For the electric bike accessories shown in this video visit hobotech.tv/amazon Check out my e-bike series at th-cam.com/play/PLHEFQDjiZC_fZ-irhJqfFhgnRCXhOW-9v.html *ALL HELMET COMMENTS WILL BE DELETED!* I was on the bike a whole 5 minutes to film this bit for you guys. I rode 1000's of hours as a kid on these streets without any safety gear. Time to land that helicopter, folks. I'm a grown adult responsible for my own safety.
Informative? Not saying how much you paid is resl informative in you book, right? Informative for idiots who dont know the obvious information you did give..
sailingsolar 1) Try actually watching the video: th-cam.com/video/gqMTgzaKfIw/w-d-xo.html 2) You are calling viewers idiots yet you apparently failed second grade grammar. 3) Thanks for watching.
This is awesome and what I've been thinking about . Not to be a Copy Cat .... but I would like to Copy your Project . Already met the Guys at BIKES DIRECT in Jacksonville Florida and wasn't sure which Bike I would use until now . Haven't been to your other Videos yet .... Hope you list What and Where to Purchase etc. Thanks !
I used your build as a guide for my own. I am delighted with my Ebike hot-rod! As a disabled person, riding a mountain bike was too strenuous to be enjoyable. That is all over now! It's like suddenly getting bionic legs! I can ride over difficult terrain, up and down hills, and over long distances with the exact same resistance. Maybe not great for endurance but awesome for someone who hasn't been able to enjoy bike riding for a decade or two. Thank you.
I have a 2019 RadRover fat tire E bike that I love. I live on the Southern California high Mojave Desert and ride the bike over sand trails where it handles beautifully. The bike cost me $1499 which included shipping directly to my house. I'm 82 and this bike is well engineered and is the best and most fun thing I've bought myself in years.
Thank you HOBOTECH, this video is where my e-bike journey began. Until I found this video in 2019 I hadn't come across any videos talking about the mid-drive conversion kits in any detail. I had been looking at gas engine conversions because they seemed simpler and there were many in-depth how-to videos on the subject. This video gave me all the info I needed in order to find answers and tutorials.
Thank you. Been wanting to build an electric bike. Looking around you tube and on line. You saved me a bunch of brain cells. My head smelled of fire burning. You be safe and thanks again
I'm a passionate bike-cyclist going on 75 years old and thinking of getting an E-bike as well. I ride 45-60 miles a week on average on my bikes pretty much year round ( Petaluma, CA) for pleasure,health and errands. Like you I am a DYI and on the fence on getting a pre-built or DIY E-bike and your vid is great food for thought on a well thought out build, thanks.
Just wondering. Do you think that since you've been peddling as long as you have that switching to an ebike would atrophy those muscles that have been peddling so long?
Great vid, I just recently got my own ebike, its a "Electric City Bike 26" (pedal assist) from Hobby-king, it usually goes for $920 , but I caught it on 1 day sale for $269! Its range is 25 miles & a top speed of almost 20mph, I know, not close to the top of the line, but overall I'm very pleased with it, especially the price I paid.....anyone interested, keep checking back with them, its back to $920, but you never know when they will have it on sale again. I'm watching vids like yours to try & build my wife an e bike now
Next year I will have my eBike completed and will have a video on it after it is finished. It will feature 2 1kW Hub Drive Motors, 2x 48v 15ah Lithium with motorcycle hardcase saddlebags, motorcycle handlebar control console for lights, turn signals, car horns. Top speed of this bike (GPS only) so far is 32mph. However others have said they swore I was doing almost 40mph. The thing I am lacking atm is disc brakes and what I have atm is rim brakes. I think I may get a bike that already has disc brakes so I don't have to do any crazy conversions. So far the total cost for my custom ebike is... $157 each for the hub kits (which come with the controller and throttle) ... $314 total $310 for each of the 15ah Lithium Batteries ... $620 total $60 for the motorcycle hard case saddle bags (for the set) ... $60 total $40 each for High PSI (60psi max) 26" Mountain bike street tires $30 for double set of heavy duty thick walled innertubes $10 for Slime(R) Tire Liners (helps prevent punctures) The horns, motorcycle handlebar control console, lights, turn signals and 7ah 12v SLA for them, plus wiring, heat shrink sleeving, connectors, etc... the little crap mostly ... will probably run about $300 to $400 Gotta mention the bike was given to me for free and I've had it for 4 years now. So in essence, just about $1,500 for an insanely high torque moderate speed 100% throttle controlled Motor-pedal-cycle. Sorry, it isn't a MOPED. LOL, and I hope folks here don't start squealing "PEEWEE HERMAN" cuz this bike looks nothing like that clowns toy cycle. :P Quite frankly, I look like a bona fide bad ass. Sadly though, only my co workers say that. The rest of the folks on the roads here in Florida don't think any bicycle rider has any right to be on the roads and they will make sure to treat you like it. Stay tuned!!!
