Help! My first e-bike - which one?! Would LOVE your opinions/advice for my budget
06-25-11, 09:24 PM
#26
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Sarah,
To build a bike to the level of the Kalkhoff would cost you as much or more than the asking price of the Tasman. And to build a bike up takes time, and if you don't want to do the labor yourself that time is being charged by the hour at the LBS.
I have both a Panasonic inline motor bike (same as the Kalkhoff) and a bike with a Heinzmann motor. Between a hub motor and a inline, the inline is superior because it takes advantage of the bike's gearing. Between a twist throttle and the pedal throttle I prefer the pedal. But that's opinion.
Your original budget was $2k. For the Kalkhoff you are $500 short of what is in my opinion about the best electric bike on the market and I defiantly think the the Panasonic system is the best of all that I've had a chance to ride. Were it me, I'd save up the $500 and get a bike that you will never have to mess with rather than the headache of putting together a kit and sourcing parts off of Ebay.
The Kalkhoff has a lot of things like fenders, lights, dyno hub, chain, and coat guards, frame lock, lights, and so on that are not found on most US LBS bikes. They are things that are found standard on most European commuter bikes though. They are not necessary but they sure do make using a bike during inclement weather. Dirt roads have mud and pot holes, just an observation.
I've been messing with bikes for a very long time now, my current commuter is one of several bamboo framed bikes I've built.
Going for a kit will be cheaper, but you need to like doing mechanic work, and be willing to spend a goodly amount of time tacking a complex job (with lots of choices deciding which of a myriad of parts is the best to use). Or, you are almost there, save up the $500.
To build a bike to the level of the Kalkhoff would cost you as much or more than the asking price of the Tasman. And to build a bike up takes time, and if you don't want to do the labor yourself that time is being charged by the hour at the LBS.
I have both a Panasonic inline motor bike (same as the Kalkhoff) and a bike with a Heinzmann motor. Between a hub motor and a inline, the inline is superior because it takes advantage of the bike's gearing. Between a twist throttle and the pedal throttle I prefer the pedal. But that's opinion.
Your original budget was $2k. For the Kalkhoff you are $500 short of what is in my opinion about the best electric bike on the market and I defiantly think the the Panasonic system is the best of all that I've had a chance to ride. Were it me, I'd save up the $500 and get a bike that you will never have to mess with rather than the headache of putting together a kit and sourcing parts off of Ebay.
The Kalkhoff has a lot of things like fenders, lights, dyno hub, chain, and coat guards, frame lock, lights, and so on that are not found on most US LBS bikes. They are things that are found standard on most European commuter bikes though. They are not necessary but they sure do make using a bike during inclement weather. Dirt roads have mud and pot holes, just an observation.
I've been messing with bikes for a very long time now, my current commuter is one of several bamboo framed bikes I've built.
Going for a kit will be cheaper, but you need to like doing mechanic work, and be willing to spend a goodly amount of time tacking a complex job (with lots of choices deciding which of a myriad of parts is the best to use). Or, you are almost there, save up the $500.
06-26-11, 12:18 AM
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I hear you and I just don't want to build one!
Excuse my ignorance, but if a bike motor is described as "geared", does that mean the motor is running through the gears, as opposed to direct drive?
Having just read a 9 page post on the endless-sphere forum about geared vs. direct drive, coupled with your information, I am convinced that a geared motor is the way to go. That in itself really helps to narrow down the field. I did find another Panasonic geared bike - see below with the only geared bikes I can find. The Bali & R10 are the cheapest, not necessarily going for that but because of the price I would really appreciate feedback on those two in comparison to Kalkhoff. I guess the most obvious thing is that Kalkhoff is known for it's quality.
Kettler Twin (250w PANASONIC $2600)
Kalkhoff Tasman (250w/26v bat $2500)...edit: many more Kalkhoffs (older models) available on 50cycles. I could buy a 2010 Sahel and even after conversion from BP to $ plus shipping, I would be paying less than purchasing in USA. Allen - which bike do you have btw, and where did you purchase it?
