Best Electric Bikes: 2014-06-08

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Saturday, June 14, 2014

best place to buy electric scooters bikes?

kenzah1997

Answer
http://www.electric-bikes.com/
however, it's ALWAYS best to buy at a local dealer so you can get service, parts etc.

electric bike advice?

Eddie

hi guys i was curious about a few things and thought, "well i might as well ask", so here i am. lets say you dont finish your battery, are you still supposed to charge it every night? ar am i supposed ot let the battery drain out? and what type of brake should i have, the regular v brake or the disk? ive been told both ways so im not sure which one is better... last but not least, i was told that the company "Gold Model" was very good but not so known, but i was wondering is mabye someone knew if it is good and what are its bad sides? the more information the better:)

thanks
Eddie

Answer
Batteries in an electric assist bike are similar to those in a cell phone. They will last a LOT longer if you drain them down to near zero & then recharge again.

For general purpose riding, disc brakes are NOT needed. Disc brakes are only needed under the most adverse conditions - such as mud, muck & a LOT of rain.

Good electric assist bicycles cost about 2K or more. For that same amount of money, you could buy 3 or more really good "fitness bikes".
http://www.raleighusa.com/bikes-road-fitness-cadent-cadent-2

I wouldn't own an electric assist bike. What happens if the battery should go down miles from home? You are stuck pedaling a VERY heavy bicycle home again. Meanwhile...a fitness bike or even a road bike is very light & geared to climb hills easily.

Are there any good electric bikes for around or under $500?

Sammy

Something for getting around a town, like 15miles tops on back roads.
thanks.

Answer
Capital N. Capital O. NO! For the price of just one Trek electric assist bicycle, you could buy THREE "fitness bikes".

Electric 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/#

Any Electric Mountain Bikes under $400?

Ryan

Something not 300 pounds or ugly and bulky, but with good speed and light weight. Remember, under $400. Thanks.
or under $500.

Answer
"or under $500?"

NO Capital N. Capital O. NO. A true quality electric assist bicycle from Trek costs OVER $2,000.
http://www.trekbikes.com/us/en/collections/electric_assist/t80_plus_gl/#
And it's not a mountain bike.

For the price of just ONE electric assist bike, you could buy THREE of these...
http://www.trekbikes.com/us/en/bikes/road/fitness/fx/7_2_fx/#
Get off your lazy, fat @ss & ride a real bicycle.

My Electric Bike has been stolen.?

Alison B

I live in Ipswich, Suffolk, UK.
What do thieves do with stolen bikes? Where do they sell them? I have phoned all the local Bike shops just in case someone brings it in. It was locked and chained to the bike stand.
Where would they sell it?

Answer
They sell it to buy drugs

How can I fix my electric bike?

Jay

I got an electric bike off craigslist and thought it was just missing a battery. Turns out, the bike wont even pedal. Any ideas on how I can fix it, to where I can at least pedal it like a regular bike?
http://www.electrikmotion.com/Hebb%20Step%20Through%20Electric%20Bicycles.htm that's the link to the kind of bike I have. Thanks!
What I mean by the bike wont pedal is that when you pedal the bike while on it the pedals will rotate but the tire will not. If you're not on the bike and hold the tail end in the air and rotate the pedal the wheel turns, it's like it's slipping the gear. No I didn't test ride it, I know better for the next time. Thanks so much for pointing out the obvious.

Answer
Find a dealer that sells and/or services that make of electric bike.
electrikmotion@aol.com, sales@electrikmotion.com
1-866-ESCOOTR (372-6687)

If that's not possible - you're - well - see this link... http://forgotston.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/05/screwed.jpg

Craigslist - "Caveat emptor" or "buyer beware".
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Caveat_emptor

Questions about electric bikes?

Robert Ful

1.) How long do they last before "burning out"
2.) How many miles can you typically travel on one without having to pedal?
3.) When going up a steep hill, is the bike powerful enough to move upward without having to pedal at all?

Answer
We will just use my Giant Lafree Lite as a sample"

1)How long do they last before "burning out"?
I am 230 lbs,and have ridden this bike 4K miles over 3 years and NO problems other than flat tires.

2.) How many miles can you typically travel on one without having to pedal? I have to pedal on this bike. I can go 30miles on this ebike designed in 2002 and costing $1300.

3.) When going up a steep hill, is the bike powerful enough to move upward without having to pedal at all?
Again, this ebike requires me to pedal, as you should on most ebikes. I have arthritis and asthma, but I can make it up a 7% hill at 7mph carrying 20lbs of groceries

Solar Panel wattage for my Electric Bike?

www.jkrish

Solar Panel wattage for my Electric Bike?
I am looking to purchase an Electric Bike for transport to work. I work on an Organic farm and need to save some energy up those hills.

I need help figuring out what size solar panels would be needed to charge the battery, and whether its plausible.

I'm looking at Ebay in Australia as I am immigrating down there. I prefer to afford the foldable/portable solar panel system: 80 watt, 120 watt, 160 watt, but IF necessary a bit more.

300w 3 PHASE 36v ELECTRIC REAR WHEEL
THREE 12v 17ah SLA BATTERIES (Total 36v)

or

Motor: 250 Watt brush-less DC hub
Batteries: 24V/10Ah pack, valve regulated

can anyone out there help explain to me how to figure this out?

thanks :)

Answer
wow
i;d just say abandon all hope
get a regular bike and learn to ride it
get enough of your own juice to ride 'up hills'

you work in an organic farm and you want to get one of these silly heavy slow environment destroying resource wasting electric bikes?
dude

organic farm ===> real bike
seriously

otherwise you are in for some serious electrical engineering or spending about 3 times what a good, regular bike would cost

wle

Can I make my pull start dirt bike a kick or electric start.?

Nancydowns

It is a 196 cc mini baja and im tired of pulling

If so what web site can I get the parts from

Answer
That seems to be a 5-6.5hp Chinese made Honda unlicensed clone engine? Replace it with a Honda Utility engine with a electric start- about $600.00 for the 8 hp Horizontal shaft available at lawn and garden power centers and some motorcycle dealers. Harbor Freight has some $400/500.00 engines about 8-12 hp with electric start also--these are Chinese made sort of Honda, sort of Kawasaki, sort of Briggs knockoffs. They have a 6.5hp mostly Honda copy for about $200.00 that had a note optional electric start for $250.00 same power. Alternative electric starter- get a old Delco or Bosch starter/generator as used on Cub Cadets and Simplicity, AC, Sears Suburbans and make mounting brackets, install belt pulley, get regulator/switch and battery tray, battery and use it.

what makes a dirt bike make a dinging noise when you try to start it, electric start?