Nice build I just finished a Trek 4500 with Bafang 750 W with a 48V-10 Ah battery. I should have gotten the bigger battery but, total cost was under $1000. Fun to ride !
Old video, but still good. I highly recommend people build their own ebike instead of buying ANY pre-builts. I love the BBSHD, but if 1500 watts is not enough for you, just upgrade the controller and make it 3000watts!!!!! Warning, you will need more/ larger battery packs. But man is it night and day. Theres only 2 ways currently to do this: 1)Grin Phaserunner, and 2) LunaCycles Ludicrous controller. I have tried both ways and recommend the LunaCycles route. VERY simple swap vs the Grin takes some tinkering. The Grin is also a stand alone controller while the Luna one fits exactly where the original one comes off. So it still looks stock, and police will only see a 750w stamped BBSHD motor, but your will have up to 3000w!
This video WAS GREAT!!!. Very informative for me amd u can relate lots of the content. I live in Seattle Washington. Last year my sister purchased me a Rad city power bike. I loved it so much I started dojng food delivery with it for Uber Eats and it became my main form of trwnsoortation. in 5 months I put 3500 miles on that bike. Three weeks ago I left it in the yard 15 min before going out because i had to run back into the house for something. I go back out and the bike is gone!!! STOLEN RIGHT OUT OF MY YARD. So a couple weeks ago my brother-in-law tells me that this guy at his work is selling a bike and it's called a Luna cycle which I had never heard of. He said it was a mountain bike with a kit from Luna cycle and I looked it up on the internet and I never even used a mid Drive motor bike before. So anyhow I basically have the same thing you have it's a 1500 watt artist Street surface will do about 9:34 I think. That's about where I'm chickening out anyways but I can't have it in the Top Gear because some reason I got some kind of slipping God knocking banging slipping something going on that I don't know what it is I don't know if it's the chain slipping on the the sprocket on the back or if it has something to do in the something to do with the mid Drive motor clutching with the paddles or something like that it almost feels like my pedals are slamming into a kickstand is I'm peddling and if I'm in that job here but other than
Sounds like you need to adjust the play between gears by rotating the adjuster at the shifter. If that doesn't help remove the quick links from the chain and reverse them. I had this same issue in my tallest gear and these corrected it.
I respectfully disagree about the Rad Bikes being 'junk'. 2018 batteries are 14AH 48 volts. (they are not overvolted to 52volts to avoid burning the controller and motor over time.) The hub motor has 1 moving part unlike the complex mid drives. No DIY build issues and less wear on the chain (and potential for snapping) Sure it only goes 24mph in off-road mode. But hey a 30mph wipe out on a bike sounds like a trip to the hospital. The Rad 100watt charger will work all day on solar. Anyway I dig your channel and subbed. And yeah there is a lot of junk out there, I won't name. Everybody do your research, but get any EBike and have fun.
They did update them in 2018 to be a better value but the bikes themselves are still made on cheap single size heavy frames. Bike review sites generally agree it's a good starter bike for someone not too serious about riding, making it the right bike for a lot of people. It wouldn't have worked for me, and that's why I built my own and decided to show others how to do the same in case they wanted something better. I agree that everyone should get one and go have fun. Thanks for the comment and welcome aboard!
Rad Power uses geared hub motors not direct drive, so there are a few more than ONE moving part! Actually is on par with the mid drive in moving parts.
From the EBR Review of the RadCity 2018 ..."Gearless hub motors are durable but also weigh more, produce some magnetic drag, and aren't as zippy or powerful at low speeds" Perhaps other models do.