Balix3 (350w GEARED (21 gears!), 36a bat $1799)
R10 (200w GEARED, 36a bat $1299)
IZIP Zuma (Exclusive Alloy Shell 500W DC Brushless Geared Hub Motor)
Not sure on Trek. The older models I found for $1800 aren't shippable accordign to the site, and the 2011 models are $2700 - ouch.
Excuse my ignorance, but if a bike motor is described as "geared", does that mean the motor is running through the gears, as opposed to direct drive?
Having just read a 9 page post on the endless-sphere forum about geared vs. direct drive, coupled with your information, I am convinced that a geared motor is the way to go. That in itself really helps to narrow down the field. I did find another Panasonic geared bike - see below with the only geared bikes I can find. The Bali & R10 are the cheapest, not necessarily going for that but because of the price I would really appreciate feedback on those two in comparison to Kalkhoff. I guess the most obvious thing is that Kalkhoff is known for it's quality.
Kettler Twin (250w PANASONIC $2600)
Kalkhoff Tasman (250w/26v bat $2500)...edit: many more Kalkhoffs (older models) available on 50cycles. I could buy a 2010 Sahel and even after conversion from BP to $ plus shipping, I would be paying less than purchasing in USA. Allen - which bike do you have btw, and where did you purchase it?
Balix3 (350w GEARED (21 gears!), 36a bat $1799)
R10 (200w GEARED, 36a bat $1299)
IZIP Zuma (Exclusive Alloy Shell 500W DC Brushless Geared Hub Motor)
Not sure on Trek. The older models I found for $1800 aren't shippable accordign to the site, and the 2011 models are $2700 - ouch.
Last edited by SarahLou; 06-26-11 at 06:28 AM.
06-26-11, 02:06 PM
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Yes, it can be a difficult decision. One thing I will say is that we had a woman on here a few months ago who I think got an IZIP and she wasn't happy with it so I would take the IZIP off the list.
Here is an example of a bike that was made for a customer by Itselectric. I just want you to see what one would look like. See how stealth it is. you can't even tell that it's an e-bike but it is.
Here is an example of a bike that was made for a customer by Itselectric. I just want you to see what one would look like. See how stealth it is. you can't even tell that it's an e-bike but it is.
Last edited by morph999; 06-26-11 at 02:15 PM.
06-26-11, 02:18 PM
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Sarah,
By all means if you are NOT technical person good with mech/electrical tools try to come up with more money and buy bike with PROFEEN system which is Panasonic. Allan is right Panasonic system is rock solid even better than Merida and it is not Chinese brand - very important.
Geared, not geared everthing depends - can you stand noise of geared drive?
Again I don`t know how noisy Panasonic is but for sure not as noisy as horrible despicable noise of Currie bike sold by Wallmart.
Panasonic is expensive for a reason it is not one class but 2 classes above Wallmart or other dep store sold cheap ebikes.
By all means if you are NOT technical person good with mech/electrical tools try to come up with more money and buy bike with PROFEEN system which is Panasonic. Allan is right Panasonic system is rock solid even better than Merida and it is not Chinese brand - very important.
Geared, not geared everthing depends - can you stand noise of geared drive?
Again I don`t know how noisy Panasonic is but for sure not as noisy as horrible despicable noise of Currie bike sold by Wallmart.
Panasonic is expensive for a reason it is not one class but 2 classes above Wallmart or other dep store sold cheap ebikes.
Last edited by miro13car; 06-26-11 at 02:25 PM.
06-27-11, 10:14 AM
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IMHO...a person who weighs a mere 125 lbs does not need to pay extra for regen braking and certainly doesnt need GEARED ebike...
gearing on ebikes is mainly for travelling steep slopes with a person of significant bodyweight .....
I weigh 280 LBS...and my gearless hub motor does fine on the mountanous roads in my area...and if I want to do pedal assist up those steep roads, my pedalling effort is very minute.
