Originally Posted by
buzzman
The link you provided is the only example of an improved 2 stroke engine even by their own admission. It's cost and the applications it is designed for make it an unlikely choice for use as assisted power on a bicycle.
Personally, I wouldn't dismiss the possibility. The current form factor even with a single cylinder is a bit large, but that problem shouldn't be too much of an obstacle. Production costs for a limited market would be a bigger problem...The pivotal engine is a good example of the innovation possible with the ICE with current applications including scooters and motorcycles.
Do you have a link to a diesel 2 stroke that would fit on a bicycle frame and is cost effective for such use? A diesel would at least have the potential for a bio-fuel conversion. Or do you have more info on what the Danish kids were doing? And what significant improvements are you talking about and through what "slight redesign"?
http://www.ecogeek.org/content/view/1641/71/
Sure, just search for Lohmann engine developed back in 1950s or so. PRACTICA is developing a newer 18cc engine that can be adapted to a bike. No, you won't find pre-built diesel KITS yet, but the market will respond to demand in time.
http://www.practicafoundation.nl/pro...diesel-engine/
With a
conventional 2 stroke diesel, you're looking at engines from 20cc - 50 cc for possible adaptation to a bicycle.