Hi Tom, Really a well planned, well executed build. If yours is the Porsche mine is the VW Bug. About four years ago, I built a Dahon folding bike with the Bafang Mid Drive. I think at the time I might have had one of the only mid drive folders there was. Fast forward to today, I still have it, still ride it and it hasn't given me a lick of trouble. I have a rack and a bag on the back that opens up to become one regular sized ( brown paper bag size) grocery bag and one thing I use it for is grocery shopping. I actually walk it through the store instead of a grocery cart, throw the stuff in the bag that has one of those reusable grocery bags stuffed in it. Then on to self check out, un-bag, scan, re-bag, pay and off I go. Back at the van, I unload, partially fold up the bike and stow it inside the van. One thing I have done is turn on an inverter, plug in the charger and re-charge the battery on the bike while I drive. While putting a couple hours or more on a trip in the van, I can put a little charge back into the bike battery to use when I arrive and want to explore a new spot. Since my bed goes lengthwise, I just leave the bike set up alongside the bed when I know I'm going to ride it. These Bafang motor kits with the mid drive are really catching on and your build shows how you can have a much better form of transportation than a gas scooter, etc.that is lightweight, easy to carry, get great mileage and requires very little maintenance. For my part I would add this setup give years of dependable service as well. A great tool we get a lot of utility use out of and a lot of fun to build and ride.
Hey, Rich! I saw your one video with the bike inside a while back. I could never store mine inside because of the bed (and size/weight), but that's a great idea about taking it shopping instead of using a cart. I also like the idea of charging it off the inverter while driving. I usually run my propane fridge that way on long trips (the 12v switch broke) and adding low amp charge to the bike battery would work. Typically, I charge it off the generator the next day after riding as I don't ride it every day. I agree the bikes are way easier to maintain than their gas counterparts.
I am 290 lbs and have a rear hub Bafang 500W motor and it gets me up hills without a problem in pedal assist mode. My 20” fat tire bike will top put at just under 28 mph.
I have an ebike because I like the exercise of peddling...I have a motorcycle for when I don’t. I acknowledge your comment, however as I originally stated, “gets me up hills without a problem in pedal assist”. Keep up the reviews
My son has some sort of powered bicycle that uses a gasoline motor (and barely any gas at all). All I know is he rode it 138 miles to come visit me on less than two gallons if I recall correctly...also it's extremely heavy. It took him about 18 hours to ride up and see me, but that includes stops, confusion about directions, or letting it cool now and then. He just pulled a really lightweight bike trailer on the back that is all enclosed. Edited to add that I just remembered he said it had a 2-cycle motor on it. It was super cheap to build/maintain and I like that it isn't dependent on more modern systems which I think would be perfect and more practical in a SHTF situation.
Nearly every state in the union classifies gas powered bicycles either as mopeds or motor driven cycles and therefore in most cases you either have to register it (meaning annual tag renewal fees) or you need a motorcycle license to ride it on pubic roads. They are also not legal on most bike trails, or in most National Forest areas for that matter. 2 strokes are annoyingly loud and a great way to have rangers/cops show up at your camp. Yes, 2 stroke kits are a fraction of the price of a decent e-bike but aren't really practical in most cases. As for SHTF I can recharge my bike indefinitely from the sun and ride around in silence without anyone even knowing I'm there.
You make valid points, and yes the gas mix powered ones can be quite loud, which I also dislike. :) Here in Michigan, it appears the bike can be up to 50cc, no title or plate needed and if registration becomes required then it is only $15 once every 3 years. No need for a special license if a person has a driver license already. I believe if it is over a certain number of cc's then it would be classed as a motorcycle and need those endorsements...but then with that kind of power, a person would likely twist up their frames and rear tire rims I guess. As for where it is not ok to ride them in my state, I haven't looked into that yet, but I suppose a person could just use the pedals and not engage the motor if only a regular bicycle is permitted(?). They've become quite popular and are seen frequently in some counties.
I put a 1200 watt ebikeling hub motor $239 - 48 volt 20 amp/5 amp charger lifepo4 sunbike - $395 - Diamondback insight 2 with manual disc brakes - $309 - tuffy tire liners $20 - Single wheel bike trailer ebay $99 - Total cost $1062 - South florida not many hills - just bridges. Pro`s light weight bike 26 lbs motor 14 lbs very fast 34 mph estimate 40 to 50 miles per charge. Cons i wish i bought a battery mount like Hobotechs where it mounts on frame water bottle screws. Mine is temp mounted on bike rack with bungie chords Battery weighs 22 lbs. Haven`t hooked up pedal assist yet but that will add miles to charge and get some good exercise - maybe add another 20 - 30 miles depending on the assist level. Came in handy when old car was in shop. Hope to mount bike trailer this week so i can ride to work soon 8 miles all up hill and in the snow heh !!! ps like the twist throtle grip. Need to cover the wire trails but then like Hobotech said you can pay upwards of $4k as my friend did with a trek bike. He top speed is 28 mph and the battery is like 48 volt 10 amps. Thats how the bike company make their money - like a 20 foot boat with a 90 hp motor - goes nowehre fast ! Good luck with your bike hobotech you may need to get a new tooth brush to get the bugs out of your teeth from all the smilling while riding !!! Pat
Yep! Those bike companies have a huge markup to pay for warehouses and employees. You can simply DIY or pay a bike shop labor only to build one with your parts. Your setup sounds great for street use. Hub motors are actually better on power since they have no moving parts like the mid drives so you get better "MPG".