IMHO..you need to stop considerting things like regen or geared ebikes...you are just making things way to complicated and confusing.
you are 125 lbs....which is VERY light bodyweight...so any decent brushless NON GEARED hub motor should suit your needs perfectly....unless you are gonna try to travel up Mt St . Helens.
you say you dont want to buy a electric kit seperatley and put it on a bicycle....because you dont have the time or think its to hard to do ?
a front mount electric bike kit is VERY EASY...a monkey could do it...if you needed he;p, dont you have a boyfriend or father or brother that could help you ?
if you know how to read instructions, im sure you can do it...and it wouldnt take that long to do...
If you cant read and write...then here is a video on how to do it...im sure you can follow along :
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mSonugqhYuE
your making this way to complicated..which is only making things more indecisive for you.
good luck whatever you decide.
gearing on ebikes is mainly for travelling steep slopes with a person of significant bodyweight .....
I weigh 280 LBS...and my gearless hub motor does fine on the mountanous roads in my area...and if I want to do pedal assist up those steep roads, my pedalling effort is very minute.
IMHO..you need to stop considerting things like regen or geared ebikes...you are just making things way to complicated and confusing.
you are 125 lbs....which is VERY light bodyweight...so any decent brushless NON GEARED hub motor should suit your needs perfectly....unless you are gonna try to travel up Mt St . Helens.
you say you dont want to buy a electric kit seperatley and put it on a bicycle....because you dont have the time or think its to hard to do ?
a front mount electric bike kit is VERY EASY...a monkey could do it...if you needed he;p, dont you have a boyfriend or father or brother that could help you ?
if you know how to read instructions, im sure you can do it...and it wouldnt take that long to do...
If you cant read and write...then here is a video on how to do it...im sure you can follow along :
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mSonugqhYuE
your making this way to complicated..which is only making things more indecisive for you.
good luck whatever you decide.
06-27-11, 10:16 AM
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IMHO...if you can change a flat tire...then you can install a front wheeled brushless hub kit.
if you purchase a setup already preassembled, and then something goes eventually wrong with a compnent in the setup, then you will be totally lost...at least if you put it together yourself, you will be more famliar with the components and troubleshooting.
if you purchase a setup already preassembled, and then something goes eventually wrong with a compnent in the setup, then you will be totally lost...at least if you put it together yourself, you will be more famliar with the components and troubleshooting.
06-28-11, 10:01 PM
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Yes, it can be a difficult decision. One thing I will say is that we had a woman on here a few months ago who I think got an IZIP and she wasn't happy with it so I would take the IZIP off the list.
Here is an example of a bike that was made for a customer by Itselectric. I just want you to see what one would look like. See how stealth it is. you can't even tell that it's an e-bike but it is.
Here is an example of a bike that was made for a customer by Itselectric. I just want you to see what one would look like. See how stealth it is. you can't even tell that it's an e-bike but it is.
06-28-11, 10:59 PM
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Allen - Hi - I just got off the phone Kalkhoff. The guy was really trying to sell me the Sahel because of my bumpy road conditions; when I mentioned the Tasman or Agattu he was concerned about getting lots of flats. Ugh. So when he got the message that the Sahel was WAY over my price range, he switched to the Tasman. Ok, so now I'm worried about the flat tire thing. Was he using that as a ploy to get me to buy the more expensive bike, or is it a genuine concern?! I suppose I could get different tires but geez, at that price, I don't really want to spend more money on the bike. Any thoughts?
Keep your tires pumped up. Most flats are pinch flats. Most tires can handle a dirt road fine without being punctured.
After you wear out the tires that come on your bike replace them with some Schwalbe Marathons and some kevlar tire liners. That is about as tough of a tire as you can find. I've gone a year between flats.
06-29-11, 03:39 PM
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allen ....do you agree with me that sarah probably doesnt need a geared system ? The fact that she wieghs a mere 125 lbs..and has admitted that she wants to continue doing pedal assist, leads me to believe that a geared system is not needed for her , and would only cost her more $$$$$....
im only asking your opinion because sarah seems to be listening to you more then some other peoples advice.
