I'm looking for a CVT or IVT transmission for a diy electric bicycle?

best electric bicycle kit image

Joel

I'm planning out a DIY electric bike, and I want to use a direct drive system. I'm thinking about using a couple angle grinder gear boxes instead of chains and gears, but I need a CVT or IVT transmission. That's Continuous Variable Transmission or Infinite Variable Transmission.
It would be great if there is a power tool or some other low-cost component I could dismantle to easily get one of these transmissions. Go Karts use them, and they are cheaper than I would spend at a bike shop, but they're built really beefy for the kind of strain a Go Kart motor would put on it. Does anyone have a suggestion?

Answer
i have built my own elec bicycle .. i used a " hub motor bicycle kit . total cost of $230 for the kit including charger . throttle , and controller box Then you have to buy the batteries separate or you can buy " chain driven elec bicycle kits " you dont need transmissions using DC elec motors because they ae Variable speed motors . the " throttle " controls the speed. The higher the voltage of system the faster it will go. mine is 36 volt. 500 watt. with 6 - 12 volt 12 amp hour batts to make 2 -36 volt battery banks. next time i will try a 48 volt 1000 kit.

also google " electric bicycle youtube " and " elec bike forums " to learn more. Hub motors are much more efficient and quiter too. .

Information on purchasing an electric bicycle?

Joyce Z

I'm thinking of getting an electric bicycle (to save on fuel costs)--does anyone have any personal information on electric bikes or recommendations on which brand?
Would also like to hear good/bad experiences any of you have had and especially what to avoid when purchasing one.
Thanks

Answer
Congratulations on considering your ebike purchase. It is one of the best transportation decisions you can make; you will be healthier and have more money in your pocket.

A recent case study:
An 8 mile commute to work, for a employee..desk job,. works out at the gym twice weekly.

has stoplights, hilly terrain. usually picks up odds and ends at store on way home from work.

fairly dry climate, 6 month fairly comfy riding season; mornings 45F or better, afternoons seldom above 90F, usually mid 80's.

married, 1 child, two car family. : Driving in town 9000 miles per year on car #2. Going to cut that in half --down by 4500 miles --- most trips under 10 miles each way.

Car averages about 15 mpg in town so that is an even 300 gallons of gas, figure 3.50/gal... $1050.

not taking the car to work much any more, will save about $100 for six months insurance.

that's $1150. plus an oil change or two,. for $1200.. maybe a little more. Also looses about 5 pounds per month.

what can one getfor that?
You can get a top rated ebike kit a Bionx 350 w 36v NIMH kit for $1200!
A Bionx NIMH 36v 350w Ebike kit, judged one of the Best in the USA, to go on Your bike for $100 labor, or do the work yourself and save the$100.

http://www.birdrv.com/bionx-p350-electric-bicycle-kit.php
Dealer in Denver with service, parts, test rides, outstanding support.

Ok another well rated Ebike is the EZEE brand, Try Seattle or Oceanside:
http://www.electricvehiclesnw.com/main/contact.htm Cost a little more, but comes on a bike.

I support both of these and they are great in all respects.

East coast-- another good guy:
http://nycewheels.com/

What are the horror stories I hear:

People that dont respect that these are Electric ASSIST bicyles and require you to pedal (but not hard), they treat them like mopeds, and they dont last. (however there are many people that understand that these are e-assist bikes and get 8 + years out of them)

People that overestimate their mechanical ability and try to install complicated kits themselve- yet they could not change a tire.

People that get scammed on ebay by trying to get a bargain on something they know little about.

So good luck. If you do your research, honest about your needs, get references about the bike and the dealer before you buy, you will be happy.


there will be an ebike race In Portland OR. at the end of May. Email me for more info.

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Does anyone have any experience of a Synergie Extreme E-Bike Mountain Bike?

best electric bike for steep hills image

Essex Ron

I am tempted to buy an electric mountain bike but don't know anyone who has one.

Yes, I KNOW it's better to cycle, but I do plenty of exercise and want to use an electric bike as an alternative to the car now and again.

So are they any good? What is their range? And do they cope with hills?

Answer
they are a piece of S@*#. They don't go up a semi-steep hill and they don't go to far on hills.

Messing around with the Kick Start when the bike is not started.?

Steff B

I was putting together a bike when a friend started fooling around with the Kick Start. I hadn't even put the battery in, but for some reason it froze up. Then after I got the Kick level to move, it still won't start. As if there is no spark. It tries to start but won't. Did my friend do something to my bike?

Answer
If you have spark to the spark plug it's not electrical. And I can't think of any reason your kick starter would affect your electrical. But as said in another answer pull your spark plug, hold the threaded part of the plug against the outside of the head for a ground, with the plug wire on and turn the bike over with the key on. Do it in a fairly dark place and look for spark at the end of your plug. Assuming your getting fuel and your pretty sure it should run take to a steep hill, get it rolling down, put it in second or third gear, not first you'll most probably just slide the rear tire, and let the clutch out. This is of course assuming the motor turns over with the electric start or kicker.

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Why have ebikes, electric mopeds and electric scooters largely disappeared from North American cities?

best electric bikes in canada image

sally

Who is "killing" the Electric Bike (aka Electric Scooter) in US and Canada? Many retail shops have closed, from Boston to Vancouver. North American manufacturers (Nova Cruz, Wavecrest, Bionx, Egovehicles) have gone under or are selling much less than they did before.

In comparison, in most of Asia, sales of ebikes are surging? Is it the economy collapse? Is it government? Is it the big auto companies? Is it battery companies? Is it some other factor?

