Electric Bike: Have you bought or built one?

[Harbourmaster]

Since I only have a short 10 mile commute to work I am considering riding my bicycle to work at least a few days a week. I have also toyed with the idea of adding an electric motor to my existing 6 speed cruiser to make the ride a little more fun (read that as Less Work).

This is the system/kit I am considering http://www.cyclone-usa.com/store.php?crn=199

[Panopticon]

Ken, there was a thread about these many days ago. http://forums.macresource.com/read/1/497244

Lots of information, from what I recall.
I have no experience with the electric version.

edit: M A V I C, me thinks you're correct, my bad :?
damudyslexia

[M A V I C]

I think he's referring to a bicycle, not a motorcycle like I was.

I know someone who has made a custom electric bicycle. Of course, he also owns a bike shop so he has a bit of an advantage.

[mattkime]

is there something wrong with your legs?

I've gotten into great shape riding my bike to work. don't allow yourself a shortcut.

[M>B>]

You could go all the way with this...

http://www.teslamotors.com/

And, I will add this with an edit...

http://www.jaylenosgarage.com/video/vide...vid=229378

[Black Landlord]

Looks like a fun project-- trouble is, you're going to have a tough time finding a 20" or 26" bike:

The 360 watt kit is your best choice for low cost and maximum range on level ground or low to medium grades. Because it uses the bike's rear gears, this 360w motor will outperform hub motors of equal or larger size. Under typical conditions, the 360 watt motor can drive 20" folding bikes up to 20 mph and 26" bikes at 25+ mph on level ground. At crusing speeds, the motor will draw about 10-15 amps so it can be powered with relatively small batteries

Although if these folks can find a 14" bike, they're certainly out there. . .

[Sam3]

Huh?!? Most bicycles have 26" or 700cc rims. Folding bikes generally have 20" rims. Where would come the tough time finding these?

[quote Black Landlord]Looks like a fun project-- trouble is, you're going to have a tough time finding a 20" or 26" bike:

The 360 watt kit is your best choice for low cost and maximum range on level ground or low to medium grades. Because it uses the bike's rear gears, this 360w motor will outperform hub motors of equal or larger size. Under typical conditions, the 360 watt motor can drive 20" folding bikes up to 20 mph and 26" bikes at 25+ mph on level ground. At crusing speeds, the motor will draw about 10-15 amps so it can be powered with relatively small batteries

Although if these folks can find a 14" bike, they're certainly out there. . .

[Lux Interior]

[quote mattkime]is there something wrong with your legs?
Do you shout this out as you walk past escalators?

Not everyone can shower at work. Some of us sweat profusely with a moderate amount of effort.

[modelamac]

The wheel size is not critical at all. It was only used as an example. The critical factors are mounting and the connection to the bike's gearing.

[Black Landlord]

True, I was poking fun at the sloppy wording. I'll include an explanation next time.

[quote Sam3]Huh?!? Most bicycles have 26" or 700cc rims. Folding bikes generally have 20" rims. Where would come the tough time finding these?

[quote Black Landlord]Looks like a fun project-- trouble is, you're going to have a tough time finding a 20" or 26" bike:

The 360 watt kit is your best choice for low cost and maximum range on level ground or low to medium grades. Because it uses the bike's rear gears, this 360w motor will outperform hub motors of equal or larger size. Under typical conditions, the 360 watt motor can drive 20" folding bikes up to 20 mph and 26" bikes at 25+ mph on level ground. At crusing speeds, the motor will draw about 10-15 amps so it can be powered with relatively small batteries

Although if these folks can find a 14" bike, they're certainly out there. . .