IMHO...if she gets a brushless hub system with front wheel drive that is in the 36 -48 volt / 500 -1000 watt arena, she will have PLENTY of power and speed.
she shouldnt have to spend more then $1000 if she buys a nice used bike and a front wheel kit.....
my kit was a 48 volt / 1000 watt system and it only cost me $749 delvidered , and my bike was bought used off craigslist for $200 ....I weigh 280 lbs and can do 31 mph ....sarah weighs 60 % less then me....so a setup like mine would probably have the ability to propel her at speeds near 40 mph...with plenty of power for hills.
im only asking your opinion because sarah seems to be listening to you more then some other peoples advice.
IMHO...if she gets a brushless hub system with front wheel drive that is in the 36 -48 volt / 500 -1000 watt arena, she will have PLENTY of power and speed.
she shouldnt have to spend more then $1000 if she buys a nice used bike and a front wheel kit.....
my kit was a 48 volt / 1000 watt system and it only cost me $749 delvidered , and my bike was bought used off craigslist for $200 ....I weigh 280 lbs and can do 31 mph ....sarah weighs 60 % less then me....so a setup like mine would probably have the ability to propel her at speeds near 40 mph...with plenty of power for hills.
06-29-11, 04:08 PM
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allen ....do you agree with me that sarah probably doesnt need a geared system ? The fact that she wieghs a mere 125 lbs..and has admitted that she wants to continue doing pedal assist, leads me to believe that a geared system is not needed for her , and would only cost her more $$$$$....
im only asking your opinion because sarah seems to be listening to you more then some other peoples advice.
IMHO...if she gets a brushless hub system with front wheel drive that is in the 36 -48 volt / 500 -1000 watt arena, she will have PLENTY of power and speed.
she shouldnt have to spend more then $1000 if she buys a nice used bike and a front wheel kit.....
my kit was a 48 volt / 1000 watt system and it only cost me $749 delvidered , and my bike was bought used off craigslist for $200 ....I weigh 280 lbs and can do 31 mph ....sarah weighs 60 % less then me....so a setup like mine would probably have the ability to propel her at speeds near 40 mph...with plenty of power for hills.
im only asking your opinion because sarah seems to be listening to you more then some other peoples advice.
IMHO...if she gets a brushless hub system with front wheel drive that is in the 36 -48 volt / 500 -1000 watt arena, she will have PLENTY of power and speed.
she shouldnt have to spend more then $1000 if she buys a nice used bike and a front wheel kit.....
my kit was a 48 volt / 1000 watt system and it only cost me $749 delvidered , and my bike was bought used off craigslist for $200 ....I weigh 280 lbs and can do 31 mph ....sarah weighs 60 % less then me....so a setup like mine would probably have the ability to propel her at speeds near 40 mph...with plenty of power for hills.
I have many thousands of miles on both inline and hub motor bikes. Between the two an inline system is the better. Of the inline systems Panasonic's is the best of the bunch (comparing it to the Stokemonkey I've ridden and another whose brand is slipping my memory).
She is also looking for a bike to be able to run down dirt roads. Fenders, chain guards, coat guards, etc sure do make that kind of travel nicer if she is going to commute on the bike. Sarah is 4/5s of the way to being able to afford the bike of her dreams. I think she needs to save up and get that bike.
If Sarah had an inclination to to do her own mechanic work I would agree a kit would be fine. But she named the Kalkhoff specifically and it's a hell of a nice frame complete with top of the line components. To build a $300 LBS bike to that level will cost about the same as the Tasman. $300+ for the Shimano IGH, $300 to have the LBS build a dyno hub, $75 for the lights, $50 for fenders, coat and chain guards are all but impossible to find, hydraulic brakes = $150 a wheel, and the Panasonic motors and pedal throttles are the best the ebike world has to offer.