Answer
All these smaller vehicles are disappearing mainly because of our affluence. As all the household get affluent they do not want smaller bikes and cars and go for bigger ones. Also it creates a fashion and so the not so affluent also aim to buy it. In due course there is no takers and they die a natural death.
Take the case of China where a decade ago there were thousands of cycles in the main cities and now they are all replaced with bikes and cars. So is the case of India. Once it was having a lot of 100 cc bikes but now it is n the decline. So it is the life style and not the government or oil companies who are responsible for it.

How much is the cheapest electric bike cost in Canada (Vancouver)?

John F

Should i buy one in Canada or overseas?

Answer
Canada. heapest. dollar in a garage sale. But in stores it's aout 5 dollars. ost expensive...100 and more.

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I want to convert my bike to an electric bike, anyone have any experience with this?

best electric bike hub image

Q. I want to convert my current bike to an electric bike for less than $200. I'm really not that handy with electronics, but if some instruction to put A into B I can do it, I just wouldn't be able to figure out that A goes into B with out the instructions. Anyways, does anyone have some tips? All the sites that I've found are very unprofessional or non-specific so it's really hard to figure out anything from them. I would be willing to buy a kit.

Answer
An electric bike has to have a motor, controller, throttle, and battery pack.
Hub motors are the easiest to install.
overview:
You remove your old front wheel, put the new wheel where the old one was, align the wheel in the slots, adjust the brakes, secure the controller and the battery pack on the rear rack, put the throttle on the handle bars, route the wires safely and tie-wrap, connect the connectors together, turn every thing on and test.

To be of much use, you have to have at least 250watts, and hopefully more.

Largo scooters has a decent kit (go Hub)for $600 and is nice. Every once in a while you can find a WE or BD36 for maybe $350.

A Largo kit has keyed connectors so you cannot hook it up wrong.

Can the pedaling energy charge the battery of an electric bike?

Drowzzy

Can the mechanical energy of pedaling be stored as electrical energy to be utilized later to run the bicycle automatically? I'm not talking about pure electric bikes that need regular charging, and not even about those that you pedal for a while as the bike stands still and then run it on electric power. I mean can you ride a bike and store the mechanical energy simultaneously? Will it be efficient? If so, then are such e-bikes available in the market, and what are they called so that I may Google for them?

Here's the scenario: I need a bicycle for regular commute, may be even for covering long distances. It's not feasible for a layman to pedal continuously for more than 5 to 10 miles. So I'm looking for a bike that you pedal for sometime, and when you're exhausted, you simply flick a button to make it run on electrical power which has been converted and stored from the mechanical energy of pedaling the bike; and then pedal again and auto-ride again and so forth. Will something like that be technically efficient, since you're moving the bike while pedaling as well as storing your spare energy?

Hope I haven't confused you. Thanks :)

Answer
There is already such a motor on the market. The name escapes me right now but it is a hub built into the rear wheel and it costs about $2000... not the Erbike hub motor... I think it is Electricrider or something like that.

To your request, yes, it is possible and a project I am working on right now. No, I can't and won't divulge details but CAN tell you that you'll see it relatively soon and it WILL be expensive- more expensive than a small motorcycle at this point.

By the way... I typically commute 24 miles (one way) to work on a bicycle, no problem. 5-10 mile commute is simple for most committed riders.

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Can you have an engine on a bicycle without paying tax insurance etc?

best electric bicycle uk image

male geek

People drive for free on electric bikes so i'm wondering how about petrol?

Is there a engine size limit? UK ONLY thanks

Answer
It's a bit tricky. I'm no expert by any means, but I know that an ordinary assisted electric bike which does away with the need for pedalling and doesn't go very fast is quite legal. However some forms of powered transport are not legal for use on anything other than private land, like segways (shame, cos I'd love one!) , motorized foot scooters, and I know the speed can make a difference. That is actually going to be the biggest hurdle - whether something is legal to use on the road or not. Maybe checking out the DVLA website might help.

Who was contributed the most to the world? The UK or Denmark?

Kopper

Things that Denmark has contributed with:
- Carlsberg, the best beer in the entire world, the number one beer drinked by everybody even in the UK
- Lego, best entertainment in the world
- Best food in the world, lots of Danish restaurants even in the UK

Things that the UK has contributed with:
- Fat old men for thai women

I think Denmark wins, hands down.
Denmark is also more of a world power. Look at how much the elite soldiers of the kingdom of Denmark are contributing in Afghanistan while the British soldier do nothing. America knows that Denmark and Danish soldiers are amongst the best soldiers in the entire world.

Answer
Weren't you called Stat a few days ago?

Anyway:

British Inventions:

1250Magnifying glass - Roger Bacon
1668Reflecting telescope- Isaac Newton
1698Steam pump- Thomas Savery
1701Seed drill- Jethro Tull
1712Steam engine- Thomas Newcomen
1717Diving bell- Edmund Halley
1725Stereotyping- William Ged
1758Achromatic lens - John Dollond
1759Marine chronometer- John Harrison
1764Spinning jenny - James Hargreaves
1769Spinning frame -R. Arkwright
1769Steam engine (with separate condenser) - James Watt
1780Steel pen - Samuel Harrison
1784Threshing machine - Andrew Meikle
1785Power loom - Edmund Cartwright
1788Flyball governor- James Watt
1791Gas turbine- John Barber
1792Illuminating gas- William Murdock
1795Hydraulic press- Joseph Bramah
1796Smallpox vaccination- Edward Jenner
1804Solid-fuel rocket- William Congreve
1804Steam locomotive - Richard Trevithick
1814Railroad locomotive - George Stephenson
1815Safety lamp - Sir Humphry Davy
1820Hygrometer - J.F. Daniell
1820s Difference Engine (Computer) - Charles Babbage
1821Electric motor- Michael Faraday
1823Electromagnet- William Sturgeon
1824Portland cement - Joseph Aspdin
1827Friction match - John Walker
1831Dynamo - Michael Faraday
1837Telegraph- Sir Charles Wheatstone
1839Steam hammer- James Nasmyth
1839Bicycle (with pedals)- Kirkpatrick MacMillan
1839Photography - William Henry Fox Talbot
1850Mercerized cotton - John Mercer
1855Hypodermic syringe - Alexander Wood
1856Bessemer converter (steel)- Sir Henry Bessemer
1861Regenerative furnace- Wilhelm Siemens
1865Antiseptic surgery - Joseph Lister
1876TelephoneAlexander - Graham Bell
1878Cathode ray tube - Sir William Crookes
1879Incandescent filament lamp - Sir Joseph Wilson Swan
1884Steam turbine - Sir Charles Algernon Parsons
1884Multiple-wheel steam turbine - Sir Charles Algernon Parsons
1887Air-inflated rubber tire- J.B. Dunlop
1891Synthetic rubber - Sir William Augustus Tilden
1891Motion picture camera (kinetograph) - William K. L. Dickson
1892Vacuum bottle (Dewar flask) - Sir James Dewar
1892Rayon (viscose) - Charles Frederick Cross
1895Rayon (acetate) - Charles Frederick Cross
1905Diode rectifier tube (radio)- Sir John Ambrose Fleming
1908Two-color motion picture camera - C. Albert Smith
1919Mass spectrograph - Sir Francis William Aston
1926Television- John Logie Baird
1928Penicillin - Sir Alexander Fleming
1930Modern gas-turbine engine- Sir Frank Whittle
1935Radiolocator (radar) - Sir Robert Watson-Watt
1940Ejector Seat - Sir James Martin
1941Turbojet aircraft engine - Sir Frank Whittle
1947Holography - Dennis Gabon
1956Hovercraft - Christopher Cockerell
1975CAT (computerized axial tomography) scanner - Godfrey N. Hounsfield
1996Clockwork Radio - Trevor Baylis

British Discoveries:

DNA â James Watson and Francis Crickâs discovery in 1953 of the double helix structure of DNA, pictured below, the genetic code for all living things

Genetic fingerprinting â Alec Jeffreysâ development in 1985 at the University of Leicester of a reliable way to detect differences in individualsâ DNA

Birth of the first working computer â Freddie Williams and Tom Kilburn, two University of Manchester scientists, are credited with running the worldâs first stored programme computer

Contraceptive pill â developed by Herchel Smith, a researcher at the University of Manchester, in 1961

Cancer and cell division â in 1987, Paul Nurse and Tim Hunt, scientists for Cancer Research UK, became the first to identify the key genes that govern and regulate cell cycle and division

CDs, DVDs and the internet â these have all been made possible through a technology called strained quantum-well lasers, which was first proposed by Alf Adams at the University of Surrey

The Gaia hypothesis â James Lovelockâs development of a revolutionary way of thinking about the Earth with the idea that it is a self-regulating living organism

Eradicating the tsetse fly â scientists at the University of Greenwich have been working to eradicate the tsetse fly from Africa through the use of an artificial cow, which attracts the fly and kills it through insecticides

Stem cells â Research by Martin Evans led to the discovery of embryonic stem cells, which have the potential to grow into the different cells that make up the body

Microscopic footballs â Harry Kroto at the University of Sussex, and his US collaborators, revealed that carbon can exist as tiny spherical molecules

It might also interest you that Britain held the largest empire worldwide, and that's just skimming the surface of British accomplishments.

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Survey: How many people plan to participate in the gasout on May 16th?

best electric bikes usa image

Hickemtwid

Many people across the USA are planning to have a gas out on May 16th, as a show of force to the oil companies. I do wonder it it will have any effect, tho, since we will be buying gas on other days of the week, therefore, the oil companies will lose no money, and the "gas out" will have no effect. Anyone agree? disagree?
Yes, I meant to type 16th, but, a slip of the finger hit the 6 instead of the 5. My apologies. Thanks.
I did it again..LOL 15th !!! Sorry.

Answer
If all the people who plan to boycott would each avoid buying a few gallons every week, prices would go down. Walk, ride a bicycle, car pool, or use public transportation. Check out electric vehicles; Detroit is in bed with the gas barons, but independent manufacturers are building good battery powered stuff. I'm almost 60 and have arthritis, but I ride an electric assist bike to work whenever I can. Most families second or third car could be battery powered, and recharged with home solar panels. The technology is available now, and it the sun ever "runs out" we're all dead anyway. Wide spread gasoline conservation could work wonders for our whole planet!

how do i find out the laws on importing goods from china to the usa?

randybates

i want to buy electric bikes in china, and sell them in america

Answer
You need a customs broker. They know relevant regulations for each commodity. Chances are the only things you'll need to confirm regulation-wise are (1) whether you need to pay duties to Uncle Sam when you bring electric bikes in from China; and (2) whether electric bicycles require UL (underwriter's laboratories) approval.

