sounds like the future of cycling. But as with any radical innovation, there are serious questions about practicality, efficiency, and long-term usability. In this deep-dive review, we’ll unpack everything you need to know about Rivian’s bold new e-bike—why it’s exciting, where it might fall short, and whether it’s worth your $4,500.
What Is Rivian’s “Also” Brand—and Why the Confusing Name?
Before we get into the tech, let’s address the elephant in the room: “Also.”
Rivian’s new micromobility division is branded as Also, a name that feels intentionally minimalist—almost meta. It’s reminiscent of brands like “Nothing” (the smartphone company) or “Allbirds” (the footwear brand)—names that aim to signal simplicity or universality. But in practice, “Also” might be too abstract.
When you’re launching a high-tech product in a crowded market, clarity matters. “Also what?” is a natural first reaction. That said, branding aside, the engineering behind these bikes is anything but vague.
The Big Innovation: Pedal-by-Wire Changes Everything
Traditional e-bikes use a chain-driven system: when you pedal, you directly turn the rear wheel, and a motor provides assist based on your cadence or torque. Simple. Efficient. Proven.
Rivian throws that out the window.
Instead, the TM-B and TMQ feature a pedal-by-wire system—a concept borrowed from aviation and high-end EVs, where physical inputs are replaced by electronic signals. Here’s how it works:
Your pedals aren’t connected to the wheel.
At all. Zero mechanical linkage.Pedaling powers a generator, not the drivetrain.
As you spin the cranks, you generate electricity.That electricity feeds a motor that actually drives the wheel—and can recharge the battery via regenerative braking.
You control resistance digitally.
Want a workout? Crank up the pedal resistance. Want to glide uphill like you’re on an e-scooter? Dial it down to near-zero.
In essence, you’re not pedaling a bike—you’re operating a human-powered generator that tells the bike how much assist to give you.
This turns the e-bike into something closer to a lightweight electric motorcycle with pedals as input sensors. It’s a philosophical shift as much as a technical one.
Real-World Benefits: Customization, Regen, and Smart Features
So why go through all this complexity? Rivian believes the trade-offs are worth it for several reasons:
✅ 1. Fully Customizable Riding Experience
You’re no longer limited by gear ratios or fixed assist levels. Whether you’re commuting, climbing a mountain pass, or just cruising the boardwalk, you can fine-tune how much effort you want to exert—on the fly.
✅ 2. Regenerative Braking + Pedal Charging
Unlike most e-bikes that only regenerate during braking, Rivian’s system lets you recharge the battery while pedaling—even on flat terrain. This could extend range in real-world use, especially for delivery riders or long-distance commuters.
✅ 3. Modular Frame System
The TM-B features interchangeable top frames. Swap out components to transform your bike from a sleek commuter into a cargo hauler or even a trail-ready machine. One frame, multiple personalities.
✅ 4. Smart Integration
Expect a full-color display, GPS, ride analytics, over-the-air updates, and seamless pairing with the Alpha Wave helmet—which includes integrated speakers, turn signals, and ambient lighting for enhanced safety.
✅ 5. USB-C Charging & Removable Battery
The battery slides out easily and charges via USB-C, a rare but welcome feature. No proprietary chargers. No wall-mounted docks. Just plug it into your laptop charger if you’re in a pinch.
The Price Tag: $4,500 to Start
Yes, you read that right. The base model TM-B starts at $4,500 in the U.S.—placing it firmly in premium territory. For context:
- Rad Power Bikes: $1,200–$2,500
- Specialized Turbo Vado: $3,500–$6,000
- Cowboy 5: ~$3,000
- VanMoof (before bankruptcy): $2,500–$4,000
Rivian’s pricing aligns with high-end performance e-bikes, but it’s still a steep entry point—especially for a first-generation product from a company with no prior cycling experience.
And international buyers, take note: Rivian has confirmed no global launch yet. A comment on their official YouTube channel hints at a potential European rollout in 2026, but nothing is guaranteed.