07-04-11, 06:04 AM
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Mirro, Morph, Sunnyday, Coolio & Allen - each of you have taken the time to offer up valuable input and opinion and I'm still blown away by that - by your kindness and concern, so THANK YOU!
I ended up getting Kalkhoff. I weighed up everyone's opinion on this forum, and also on Endless Sphere where I got a lot of input too, as well as the UK pedelec forum reviews, and then asked my gut to make the decision. I talked to Kalkhoff UK and USA. The bike arrives on Thursday - I'm very excited and will post ongoing reviews.
Happy 4th!
Warmly,
Sarah
I ended up getting Kalkhoff. I weighed up everyone's opinion on this forum, and also on Endless Sphere where I got a lot of input too, as well as the UK pedelec forum reviews, and then asked my gut to make the decision. I talked to Kalkhoff UK and USA. The bike arrives on Thursday - I'm very excited and will post ongoing reviews.
Happy 4th!
Warmly,
Sarah
07-08-11, 03:36 AM
#38
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I have enjoyed reading this forum. Great input from Allen and morph. Learned a lot. Congratulations Sarah! Can't wait to see pics!
07-13-11, 02:53 PM
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a front mount electric bike kit is VERY EASY...a monkey could do it...if you needed he;p, dont you have a boyfriend or father or brother that could help you ?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mSonugqhYuE
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mSonugqhYuE
07-15-11, 06:09 AM
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Hi guys,
I just posted a quick review on Endless Sphere which I copied below, but all the input I got from you warrants a much more thorough review which I will definitely do soon.
------------------------------------------
Ok - I'm back and have put 50 miles on my new Kalkhoff already. Here is a quick review and I'll post a proper one when I have a bit more time.
Well, the bike rocks (how's that for objective?!). First day I did 14 miles, second day 18, and then I've done some short runs with the dogs inbetween. On the long rides, I tackled some seriously steep, bumpy, and long uphill grades and still had two (out of three) lights left on the battery power indicator by the time I got home. The bike is fantastic going up the steep. There are three levels of assist, and I would start on 1st, then move up to 2nd then 3rd as the hill got too much for me.
The other positive is comfort. I ended up getting a Pro Connect (not Tasman) and, compared to riding other non-e-bikes, this is SO comfortable. When I used to live in California, the longest ride I ever did was 14 miles (with a break for lunch in-between) and my shoulders and wrists would be hurting. So far, no pain on this bike at all.
This bike has hyrualic (sp?!) brakes and I have to say I don't notice anything very special about them....perhaps they need to be adjusted. It also has a lock-out shock thing, which again, doesn't make much difference to me, but perhaps to a more advanced rider it would.
I haven't tried to go very fast, but on my ride into Woodstock, VT which is paved (albeit bumpy) I was easily coasting along at 22mph on level 1 or 2 assist.
The bike is light (48lbs if I remember correctly) so very easy to ride without any power.
The motor is super quiet - there is a very slight noise which I can't hear above the sound of the gently babbling brook beside the road, or above the wind in my ears.
It's a very good looking bike - I don't think you can easily tell its electric.
I was worried about stability going down steep, gravel roads - it is fine and is more a case of me building confidence than anything else, which I'm beginning to do.
So far there aren't any negatives except, of course, it cost a small fortune but I hope the quality pays off over time. The guy who assisted me at Kalkhoff (Charlie) was super helpful and always available when I call with dumb questions "ummm, what does THAT lever do"!
The only other e-bike I've ridden is the e-moto (with a bigger motor)- the Kalkhoff is far, far better overall and esp. getting up steep hills.
Pics and proper review to follow but now I've got to get going so I can RIDE! Yes - I'M ADDICTED ALREADY!
Thanks again to all of you!
I just posted a quick review on Endless Sphere which I copied below, but all the input I got from you warrants a much more thorough review which I will definitely do soon.
------------------------------------------
Ok - I'm back and have put 50 miles on my new Kalkhoff already. Here is a quick review and I'll post a proper one when I have a bit more time.