Abby

it is a Yamaha dirt bike, 2006 ttr 125. when you push the electric start and turn the throttle it makes a ding noise like a rock is in it.

Answer
that you know the rules, think carefully and have at it! ... Do yourself a favor and run the bike again, this time making the ... All 12-volt electric start Yamaha's have them. .... move next to or near an airport and complain about the noise.

It is good to buy electric bike?

Fren

Answer
Aki stated, "...it is good for you health." Exactly how is it good for your health to pedal home an EXTREMELY heavy bicycle after the charge in the battery runs low or out at the wrong time in the wrong place?

A nice lightweight road bike or performance hybrid will cost a LOT less. And using that type of bicycle will make you healthier. Electric bikes will turn you into a lazy bum with no money.

Example: Lowest priced Trek Electric Assist bicycle - $2,299.99. Good entry level road bike - Trek 1.1 - $729.99.

Electric Vehicle - Bike?

ffww72

Hello, I'm doing a science fair project on an electric bike conversion, and I'm planning to convert it by myself. But I'm a relative beginner, so can anybody advise me on what battery/motor to use in order to produce the most efficiency? How many batteries? How much would the battery and motor cost?

Also, do I have anything else to buy?
Thank you for your time.

Answer
If you want to take the easy route, there are kits available to convert a regular bike to electric.

You can use sealed lead acid (SLA), nickel metal hydride (NiMh), or lithium ion batteries. SLA are cheapest and have the shortest lifespan, lithium ion are most expensive and last longest. They generally use something on the order of one 36V12ah battery.

Generally the motor is in the neighborhood of 400-500 Watts.

Depending mostly on what kind of battery you choose, the whole thing can cost anywhere from $300 to $2000.

electric pocket bikes!!?

Tanner C

I Want a Electric pocket bike for my birthday and i cant decide which one to get!! I have seen the Xp-700 rice pocket bike and the minimoto maxii 400.Which one is better? If there are faster ones than those please tell me!!
ok never mind!! I am loking at gas ones now and i want one that goes around 30 mph. It needs to have a speedometer and lights and stuff. Needs 20 be between 100$ and 350$ Thanks!!!

Answer
I got an X1 Ninja 49cc pocket bike and my brother got a Giovanni pocket bike. Mine fit great and was big enough to be comfortable and not feel like you're riding a rollerskate, but had poor acceleration because of the clutch. His, on the other hand, had great speed, but was so tiny that the smallest bump made the name "krotch rocket" live up to its potential. Ended up buying my brothers, and with some modifications put the racing motor in mine.
BEST pocket bike ever. Worked well even offroad, and went about 45 tops. If you are looking for the bike like the one I made, you need to be good at modifying things. If not, and you want the fastest, most powerful, the 110cc pocket bikes are FAST, up to 75mph.
I would choose the ninja X series (x1, x2, x7, ect(the one that looks like an actual street bike)) style pocket bikes and simply upgrade the clutch. Not that hard to do, and would leave you with a sturdy, fast, strong bike.

Should i buy an electric bike?

Rosko

Well this weekend I am going to look an electric bike. I have a obsessive personality like if i want something i won't give up until i have it or lose interest I mean i will literally thing about something I want it is unhealthy really, But anyways it will cost me $200.00 if i buy it its a converted bike so what are the pros and cons of an electric bike and how do i protect it from getting stolen If i do buy it?

Answer
$200? For an electric assist bicycle? Too cheap to be any good. Electric assist bicycles from Trek START at $2,299.99 - http://www.trekbikes.com/us/en/collections/electric_assist/models/ Battery replacement is sky high too.

Pros: None

Cons: You become fat & lazy. The charge in the battery may run low or out in the wrong place at the wrong time. Then YOU are stuck pedaling a very heavy bicycle home. High initial cost. High cost to replace battery.

Protection: Same as any other bicycle...a good U-Bolt lock used in conjunction with a thick cable or chain. http://bigshark.com/how-to/locking-your-bicycle-pg263.htm

Friday, June 13, 2014

Need advice on these electric scooters?

lil miss

The description from the guys selling them was that they were Phanthom IV and Sola models but I can't find a review online anywhere. He wants $400 dollars for both of them... we live about three 4-5 miles from work and we just want a way to commute back and forth in a cheap way. Are these good?

http://s307.photobucket.com/albums/nn292/mrs_strawn/?action=view&current=small_1927961214682457.jpg

Answer
Well the price is certainly good. As grizz mentioned the problem will be getting a replacement battery for the Phantom IV. The Sola shouldn't be a problem.

http://www.batteriesplus.com/products/78-0/6111-Scooter-Batteries--Electric/253517-Sola-Scooters/Night-Rider/1.aspx

Bear in mind that both of these scooters have a top speed of about 15 mph, so they're not exactly speedy. That's about as fast as you can go on a decent bicycle.

But again, the price is really good. The only issue is that the batteries will eventually need replacing, and you're probably up a creek when the Phantom battery dies. A bicycle or even electric bicycle wouldn't be a bad option either.

http://greenhome.huddler.com/wiki/electric-vehicles

Prius reviews? any generation.?

erika99

Hey everyone! I was just wondering if the prius is a reliable and satisfactory car. I like this car a lot because of its mpg and style. But i just want to know what others think. Interested to know about any generation of the prius. Thanks :)

Answer
I have two Prius and here's what I've found:

1. You can fit four full-sized adults in comfort or put a bicycle or two in the cargo area without removing the front wheels.

2. The lifetime average on my 2004 Prius is 58 mpg using regular gas according to the logbook I keep. (I don't have the numbers on the 2001 because my wife doesn't keep track.)

2004 Prius MPG from the logbook. (Complete years only):
2003-2004 -- 50.8 mpg 17,628 miles
2005 -- 52.6 mpg 14,688 miles
2006 -- 56.3 mpg 16,174 miles
2007 -- 57.3 mpg 18,384 miles
2008 -- 59.9 mpg 21,755 miles
2009 -- 61.4 mpg 16,177 miles
2010 -- 65.2 mpg 12,134 miles
2011 -- 66.9 mpg 11,272 miles

3. Both the 2001 and 2004 have been trouble-free and very reliable. The 2001 has 95,000 miles and the 2004 has 135,000 miles.

