Originally Posted by
Mabman
It had been awhile since I had visited the Opti site and it was surprising to see them advertising "2000 mpg" there. I looked for evidence in support of this but couldn't find any. How do you translate amp hrs in to mpg in a scientific manner that would allow this type of statement?
The US Code of Federal Regulations defines the official petroleum equivalent fuel economy as 82.049 Kw = 1 Gal [thanks go to the Tesla owners discussion site for this link:
http://frwebgate.access.gpo.gov/cgi-...446-filed.pdf].
Also they claim 100 miles per charge at 30+ mph which seems like a stretch even with an extra battery pack?
100 mile range is certainly possible with the 400 model running an extra (external) battery, modest speeds and moderate pedaling. I can't say whether 30 mph is reasonably achievable on the 400 watt model, but 25 mph is easy enough when my 800Li is in 250 watt eco mode. Averaging 30 mph for 100 miles, I'd guess no problem for Lance Armstrong, big problem for me.
Their obvious flaunting of the Consumer Product Safety Commission regulations, 750w/20mph, on their site seems riske' also.
The CSPC does not control what can be ridden on the streets - they specify safety requirement for products sold to consumers. Individual states and localities define the requirements for powered bicycles that are used on roads, trails, etc. The low power Optibike models likely meet CSPC requirements. My understanding is that my 800Li qualifies as a moped in Colorado, and I have it insured in that category.
I hope they are putting some time and energy in to getting legislation enacted. Otherwise it just looks like another scheme where those that can afford to flaunt the rules and will be able to hire a lawyer to fix it when necessary.
Look more closely at the $5000 Optibike 400 model. It fits within the category and is far more capable than a 400 watt hub motor bike. Still, demand is strong for the more powerful models and I don't blame them for selling what their customers want.