Four Major Concerns (That Can’t Be Ignored)
As exciting as this sounds, Rivian’s pedal-by-wire system raises legitimate red flags. Let’s break them down honestly.
❌ 1. Weight: All That Tech Adds Up
While Rivian hasn’t released official weight specs, the inclusion of a generator, dual motors (possibly), large battery, and reinforced frame suggests this won’t be a featherweight. Most premium e-bikes weigh 45–60 lbs. The TM-B could easily tip the scales at 65+ lbs—making it tough to carry upstairs or load onto a car rack.
❌ 2. Dead Battery = Dead Bike?
On a traditional e-bike, if your battery dies, you can still pedal home—albeit with extra resistance from the motor. But with pedal-by-wire, if the battery is fully drained, the drivetrain has no power to engage. You’d be stuck unless you pedal just enough to generate minimal electricity to “boot up” the system. In practice, this could leave riders stranded.
❌ 3. Energy Loss: The Efficiency Problem
Physics isn’t on Rivian’s side here. Converting mechanical energy → electricity → mechanical energy again introduces significant energy loss. Industry estimates suggest 20–30% inefficiency compared to a direct chain drive. That means shorter range and more rider fatigue for the same output—unless you’re relying almost entirely on battery power.
❌ 4. Proprietary Parts = Repair Nightmares
Every component—from the pedal generator to the frame couplers—is custom-built by Rivian. If something breaks outside warranty, you’re at the mercy of Rivian’s service network. No local bike shop can fix a proprietary motor-controller mismatch. This is a major concern for long-term ownership, especially in rural areas or outside the U.S.
How Does It Compare to Other “Smart” E-Bikes?
Rivian isn’t the first to experiment with alternative drivetrains.
- Vog (mentioned in the transcript) uses hubless wheels and electric assist on cargo quad bikes.
- Luna Cycle offers mid-drive kits with regen, but still uses chains.
- Cowboy and VanMoof pioneered auto-shifting and theft protection—but kept traditional drivetrains.
What sets Rivian apart is the total decoupling of human input from mechanical output. It’s the most radical departure from the bicycle archetype we’ve seen in decades.
Who Is This E-Bike For?
Despite the concerns, the TM-B could be a game-changer for specific users:
- Tech enthusiasts who value innovation over tradition
- Urban commuters who want maximum customization and smart features
- Last-mile delivery riders (via the TMQ) who benefit from regen and modular cargo options
- Rivian loyalists who want ecosystem integration (imagine your e-bike syncing with your R1S)
But for traditional cyclists, budget-conscious buyers, or those in off-grid areas, this might be a bridge too far.
The Verdict: Bold Vision, But Proceed With Caution
Rivian deserves credit for thinking differently. In an industry often stuck in incremental upgrades, they’ve asked: What if a bike wasn’t really a bike anymore?
The pedal-by-wire system is undeniably clever. The modular design is forward-thinking. And the Alpha Wave helmet shows they’re considering the entire riding experience—not just the bike.
But innovation without practicality is just novelty. Until we see real-world range tests, durability reports, and serviceability data, $4,500 feels like a very expensive beta test.
If you’re an early adopter with deep pockets and a love for bleeding-edge tech? Go for it.
If you just want a reliable e-bike to get to work? Maybe wait for Gen 2—or stick with proven brands.
Final Thoughts: The Future of Cycling or a Detour?
Rivian’s e-bike isn’t just a product—it’s a statement. It challenges the 200-year-old definition of what a bicycle is and dares us to imagine a future where human and machine inputs are fully digitized.
Whether that future is desirable, efficient, or accessible remains to be seen. But one thing’s certain: the e-bike wars just got a lot more interesting.
We’ll be watching closely for test rides, third-party reviews, and—hopefully—more transparent specs in the months ahead. And if Rivian brings the TM-B to Europe by 2026, riders in cities like Oslo, Berlin, and Amsterdam might get their chance to experience this bold new vision firsthand.
Until then, keep pedaling—whether by wire or by chain.
0 Comments