For info on duties check the US International Trade Commission's Tariff Information Center at the following link:
http://www.usitc.gov/tata/hts/bychapter/2005_supp.htm
See chapter 87 "Vehicles other than railway or tramway rolling stock, and parts and accessories thereof"

Frankly if you don't know the regulations governing the importation of electric bicycles from China into the U.S., then that means you probably have no experience in this industry, and there are more important questions you should be asking, such as:
Who is your target customer and how will you get their attention?
Who are your main competitors?
Why will your target customers buy your bikes and not your competitors'?
What advantage do you have selling electronic bicycles that your competitors don't have?
How will you find suppliers?
Do you have the capital to buy bikes, ship them to the U.S., inventory them, and invest in marketing to sell them?

Keep in mind that suppliers in China only sell large quantities. Unless you are prepared to import full container loads of electric bicycles there is no point buying direct from China. You should first find a domestic wholesaler or importer to buy from, that way you can get your business started with a low capital investment. Your COGs (cost of goods) will be higher, but you won't need to tie up cash in inventory. Focus on developing your customer base and growing sales. As long as you at least break even you are doing great. Then, once you have built up a customer base and have sufficient demand, you can think about finding a supplier in China. When you're at that point give me a call and I can help you - 212-847-7175. Good luck!

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electric bike recommendation?

best electric bike hill climbing image

bugbeacon2

I am looking for an electric bike for exercise for under $500. I want electric because my area is very hilly and I want to get exercise but I'm just not in shape enough to make it up the hills without some help. Ideas for the best in my price range?

Answer
Forget the electric bike they are hard to pedal and using the motor wont give you any exercise. If you want exercise get a used stationary bike off of Craig's list or better yet go to the local bike shop and get a good hybrid bike. It will take time to be able to climb hills, if you have to get off and walk.

What TRIAL Motorcycle should i go for?

Matthew

I'm 17 and i wanna get a trials motobike

I need something cheap and good for a beginner, i'm average tall, not too tall and hell no im not short
125cc, 200c 250cc 1000cc? lol what are your suggestions for a bike? and what should i know about the bike before buying one

PS: im not attending any club for training, im doing it solo :P

Answer
If you want to ride trails. Get a 4-Stroke. Start out with a CRF230F, TTR230, XR200 ect. Its well worth it to get one with an electric starter, they really help when stranded on a hill climb that you stalled on :)
The XR200 will be the cheapest on the list, you can pick them up all day on craigslist at $500 and above :)

You also mentioned that you wanted a Trials motobike. These are different.
Trial motorcycles are distinctive in that they are extremely lightweight, lack seating (they are designed to be ridden standing up) and have suspension travel that is short, relative to a motocross or enduro motorcycle.
Its like Parkour for a bike :)

Hope this helps!!

2002 CR250R 30 year Washington State/ Canada Trail Riding Veteran. :)

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What are all the a different kinds of bicycles?

best electric bike hill climbing image

DMR

moutain, hybrid, road, freestyle- what else?
description of each would be nice

Answer
Mountain bikes. These are rugged bikes for off-road use, but many people ride them on pavement as well. Mountain bikes feature fat knobby tires for comfort and traction, flat bars for great control, and low gears for easier hill climbing. Some mountain bikes have suspension for increased shock absorption. Do you need suspension? It depends on how and where you plan to ride.
Road bikes. These are meant for pavement riding, and are built for speed. They have narrower tires and drop bars for a more aerodynamic position.
Hybrid bikes. These are a cross between mountain bikes and road bikes -- for the rider who wants to do a little of everything. Hybrids generally have treaded tires which are narrower than mountain bike tires, flat bars, and higher gearing than mountain bikes. They're not quite as fast as road bikes on pavement, and not quite as rugged as mountain bikes on the road. They're good for commuting, and offer a compromise which appeals to a lot of people.
Cruisers. One-speed or multi-speed, cruisers are for the casual rider who wants to, well, cruise.
Juvenile bikes. These come in many varieties, from one-speed cruisers, to performance BMX bikes, to multi-speed mountain and road bikes.
Comfort bikes. These are specialized mountain bikes or hybrids with more upright riding positions, softer saddles and lower gearing. Theyâre built for, as the name implies, comfort, but are also designed to perform well.
Recumbents/tandems/electric assist bikes. There are numerous "niche" bicycles available today. Recumbents allow people to ride in a "recliner-chair" position with feet forward. Tandems allow two riders on a bike. Also, a number of companies are offering bicycles with electric-assist motors.

Ways to get around without any license?

Donald Tru

Whats the best transport to get around places with a lot of hills I was thinking about getting a electric scooter but you can only go 8 miles on it or a electric bike but they cost to much wats the best transport that you can use that you don't need a license for I live in vancouver and something around $700 .

Answer
gas scooter. they climb hills pretty well, get about 100 mpg and are really fun to ride. get a nice one tho or it will break. dont go buy a 200 dollar one if u spend the full 700 ull get something real nice

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What sort of material can be shaped for the body of a bike?

best electric bikes 2011 image

Keir Sta

After realizing that building an ultra light weight aircraft would require time that i didn't care to spend, I decided it was maybe time to be a little more realistic. So I am now in the process of building an electric motorcycle, in the design of the "light Cycle" from the Tron movies. I've built the frame and have all the electronics.. buuut I haven't the slightest idea how to design the outer shell.

Sheet metal sounds ideal, but it DOES NOT like to be bent in multiple directions. I need a material that can be shaped without the need for an English-wheel or any other crazy machinery. Just keep in mind that it does not have to be hard or reliable, it's going to be more like a trophy than an actual drivable bike.