Well, the bike rocks (how's that for objective?!). First day I did 14 miles, second day 18, and then I've done some short runs with the dogs inbetween. On the long rides, I tackled some seriously steep, bumpy, and long uphill grades and still had two (out of three) lights left on the battery power indicator by the time I got home. The bike is fantastic going up the steep. There are three levels of assist, and I would start on 1st, then move up to 2nd then 3rd as the hill got too much for me.
The other positive is comfort. I ended up getting a Pro Connect (not Tasman) and, compared to riding other non-e-bikes, this is SO comfortable. When I used to live in California, the longest ride I ever did was 14 miles (with a break for lunch in-between) and my shoulders and wrists would be hurting. So far, no pain on this bike at all.
This bike has hyrualic (sp?!) brakes and I have to say I don't notice anything very special about them....perhaps they need to be adjusted. It also has a lock-out shock thing, which again, doesn't make much difference to me, but perhaps to a more advanced rider it would.
I haven't tried to go very fast, but on my ride into Woodstock, VT which is paved (albeit bumpy) I was easily coasting along at 22mph on level 1 or 2 assist.
The bike is light (48lbs if I remember correctly) so very easy to ride without any power.
The motor is super quiet - there is a very slight noise which I can't hear above the sound of the gently babbling brook beside the road, or above the wind in my ears.
It's a very good looking bike - I don't think you can easily tell its electric.
I was worried about stability going down steep, gravel roads - it is fine and is more a case of me building confidence than anything else, which I'm beginning to do.
So far there aren't any negatives except, of course, it cost a small fortune but I hope the quality pays off over time. The guy who assisted me at Kalkhoff (Charlie) was super helpful and always available when I call with dumb questions "ummm, what does THAT lever do"!
The only other e-bike I've ridden is the e-moto (with a bigger motor)- the Kalkhoff is far, far better overall and esp. getting up steep hills.
Pics and proper review to follow but now I've got to get going so I can RIDE! Yes - I'M ADDICTED ALREADY!
Thanks again to all of you!
07-15-11, 09:20 AM
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PS. I just got back from an 11 mile bike ride - it really is so enjoyable. I did the first half under my own power, and used assist on the way home. I get a wonderful feeling of thigh flab turning to muscle when I get off and walk!
08-05-11, 01:27 PM
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SarahLou, what size of Kalkhoff Pro Connect you buy? 17.5"? is it Diamand?
I'm want to buy one too, but consider between Stromer or Kalkhoff.
I'm want to buy one too, but consider between Stromer or Kalkhoff.
08-06-11, 12:53 PM
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came a bit late to read your posts,
You did right thing Sarah!!
You paid more but you have quality , solid bike not fast but good for exercise.
When I visited Kakhoff web site and saw pictures it was like wow! - this Kalkhoff line of ebikes screams QUALITY.
After seeing all these China horrible, crude "technologies" ebikes on all those web sites such a shock surprise to look at Kalkhoff close up pictures.
Example
I am sure your power meter really shows capacity used and is NOT useless 3 lights voltage -based indicator gadget found on so many cheap ebikes .
I own Taiwanese pedalec Merida with solid reputation but Kakhoff is even better.
Well, you get what you pay for right?
BTW I could not find warranty info on web site, more than a year?
Many Happy riding kilometers/in USA miles/.
You did right thing Sarah!!
You paid more but you have quality , solid bike not fast but good for exercise.
When I visited Kakhoff web site and saw pictures it was like wow! - this Kalkhoff line of ebikes screams QUALITY.
After seeing all these China horrible, crude "technologies" ebikes on all those web sites such a shock surprise to look at Kalkhoff close up pictures.
Example
I am sure your power meter really shows capacity used and is NOT useless 3 lights voltage -based indicator gadget found on so many cheap ebikes .
I own Taiwanese pedalec Merida with solid reputation but Kakhoff is even better.
Well, you get what you pay for right?
BTW I could not find warranty info on web site, more than a year?
