Last week saw Also. launch its first two-wheeled Software Defined Vehicle (SDV) – which gained a raft of mainstream and technology sector coverage, as well as that expected by the traditional cycling media outlets.
The launch drew praise and a host of positive comments, including those from Cycling Industry legend, Gary Fisher. What was also apparent – a number of questions.
Here, a few days after the launch event, we can add some more practical, yet no less important details to our coverage – answering some of those questions, breaking them down into (hopefully) logical segments:
System based
- The Also. app will be available on Android and iOS, for both TM-B and TM-Q, at launch.
- The app is free with the purchase of the vehicle, though some features requiring an LTE data connection from TM-B will require the Also. Connect+ service.
- OTA updates are possible at home via WiFi, on the go via Connect+, and in any country.
Sales and Service channel(s)
One thing which appears to have been informally discussed at the San Francisco launch event: Also. potentially establishing elements of its own sales and service network (with Rivian overlap). At launch, a few attendees commented, in their coverage, about the Rivian relationship and network, whilst others pointed to the need for some autonomy between the two businesses.
Keeping that Rivian partnership in view, founder and CEO RJ Scaringe has stated that the business aims to enter the European marketplace following its mid-2026 US launch of the R2 EV. The right-hand drive UK launch would follow thereafter. This matters. When the TM-B and TM-Q arrive in Europe and the UK, they (potentially) already have a mapped service partner network
Any questions about the service network logically also meet with the news that “Also. is collaborating with Amazon on a customised pedal-assist e-cargo quad, with the shared aim to expand Amazon’s micromobility fleet with thousands of quads across Europe and the U.S.”
With the commercial application, a quad called TM-Q, in the picture, it seems likely that TM-B customers will also benefit from the requirement for post-purchase support. Think about it this way: Logistic firms, somewhat like IT firms, measure downtime (time-off-the-road) and know the financial cost to the business. Timely support is critical, not nice-to-have.
For the commercial TM-Q application, expected to begin delivery later in 2026, Also. is offering maintenance plans and service packages as “options that commercial partners can select”.
TM-B in focus
Outlining post-sale service requirements, Also. states: “The TM-B requires significantly less frequent service than a traditional bicycle or electric bicycle. Brake pads will last longer due to DreamRide’s regenerative braking being utilised for 90%+ of all braking events.
“Tyres will last longer thanks to DreamRide’s rear wheel slip control. By utilising a carbon belt drive, the drivetrain will need service approximately every 5000 miles.
“Motors, batteries, etc., are engineered to EV reliability standards, which means they can last years without any service required. And our on-bike diagnostics mean that, in many cases, owners will be notified of any potential service needs before they know they even need it.”
With TM-B, first deliveries are “expected to begin in spring 2026”.
On the face of it, the TM-B is (initially*) only likely to roll through the doors of a traditional cycle retailer for a puncture repair or tyre replacement. This is exactly as it would be for a four-wheeled EV (or ICE) vehicle driver/owner, who would go to a puncture repair and tyre fitting specialist.
- Customers will be able to purchase Also. bikes directly through the Also. website.
- In addition, Also. is partnering with Rivian to feature its vehicles in an ever-growing number of physical locations so people can experience the TM-B in person for themselves.
- Later this year, customers will be able to purchase Also. vehicles through Rivian online, and Also. retail stores across the U.S.
- Also. is partnering with mobile service company, Velofix, and will be announcing their full network of preferred service partners in early 2026.
- *Also. “definitely sees the opportunity to partner with best-in-class cycle retailers to offer both sales and service”.
Accessories
At launch, we heard that TM-B has been designed around three Top Frame options, also making it suitable for riders from 4’11” – 6’8”. Top Frame options are available to purchase with a TM-B, as well as available separately post TM-B purchase.
- Solo Top Frame is included in the $4500 price of the TM-B Launch Edition + Performance trims. It has an MSRP of $350 when purchased standalone.
- Bench Top Frame is +$100, or $450 standalone.
- Utility Top Frame is +$150, or $500 standalone.
