what do people look for in an electric bike?

Matthew

I am designing an electric bike for commuters to use day in, day out. I am asking you guys who live on the outskirts of cities to give me what you want in the perfect personal transport. This product is made for the masses and made by the masses. Any answers will be appreciated and taken into account. Thanks all!
May i add that this is a conceptual design project :)

Answer
I've been working on the same thing for different clients for years, but I'll tell you what things designers are trying to overcome:

1) Weight. The current technologies simply do not allow an e-bike that weighs under 50 pounds. A good target weight should be in the mid-20s;

2) Battery size. The size of even the smallest battery right now takes up precious space for carrying other stuff, and if the battery gets too small the range is reduced tremendously. Right now, Mitsubishi probably makes the best battery/motor combination;

3) Loaded range. Put a rider and 35 pounds of gear on the bike and ride it up a 5% grade, 1 mile long hill two or three times. Nuff said.

What size of electric motor can carry someone?

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.

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