Originally Posted by
nwmtnbkr
Are you a flatlander? I always pedal, but I don't think I'd get 37 miles without pedaling, but then I'm near Glacier National Park and it's mountainous here. I haven't gone more than about 24 miles so far but I've still had plenty of power left in the cells (over 26V). (Plans for a longer trip to a lake tomorrow will have to be postponed since we have a hazardous weather warning that's calling for a storm system to move in with high winds, hail and heavy rain.)
I don't think you'd see a 40-50 mile range on one battery pack by changing motors and controllers, even though the Currie controller can demand 35 amps (that's why it's got such great torque for someone like me who lives in the mountains). Add a second pack, and then your range will clearly exceed the 40-50 mile range you want.
NB is right. If your looking for more distance and willing to pay for it then just add a pack. Of course an additional pack will add weight but it's only 15lbs. The money spent on a new motor and controller plus fitting it to the bike will cost more then a second pack. Beside, the Currie motor setup while a bit on the noisy side is a simple, inexpensive and well proven drive system.