Originally Posted by
Winfried
I'll ask here instead of opening a new thread:
1. Considering the width of the fork, I assume I'll have to install the sidewall dynamo in the back using either
Axa's or
B&M's bracket
2. Do you know of a way to install the front light through the side tab on this frame-mounted rack? If no solution seems available, do you know of a way to install it on the fork?
3. Am I correct in understanding that the current must somehow return to the dynamo, either through a two-core cable or the frame? If the latter, does it work with an aluminium frame? And I guess with a plastic fender, a two-core cable is required to connect the rear light to the dynamo since plastic isn't conducive.
Thank you.
1 - That is a maybe, depends on the alternator you look at. The vintage Union brand one that I had on my errand bike would go onto a fairly large diameter fork, but there are limits.
2 - Depends on the light. You likely would need a custom bracket if you want the light below the rack shelf. Being new to dyno lights, you might not yet be aware of this, but DO NOT put a light on the rack upside down. Most lights are designed for the waterproofing to assume that rain is coming from above and mounting a light upside down often means that rain can get into the light. If you get a B&M light, Peter White website has a lot of brackets.
https://www.peterwhitecycles.com/light-mounts.php
And if you are handy, you can make your own bracket.
3 - Aluminum will transmit the electricity through the frame just fine. Current flow through the headset is less reliable, so not sure if that would mean you have to run a wire from the light to the frame or not behind the fork or not. Some lights are grounded to the frame, some are not. If you have a light that is grounded to the fork and if it does not work, the headset might be the problem.
I have only used old Union brand sidewall generators, they were grounded to the frame. But I do not know if all others are or not.