Many Happy riding kilometers/in USA miles/.
Last edited by miro13car; 08-06-11 at 01:04 PM.
08-07-11, 09:09 AM
#45
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Thanks for all the info!
@SarahLou- What Pro Connect did you get? (year/special model like "C 8" or whatever/frame type). And where did you get it/how much did it cost with shipping? Thanks 
@Everyone- I'm thinking about getting my first e-bike too, and the Kalkhoffs look very good, except that the Tasman and Pro Connect (from what I can see) don't have disc brakes? (Some of the 2011s might but they also cost WAY more). So, do any of them have disc brakes and cost under 3K? Preferably more like 2,500. If not, how much would it cost to install disc brakes to replace the others? Can you put disc brakes on just one wheel or does it need to be both wheels? And how much would that cost?
Sorry if these are silly newb questions! I'm very new to biking, but I know I need disc brakes because we get a LOT of messy rain, snow, mud, etc and I need reliable braking.
Thanks in advance!
@Everyone- I'm thinking about getting my first e-bike too, and the Kalkhoffs look very good, except that the Tasman and Pro Connect (from what I can see) don't have disc brakes? (Some of the 2011s might but they also cost WAY more). So, do any of them have disc brakes and cost under 3K? Preferably more like 2,500. If not, how much would it cost to install disc brakes to replace the others? Can you put disc brakes on just one wheel or does it need to be both wheels? And how much would that cost?
Sorry if these are silly newb questions! I'm very new to biking, but I know I need disc brakes because we get a LOT of messy rain, snow, mud, etc and I need reliable braking.
Thanks in advance!
08-07-11, 12:50 PM
#46
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The Tasman has hydraulic rim brakes. They'll have plenty of stopping power even if you add a XtraCylce or loaded trailer.
The mechanical V-brakes on the Pro Connect are Shimano Deore XT which are high quality and are remarkable strong. Deore XT is Shimano's 2nd tier (XTR is their premier race group) mountain bike component line and are designed to operate well in grime.
You can put a disk on just one wheel, but there is a caveat. Disk brakes require mounting tabs for the calipers. One can have tabs added to a bike but it requires the services of a frame builder or very competent welder. Additionally the frame will require painting since the finish around the area being welded needs to be removed before the tabs are attached. You could replace the fork for one with disk tabs, however finding one that's not shock adjusted is difficult (adjusted forks are taller and will change the geometry of the bike). Also in the case of the Pro Connect you will have to purchase a new front wheel because its hub is not compatible with a disk.
Personally I wouldn't sweat the disk brake. Both bikes' brakes are more than adequate and high quality.
The mechanical V-brakes on the Pro Connect are Shimano Deore XT which are high quality and are remarkable strong. Deore XT is Shimano's 2nd tier (XTR is their premier race group) mountain bike component line and are designed to operate well in grime.
You can put a disk on just one wheel, but there is a caveat. Disk brakes require mounting tabs for the calipers. One can have tabs added to a bike but it requires the services of a frame builder or very competent welder. Additionally the frame will require painting since the finish around the area being welded needs to be removed before the tabs are attached. You could replace the fork for one with disk tabs, however finding one that's not shock adjusted is difficult (adjusted forks are taller and will change the geometry of the bike). Also in the case of the Pro Connect you will have to purchase a new front wheel because its hub is not compatible with a disk.
Personally I wouldn't sweat the disk brake. Both bikes' brakes are more than adequate and high quality.
Last edited by Allen; 08-07-11 at 01:03 PM.
08-07-11, 03:17 PM
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AllenG- You seem extremely knowledable and helpful, thank you!!!!! I'm actually looking to do a conversion kit rather than buy a ready-made; I've started a thread here and would *really* appreciate it if you took a look and had any advice- you seem like someone who knows their stuff!
Thanks!
Thanks!
08-08-11, 06:20 AM
#48
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My Kalkhoff
Hi there,
Sorry for the late response - I need to take the time to figure out how to get email alerts more quickly from this forum.