I built a 2000w hub motor carrera vengeance with a 52v 17.5ah battery for £1400, range is about 70 miles on pedal assist 1 (250-300watts) the price includes all upgrades too like mechanical to hydro brakes, shifter, deraileur and a new deraileur. Tops out at 42 mph on flat....
you need the the MPT7210 MPPT charge controller, with it you can charge any battery with a higher voltage than your solar panel and you can set the terminal charge voltage to any value you want (80, 90 or 100% and any other percentage)
I have a 42v 15ah BATTERY on mine, get 15 miles in the winter here in England and I'm 6'2" 240 pounds using a 250w "minimal" geared front hub, bike weighs approx 46 pounds. Best item I've purchased was this kit, and I've bought alot of toys in a HALF CENTURY 😎🙋♂️
Nice, I was curious to see what the HD Kit did, I've got the 750w bafang with a 52v, it tops out around 34mph with the 46t chain ring to a 14t in the rear.
750w 20mph. ..sounds like heaven. Here in the UK and Europe it's measley 250w and 15.5mph. Hopefully one day this will be addressed. Great vid by the way.
Yep. On the flat I can pedal faster than that. Main reason to geta motor is so it can climb hills for you. If it can't get me up the black mountain in Wales, the purpose of the motor is NONE. What's the point? It's useless in all of Wales and Scotland because mountains.
So glad you done it in mph than kph. And getting up to 30mph. I'm in the UK so bikes here have to apply to EU (spit) law so its 25kph. Needless to say I upgraded mine, just careful where I thumb the throttle 😁 Great video 🇬🇧🤝🏻🇺🇸
Lol you guys are funny, hey I got 2 harleys and 1 and 1/2 ebikes, (building my 2nd one now) , I'd ride with your gang! Lol, love the name dingle berry hahaha! Made me laugh out loud. But one thing I've gotta disagree I can take my rear hub drive anywhere you can your mid drive, it just requires little bit keep it in right gear and pedal assist. Sounds like we're starting a Chevy's better Ford's better type of deal except it's mid drive and hub Drive all in good fun anyway good video.
@@HOBOTECH Non existent, I'm in England and blast about all day ,there's no coppers left on the streets, they're all policing rude behaviour on the internet lmbo
I have a LunaCycles BBS02 on my Diamondback Overdrive 27.5. I've maxed out at 36mph. One got over 1,400 miles on it now. I did have the hanger bend causing the derailleur to literally blow apart. On replacing that I also replaced the chain. After that I had issues skipping teeth and couldn't adjust the higher gears without a horrible noise. I fixed that by replacing the cassette also. Your issue with skipping after replacing the chain might be solved by replacing the cassette.
I just had the quick links on backwards. After reversing them the noise went away. However, the new chain ended up being crap. I'm in search of something better.
Is that Night Rider music? Tom you must aim that rear light directly at the cars behind you because it's led light angle is very narrow sweep, anything else is very dim. As shown it's aimed at the blacktop
You could make a pull behind trailer with a charging unit for extra batteries yes slow charging but anything is better then nothing when your out in the bush and need the extra juice.
The clicking in your gears is a worn gear on your cog. Good idea to change rear cluster with a new chain, they wear together. And a worn chain will wear out the most used gears.
@@HOBOTECH Think about the old chain. Bike chains are made to take the power of a man, maybe a watt or 2. You have been putting 10 times that with the motor, or more. I bet you put it in a comfortable gear and just go and that would be the gear that is skipping. Did you measure the old chain? Mic out the scallop on the gear that is skipping and it will be wider. Even if the chain has only moderate stretch the extra power will start distorting the gear. One of the draw backs of mid-frame motors is putting the power thru an under engineered drive system .
@@bryanburnside9783 OEM chain worked fine for 2 years only breaking twice. I recently installed an ebike chain after it broke a 3rd time. I don't grind the gears.