Oh and with this economy, lets keep the prices reasonable, okay?

Here's a picture to give you an idea about the shaping that's required.

Answer
As you are building a one-off I would recommend using the fiberglass over foam method. You carve a 3d mock up from conventional insulation foam and then laminate both sides with fiberglass. Then apply a little bondo then a gel coat over it. Unlike with carbon fiber or kevlar fiberglass does not require a pressurized mold, or any mold, and can be laid by hand. this works with any shape including compound curves. If touching resin doesn't appeal to you you might invest in a compressed air powered chopper gun. fiberglass over foam is by far the cheapest method, for something small like a motorcycle you probably wont spend more the 500 bucks for all the materials.
This is how most low budget movie props are made.


Also you should look up Daniel Simon as he designed the new tron bike
here are some of his concept sketches

http://img.gawkerassets.com/img/18j2ra6w95ivojpg/original.jpg

http://www.feelguide.com/2010/12/18/the-design-process-behind-trons-light-cycle/

http://motomalaya.net/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/TronLegacy_DanielSimon_FlynnsBike_Sketch01.jpg

look around on this site this is where I learned about this method http://www.rqriley.com/frp-foam.htm

This french coach builder uses a similar technique to make cars for autoshows
http://sbarro.perso.neuf.fr/indexgb.html

What is the next most likely fuel for cars?

Axel

I've heard of hydrogen, solar powered and ethanol powered cars, but is there another one? and is there any that could become standard within 15 years?

Please star this cause I want the most answers for this.

Answer
Some people think that natural gas could be the fuel of choice in some countries in the future as it burns cleaner and is more abundant in the US and others. Bio-butanol could also be one potential source...it's compatible with current engine designs and infrastructures and is renewable using bacteria.
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2011/03/110317102603.htm

Synthetic gasoline can be produced using nanopellets of hydrogen which flow like liquids and burn clean.
http://news.discovery.com/tech/synthetic-gasoline-for-150gallon-and-no-emissions.html

Hydrogen-powered bike..
http://news.discovery.com/tech/magic-powder-fuels-electric-bike.html

Renewable bio-fuels from algae...
http://www.biofueldaily.com/reports/Joule_Unlimited_On_Track_To_Beat_All_Known_Biofuel_Processes_999.html
http://discovermagazine.com/2010/jan-feb/37

Thermal conversion processes or microwaves can turn garbage, wastes, plastics, old tires, etc.. into oil and fuels...
http://www.popsci.com/popsci/flat/bown/2007/innovator_2.html
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CWf9nYbm3ac&feature=related
http://www.i-sis.org.uk/WPIO.php?printing=yes

Food wastes account for a lost 350 million barrels of oil per year in the US alone...
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/10/101003081627.htm

Cleaner fuels using plasma..
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/03/100322121100.htm

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What are the electric scooter laws in California?

best electric assist bike image

Al Francis

I'm unable to get a licence so the best I can really do is get a scooter. I'd like to at least get around town easier without relying on public transportation. I've done a little bit of research in which people say its possible to ride a scooter that clocks out at a speed of 20 mph and no more without a licence. The kind of scooter i'm talking about looks like a gas powered scooter but is actually just an electric assisted bike. there's so many places on the internet to look but I just want to hear someone from California to confirm what I can ride. I'd greatly appreciate your help`
the type of scooter i'm looking at is electric and does not require gas. it has slip on pedals and has no exhaust.

Answer
http://www.chp.ca.gov/html/motors.html is useless -- does not cover the new electrical scooters. Not to mention that the CHP sometimes ignores the law. It you want to be legal, read the law from the Legislature: http://www.leginfo.ca.gov/cgi-bin/calawquery?codesection=veh

A CVC 407.5 "motorized scooter" is a stand-on vehicle, such as a Razor or Go-Ped. Such is legal on the streets, requires a driver's license of some sort. See CVC 21220-21235.

You want something that looks like a motor-scooter, that looks like a Vespa. That will be a CVC 406 "motorized bicycle" or "moped." If electric powered it can do 20 mph if it can also be pedaled, or if no pedals it can do 30 mph. To be legal on the streets you need to have a Class M2 motorcycle driver's license.

You say you cannot get a license? You are up sh*t creek -- there is *NO* motorized vehicle you can legally ride without a driver's license. Why not? Under age or what? If 18-20 years of age you can take the CMSP class, go to the DMV and pass the written and eye tests and walk out with a motorcycle permit. If 21, don't even need the CMSP class.

Otherwise, about all you can do is get a pedal bicycle. Legally. You can buy a bicycle wheel with a motor in the hub and a battery in your panniers and ride in stealth mode, illegally.

Is electric bike easy for someone who has never ride on a bike before?

Mark

Is electric bike easy for someone who has never ride on a bike before?

Answer
NO! The extra weight of the battery & motor will just make it more difficult to learn balance. For the price of just one electric assist bicycle - you could buy three to four really good pedal bicycles.

Electric assist bike - http://www.trekbikes.com/us/en/collections/electric_assist/t80_plus_gl/#
Fitness bike - http://www.trekbikes.com/us/en/bikes/road/fitness/fx/7_2_fx/#

$2,099.99 or $549.99? Your choice. I'd take the $550 bike. It'll last longer too.

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How do you put a chain driven motor on a bike with suspension?

best electric bike for 1000 image

Dug

I was thinking about putting a motor on an electric motocross bike so it goes faster, the only problem is is that the motorbike has suspension in the back and I was wondering if a chain driven motor can be mounted so when I hit a bump with the suspension the chain won't pop off or become stressed.

