sinbad said:
Have any of you ever put an electric motor on a bike? I have an old steel frame Trek bike that I was thinking of putting a motor on. Do you have an opinion about what motor would be best? My bike has 700cm wheels, which I guess might pose a problem. Thanks for your opinions.
I used to be the lead engineer at Charger Electric Bikes, so I guess I've done this a time or two.
If you are in decent shape you probably won't get much benefit out of putting the motor on the bike. The extra weight of the motor and batteries will slow you down almost as much as the extra power will speed you up. You could probably see a 2-5mph increase in speed if you gear your setup correctly.
If you are looking for a moped, then there is some logic in putting on the electric motor. Nothing like being able to cruise with your thumb on the throttle.
My favorite retrofit kits were the 24V Currie Technology kits. They bolt on the back wheel. They look a bit funny, but they work really well. Unfortunately, they don't make them any more, but you can find used ones on eBay.
Good luck!
- Forbes Bagagtelle-Black