4. The Prius comes with vehicle stability control. This is a system that prevents doughnuts in slippery conditions if you are going anything like a reasonable speed for conditions. Note: This really works, the back end just does not swing out on ice covered streets.

5. The Prius comes with brake-override. This is a system that disengages acceleration when the brake pedal is pressed firmly (Non-hybrid Toyota's don't have this feature yet).

6. Brake assist. This is a system that compensates for people's tendency to press quickly but not hard enough on the brake pedal in an emergency situation. Brake-assist adds additional braking force when it detects an emergency stop. This and #4 and #5 can also be found on Mercedes, some BMWs, Porsche, and Corvettes--none of which are in the Prius' price range.

7. On the 2010 optionally you can get radar pre-collision, radar cruise control, lane keep, and self-parking.

8. The Prius is fun-to-drive. I still have a smile on my face when I start the morning commute.

9. The Prius is not expensive to maintain. The 2004 has cost 12 cents per mile for fuel, dealer maintenance, and tires. You could reduce this considerably if you are into DIY. The Prius is a pretty easy car to DIY.

10. Toyota has replaced many of the mechanical systems with more reliable electronic systems in the Prius. So you won't find any alternators, starter motors, belts (2004-2009 have one belt that runs the engine water pump--this is gone in the 2010), clutches or fluid couplings (the automatic transmission equivalent of a clutch). The automatic transmission, with it's hundreds of parts has been replace by a simple planetary gear system similar to a differential.

11. The air conditioner is a variable speed, electric scroll compressor. This allows it to run only as much and as hard as necessary so energy is saved. It also eliminates the power drag on the engine because the engine doesn't directly power the a/c.

Making an electric bicycle?

Daniel

I want to make my bike electric and I don't have a clue where to get the supplies and how much it costs to get the supplies. I want to make my mountain bike into an electric one.

Answer
http://www.electricrider.com/
http://www.electric-bikes.com/ - best one
http://www.cyclone-usa.com/
www.easyracers.com
www.sunbicycles.com
www.ampedbikes.com
http://www.electric-bikes.org/
http://www.goldenmotor.com
http://e-bikekit.com/ - pretty good
http://www.lightfootcycles.com/index.php
http://www.hi-powercycles.com/
http://www.electricbikee.com/
http://www.enertrac.net/index.php

I'll give you a hint: Hub motors have some disadvantages compared to motors that drive the bicycles chain, namely low speed thrust for climbing steep hills with heavy loads. But that never actually becomes a factor because your speed never drops too far when you ride an electric bike. The good outweighs the bad when it comes to hub motors.

I recommend Crystalyte 5000 series hub motors. And absolutely pay a little extra and get lithium batteries. The lighter weight means longer range and better performance, and they pay for themselves in the long run because they have a longer life span.

It's going to cost you some money if you want the best quality. If you don't like the sticker shock, walmart sells an electric bicycle you can search for on their website. It's dirt cheap and it will last a few years if you take care of it.

I think I want an electric bicycle?

Butterfly2

YES, YOU READ THAT CORRECTLY. I WANT TO HAVE EASY TRANSPORTATION TO VISIT BY GRANDCHILDREN WHO ARE 2 MILES AWAY BUT THERE ARE SOME STEEP HILLS ALONG THE WAY. I DON'T HAVE ACCESS TO OUR CAR AS MUCH AS I WOULD LIKE AND MY HUSBAND DOESN'T WANT TO PUT THE MONEY INTO A 2ND CAR JUST FOR MY LITTLE TRIPS. WE ARE RETIRED BUT MY HUSBAND STILL WORKS PART TIME AND NEEDS THE CAR (HE IS A PASTOR SO HE CAN BE CALLED AT ANY TIME) MY GRANDCHILDREN ARE SO CLOSE AND YET SEEMINGLY SO FAR. I WOULD WALK THERE EXCEPT FOR THE HILLS. SO, I SAW ON THE WALMART WEBSITE SOME VARIOUS DIFFERENT KINDS OF ELECTRIC BICYCLES AND SCOOTERS. THERE ARE ALSO BICYCLES WHERE YOU KIND OF SIT BACK AND PEDDLE. I KNOW THIS PROBABLY SOUNDS CRAZY BUT I JUST WANT AN INEXPENSIVE WAY TO SEE THE KIDS MORE OFTEN. I AM TOTALLY SERIOUS SO PLEASE DON'T GIVE ME ANY HURTFUL OR CRAZY ANSWERS. BUT, PLEASE SOME ONE PLEASE HELP ME. I DON'T KNOW EVEN WHERE TO PLACE THIS UNDER WHICH CATEGORY SO I AM CHOOSING AUTOS - MORE. ANY SUGGESTIONS WOULD BE GREATLY APPRECIATED. THANK YOU SO MUCH
So sorry about the caps. I didn't mean to insult anyone. I am new on here and I am just frustrated. Since it isn't very far to go to my grandchildren perhaps a bicycle without a motor would work but I don't know about the hills. I see there are some bikes with the seals extended back and you are sitting lower. I am sorry I don't know how to explain it. Anyway, the hills are m concern and it probably is a little farther than 2 miles. Anyway, it is a little farther than I would want to walk right now. Any suggestions about what kind of bike would be helpful to this older lady. I am in good shape but just don't feel up to doing 4-5 miles up and down these hills. I really do appreciate your answers and any help you can give me. Again, I apologize, I really didn't mean to insult anyone. Can some one please help me? Something easy to peddle. No, we are in a small college town and no buses
We will forget the electric bikes if they will become illegal soon. Thank you for your help

Answer
Look up your local laws. It's not hard to find your local statutes on motorized bicycles/mopeds. Many states consider them to be the same thing. Some places have banned combustible engines but are ok with electric motors. So look up your local statutes instead of going by word of mouth law. All to often people don't know what they're talking about. You may want to consider a gas engine kit. I can do 30 mph and get 200 mpg. Staton Inc and EZ Motorbikes sells good gas kits. You can go to motorbicycling.com and motoredbikes.com for help. I live in Tennessee we have lots of hills. I also have heart problems. I looked up my local laws then built a legal motorized bicycle. It gave me a way to keep riding in spite of a handicap. Here is a really good kit you can put on a department store hard tail steel frame mountain bike. It's the Bionx 350.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=om5wXf5puL4&feature=youtube_gdata_player

What are the best electric bikes in the United States of America?