Answer
The sprocket needs to be roughly lined up with the center-line of the swing arm and not far from the pivot point. Just a random gas engine has nearly a zero percent chance of working since the output shaft is usually centered and too high on the engine. That, and you would have to find a clutch for it, make sure the sprockets line up perfectly, and fabricate a mounting system. You would also have to make a functional gas tank unless there was one mounted to the engine.

By the time you were done, you could have sold your old bike and bought a real dirt-bike. I see older used ones for sale in my local CL for $500-1000 all the time.

can drive a Electric bike in the state of california with a license?

Jill Valen

im a 16 year old the electric bike has less than 1000 watts and it go up to 20 mph on battery alone 10 points for a good answers with good resource

Answer
Yes they are legal on public roads you are required to wear a helmet I have listed to web sites with additional information if you wish to learn more about the laws.

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Do you think Toronto should put money onto their transit system?

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GodFather

Also answer why or why not?
No, Randy B, you are wrong.
my Q is: Do you think Toronto should put money onto their transit system, why or why not? and thats it.

Answer
Yes.

The TTC provides more than 450 million passenger rides each year. Each work day, an average of 1.5 million people ride the system which results in 1 million fewer trips by car. Fewer vehicles on the road equals less greenhouse gas emissions. The City plans to complete a bikeway network to make it easier to get around by both bicycle and transit. The TTC will be putting bike racks on all buses by 2010 and is investigating the use of secure bicycle storage by subway stations. All bus purchases are planned to be diesel/electric hybrids. In 2007, the TTC operated 150 diesel/electric hybrid buses with 410 more to be added to the fleet in 2008, resulting in one third of the fleet being hybrids. By 2010, 45% of the fleet will be hybrids. Fuel efficiency is achieved through vehicle design, right-sizing, and by optimizing motor size. Operator training and operating procedures contribute to fuel efficiency as well. These principles apply to buses, streetcars, trains and non-revenue vehicles. Many vehicle improvements are included in the designs for both the New Subway Train (called the Toronto Rocket) and the New Low Floor Light Rail Vehicle to reduce energy consumption and to make the vehicles more environmentally sustainable. Automatic Train Operation is included in the design for the Toronto Rocket, which will improve energy efficiency. Currently all streetcars and 94% of subway vehicles have regenerative braking; all fleets will have it by 2010.
http://www3.ttc.ca/About_the_TTC/Projects_and_initiatives/Transit_city/index.jsp

How do i drain my fuel tank?

jakko

Hi all, I need to drain my fuel tank, its off a 2010 hyosung gt250r efi model. How do I do it?

When I disconnected the fuel line some fuel came out if the fuel hose but none from the tank, as there is some sort if lock that opens when the fuel line is connected (so I was told by a friend)

Does anyone know how I empty it?
And also how would I wash it out? there is a lot if crap in the tank.

Thanks guys!

Answer
Take the tank off the bike (not too hard with simple tools), turn it over and dump out the fuel!

Since it has EFI it has an electric fuel pump in the tank that does not allow the gas to come out like an older bike with a carb. You can take the fuel hose off and turn the key on and it should pump the gas out but then again some don't.

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What is the longest lasting battery powered LED lite available?

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gideon_wri

I'm working on an art project project and need a small light just to add a back glow to a picture. Just need something that is battery powered, can provide a glow and will last a long time. Longest I've found was a bike tail light that lasted 150 hours before the battery ran out.

Answer
Check it out, I am not a fan of autozone but they have some led lights they sell for 29 bucks. They are rechargable, yellow handle, about ten inches long. Light like that off the snap on truck is 139 dollars but from the zone, reasonable. Thats about the only thing I'd buy from auto zone besides an air freshener or some blinker fluid.

What is the longest lasting battery powered LED lite available?

gideon_wri

I'm working on an art project project and need a small light just to add a back glow to a picture. Just need something that is battery powered, can provide a glow and will last a long time. Longest I've found was a bike tail light that lasted 150 hours before the battery ran out.

Answer
Hi Gideon,

I don't know of anything longer then the 150 hour one you found but what you can do is wire up a parallel battery pack.

By putting them in parallel the voltage remains the same but the capacity increases. Ten batteries in parallel would run 1500 hours or about 62 days.

Norm

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What size of electric motor can carry someone?

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umadbro

Whats the smallest motor that can probably move someone, for instance 49cc gas motor can move the bike and a person on it.

Can 1hp or 3 hp electric engine have enough power to move someone? Not on a bike necessarily

Answer
500 watts = 1/2 horsepower.

Electric mobility scooters and wheelchairs have about 1/2 horsepower motors.
Many recreational and commuter scooters also have 1/2 horsepower motors.

It's about gearing. You could easily use a 1/10 horsepower motor if you geared it to run a couple of miles per hour.

Where can I buy a Surrey Bike or a electric Pedicab?

Master1992

are these vehicles good and reliable for me to commute to work in?

Which is better, a Surrey Bike or an electric Pedicab?

Please explain and HONEST answers only.

Answer
You can buy one from the surrey bike company they are around $3000 dollars, and peddling your little heart out you would probably top out at around 8 miles per hour
http://surreycompany.com/surrey.htm

IMAHO it would be a nightmare trying to commute to work in this get up let alone maintain one.

For around same amount of scratch you can almost have Bruce Gordon build you a first class commuter/touring frame:
http://www.bgcycles.com/customgallery.html

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Where's the cheapest place to buy an electric bike in the UK?

