Shandoka: Converting Gas Motorcycles To EV

An exciting new chapter for motorcyclists is emerging with a North Carolina business launching a patented EV conversion system that allows owners to make the switch to EV without giving up their beloved classics.
This week we're putting the Shandoka Electric Motorcycle conversion to the test and going over the details with founder Ernest Eich.
• Shandoka Electric Motorcycles: shandokacycles.com/
• EV Rider website: evrider.tv
• EV Rider on Facebook: / evriderfl
• EV Rider on Instagram: / evriderfl
• EV Rider on X: x.com/bortzinjax

[@tankdome37]

Looks interesting

[@shandokacycles]

Thanks for the great introduction to spectacular Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park in Jacksonville, and the all-day conversation and ride! See you next time, Bill ⚡️⚡️⚡️⚡️⚡️

[@EVRider]

My pleasure. It was a blast getting to experience the Shandoka.

[@calebbarringer3140]

Love seeing people doing this I’ve been dreaming of rebuilding an old gas motorcycle since 2010. But the price range is still just not quite there cause components crush the budget

[@EVRider]

No doubt, from a price perspective it's a tough pill to swallow but for those that have the luxury of not needing to worry about cost, it's certainly a fun option to consider.

[@tl2913]

Interesting, but why design the bike with a hub motor? The performance and handling will be seriously compromised.

[@EVRider]

After riding the Shandoka, I disagree with your assessment. Full disclosure: I did not ride the converted Yamaha with its original 400cc gas engine but based on what I experienced I doubt performance or handling was sacrificed in the switch to EV. If anything, based on a 400cc Bergman I previously owned, the Shandoka certainly felt faster. I say felt since I did not do any instrumented testing. Balance, handling and acceleration were solid. Hub motors may well end up having a place in the motorcycling world with the prime example being EV motorcycle startup Verge. Until Verge gets bikes into the hands of customers the jury is still out but I wouldn't write off hub motors yet. Verge website: www.vergemotorcycles.com/

[@stockey]

A hub motor is great and motor silent.

[@tl2913]

@@EVRider Hub motors add significant unsprung weight and significantly compromise handling and performance. Take a look at the failed Metacycle for a case study. The other major issue with a hub motor is that removing the rear wheel to change a tire is a complex process requiring disconnecting the power supply to the wheel. It is often difficult or impossible to balance the rear wheel assembly. This video shows the 3-4 hour long process. th-cam.com/video/VoAgnKyHUw4/w-d-xo.html