Itai

I want to buy an electric bike with pedal assistance Help (pedaling) but allude to ask you to give me the best recommendation in my purchase, and I want to get the best performance for my invercion or purchase. Please do not recommend the most expensive since I can not buy, that is the most economical, good quality and good performance.
Wear days on the web looking and deciding but I'm afraid to fail and I'm afraid to screw up and lose my little money.
Optional comment: I'm interested in more of the (twenty inches) (20 ") (20 inch), which has good performance and speed and has no grill or carpetera a box to put it to a little shopping in the store and follow or hir my work for me.
People who help me and those who seek to give them a million thanks for loving help and also I thank you all for darrme Yahoo and others the opportunity to be here.

Answer
I am sorry to say that e-bike quality increases as price increases. There are no exceptional values.

The main quality variation that can be noticed is the weight and quality of the battery. Many bikes that are low priced can have the trouble traced to it. Regrettably, one cannot simply swap to a better quality battery to take advantage of a low priced bike.

Please do NOT purchase an e-bike online. There are too many things that may require attention and many bike shops will not deal with bike they didn't sell. Take your time, find shops in your area that sell e-bikes, and discuss their features with the sales person.

Electric bike- I want to buy one that is top quality and easy to use?

irunwithbu

Any suggestions on a great electric bike?
I want to get a bike that I can pedal and goes maybe 20 mph??

Answer
I bought one recently, but it wasn't top quality - actually it was the cheapest I could find. The E-Zip Mountain Trailz. It's actually pretty good, but the realistic range is only about 13 miles.

I've heard that Giant makes some really good ones:

http://nycewheels.com/giant-electric-bike.html

As does Currie Technologies. They make both the E-Zip (cheap version) and the i-Zip (higher quality).

http://www.currietech.com/html/07_ezip_main_prod.html
http://www.izipusa.com/

The main things you want to look at are range, battery type, and weight. Obviously lighter and longer range are better. Mine claims to go 15-22 miles/charge and only gets 13, so performance may not meet the claims. I think the range claims are based on biking pretty slowly.

Sealed lead acid batteries are the cheapest and most economical, but only last about a year. Bikes with NiMh batteries last about twice as long, but the battery costs about 3 times as much as a SLA battery. Lithium ion batteries are very expensive but last a very long time.

Good luck.

Thursday, June 12, 2014

electric bike kit measurements?

My 3 girls

I bought an electric bike kit. Not the bike,yet.The motor is fitted on the front wheel. I need to have the hub fit the fork right.What do I measure on my new bike and how do I measure the hub on the the electric wheel. Or am I wrong and need to measure something else?
Thanks

Answer
You'll need to measure the 'over locknut' width of the hub. Could be either 130 or 135 mm. Make sure the bike you buy has the correct rear fork drop out width.

Looking for information on Voy electric bikes?

Karen J

Any info on parts, etc. would be appreciated.

Answer
I dunno if brand name is Voy, but here in Tucson there is "Ajo bikes" (a store) that carries an electric bicycle with the motor in the hub of the front wheel! a cable runs out from the axle, to the control in the handgrip, and to the battery on the rear luggage type rack.
I am thinking about buying just the front wheel assembly ($100 range) and install on my present bike.
I think the complete bike all set up is like $400 range.
1301 e ajo way, tucson, az. 85713
i hope its legal to give out their address.
Very trim design without all the gear clutter, but you can pedal the 10-speed (15? maybe) rear wheel.
i'd give you more info but this question closes in a few hours.

What do you think of Electric bicycles?

Eartha Q

are they worth the price?
bikernoj ,
Gosh ! Maybe I have a reason for asking besides being fat and lazy???
Me too M R ! It's a simple question for goodness sake.
Dear Lime ..did it ever occur to you that I might have my reasons for asking!! Is that OK with you???
Thanks Bob Lahblah ..I was trying to get some informed information..but it seems the bike enthusiasts are not very nice people.

Answer
Legal Low Powered Electric Assist bikes are now becoming a great alternative for tens of thousands of commuters in the US. Use an ebike for commuting and save the price of the ebike in insurance savings and service costs, And still get a workout- no more time on that dreaded treadmill at the spa.

Some young fit folks may never need one, but, if you are one of the folks that really does not want to take their car EVERYWHERE, especially to just get a loaf of bread, Ebikes may be the thing for you.

They all have on/off switches and a way to control the level of assist. People might use maximum assist going to work, but minimum assist going home for a workout. If you have asthma or arthritis, an ebike makes the bicycling world yours again- on good days- minimum assist, on bad days - you still don't have to get in the car- just use more assist.

Fifty percent of households own bicyles but less than 5% of them use them regularly. Over 50% of households with ebikes use them on a regular basis.

Some people use their $2,000 racing bike as a roof ornament and a badge of being a yuppie. Other people take ebikes every where, saving lots of money, helping the environment, and stayiing quite fit. YOU DO HAVE TO PEDAL, other wise your range is really shortened.

Right now you can get an ebike that will go 30 miles, (with your pedal assist) make it up most any hill in most cities, feels like a normal bike, can bring home 40 lbs of groceries and has no more service issues than a normal bicycle -for about $1500. And have local service in MANY US cities.

There are today some really great ebikes, much better than 3 years ago. The Bionx, www.bionx.ca , has the most bicycle like feel, and great range. Cyclone, www.cyclone-usa.com , has the most power.
Crystalyte system kits have pretty good value
http://www.poweridestore.com .

In most US states, Ebikes are legally limited to 20mph under electric power, must have pedals that work, less than 750 watts of power, and 2 or 3 wheels (not 4), and are legal where other bikes are legal. Check your state though.

For reasons of test riding and long term support, it is highly suggested that you buy your first one from a local dealer, unless you like to work on such things your self.

The average ebike rider puts on more miles than the average regular bike rider. Why? Ebikes are more fun, less hassle, and there are just less excuses to take the car.

Many ebikes are also light enough to be put on many city busses and trains- helping with "multi-mode" commuting.

(But be careful, there is some junk out there)

What is the best kind of bicycle? The one you will ride.

Try the following yahoo discussion group for indepth information on specific ebikes:

http://tech.groups.yahoo.com/group/power-assist/

There are great ebike dealers in Texas, Colorado, Seattle, Georgia, New York, California, Kansas, Illinois, Utah, Nevada; the list goes on and on.

I'm looking for a electric bike to buy.?

MR.T

I'm looking for a electric bike to buy. I need it to be affordable and able to cover alot of ground. Any ideas?

Answer
Lots has to be considered; the laws of your state, your budget, the terrain, local dealers, your ability to maintain the product, your bicycling abilities, the total load and expected range, frame preference.

Try the following for information;

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

and use the Bionx 350 and the Crystalyte motors as standards.

If you need more performance at a better value and you can do some of the installation, try
www.cyclone-usa.com

Questions about electric bike?

Hi, I just got this electric bike second hand on craigslist - and it's working fine, but I have a few questions about it.

1. Do you remove batteries when you have the bike on the public bike rack to prevent theft? Or do you think that the lock mechanism is good enough to deter the theft? Of course I put U-shape lock on the bike body itself, but I wasn't sure what to do with the battery. It's removable, so for today, (first time out), I removed the battery and brought it with me to the office.

2. how long does this battery last? The previous owner told me she used the bike for two years. How do you know the battery is no good any more? She used it to climb up a hill (gradual, a short steep part, but not so terrible) daily about 1.5 miles. When should I consider getting new battery pack (and how much does it cost?)

3. Is there way to adjust the positioning of the switch to turn the power on because it's in a little awkward place to reach as of right now. (I like to turn it on and off to save battery as I climb up the hill).

Thanks!
to the first responder: I live in upstate NY and the town is full of hills. I dare you to climb the two large hills I just went down and climbed this morning. I'm a middle aged woman with shaky knees and I'm not going to put up with your nonsense. Perhaps you should think about what you say before you post it - and save some embarrassment. You won't dare say that to me in person.

to the second person: I want to turn it on and off because, if you've ever rode bike on a long hill, the incline is not even. Some parts are almost level, and I don't need the assist, but some other parts are steep, then I need assist.
And please only answer if you actually know anything about electric bike.
Also, this is the bike I got: http://www.giant-bicycles.com/en-us/bikes/model/twist.express/7335/44074/ I forgot to add this link in the initial post.

Answer
I would remove the battery. The battery life is determined by the type and the number of recharge cycles. If you turn it off to climb hills why bother with an electric bike. There is a good chance that you already need a new battery. The cost will depend on the type, Google is your friend.

Edit:
You replied without giving any more information about the bike. Most have a Controller that determines how much energy you use.

http://www.nycewheels.com/giant-part-twist-battery.html

Read this.

http://www.cyclepathbikes.com/giant/howitworks.html

Questions about electric bikes?

Robert Ful

Electric Vehicle - Bike?

ffww72

electric bikes?

free_mark5

Anyone have a electric bike, i want one that looks like a mt. bike, and can also be used without the power on.

Answer
you have several options.

Giant will be coming out with a new model this spring, check out your Giant Ebike Dealer, or
Bird Ebike in Colorado if you don't have one.

Next is the Bionx ebike add on kit, can be added to most bikes.

Also Crystalyte hub motors can be added to most Mountain bikes.

Buy from a good dealer, locally if you can.

we have several ebikes including Giant bionx, Crystalyte and others.

Your best choice will depend on quite a few factors. but first make sure where they are legal in your locality. State of NY doesn't like them.

Legal electric assist Ebikes are generally considered bicycles if they comply with the federal law HR727- Max 750watts, pedals that work, maximum 3 wheels, maximum 20mph under power. but there are exceptions so check locally.

Check http://tech.groups.yahoo.com/group/power-assist/
for more details

Help with moving to the UK?

SomethingL

I am considering moving to the UK in a couple of years and was wondering what the living costs would be. I don't want to move to London because it's one of the most expensive cities to live in and was wondering what the cost of living would be in like Manchester, Leeds, Newcastle, Nottingham, Bristol or more if you can give some. Here are somethings I was wondering if you could help me.

> accommodation prices (how much does it cost to rent or to buy an accommodation in England?)

> public transportation fares (tube, bus etc ...)

> food prices(per month, how much does it cost you?)

> health prices (for those who need medical insurance)

> eduction prices (if you need to pay)

> energy prices (oil, electricity)

> common bills (Internet, television, telephone, mobile phone)

> prices of a good menu in a traditional restaurant

> prices of a beer and or a coffee in a regular pub

> price of the cinema

Did I forget something or is this list complete enough?
I have a EU Passport. Would that make any difference?

Answer
Ever considered Brighton? That's a nice place. Leeds in nice and cheapish, I wouldn't suggest Manchester, but everywhere else you have listed are decent.

Accommodation? Well they range between Â£80 a week to Â£5,000,000 to buy, you didn't really give us much info on that did you?
Right, you are better off buying as house prices (where I am in Birmingham anyway) are dirt cheap. My 3 bedroom, terrest, urban, inner city (not a great area) house with a back garden and drive way on a road just off a main road with central heating is about Â£140,000ish.

Public transport - if you are not in London don't worry about the tube as there are no underground trains anywhere else.
Adult bus ticked is Â£1.90, child 85p one way - Â£3.60 for a day saver (adult)
Adult train ticket is about the same for a short hop (1-2 stops) rises in price after that.

Food - for me, my mom and step dad it's about up to Â£100 a week. It really depends on how you eat. The more raw food you buy and cook instead, the cheaper it will be. You could EASILY bring that price down. Especially if you buy in cheaper supermarkets like Morrison's, Lidl, Aldi, Farmfoods, Iceland, Asda etc. Avoid Waitrose, Sainsburies, Co Op (I work there, trust me), Tesco, and other places like that.

Health - medical insurance, you kidding me right? Google 'NHS'.

Education - same as above. The only education you pay for in Britain is Higher education like University (basically anything 19+)

Energy is the scary one. Fuel poverty is big in the UK. I don't own a house myself or pay bills (too young) but it isn't cheap. Seriously hunt around for good deal. Only turn on heating if it is snowing. Put jumpers, socks and blankest on instead. A gas hob is better, and an electric oven is better too. Petrol is SO expensive. My step dad spends Â£80 a week. Get public transport (buses are cheaper). Walk it or bike it.

Again common bills - I don't pay. However I do know that landlines are very expensive and not worth it. Just buy a mobile phone, and try the company 'giffgaff' they are VERY good. Get a package that suits you. My mobile bill is Â£20 a month I think. Also, with tv, you can avoid costly bills by just having freeview, which is one payment, and then similar channels to have Sky or Virgin.

I don't know what a 'traditional restaurant' is. We don't really have them...
Pub grub and chip shops are cheap though. And other restaurants (Indians, Italians) vary in price.

A pint in the UK is on average Â£3-Â£4ish. Again varies.

Cinema is SO expensive - tickets are around Â£8 now, more for 3D etc. Pop corn is Â£5, drinks the same - illegally download them like the rest of the world and get a Â£1 bag of pop corn from pound land like normal people :)

Like others have said, make sure you are qualified and legally allowed to live and work in the UK. Immigration is tough here. A EU passport WILL make a lot of difference, but I think you will still need a visa...

http://www.migrationexpert.co.uk/work_visa/ See this website.

What's your opinion about the electric car?

donutdan41

I was thinking about it today, and I find it to be a real shame that the US hasn't really adopted the electric car yet. What scares me most, is that the US is pushing for the hydrogen car, even though the technology for the electric car is much more promising...
So, would you buy one if it cost the exact same price as a normal car, assuming that it can only go 60 miles on a single charge, takes 8 hours to charge, and let's say it has tires that never need to be changed?

Answer
Quiet, smooth, smell free,, refuel at home or work, low maintenance,
yes I have bought one (an old fashioned conversion) http://www.batteryvehiclesociety.org.uk/

Moden batteries will give a range of 200 miles http://www.teslamotors.com and out perform a ferrari
and can be recharged in 10 minutes http://www.phonixmotorcars.com

and the batteries will last 20 years and are fully recyclable (unlike most of an infernal combustion engine)

And even if you don't have your own home generator, well to wheel electric is stilll more efficient & less polluting because large generators using unrefined fuel, close to source, constantly monitored & maintained , running at optimm load & temperature, & distributed via a 90% efficient grid, then electric motors give max torque from 0rpm from cold, plus regenerative braking & no consumption when idle.

But driving an electric car is just a much more pleasent, fun & strees free experience than an old clunky infernal combustion fossil.

The tyres still wear out though, and require about 8 gallons of oil to make. (the higher torque/acceleration could even mean that you could wear them out faster if you want to drive fast) see the drag bike burn outs at http://www.killacycle.com

Wednesday, June 11, 2014

Prius reviews? any generation.?

erika99

What is the best way to purchase a moped / electric scooter?

StraightBa

I have decided to buy a moped (or electric scooter) to use casually around my neighborhood (not for extremely long hauls).

Since I don't know much about mopeds, the only place I went to was vespa.com. Most of their options are extremely expensive. I'm looking to spend no more than $1,000.

I'm looking for recommendations about obtaining one. Are their other good companies besides vespa? Are their moped/dealer shops that I could visit locally to actually see the different options.

Should I go and test drive one, like I do with cars? Or is this something I should simply buy online (and go that route).

Any other things I should be looking for?

Answer
Mopeds have pedals, scooters have floorboards.
Vespas are scooters, expensive scooters. You can get around just as well on other brands like Kymco, Genuine, Piaggio, Yamaha, Sym, and Honda but you aren't going to get any of those new for $1000.
You might be able to get a Chinese scooter new for that but even that is doubtful since scooter prices have gone up quite a bit. Also from what I hear many of shops are out of scooters these days so you might want to call around to see who has what.
I read a good review on a Velocity electric scooter but I don't know the cost.
As far as mopeds you might call some bicycle stores and see if they carry electric bikes. I have never seen one in a scooter or motorcycle dealer.
You might be able to find something used on Craigslist.
Other things....
Check into what your local laws are for licensing. In CA we have to have a M2 license even for mopeds. Some states don't require anything for up to 50cc scooters.
Figure out how fast you will need to go before you buy something. Don't get a scooter that top ends at 30 when you have to get on roads where traffic goes 45.
If you want to get more info on drop ship (online) scooters check out the scootdawg forum. A lot of the people there own Chinese scooters and might be able to point you towards better brands and dealers.

need to find a battery for electric bike conversion kit.?

Blah Blah

this is what i bought:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/221046610777?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1497.l2649

it doesn't come with a battery. But what i found is way overpriced. Someone help me find a compatible battery. Thanks.

Answer
Batteries for electric bikes are expensive and you have to buy one that will fit the connecters that go to the controller and the motor. In any case a cheap battery will end up costing more in the long run. IT won't hold as much energy, you won't be able to go as far, it won't last long, and it could even damage the rest of the system

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
Yes, it can!

Electric cycles are readily available. You normally charge them from a mains supply and then you can part-pedal / part-drive them on your commute. You can often adjust the amount of assistance to be supplied by the motor enabling you to go faster but less far or vice versa. If you want to pedal the bike and store 50% (say) of your energy for later you can do so but you will be doing double the work when pedalling, so your commute will be, so to say, twice as hard or half as fast and take twice as long. That doesn't seem to make much sense, especially since electric cycles are heavy and pedalling them (with no motor assistance) even without any of your energy going to storage, will be quite slow and tediously tough.

What an electric cycle does do is re-charge the batteries when you go downhill giving you back at least a good fraction of the energy expended in climbing up. But that produces a braking effect and the speed of descent is reduced. What inevitably goes lost is the energy taken by friction and wind resistance. Storing and using later is also subject to a degree of loss.

In short, if you don't want to use a commercial energy source to "fuel" your bicycle, get a conventional one - you'll do vastly better.

What electric motor would be the best to propell me and my bike?

Jake

My bike weighs 23lbs And i weigh 74lbs Total:97lbs
I was thinking a cordless angle grinder
And in bike i mean bicycle

Answer
a series wound electric motor

Anybody up for Electric Dirt bikes?

Say--

See Quantya ! I am very impressed But the Cost $11,000 and up? Could buy a harley for that ,or.............is it fessable?

Answer
why don't you build your own dirt bike? if you are mechanically inclined and have a basic knowledge of electricity, build it. contact the lads at Thunderstruck Motors for more info. they have an electric bike called the Jackel. my first off road bike I converted to electric. it was a lot of fun. #2 was a small street bike also converted to electric and the third one is hybrid electric.

Advantage of electric powered car by means of transportation?

Destiny

I want to know what are the other good benefits of an electric powered car aside from being ecofriendly to a country or to the society..:D i want also to know if a car which is powered by electricity is faster than an ordinary one..

Answer
An electric car can accelerate faster than a ICE vehicle due to full torque at 0 rpm: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=369h-SEBXd8

Batteries are usually placed on the bottom of an electric vehicle. This lowers the center of gravity improving handling and making it far more difficult for the vehicle to tip over: http://www.commutercars.com/

An electric car is about 6 times as efficient as an ICE vehicle:
"The [Tesla] Roadster's motor efficiency, battery-to-wheel, is 92% on average... For comparison, internal combustion engines have a tank-to-wheel efficiency of about 15%." http://www.absoluteastronomy.com/topics/Tesla_Roadster

An electric vehicle can travel further on the energy used to refine a gallon of oil then an ICE vehicle can travel using the refined product: see "How Much Electricity is used to run gasoline cars?" at: http://www.evnut.com/gasoline_oil.htm

An electric car is a zero emissions vehicle (ZEV.) If the electricity comes from a clean source the EV will be part of a Zero emissions vehicle transportation system. Even the combination of an electric vehicle and a coal fired power station is cleaner than a gasoline vehicle. http://www.electroauto.com/info/pollmyth.shtml
"Might as well leave the oil in the ground!" http://planet.betterplace.com/forum/topics/electricity-vs-oil

The electric vehicle can actually get cleaner as it gets older if the source of its electricity becomes cleaner. An ICE vehicle gets dirtier as it ages and the engine carbons up.

The electric vehicle uses a domestic fuel. Almost all the electricity used in the US is from domestic sources. (Some electricity is produced in neighboring countries and some is made from oil produced in foreign countries.)

If an electric vehicle has power transmitted to if from the roadway it does not need batteries: http://www.thedailygreen.com/living-green/blogs/cars-transportation/electric-highways-electric-cars-460909

Electric vehicles can easily be fitted with regenerative braking allowing them to recover some of the energy contained in forward movement. This increases efficiency and reduces wear on any braking system.

Electric vehicles have very few moving parts in the drive train and operate at far lower temperatures. This means maintenance will be far less than an ICE vehicle, parts will wear more slowly, with fewer parts repairs will cheaper and not usually required.

Electric vehicles have no oil or air filters, to change the control systems are electronic and not mechanical to go out of adjustment. There is no radiator to overheat or freeze. It requires no antifreeze.

Electric vehicles use an existing infrastructure, the power grid, for fuel. Some reports suggest over 84% of our present fleet of vehicles could be charged with existing equipment if they were charged at night. Electrified roadways would eliminate the need for charging or be used to charge vehicles as well as power them. http://www.redherring.com/Home/pages/print/posts/?bid=deb0b00e-4e3d-46d8-920f-3eb04aa32b13&mode=Full

When people try electric vehicles they like them: http://electric-vehicles-cars-bikes.blogspot.com/2010/06/smart-ev-trial-shows-that-electric.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+blogspot%2FpEcq+%28Electric+Vehicles%29

Will electric cars ever become realistic in the U.S.?

theeshushe

Take a look at these on the link below. They are all either way too expensive for most people to own or they don't have practical speeds and ranges. Are manufacturers just paying lip service or do you think they will soon become a viable alternative?
We've had the technology for over 40 years alternative transportation but we just never seem to get quite there. Always "just around the corner."

http://ecomodder.com/blog/10-electric-cars-buy-today/
I saw the "Who killed the electric car" film. That's what I mean. Promises are made, folks find out that its all lies, and then the cycle starts again. We've been talking about this for decades.
I'll believe it when I see it. What's to keep those same folks who "killed the electric car" from just doing it again?
Just because the supporting technology exists doesn't necessarily mean that a product will appear on a mass scale. There has to be a political and economic will.

Answer
Yes, in fact some already are.

For example, the Green Vehicles Triac and Aptera 2e are examples of affordable ($20-30k) highway-speed electric cars with roughly 100 mile per charge range available within the next few months. There are a number of such cars which will be coming on the market within the next year or two (see link below).

There are also electric mopeds and motorcycles like the Vectrix. I've got an electric moped that can go 50 mph and 30 miles per charge, which I bought for $3600 and use to commute to work every day (except when I bike).

There will also be range-extended electric vehicles, which will be able to plug-in and go about 40 miles on pure electric power, then switch to hybrid mode. The most famous one is the Chevy Volt, expected to come out in late 2010.

Which is the best Electric Bicycle Kit?

solice_in_

Hi, I just wanted some help on which electric bicycle conversion kit works best. I've been looking around so I can turn my bike into an 'alternative vehicle' to get to work and save on gas and the environment.

is a motor hub or the motor that connects to the chain better to use?

thanks for your help

Answer
Zapworld has a pretty nice looking one that seems fairly powerful too!

http://www.zapworld.com/electric-vehicles/electric-bikes

there's two different kinds, but i couldn't see any real difference

they also sell a few electric cars, and the Alias looks really neat!

electric bike conversion kits?

snarf

hi gurus,
Does anyone have any recommendations on a reputable company that sells electric bike conversion kits? I've seen various companies on the web (amped bikes, go-hub, clean republic) but have no idea who is good vs. bad. Any guidance is much appreciated.

Answer
Guidance? Get on a real bicycle. The human body should be the motor.
http://www.fujibikes.com/bike/details/sportif_15_c

New mountain Bike...Help?

John

I am looking at buying a new mountain bike and converting it to electric...I was thinking about getting the Mongoose Status 3.0 but I couldn't find a single review except on Amazon...any suggestions?
I'm 13, about 120 (I know I'm a lightweight) and 5' 6"...
The reason that I want to convert a mountain bike to electric is because I do a lot of rough street riding, and a hybrid just won't do the trick. Also, I didn't mean full electric, just a lightweight hub motor for use on longer rides. So eff off about the Lego crap...it's a serious question.
Also, I don't really need advice about the electric components, I know my stuff about that.

Answer
Converting it to electric. No. Don't do this. Spend you money getting a nicer bike with less friction and you can go much faster. Or just buy a cheap, old scooter. Why are you doing this? Project?

If you're going to be using it as a mountain bike, it need not be electric, as that's dangerous. If you're using it as a scooter, it need not be a mountain bike: hybrid's. If this is a project and you're 13 and not rich, I'd pick a different project. One of the Lego Robots would make a good project with electricity(i.e. Lego's Mindstorm). Provide more info and I will too.

Kids get so angry these days.

Electric mountain bicycle?

ricardo l

I want to buy an electric mountain bike but I don't know what brand and models are the best wit h the best price with batteries that last long and nice speed something over the 25mph

Answer
Are you serious? If you are, first I want to say it's not a good idea, and I doubt you can find one that will go over 25mph under any circumstances other than off a cliff. Second, check out the links below.

But my sincere advice is to forget it. An electric powered mountain bike is a bone headed idea. If you want to ride a mountain bike, then pedal for yourself.

Tuesday, June 10, 2014

dirt bike electric start?

Vicki

i have a suzuki drz 125L and it is a kick start and the stator is not rewound and i was wondering if i had to rewind the stator to put in an electric start.....?

Answer
Your going to have to do alot more than that

ELECTRIC START VS. KICK START?

Sam K

I LOOKING TO BUY A USED CRF 150F WITH AN ELECTRIC START AND THEY ARE HARD TO FIND AND USUALLY MORE EXPENSIVE. I AM WONDERING WHICH STARTING METHOD IS MORE RELIABLE IN ANY SITUATION. CAN A ELECTRIC START FAIL WHEN WATER HITS IT? WILL BE DOING TRAIL RIDING AND A LITTLE TRACK.

Answer
The ideal thing, would be for the bike to have both electric start, and, a kick starter. So, if one or the other would fail, you could still fall back on the one that would still operate. By the way you will be using it, I am going to assume, that, it is a dirt bike, rather than a motorcycle. Generally, most trail bikes have both electric start, and a kick start. as a back up, in case of trouble. Although, some do only have just the electric start, or, some only have just the kick start. But, the ones I have seen, have both electric start, and, kick start. If the one that you are looking to buy doesn't have both the electric start, and, the kick start, I would leave it be, and, try to find one, with both electric start, and, kick start. I know, that they are made this way, and shouldn't be all too hard to find, either. The reason I say you should have both, is this... Say you are out on the trail... Miles from anyone, or anywhere... And, you get some water into your electric starter... Or, for that matter, the ignition system, itself... Once water splashes in there... You could be in trouble. The engine may quit, and, when you try to restart it, nothing happens... Cause the water has ruined the electric starter. Or, the entire ignition system, itself. It doesn't usually happen, but, it could, and, that would be just when it would happen, was when you were miles from no where. At least, having the kick start could save you the trip of having to walk a long distance. Generally, the bikes that are used for trail riding, and track use, usually are kick started, but your foot can get real tired... Having to push that lever, all day. And, there is always the chance, that the kick start lever could break, as well. Then, you would have to rely on the electric starter. So, what is a person to do ? Either way, you could get stranded. There are many things that can, and, do go wrong, at the least possible best time. If it were me buying the bike, I would try to find one with both electric start, and kick start. If that wasn't possible, then, I would opt for the kick start. There is less of a chance of water ruining vital electric parts. And, a kick start lever is going to be way less expensive to replace, than a electric starter. However, if you do get the electric starter, apply sicilone caulk to all areas where water and other stuff can get in. The clear colored sicilone cailk works best.

Maintaining a bike battery ?

varun

Answer
If you are talking motorcycle buy a battery tender brand smart charger, install the pig tail on the battery and plug it in.

Can I hook up a float charger to my motorcycle battery while it is still hooked up in the bike?

Q. My instructions say to remove battery from vehicle in order to charge. This is what I'm currently doing, but Id like to be able to just leave the battery in the bike and charge it that way. Is this safe? Thanks for the input.

Answer
I use a small trickle/maintenance charger on my motorcycle battery while the bike is in storage for the winter. I've never had any problems with this, and going on 5 years with the current battery.

ELECTRIC BIKE QUESTION!!! ?

mike

Ok so I wanna convert my bike to a electric bike..I want to be able to travel like 30 or so miles on it at about 25mph is this possible under 300-350 dollars? I would even consider a used one on eBay
Oh ya and my bike just a regular comfort bike with 26 inch tires
Would it be better to buy one or use a electric bike conversion kit? Thanks!

Answer
I would take that $350 & look into a lighter hybrid or performance hybrid bicycle. Bikes with electric motors, either home built or store bought, always seem to drain the charge quickly and in the wrong place. Then what? You are stuck pedaling that behemoth home on leg power. The lighter the bicycle, the easier it usually is to pedal. Especially with the 700C tires found on hybrids & performance hybrids. They're taller & thinner than those found on your comfort bike.

electric pocket bikes!!?

Tanner C

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

azmatick

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

My Electric Bike has been stolen.?

Alison B

Answer
They sell it to buy drugs

What is the best electric bicycle?

jackthrift

Answer
Electric bike buyers guide, with unbiased and honest reports and detailed analyses of all the latest and fastest ebikes, conversion kits and hub motors

What is the best electric bicycle out there?

Tim

Looking for an electric bicycle for commuting...range isn't too crucial as long as it's greater than 10 miles. Affordability is important.

Answer
There are now many electric assist bicycles out there. Some come complete and some kits you adapt to your own bicycle. A great place to start might be here: http://www.electricbikesreviews.com/

There are two general types of electric assist bicycles. They are hub motors and friction motors. For either one the motor and batteries will add weight to the bicycle.

Features you will want to look for should include:

Light with a good power to weight ratio.
The added weight of the batteries should be well placed for the design of the bike and not simply put anywhere.
Ability to remove the battery for charging inside the home.

Regenerative braking captures inertial energy and tries to convert that back into electricity to charge the battery. Bicycles are much lighter than a car and so have less inertial energy to capture. Batteries can't accept a massive influx of energy at once. As a result batteries are not so good to capture inertial energy. The good news is that while this may not be an extremely useful feature it virtually comes free with an electric motor

A fairing of some sort will extend range probably more than regenerative braking. Because of its lower wind resistance an electric recumbant makes some sense: http://www.recumbents.com/wisil/e-bent/default.htm

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Wednesday, June 11, 2014

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Can I hook up a float charger to my motorcycle battery while it is still hooked up in the bike?

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