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Q. Or can i get an electric bike kit add on for my bike?

Answer
Try these two groups, they have some significant UK content:

http://uk.groups.yahoo.com/group/electricbikes/

http://endless-sphere.com/forums/index.php

Who is the best name brand electric bike supplier that can ship anywhere in the world?

I have a chain of 20 bike shops and I'm looking for a very good, reliable electric bike supplier.

Answer
You can also try http://www.wholesaledeals.co.uk if you are looking for wholesale deals to resell on eBay UK and Amazon UK. They basically research for you which current wholesale offers are selling successfully and at good margins on eBay and Amazon, and you can join their service to find out where you can buy those deals today.

Since you are looking for electric bike,

try this page: http://www.wholesaledeals.co.uk/search-suppliers/electric_bike-suppliers.html

Hope this helps.

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Electric bike conversion kit that recharges as you pedal?

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ChemTalk

Basically what's in the question just wondering if there are any electric bike conversion kits that will partially recharge while you pedal. Kind of like a hybrid; and if you guys have any could you point me to them?

Answer
no
recharge as you pedal?
that would be about .001% efficient

if you are going to pedal, why not let THAT run the bike
instead of pushing a generator, letting that charge a battery, letting the battery run a motor
all of which have losses

just charge from the wall for about 1 cent a day

there is no need to 'charge' from pedaling

wle.

What are the Ontario laws for an electric bike conversion?

zeitgeist

What are the laws for electric bike CONVERSIONS in Ontario? (Not the laws for pre-built ebikes from manufacturers)

Answer
Pre-built and conversions should be the same under the law.

http://www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/dandv/vehicle/emerging/

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What is the first Harley Davidson bike that makes the brand popular worldwide after World War 2 ?

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KPKonliner

Name the model of the bike.Which year and why was it the first famous Harley worldwide after WW2 ?

Answer
after world war two the main competition was Indian and triumph,Indian killed themselves with to much research and Development.Indian was far ahead of Harley with new things like electric start but reliability suffered. Triumph gave H.D. a run for their money by building smaller,lighter,faster bikes. Harley responded to Triumph by making the sportster which came from the K model. The sporty at that time had its shifter on the right side and a straight seat just like a Triumph. The 45 cubic inch motor was still in production and was used in the three wheel servicar that police departments liked to use as well as being used by corporations such as Good Humor ice cream.

Can Bill Gates show the world how to get cheap energy?

Tom S

He can't even produce an affordable, reliable, and secure (protected against viruses, spam ware etc) version or Windows. We're still paying a fortune for Windows with it's service packs.

How can he show the world how to get cheap energy. He claims what he really wants is clean energy at half its current cost. To do that, he said, we'll need new technology.

Answer
That man is an island unto himself, i don't care how much money he has.
the greatest inventions, and world changing ideas into reality came from people,
with scientific morality and God sence of purpose. Anybody who would hire
Balmer, is not on the side of righeousness, and the american dream
of cheap energy. Hogwash, that is a wolf in sheepskin. I'll bring you
cheap energy and hire balmer too deliver it. There is no energy that exists on this
planet or any other planet that is cheap. Try converting the sun/EXPENSIVE,Nuclear/EXPENSIVE
Wind?THERE IS NONE OR ENOUGH,Hydroelectric/EXPENSIVE>FISH,oil/EXPENSIVE and
running out,electric cars or hybrids/EXPENSIVE.

unless he's teaming up with Opera winfrey, too buy us all pedal bikes,
he's out of touch with reality. He going too give, other countries his philantrophy,
with our money,CHEAPLY! did I say that right. He is a nut case. he has no concept
of reality, behind a lcd too long.

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What does is mean to green: like recycleling and stuff?

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My mom wants us to start being more environmentally aware and asked me to look some things up. Can anyone give me any pointers and such? Thanks! ^-^

Answer
show your mom my answer

In Your Home â Reduce Toxicity


Eliminate mercury from your home by purchasing items without mercury, and dispose of items containing mercury at an appropriate drop-off facility when necessary (e.g. old thermometers).
Learn about alternatives to household cleaning items that do not use hazardous chemicals.
Buy the right amount of paint for the job.
Review labels of household cleaners you use. Consider alternatives like baking soda, scouring pads, water or a little more elbow grease.
When no good alternatives exist to a toxic item, find the least amount required for an effective, sanitary result.
If you have an older home, have paint in your home tested for lead. If you have lead-based paint, cover it with wall paper or other material instead of sanding it or burning it off.
Use traps instead of rat and mouse poisons and insect killers.
Have your home tested for radon.
Use cedar chips or aromatic herbs instead of mothballs.

In Your Yard


Avoid using leaf blowers and other dust-producing equipment.
Use an electric lawn- mower instead of a gas-powered one.
Leave grass clippings on the yard-they decompose and return nutrients to the soil.
Use recycled wood chips as mulch to keep weeds down, retain moisture and prevent erosion.
Use only the required amount of fertilizer.
Minimize pesticide use.
Create a wildlife habitat in your yard.
Water grass early in the morning.
Rent or borrow items like ladders, chain saws, party decorations and others that are seldom used.
Take actions that use non hazardous components (e.g., to ward off pests, plant marigolds in a garden instead of using pesticide).
Put leaves in a compost heap instead of burning them or throwing them away. Yard debris too large for your compost bin should be taken to a yard-debris recycler.

