Not impressed with Bionx kit...
 

Just thought I would make a post about my most recent experience with ebikes. I originally purchased a Schwinn cheapy from Canadian Tire and while I enjoyed it quite a bit, my thumb got sore from the throttle so I took it back. However, I was very impressed with the technology and decided to investigate the Bionx system and install it on a comfortable bike of my choosing.

Well, I managed to get to a dealer today who had a Bionx system installed on a bike. I must have taken it for 10 minutes up and down the parking lot and going fast and slow and I'll be quite honest that I WAS NOT impressed! I can honestly say that I had no clue it was working when it was working??? I could feel it charging when I pressed the rear brake... but when I was giving it at 200% on theLCD display... I could turn it off and I'm not sure I'd feel a difference?

The fellow I was talking to was surprised and so he took it out and said "Yep, I can feel it!", I took it out again and Nada!?! Not sure what gives, but I will not be investing $1000k+ on a system that I can't tell what it's doing.

I was using the 250 watt NiMH version if it matters???

Unfortunately, I think that the best option for me is to get my M license and seriously consider 49cc scooters...

The PL350 feels noticeably quicker than a 250, but all thg BionX kits are not for the power hungry. They're designed for people who like to pedal, to give them a boost in power. Using only 250 or 350W means longer battery life, and longer run times.

Sounds like you need a lot of power. If you pedal lightly, Bionx will not put a lot of power out. You should note the percent of bars on the console when you're pedalling. I believe you can set the sensitivity of the bionx system so that it will multiply your power even more. You can ask the dealer if that's possible.

Yeah, I guess I was expecting more with the Bionx, especially at 200% power or Level 4. I was hoping that when I started to pedal, I'd be able to feel it kick in. But there was no "kick in". I just kept pedalling along wondering if it was doing anything as I changed the settings in mid-ride.

I think the idea of the BionX is that you can ride it like a normal bike without messing with a thumb or twist grip throttle. And with only 250W, the entry level kit will be at maximum power quite early since pedaling at 125W is barely anything.

When you pedal Bionx, it doens't kick in the instant you pedal as say a Giant Lite does (I have one of those too). It takes a second or two and when it does kick in, it's a gradual increase in assisnance. So it's very smooth.

The difference of a half pedal power of 100 watts and 300 watt s out of motor putting out 150 watts of power to the road to make up for the battery weight you might go 16 mph.But just like all hub motors , they all suck for weight and efficiency no matter how easy they are to slap on.

Yep those 2kg hubs (approximate weight of one of mine) weigh a ton. Sheesh give it a rest.

2Kg for 300 watts of power compared to a 20 oz motor at 1440 watts at 93% efficiency I will rest my case.

According to the article on your bike the motor weighs 7lb and is 750w, and thats without the modified rear drive and mounts etc.:rolleyes:

Ionly used 750 wh at most and I included the whole drive sysyem and motor and battery mounts that add up to 7 lbs including the motor. I have used a 20 oz motor with a 10 to 1 reduction gearbox that weighed 1 pound that was 90% efficient with the gearbox but decided it was too expensive and a motor with just a chain drive with less parts would be quieter and last for over 50,000 miles of ebiking without any maintenance.
Tell us more of what you know nothing about and roll your eyes more. lol

The big difference is that I can refer to a manufacturers site with weight and efficiency figures.
Yours are whatever suits the argument with no proof for any of your claims, I referred to the written article in your sig. which is incorrect apparently?
Anyone can build a super light drive with an outrunner motor and gearing but longevity?

Can you please let us know where this system you speak of is on sale, and for how much? I might buy one.

It's not just the act of pedaling, it's how much you pedal. Bionx uses a Torque sensor in the hub. It detects how much torque is coming from the gearset and depending on the setting in the computer, it'll put out more power.

There's no "kick in" like the Strong eBike. You can barely feel it working at all but it does work. Just remember that the Bionx is an intelligent system not just an on/off assist like on other bikes.

I agree. I've found the 250W to be quite weak. But the 350W is very enjoyable after a few controller "hacks".

you may have seen my other posts... i too tried the electric route but in the end i now have a 49.9cc scooter and am very happy. so get your license ..i just did mine..written test 30days ago..passed MST (skills test) on 17th. I can now ride with no supervisor(well i did b4 but now i do not have to be paranoid when i see a cop :) )