The Kalkhoff I got is this one: https://store.kalkhoffusa.com/Kalkhof...p/ka09pros.htm for the price listed. Shipping is free, warranty is two years. The frame is (excuse me if this is not the correct terminology) with a cross-bar/guy-style. It has the hyrdaulic brakes but honestly, nothing so far has wowed me about them (or disappointed me) so I agree with Allen - don't put too much focus on them.
Kalkhoff USA upgraded the seat post, and possibly saddle, for free also and I have to say, even though it's a skinny/cool looking saddle it is very comfortable and I haven't head to wear padded bike shorts.
The handlebar has some ergo grip rubber thingies which are also really comfy.
The gear-shifting is incredibly smooth and the bike is super fast under power or not - when I'm on paved road which is relatively flat, I've come to learn what perhaps bikers get addicted to...you get into this rhythm with speed going and it is soooo smooth and just feels fantastic. Great fun.
The battery indicator has 3 lights and I haven't used more than one light up yet (longest ride 18 miles lots of hills).
I've met another e-biker online who lives in Vermont, and he is going to test drive my bike. He's tried quite a few others, so I'm sure he'd be well equipped to post a review of the Kalkhoff vs. some others he has tried.
So far, zero regrets, just wish I had more time to ride.
Oh - one thing is...it really should, for that price too, have more gears. It doesn't become much of an issue on the hilly, bumpy roads but when I'm on a nice bit of flat and want to go even faster, I'd rather have a few more gears than spin my legs so fast (I'm sure there's technically correct ways of stating these things - sorry!).
Duh - I see the subscription choices below - am now subscribed to instant email and happy to respond to any other questions.
Sorry for the late response - I need to take the time to figure out how to get email alerts more quickly from this forum.
The Kalkhoff I got is this one: https://store.kalkhoffusa.com/Kalkhof...p/ka09pros.htm for the price listed. Shipping is free, warranty is two years. The frame is (excuse me if this is not the correct terminology) with a cross-bar/guy-style. It has the hyrdaulic brakes but honestly, nothing so far has wowed me about them (or disappointed me) so I agree with Allen - don't put too much focus on them.
Kalkhoff USA upgraded the seat post, and possibly saddle, for free also and I have to say, even though it's a skinny/cool looking saddle it is very comfortable and I haven't head to wear padded bike shorts.
The handlebar has some ergo grip rubber thingies which are also really comfy.
The gear-shifting is incredibly smooth and the bike is super fast under power or not - when I'm on paved road which is relatively flat, I've come to learn what perhaps bikers get addicted to...you get into this rhythm with speed going and it is soooo smooth and just feels fantastic. Great fun.
The battery indicator has 3 lights and I haven't used more than one light up yet (longest ride 18 miles lots of hills).
I've met another e-biker online who lives in Vermont, and he is going to test drive my bike. He's tried quite a few others, so I'm sure he'd be well equipped to post a review of the Kalkhoff vs. some others he has tried.
So far, zero regrets, just wish I had more time to ride.
Oh - one thing is...it really should, for that price too, have more gears. It doesn't become much of an issue on the hilly, bumpy roads but when I'm on a nice bit of flat and want to go even faster, I'd rather have a few more gears than spin my legs so fast (I'm sure there's technically correct ways of stating these things - sorry!).
Duh - I see the subscription choices below - am now subscribed to instant email and happy to respond to any other questions.
08-27-11, 06:28 PM
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Check out Prodeco in florida built/assembled in the US. I bought one at the beggining of summer and think its great. 200 W is just right if you like to peddle a little. I weigh 225. Their 500 watt would be like a scooter and its a little heavy. Their batterys last for hours. Note: Be carefull! I am probably moving 20mph most of the time. I can keep up with the expensive skinny bikes and I am old. Prodeco charges way less for their bikes and you get decent components. Got mine off E-bay for $900+freight. It is way better than my wifes $1800 Torque.
09-27-11, 12:17 AM
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