In Your Office

Copy and print on both sides of paper.
Reuse items like envelopes, folders and paper clips.
Use mailer sheets for interoffice mail instead of an envelope.Use mailer sheets for interoffice mail instead of an envelope.
Set up a bulletin board for memos instead of sending a copy to each employee.
Use e-mail instead of paper correspondence.
Use recycled paper.
Use discarded paper for scrap paper.
Encourage your school and/or company to print documents with soy-based inks, which are less toxic.
Use a ceramic coffee mug instead of a disposable cup.

Ways To Protect Our Air


Ask your employer to consider flexible work schedules or telecommuting.
Recycle printer cartridges.
Shut off electrical equipment in the evening when you leave work.
Report smoking vehicles to your local air agency.
Don't use your wood stove or fireplace when air quality is poor.
Avoid slow-burning, smoldering fires. They produce the largest amount of pollution.
Burn seasoned wood - it burns cleaner than green wood.
Use solar power for home and water heating.
Use low-VOC or water-based paints, stains, finishes and paint strippers.
Purchase radial tires and keep them properly inflated for your vehicle.
Paint with brushes or rollers instead of using spray paints to minimize harmful emissions.
Ignite charcoal barbecues with an electric probe or other alternative to lighter fluid.
If you use a wood stove, use one sold after 1990. They are required to meet federal emissions standards and are more efficient and cleaner burning.
Walk or ride your bike instead of driving, whenever possible.
Join a carpool or vanpool to get to work.






Ways to Use Less Water

Check and fix any water leaks.
Install water-saving devices on your faucets and toilets.
Don't wash dishes with the water running continuously.
Wash and dry only full loads of laundry and dishes.
Follow your community's water use restrictions or guidelines.
Install a low-flow shower head.
Replace old toilets with new ones that use a lot less water.
Turn off washing machine's water supply to prevent leaks.

Ways to Protect Our Water


Revegetate or mulch disturbed soil as soon as possible.
Never dump anything down a storm drain.
Have your septic tank pumped and system inspected regularly.
Check your car for oil or other leaks, and recycle motor oil.
Take your car to a car wash instead of washing it in the driveway.
Learn about your watershed.


Create Less Trash


Buy items in bulk from loose bins when possible to reduce the packaging wasted.
Avoid products with several layers of packaging when only one is sufficient. About 33 of what we throw away is packaging.
Buy products that you can reuse.
Maintain and repair durable products instead of buying new ones.
Check reports for products that are easily repaired and have low breakdown rates.
Reuse items like bags and containers when possible.
Use cloth napkins instead of paper ones.
Use reusable plates and utensils instead of disposable ones.
Use reusable containers to store food instead of alum

What are some effective but easy ways people can save energy?

ksenia

Answer
Monitor your electricity use by buying a Kill-A-Watt or other such monitor.

http://the-gadgeteer.com/review/kill_a_watt_electric_usage_monitor_review

'An average household uses about 4300kWh of electricity each year. This results in emissions of over 2 tonnes of CO2 per household, or ¾ tonne per person - just for domestic electricity supply. In comparison, total CO2 emissions per person in the UK are around 10 tonnes, and emissions per person in India are about 1 tonne. Luckily, it is possible to cut domestic electricity use in half with simple energy efficiency measures.
'This table shows how electricity use is divided up in an average house (excluding electric heating):

Lighting 19%
Cold Appliances 18%
Wet Appliancs 15%
Cooking 15%
Consumer Electronics 19%
ICT (computers, etc) 9%
Other 5%'
(source Centre for Alternative Technology)
http://www.cat.org.uk/information/catinfo.tmpl?command=search&db=catinfo.db&eqSKUdatarq=InfoSheet_SavingElectricity

EASY WAYS to save energy

â Don't use standby on tv or computer.
â Switch off when not in use.
â Use energy efficient lightbulbs.
â Lower you thermostat.
â Install timers.
â Heat only what is needed.
â Turn down the water heater.
â Insulate your property.
â Turn air conditioning and heating down
â Sign up to a green energy supplier.
â Dress appropriately. When itâs cold put on a jumper rather than turn up the heating, when itâs warm take it off again rather than use the air con.
â Wash full loads.
â Wash at lower temperatures.
â Dry washing outside.
â Avoid dishwashers.
â Reduce draughts.

Use rechargeable batteries..
â Donât leave (re)chargers on for longer than is needed
â Only boil the water you need.
â Buy local produce.
â Reduce reuse and recycle - in that order
â Work from home. If possible work from home, it saves time and fuel travelling.
â Eat less meat and dairy products. Modern farming methods produce large quantities of greenhouse gases.
â Shower instead of bath.
â Conserve Water The less water you use the less energy is needed to pump it to your home or office and to deal with the waste at a sewerage treatment works.

â Drive a fuel efficient vehicle, if you have more than one vehicle use the most economical one more often.
â Walk or cycle to work or when taking the kids to schools, if you have to drive consider car sharing.
â Use public transport where possible
â Take a coach or train instead of using domestic flights.
â When replacing your vehicle look at diesel and liquid petroleum gas models.
â Combine multiple journeys into one and do your weekly shopping in a single trip.
â Stagger journeys where possible to avoid rush hour traffic and hold ups.
â Avoid harsh braking, accelerate gently, drive at a steady speed.
â Keep tyres properly inflated.
â Remove bike and ski and roof racks when not in use.
â Carrying unnecessary weight wastes fuel, declutter your vehicle.
â Use the correct gear, use cruise control if your vehicle has it.
â Keep your vehicle regularly serviced.
â Turn the engine off when stopped or waiting.

Source Trevor a climatologist , who used to be Top Answerer in Global Warming.

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