I'm not sure what the wattage limit is here in Florida, but I've got news for ANYONE who wants to harass me over having 2000w and able to do 30+ mph. (meaning, I know I am not legal, in terms of the law ... but.) for SAFETY REASONS, to myself and other motorists on the roads, being able to EXCEED what a 750w 20mph cap can do can drastically change your chances of LIVE or DIE or CRASH and BURN or RIDE AWAY a little shaken up. I'd much rather have fair bit of wiggle room if I need to suddenly speed up to avoid an accident either to myself or to another motorist. I don't typically ride over 20mph anyway, that is just insanely stupid on a bicycle to go faster. But while you're laying in the hospital in critical condition that could have been avoided if you only had 65% more wattage and 10-15mph more speed .... you get my point? You can't follow some of the rules the state lays down for bicyclists on the roads because those rules are made by folks who don't understand the dangers to the bicyclists and other motorists by limiting wattage and/or speed. For the record, I follow all rules, by the book. Off the record though? I'll do what I need to stay safe while exercising my privilege to ride my bicycle on Florida roadways.
I just saw the video. I agree. I follow laws that aren't stupid. Fed. law is 751 watts, 20 mph on a flt level paved surface carrying a 170 man not pedaling. I weigh 340. To be limited to specs. that are meant for someone who is literally 1/2 my size is ridiculous.
In Switzerland they allow much more powerful Ebikes and they have a lot of deaths in comparison to countries that only allow 250 watt. I assume they allow more powerful bikes because of the hills / mountains. But I guess other road users aren't used to bikes being able to go fast and don't make allowances.
Nice video but there's a different route you can take like I did. I bought a Cannondale prophet lefty bike for $600.00,. I sent off for a tongsheng tsdz 2 mid drive motor for $550.00, then I got a 48volt hailong battery for $250.00. So for under $1500 I got a high spec beautiful mountain ebike that's full suspension for peanuts. It's really rad off road and the motor runs on open source firmware therefore it's programmable and can be made to run like a Bosch motor. Go for it geezas!!
Mid-drives can be finnicky unless you have an internal gear hub because bike chains don't like skipping sprockets at 1500w of torque and they will break or fall off, so you have to be really concious of what you're doing which is a pain in the ass. 1500w hub motors are way less hassle at the end of the day and the regen braking that they have is handy.
Front mechs were always crap, but the idea of using one on an e-bike seems insane. Would also recommend a chain guide if doing electric drive from the front sprocket.
Aren't the chain and the sprockets sized for human output i.e. about 1hp continuously? I think you would get high chain and sprocket wear if you put 2hp on it very often. Chain stretch would start it skipping on the high gear ratios.
sure like to see more of your bike rides, please. I have a day 6 mid drive e-bike. It is a very comfortable road bike, big seat, heavy frame. Right now I am not riding because something is wrong with the magnet and or magnet sensor which effects the operation on my mid-drive. I really like this bike, maybe send you some pictures of it.
Have you ever had any issues with gear slip after riding for awhile. Cause after 2 weeks of riding about 150 miles I'm getting gear slip in the higher cogs now. Typically the first 3 smaller cogs using 46t stock chainring
I didn't see it in any comments(yet), what's the approx gross weight after the conversion and max load capacity??? I live in an apmt where I will be parking it inside and need to clear 8-10" door step....
I hear all the time adding a motor is "cheating". Lest they forget adding all that weight to the bike makes it a lot harder to handle. These guys know where it's at.
I am disabled and cannot pedal. I am looking for a bike with at least a 20 mile range, but it only needs to go 5-7 mph, because I want it to ride on a specific bike path that runs along a canal bank near my house. I used to ride it on a pedal bike, but can no longer do that. The whole path is over 16 miles one way, but I do not need to go that far. At 5 mph, a 20 mile ride is still 4 hours. I have been looking at prebuilt bikes in the $3500 range, it would be nice to get something that would meet my needs. But I really don't want to get into learning all about electric bicycles, I have never cared much for electric anything. I'm a former auto mechanic, and if it was legal, I'd rather have a gas powered bike. So it is tempting to buy a factory made bike, but the idea of saving $1000 is tempting. On a mountain bike I would need a larger seat, with a suspension seatpost, and I would need to raise the bars several inches. I need to sit up straight. Do you think this is a viable option for what I need?
It sounds like a RadCity or RadWagon would be a better fit for you and they are under $1600. You have no need for a mountain bike if you are only going to run on bike paths.
I'm in my late sixties and health issues. Needed an ebike and bought a Prodecotec 500 with upgraded battery and biggest motor I could get. It's flat around here, and I have gotten 45 miles on one charge, with power to spare. