Rayos (formerly ElecTrec) Electric Bike
Here's the next big step in electric bike price/performance. Imagine a bike similar to the well-regarded pre-2006 Currie
bike with a full suspension frame, a better battery system, more powerful motor, a motorcycle-style kickstand, stronger drive system, and superior quality
throughout!
Like the Currie, the Rayos has a lot of torque, independent human and electric drive systems, and a
drive system that freewheels when not in use. The electronics shut the motor off at 80% battery discharge to avoid a full discharge
(which really shortens the life of lead-acid batteries). The Rayos is an 8-speed bike that uses standard bike parts. Seats,
handlebars, brakes and other non-electric parts can be found at a supercenter or bike store. Electric parts can be obtained from
Rayos dealers or the manufacturer.
The 2008 Rayos follows the highly popular LashOut and ElecTrec bikes. Improvements over the LashOut include:
- a high-end 600-watt MAC Hi-Torque Brushless Motor that climbs hills and accelerates very well.
- a 14 amp-hour 24-volt battery system for extended range.
- a direct-drive freewheeling propulsion system with oversized bearings for reliability.
- sealed bottom bracket.
- improved front suspension(107mm travel).
- and 8-Speed Shimano Altus Derailleur with protector.
The Rayos (click for more info) = $1200 plus shipping. Available from:
- NYCeWHEELS, 1603 York Avenue, NY, NY 10028, (212) 737-3078,
www.nycewheels.com
- www.EVdeals.com, Scott MacGregor, 9 South Street, Plainville, MA 02762, 508-695-3717
- Electric Star, P. O. Box 5796, Santa Barbara, CA 93150, 800-969-4401, www.electricstar.org
- EV Tech, 4310 Wiley Post Rd #217, Addison, TX. 75001, (972)-851-9990, http://www.evtech.us
- A2B Scooters, Seattle, WA, 1-866-333-8686, http://www.a2bscooters.com
- Small Planet E vehicles, 724 Main street, Longmont, CO 80501, 303-532-2879, http://www.smallplanetearth.com
- Electro Ride™ Bikes and Scooters , Milpitas, CA 95035-6913, 408-262-8975 (call for demo appointment)
If you ever want to upgrade performance (and void your warrantee),
Powerpack Motors
offers high performance brushless motors that are compatible with the Rayos bikes.
The external controllers require 36 or 48 volts (36V and 48V
provide higher torque and speed), so you'll need to think about batteries, wiring and chargers also.
Charger Bicycles
Unlike other designs that have a
"throttle" or on/off switch, the Charger responds to
pedaling. The half-horsepower (sustained power rate) electric motor
uses programmable "torque-sensing" electronic controls to
boost power in direct proportion to the rider's pedaling effort. The
torque measurement system, a patent pending technology called the
Impulse System™, communicates with the Charger's on-board
computer to provide additional power to the rear wheel. The system
will then add the desired level of electric "boost"...to
add half, add equal, or multiply by up to 3, or 4 times your own effort.
Originally priced at $1,500
($1,700 with RockShox), the Charger allows for a range of up to 40
miles with assisted speeds of up to 20 miles per hour--the legal
maximum assist speed in most States. Beyond this speed you're
on your own as the motor freewheels with no drag. The Charger
can be fully re-charged in 4 hours via the on-board charging system.
Other features include: easy-to-use seven-speed
Shimano Nexus shifting system; a two-chain drive system to
ensure positive drive in all conditions; and easy quick-release for
detaching the 24-volt drive system and its batteries. Because
it powers through the gearing system, the motor assist works well
climbing hills and speeding along the flats.
A five button membrane switch
allows you to enter a user defined PIN to turn on the system.
Select Standby mode (no assist) or levels 1 through 4. At any
time, use this keypad to check the state of charge of the battery
pack. Should you forget to turn off the system, don't worry.
The system will automatically turn itself off after a period of idle
time. This automatic electronic locking discourages theft and
'joy rides'. The battery-and-electronics pack is completely
removable. Just pop the battery pack off the bike and lock your
Charger bike to the closest bike rack. The generous handle
makes this 24-lb. battery pack comfortable to carry.
When choosing between a Charger and a Rayos, consider what type of cyclist you are, the range you need to cover, planned use, and terrain.
- Type of Cyclist: If you're the type that pedals because you like to, you'll probably prefer the Charger.
- Range: If you plan to ride over 7 miles each trip, you'd be better off with the Charger (longer range and faster speeds).
- Planned Use: If you plan to commute to work and arrive with no hint of sweat, you'll prefer the no-effort Rayos.
- Terrain: If your area has moderate and steep hills, the Charger's wider range of speed/torque capabilities (due to powering through variable gearing) will serve you better.
Retail Prices (click on item for more information):
Standard Model - $800 (orig. $1499)
Comfort Model - $800 (orig. $1499) Same as Standard except for handlebars and seat.
Fenders - $30. Rear Rack - $40.
All three models available in gloss black, moss green, and candy blue.
Available from:
Click here for a quick list of features of the Charger electric bike.
Click here for in-depth information and photos about Charger bikes.
Currie/IZIP/EZIP Electric Bikes
The leading U.S. manufacturer of electric bikes and scooters, Currie
Technologies also offers electric bikes through independent dealers, on-line sellers, and big-box retailers. Since the late 90's, Currie has built and sold LEVs under their own labels (Currie, IZIP, EZIP)
and for other OEMs (GT, Mongoose, and Schwinn). Generally, their EZIP line goes through big-box retailers. IZIPs sell through local dealers,
and are generally a bit better quality than "equivalent" EZIP models.
Those products passing through independent dealers are generally better quality and carry the
IZIP label.
Products passing through big-box retailers like Costco carry these labels: Schwinn, GT, Mongoose and EZIP.
[Editor's note: we consider the IZIP line with lead-acid batteries as the minimum quality a prudent customer should consider.]
Currie bikes include a variable-speed motor drive, battery pack, battery charger, and six-month warranty.
Over the past few years, the company has revamped their product offerings, changed designs and introduced Lithium batteries.
For details on current products, visit the Currie website
or the IZIP website.
Retail Prices range from $600 to $3000.
Available from:
Betterbikes™
Electrified
recumbents offer the best value in the entire range of Light
Electric Vehicles (LEV).
Although another LEV may fit your particular needs better, these
e-bikes combine comfort, speed, and range to create a practical
substitute for most car trips. They're "state of the art"
until the next major change (full enclosure to protect the rider from
the elements). As your commute or travel distance approaches
and exceeds ten miles, we encourage you to try a betterbike.
Most Betterbikes™ use, or modify, off-the-shelf drive systems (e.g. BMC hub motors
or Electro Cycle E-4 mid-drive kits). They
can offer a no-pedaling speed of 20 mph for 20 miles. Other Betterbikes™ offer speeds up to 30+
mph and distances exceeding 100 miles per day. This increased range and speed
(compared to conventional e-bikes) results from streamlining + extra
batteries. Reclined seating
reduces the wind drag which is - by far - the biggest hurdle to
faster e-bike speeds. (Click here to learn about wind drag and speed.)
Betterbikes™ are better because they're safer, more comfortable, and longer-ranged
than conventional upright e-bikes. Increased safety comes from
being closer to the ground (hurts less when you fall) and having your
feet in front (no head-first crashes). Combining
higher speeds with Barcalounger comfort enables most folks to cover
twice the range they would go on a conventional e-bike.
When looking for an e-bike,
too many people concentrate on the motor, when the bike is far more
important. After all, it's the bike on which you sit. The
bike's comfort, handling and riding characteristics determine whether
or not your e-bike is a pleasure or a pain.
Mid-Drive motor kits for Betterbikes™ include:
- Electro Portal offers the E-4 kits for Sun Bicycles recumbents.
- EcoSpeed offers kits to convert various recumbent bikes.
Use this online cart to explore the options, capabilities and pricing.
Day 6 Bicycles offer safety and comfort similar to a recumbent but with the look and feel
of a standard upright bike. The extended wheelbase and forward-positioned pedals allow riders to easily place their feet
flat on the ground. Although it comes with a standard bicycle sadle, a medical grade contour seat is also
available. Both come with a padded back and lumbar support.
Learn more at http://www.day6bicycles.com,
or use this online cart to explore the options, capabilities and pricing.
Electra Bicycle Company also offers "feet flat on the ground" Townie
bikes. [Editor's Note: I prefer the Townie 7 women's style model for the chain guard, 7-speed Nexus Internal hub and coaster brake. Retails about $600.]
Betterbikes™ are a category of their own; click here to learn more about the theory, vision, products and options available.
DreamE Betterbikes™
Looking for fancy plastic parts and electronic gadgetry? You won't find it here.
But, if you are looking for incomparable comfort and performance, then the DreamE is for you!!
The DreamE results from the combination of the popular Day 6 bicycle with the Cyclone mid-drive motor kit.
The unique Day 6 styling eliminates leaning forward, so you sit perfectly upright. That means there is no more stress on wrists, neck, back, and crotch.
It also means a superior breathing position and a better way to enjoy the scenery. The step-through design makes for easy mounts and dismounts,
while the low seat allows the rider to reach the ground with both feet for stability and safety.
The motor on the DreamE drives the chain and utilizes the gearing of the bike for remarkable power and speed.
If you want more speed or hill climbing power, simply change the rear cassette. The motor is lightweight and mounted low on the frame for better balance.
Unlike hub motors, this frame mounted motor allows you to remove wheels (e.g. to fix a flat) like a traditional bicycle - without any wires to disconnect and reconnect.
People often ask for a comfortable seat that fits their butt. This is it! The contoured seat, made with incredibly comfortable injection molded foam, is 16" wide for equal weight distribution.
The seat is highly adjustable with seat height, seat depth, and surface angle all variable.
DreamE has motor cut-off brake levers and lighted battery indicator on the throttle. Some electric bikes have small tires which perform best on smooth streets.
The DreamE has full size, 26" wheels for a safe and comfortable ride. DreamE customers have a choice of color (burgundy or blue), frame size (standard or small),
seat style (contour or velo), motor power (350 or 500 watts), and battery chemistry (SLA or LFP).
Learn more at http://www.day6bicycles.com,
or use this online cart to explore the options, capabilities and pricing.
- Two frame sizes fit riders from about 4'9" to 6'4"
- 52" wheelbase provides a smooth ride
- Shimano 7 speed derailleur and shifter
- Can be transported on most bicycle carriers that plug into a receiver
- Fenders, racks, other accessories available
- Motor warranted for 2 years, LiFePo4 battery warranted for 1 year, SLA battery warranted for 6 months
- Weighs less than 60 pounds
- Available in blue or burgundy
- Day 6 bicycles are available without motors from www.day6bicycles.com
Available from:
- Day 6 Bicycles, 851 Bridger Dr., Bozeman, MT 59715, for customer service or to order, call: 888-789-3296, for technical questions, to order, or dealer sales, call: 406-570-1927,
http://www.dreamebike.com/
-
- Electro Ride™ Bikes and Scooters , Milpitas, CA 95035-6913, 408-262-8975 (call for demo appointment)
- or to find a local dealer, go to http://www.dreamebike.com/dealers.html
-
Giant Electric Bikes
The electric bicycle with a twist!
Giant Bicycle Company is one of the world's leading bicycle manufacturers. Giant is consistently rated very high by U.S. bicycle dealers, and the only
bicycle industry company on the Forbes 200 List of Outstanding Companies Worldwide.
The Lite (pictured on the left and also available in a step-thru model) incorporates a pedal-activated drive system by Panasonic, the #1 electric bike
manufacturer on the huge, sophisticated models Japanese market. The system is highly intuitive (as you step gently on the pedal, the
power rushes in), offers strong torque for take-off, hills and assists up to 19 mph (depending on rear sprocket choice). The
nominal 240-390 Watt Lite performs comparably under power with 400-500 Watt ebikes due to its superior design, efficiency, leverage
(motor driving through 5 speeds) and light weight, while providing up to several times the range of most lead-acid batteried bikes.
Range is exceptional due to system efficiency, the motor driving through 5 gears, and advanced NiMH battery technology. It
offers exceptional ease of pedalling in power-off mode, and weighs only 39 lbs without its 8 lb, quick-release pack. The Lite
costs about $300 more than the Suede E. For details, see http://www.electricvehiclesnw.com/main/lite.htm
The Suede E (pictured on the right and also available in a slope model) differs from the Lite in these ways: It has the cruiser look, of course. The SuedeE
comes with a 7-speed derailleur shifter rather than a 5-speed internal hub. It is powered by a U.S.-designed front hub motor,
versus the Lite's bottom bracket-placed motor. The SuedeE offers a 9AH (versus 6.5AH for the Lite) NiMH battery—and VPC (variable
power control). For details, see http://www.electricvehiclesnw.com/main/suede-e.htm
The Suede E incorporates Giant's patented VPC (variable power control) system for three easy and intuitive operating modes:
- Step lightly on the pedal and power rushes in as long as you pedal lightly (aka "ped-elec").
- Need even more help from the motor while pedalling? Turn the twist grip (as it does on the Sport).
- If you enjoy riding (on level ground and modest grade) without pedalling at all just turn the twist grip, cease pedalling and you are in cruise
control mode. Touch one of the brake levers and you are back in ped-elec mode.
These new "e-hybrid" bikes offer the feel, handling and ease of pedalling associated, until now, only with a quality pedal-only comfort bicycle.
Available from:
-
NYCeWHEELS, 1603 York Avenue, NY, NY 10028, (212) 737-3078,
www.nycewheels.com
-
- Electric Vehicles Northwest, 110 N 36th, Seattle, WA 98103, 866-349-2743, http://www.electricvehiclesnw.com/
-
- and San Francisco Bay Area dealers:
http://www.myebike.com/see/index.html
-
eZeebike (eZee)
The eZeeBike has been a successful and sought-after line of e-bikes in Europe that are now
available in the United States. Range of 30 miles and top assisted speed of 20 mph is possible with the three standard
(non-folding) models. With well-crafted aluminum alloy frames and lithium batteries, these bikes are lighter than other electric
bikes. Equipped with 250- and 350-watt silent (gearless) hub motors, eZee bikes come with many accessories as standard
equipment. Different models may include: fenders, front shocks, suspension seat tube, Velo cycle computer , integrated front
and rear lights, rear luggage rack with spring-loaded bar and integrated bungy chords, chain guard, and foldability.
The result are bicycles that are comfortable to ride and also provide wonderful power and
range. They're ideal for doing everything from a cross-town daily commute, to weekly grocery shopping, to weekend "get fresh
air and stay-healthy" rides.
Available from:
- NYCeWHEELS, 1603 York Avenue, NY, NY 10028, (212) 737-3078,
www.nycewheels.com
-
- Electric Vehicles Northwest, 110 N 36th, Seattle, WA 98103, 866-349-2743,
http://www.electricvehiclesnw.com/
-
- Nautique/Electric Bikes California, 220 Wisconsin Ave., Oceanside, CA 92054,
760-757-3440, nautique-oceanside@sbcglobal.net
-
- Cycle 9 Sports, 601 W. Main St., Carrboro, NC 27510, 919-636-5909, http://www.cycle9.com
-
- or to find a San Francisco Bay Area dealer,
go to http://www.myebike.com/see/index.html
-
Ultra Motor
Ultra Motor specializes in the design, sale, and support of Human Electric Hybrid Bicycles.
Ultra Motor is excited about bringing smart transport to America. We’re committed to helping consumers
find the right LEV for their lifestyle – making commuting fun, reducing transportation costs, and having a positive impact on the environment.
The Europa (left picture) provides environmentally friendly economic commuting for all.
Its lightweight construction, front suspension and comfort gel seat give riders the thrill of a powerful ride with easy handling.
The Europa LEV offers unassisted power on demand for up to 20 miles* at a cruising speed of 20mph.
The 7 speed gear shift allows for easy pedaling for a fun fitness alternative.
The Portia's compact construction, front suspension and gel seat give you a smooth, quiet ride that's extra comfortable. The Portia is a fun and convenient riding solution for getting around town, commuting to work, zipping to class, or just enjoying the great outdoors without working up a sweat.
The Portia LEV offers unassisted power on demand for up to 17 miles at a cruising speed of 18mph. It’s easy and safe, with a step-through
frame design.
Designed for urban or suburban commutes, the A2B (right picture) offers lightweight aluminum construction with full suspension.
Add in its comfortable,oversized seat and you have a powerful ride that's easy to handle.
When you don't feel like pedaling, the A2B offers unassisted power on demand for up to 20 miles at a cruising speed of 20mph.
Plus, the A2B can be easily upgraded to double its range to 40 miles with the addition of a secondary battery pack and
increase its carrying capacity with the addition of baskets and rear carrier bags.
Available from:
EcoBike
EcoBike offers a state of the art battery and frame design, and artfully combines the highest quality parts from the most competitive manufacturers – Shimano, SRAM, and Cionlli, to name a few.
The result is a masterpiece in convenience, reliability, and style. Combining style with functionality, EcoBike is a world-renowned designer of quality electric bicycles, sold all over Europe and North America.
EcoBike offers three e-bike models.
The Vatavio fold-and-carry electric bike (pictured above) is innovative and well constructed.
The Elegance (pictured below) is a classic design with step-through frame, offering an easy, comfortable ride.
The Adventure’s revolutionary frame design allows for true versatility, going from the pavement to mountain trails with ease.
BATTERY POWER
The Lithium-Ion Manganese battery power pack is lightweight,
technologically advanced, and safe. EcoBike battery packs are
UL and CE approved, exceeding safety and quality standards in the U.S.
and E.U. EcoBike batteries are specially designed and
manufactured for the EcoBike by a subsidiary of Lenovo / IBM
ThinkPad. These batteries deliver the maximum consistent
output and longevity. EcoBike batteries have been tested and
proven, with over 100,000 units manufactured and a failure rate of less
than 1%.
DRIVE MOTOR
The EcoBike is powered by an innovative hub-mounted, brushless
permanent magnet motor with a triple planetary gear drive system and
proprietary heat resistant materials. The propulsion system
delivers the highest torque and is the quietest in its class.
The drive motor is nominally rated for continuous output at 360 watts
(Elegance & Adventure) and 290 watts (Vatavio).
ELECTRONIC CONTROL
The Zero-Smart-Start speed controller delivers ease of use and smooth
drive control and offers a multi-function variable speed
output. It is state of the art, producing consistent
efficient power. The automatic
Pedal Assist mode produces a power burst that dramatically assists the
pedaling effort. The Zero-Smart-Start electronic throttle
control allows the rider to relax and not pedal at all.
FRAME GEOMETRY
EcoBike electric bikes have been specially designed with the daily
commuter in mind. The frame is constructed from a high-strength,
lightweight 6061 aluminum alloy that maximizes safety and
durability. The enhanced frame design features comfort
ergo-geometry that is more upright than a traditional mountain or road
bike. Every EcoBike electric bike is outfitted with
suspension on both front forks (except Vatavio) and seat post to deliver a
smoother ride.
Find links to the EcoBike Owner's Manuals at http://ecobike-usa.com/support/eco-bike-manuals.asp.
Available from:
- The Electric Bike Network, 4444 24th Street, San Francisco, CA 94114, http://www.myebike.com
-
- Electric Cyclery, 900 North Coast Highway, Laguna Beach, CA 92651, 949-715-2345, http://www.electriccyclery.com
-
- Segway of Ohio, 765a N. High St., Columbus, OH 43215, (614) 299-1100, http://www.segwayofohio.net
-
- or to find a local dealer, go to http://ecobike-usa.com/electric-bike-dealers.asp
-
Prima Power Bikes
The Italian Prima bikes are
perhaps considered the most stylish on the market. However, they are
far from "just" flair and looks.
Technical features include dual
suspension, a 5-speed internal rear hub, disc brake, a silent(!) high
torque front hub motor, built-in lights—and, as you press either
brake lever, regenerative braking.
Power control is by speed
sensoring. As you start pedalling ever so lightly the power engages,
and it stays on as long as you "pretend to pedal". A button
on the handle bar offers you the selection of economy, normal, and
boost modes. Throttle-activated (power on demand) assist is
also available.
Two battery technologies are
available. (Range can be doubled using the conservative
"eco" mode and pedal assist.)
- Hawker Cyclon SLA batteries provide a 10-mile range without pedaling;
- Panasonic NiMH batteries provide a 16-mile range without pedaling.
Global Electric Vehicle Marketing
(GEVM) offers three Prima models: Joe Fly (pictured above), Joe Go,
and Light. Learn more at the Prima Power Bikes website: http://www.powerbikes.com/
These smooth riding, gorgeous bikes range in price from $1500 to $2000.
Contact GEVM at 866-774-6287 or GlobalEVmktg@yahoo.com
Urban Mover Bikes
With their 24V 8Ah Nickel Metal Hydride battery packs and 24V 250W high torque brushless motors,
the four bike models offered by Urban Mover are some of the lightest-weight bikes available
(weighing in at just 50 lbs.) They offer both power-on-demand (up to 15 mph) and ped-elec
(Variable Pedal Assist up to 18 mph) modes of operation.
Although the bikes offer regeneration when freewheeling, generally speaking the amount of power
produced is little more than a trickle charge and you would have to coast or freewheel for
many miles to have a noticeable effect.
All Urban Mover bikes use the latest lightweight 4th generation NiMh battery (Nickel Metal Hydride).
Older, much heavier lead acid batteries are cheaper, but are good for only about 200 – 250 full charges.
Urban Mover bikes use NiMh batteries with a life of at least 500 – 600 full charges and the
newer 4th generation NiMh lose no more than 15% of their capacity if left standing fully
charged for a 3 month period. Future upcoming technology is the Lithium battery. Li-on is
available in both the more common Lithium-ion (Li-ion) and the newer lithium polymer (Li-Poly) format.
These are the most weight efficient of all the current batteries, but are also the most expensive.
Urban Mover will be offering a Lithium polymer (Li-Poly) replacement battery and charger for all our
bikes will become available in the Summer of 2007.
The rear wheel hub motor is more of an engineering challenge and therefore not found on less
substantial electrically assisted bikes. However, the main advantages of rear wheel drive are threefold:
- More balanced and superior traction due to the rear bias of weight distribution on all bike types.
- Superior handling in wet weather conditions.
- Superior traction control when cycling up gradients.
Brushless motors are used on all Urban Mover bikes to maintain their high performance,
with no deterioration of performance over time; they offer a constant maximum efficiency
which equates to greater mileage versus brushed motors for the same size battery;
they are generally much smaller and lighter than brushed motors. Finally and most importantly,
brushless motors are maintenance free.
Available from:
- Full Boat Trading, (Urban Mover US), 8717 Sonoma Highway, Kenwood, California 95452, 707-282-1901,
info.us@urbanmover.com
Test rides can be arranged at their premises via appointment with Nigel at 707-484-9671.
- Green E-Motor, 3527 Ryder Street, Santa Clara, CA 95051, 408-739-9466,
http://www.greenemotor.com
OHM Cycles
OHM has worked together with BionX (hub motor kit) and Moli Energy (Lithium batteries) to create a power assist drive system with
exceptional range and features.
Four models are available - two Urban models (pictured)
with upright position for a more comfortable ride and two Sport models with mountain bike styling.
Command Console
In a single screen, with simple controls, the BionX command console displays important travel information and allows the rider to easily switch
between different power modes. In assistance mode, the display indicates the power supplied by the battery.
In generative mode, the display indicates the energy transmitted to the battery.
The console is a multifunctional odometer and displays:
- current speed, distance traveled, odometer, trip meter and average speed
- a meter indicating level of energy being used or generated
- assistance or generation percentage level
- battery charge indicator
For security, the command console includes an alarm system with a 4 digit PIN (personal identification number). If the bicycle is moved
while the alarm system is activated, the motor will instantly go into generative mode 4 and the alarm will sound.
Motor
The BionX motor is a brushless direct current generative wheel motor and is capable of peak power output of 700 Watts (450 Watt for the 250 Watt series motor).
The silent motor features a microprocessor that calculates your thrust and compensates for the weakest leg to ensure a smooth ride.
- Brushless and gearless design requiring no maintenance.
- 4 power modes: the motor compensates your pedaling power by 25%, 50%, 100%, or 200%, depending on the power level selected.
- 4 generative modes: the battery can be recharged at four strength levels when riding, braking or going downhill.
- Magnetic field drive technology with no friction or wear inside the motor. ("Tested over 72,000 kms / 45,000 miles and no maintenance was required.")
- Completely sealed hub so you can ride in the rain and snow.
- Thermal protection to prevent overheating.
Rechargeable Battery
OHM bicycles use E-One Moli Energy (Canada) Ltd’s Lithium-ion battery packs to deliver the safest and highest power of any
mid-large e-bike battery currently available on the market. With advanced protection, performance, and convenience,
Li-ion batteries are fast charging and maintain steady power output throughout their lifespan. The e-bike battery packs are
specifically configured to work with the BionX motor for optimum range and performance.
Each pack contains high capacity li-ion cells and superior BMS (battery management system) that monitors voltage, current and battery temperature.
The BMS has three main functions:
- Safety – prevents overcharge, over discharge, external short circuit, and over temperature
- Performance - enhances performance by cell balancing during charge
- Convenience - fuel gauging and communications
The system also includes a "smart" charger that will charge the battery in approximately 4 hours.
When completed, charging stops, an indicator light illuminates and the battery automatically returns to power-save mode.
Lithium-ion batteries do not retain memory and maintain steady performance during their lifespan.
Available from:
Pi Mobility
The striking design hints at the innovation that permeates the Pi. From the light weight, high power Li-Ion batteries discretely located within the aluminum monocoque arch,
to a nearly silent multi-voltage/multi-watt (24V/400 Watt, 36V/500 Watt, or 48V/750 Watt) brushless flywheel linked to an 8-speed semi-automatic transmission, this bike nearly shouts "functional design".
Another example is a suspension seat system that can easily fit people ranging in heights between 5’2” to 6’8” and provide seated comfort unlike any bike before.
Pi’s patent-pending air lift seating system offers nearly infinite adjustment.
The patent-pending radius frame (“the arc”) provides a range of comfortable, easy, and stress-free riding positions between conventional and semi-recumbent.
And, there are components available that can lower a PI several inches if desired.
Today's designs must also consider sustainable, eco-friendly, or “green” factors begining with selection of suppliers, raw material options based on CO2 output values,
and the potential for recycling. For example, there’s minimal plastic on a Pi and very little rubber. “Smaller (and lighter transportation) is better” also includes the scrutiny of source materials,
manufacturing (the majority of which is California-based), manufacturing by-product and inter-vendor transportation
Pi is produced by California-based manufacturers and, whenever possible, materials produced within California borders.
While California-based manufacturing is more costly due to the State’s highly stringent environmental controls, what better place to produce an ecologically sound product?
And because Pi supports the California’s effort to minimize the environmental impact of manufacturing, Pi production will for the foreseeable future remain within state boundaries.
“What design problem does the Pi solve? Reducing an electric bicycle to its essential purpose made the elemental arch form the logical outcome.
And while I am grateful that people like the design, the pure design aspect of Pi is almost inconsequential to me. The value of a machine in society is determined by its function.
Not just how it operates, but how it repairs, how it services, how it rides, etc. So while some may find the arch beautiful to look at, it’s the function of the arch that interests me.”
--Marcus Hays, Founder and CEO
Learn more at the Pi Mobility website.
Available from:
E+ bikes from Electric Motion Systems
The E+ was designed to the highest standards of quality, performance, reliability, and safety.
The motor, battery pack, and display/controller are completely new, with state-of-the-art technology and amazing performance.
The frame is custom-made, and all components are of the highest quality. Powerful. Silent. Smooth. Emission-free.
The E+ was designed and built as a comprehensive system. Every aspect of the bicycle-from the LCD display/controller unit to the throttle, motor,
and battery pack-works together to deliver an exhilarating, safe, and reliable riding experience.
The E+ takes you where you want to go. Through city streets or wooded bike trails, you don't need to worry about protecting the E+ from the elements.
Highly resistant to water, mud, sand intrusion, and to shock.
Learn more at the EMS website.
Available from:
- Electric Motion Systems, 45150 Business Court, Suite 300, Dulles, Virginia 20166, 877-824-5339 (For inquiries outside of the United States, +1-571-323-5086),
http://www.e-ms.us/
eGO Cycle 2 (Classic and LX)
Not quite a bike, scooter, or moped, but the best of all three.
The eGO Cycle 2 is easy to ride like a bicycle, designed to get the job done, and built to last.
The eGO chassis is sculpture
in motion. Precision tooled T6000 aircraft-grade aluminum is
precisely aligned and TIG welded into an incredibly strong yet
arrestingly beautiful monocoque chassis with room inside to hold
batteries, electronics, and drive components. The chassis is
heat treated, sand blasted and silver anodized for strength, scratch
resistance and exceptional durability.
The eGO Cycle 2 comes in three versions - Classic, LX and SE. The eGO Classic is perfect for
casual commuters, errand runners and for RV users. The eGO LX and SE are designed for daily commuters
and errand runners who will be driving in moderate to heavy traffic.
The LX and SE are fully equipped for registration in any state and include front
and rear turn signals, left grip lighting, turn signal and horn controls, backlit speedometer/odometer.
All three eGO models can go 23 mph in "Go Fast" mode and up to 25 miles in "Go Far" mode.
(Add 50% more range with the Extended Range Battery Pack (XR Pack) accessory.)
Acceleration is 0 to 20 mph in less than 4 seconds.
Relaxing the throttle automatically activates the regenerative braking feature and brake
light. For more stopping power, there's a front disc brake and a rear caliper brake.
Retail prices range from $1550 to $2150 + shipping. Click for more information.
Optibike: The Leader in
High Performance Electric Bikes
Safe and smooth operation at 30+ mph.
Industry leading design combines high performance, efficiency, and style.
Optibike combines speed, long run times and exceptional hill climbing ability in an integrated package
with style. Each bike is hand-built in Boulder, Colorado by a team of professionals with an eye for detail.
- Safe and smooth operation at 30 mph +
- Amazingly, up to 120 minutes run time
- Batteries are stored inside Optibike's monocoque frame
Twice the speed - with half the effort, Optibike has the power. On a test ride in Boulder Colorado, a fit road cyclist was able to climb the notorious Old Stage Road at 10
MPH sitting down with an easy spin on the Optibike. On his ultra light road bike, he had to stand and grind all the way to go 5 mph!!! Twice the speed - half the effort, Optibike has the power.
Optibike’s speed is achieved with Derivative Power Control (DPC) which allows for incredible acceleration while still providing super long run times. State of the
art, fuzzy logic programmed into the Optibike computer continually adjusts the power to provide for optimal distance.
The complete integration of the Optibike 400 is achieved from the ground up with a disign focused on high performance, safety, and ease of operation. Front and rear
long travel suspension with disc brakes gives the rider confidence. The fully integrated package gives the utmost in convenience allowing the rider to ride on road, off road and the up
or down the steepest hills. Optibike is in a class of its own. The Monocoque frame has sleek styling and a low center of gravity for stable handling. All electronics and long-running
NiMH battery are safely housed inside the frame.
Priced at $5,495, delivery time is typically several weeks, but can be affected by inventory.
Available from:
-
Opti-Bike LLC, 2150-A Tamarack Avenue, Boulder, CO 80304, 303-443-0932,
http://www.optibike.com
- Largo
Scooters, 103650 Overseas Hwy. #50, Key Largo, Fl 33037, 305-453-7865,
www.largoscooters.com
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