citrik

Hi everyone. I have been lurking for a couple of weeks now and finally decided that I want to try an e-bike. The information on this forum has been very helpful but I still was hoping to get some confirmation that I'm on the right path. I'd like to ride for leisure at first but eventually try e-biking as an alternative to costly motor vehicle use.

What I am looking for:
Moderate speed (~20 mph is fine)
Good range (20+ miles per charge, preferably maybe even 30+)
Good reliability

After researching, I have decided on the following components:
Bicycle: Trek 3500 Disc - https://www.trekbikes.com/us/en/bikes...ies/3500_disc#
Motor Kit: Golden Motors Smart Pie - https://www.goldenmotor.ca/products/2...rsion-Kit.html
USB Wire: GM USB Wire - https://www.goldenmotor.ca/products/U...Smart-Pie.html
Battery: Ping 36V20AH - https://www.pingbattery.com/servlet/t...lithium/Detail

My questions are:
-Are the above components all I need to experience e-biking or am I missing some parts/accessories/tools that would be necessary or just good to have?
-Do I need a waterproof battery bag?
-Are there better choices as far as quality/reliability are concerned?
-Will my choices get me my goals of 20 mph and a 20-30 mile range?

I was also wondering if anyone knows of any accessories I could purchase to help me mount the battery and controller in the "triangle" section of the bike, rather than on a rack on the rear.

Thanks for reading and thanks to everyone in advance for any assistance/advice.

-Citrik

FMB42

Your list looks OK to me, with the exception of the GM "Smart Pie" motor. The controller for this motor is built into the hub case itself (which can lead to over-heating and difficulties in controller replacement and/or future upgrades). You might take a look at the GM forums for a glimpse of what you're getting into with this, or any GM, product. I, myself, would go with a hub conversion kit that uses a external controller (I have geared and direct drive hub motor conversions w/ext controllers).



For tools you'll want a multi-meter (Harbor Freight prices start at ~ $5), a suitable cassette or freewheel removal tool, wire loom and ties, and (of course) a suitable battery charger (Ping is highly recommended).



A water "proof" or water resistant battery bag is a good idea as long as it allows for proper battery cooling. I use a water "resistant" bag under normal ambient temps and use (i.e. 65 to no more than ~ 95 degrees F under light to moderate loads).



Mounting the battery in the frame triangle (while good for handling, etc) can be difficult due to limited space and/or interference with your legs while pedaling. Most of those who achieve this do so with "custom" brackets that they make themselves.



A 500 watt geared hub @ 36v should give the average sized person (~185 lbs?) a top speed of ~ 17mph, while a direct drive hub with the same should = ~ 20mph (both on level ground and without pedaling). Range can vary greatly due to rider weight, load (i.e. hills, wind, rough roads, etc). However, your goal of ~ 25 miles should be within reach with light to moderate pedaling (I virtually pedal all the time (unless I'm coasting) so as to not draw undue attention from law enforcement).



Good luck with your first build...

citrik

FMB42,
Thank you very much for your advice. I appreciate that you took the time to provide me with all that information!

robertg200

Are you really ready to get into building a bike from scratch? Do you have the experience and background to do that without driving yourself crazy? I'd think pretty carefully about it. There are a lot of pretty good bikes out there today already built. Currie makes several of them in the Izip line. I have the Izip Zuma and I really like it. Just be sure the bike fits you when you buy a prebuilt.

citrik

robertg200: Thanks for the reply. I've been doing lots of reading during the past few weeks on this forum and several others and I think I've come to the conclusion that my skills and knowledge aren't quite up to par as far as what's needed to feel confident in installing a kit by myself. I wouldn't feel safe on an e-bike that I build due to my lack of knowledge and experience. I'm currently looking for a prebuilt e-bike which should satisfy me for a while. If I continue to learn about bike mechanics and the technical side of things I might try a custom build sometime in the future. Thanks again.

StanleyCN

Hi citrik,
Please don't worry about your lack of E-bike building knowledge and experience.
Cos you come to the correct community.
You can get any help on this forum.
I also learnt much about E-bike conversion experience and knowledge here.
Wish you good luck:-)