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03-07-08, 11:06 AM
Here is an example of a mid drive electric recumbent. The motor drives the rear chain. I have full use of all 21 speeds (The rear wheel houses a 3 speed hub and a 7 speed sprocket set). I have low speed torque for hills and top end speed as well in high gears. The front chain is on a flywheel. I can pedal and use the electric motor in any combination. The motor is controlled by a throttle that I mounted on the left handlebar. I mounted on the left so I can switch though the 7 gears on the right side. It forces me to let go of the throttle if I switch the hub (hi med low). I did this because switching the hub under load is not a good thing. I ease off on the motor almost entirely when I shift gears on the right side so there is less strain on everything.
I have a 1000 watt motor with a 42 volt 22 amp hour battery. I am using a Cycle Analyst to measure consumption. Also I use a GPS as a speedometer and map.
My trial runs recorded a top speed was 61 km/h before I eased off of the motor. I would not do that again because it lowers my range, and it is not safe. The fairing can wobble at high speeds if a heavy truck passes by. I keep my speeds lower for this reason. If I want to ride this fast I will surround myself with 1000 kg of metal (car).
The motor and battery are a kit from ecospeed.net
I have removed the storage bags to provide a better view in this photo. Usually I carry tools, tubes, and my laptop. I also have a small bag to carry the charger.
The fairing adds range because it reduces wind resistance. I used to top out at 50 km/h because of wind resistance on a steep hill. With the fairing on the same hill, I have to break when I get above 60 km/h otherwise my speed keeps increasing. I also have the benefit of not getting as wet in the rain because of the fairing.
I RECOMMEND with any ebike serious consideration of ALWAYS WEARING A HELMET!
Goggles are important too at higher speeds for me because of road debris.
Get used to preflight check listing too. I use aircraft mentality when getting ready for a ride. Check the brakes, tyre pressure, spokes, frame, charge level, lubrication, and wiring.
I have a 1000 watt motor with a 42 volt 22 amp hour battery. I am using a Cycle Analyst to measure consumption. Also I use a GPS as a speedometer and map.
My trial runs recorded a top speed was 61 km/h before I eased off of the motor. I would not do that again because it lowers my range, and it is not safe. The fairing can wobble at high speeds if a heavy truck passes by. I keep my speeds lower for this reason. If I want to ride this fast I will surround myself with 1000 kg of metal (car).
The motor and battery are a kit from ecospeed.net
I have removed the storage bags to provide a better view in this photo. Usually I carry tools, tubes, and my laptop. I also have a small bag to carry the charger.
The fairing adds range because it reduces wind resistance. I used to top out at 50 km/h because of wind resistance on a steep hill. With the fairing on the same hill, I have to break when I get above 60 km/h otherwise my speed keeps increasing. I also have the benefit of not getting as wet in the rain because of the fairing.
I RECOMMEND with any ebike serious consideration of ALWAYS WEARING A HELMET!
Goggles are important too at higher speeds for me because of road debris.
Get used to preflight check listing too. I use aircraft mentality when getting ready for a ride. Check the brakes, tyre pressure, spokes, frame, charge level, lubrication, and wiring.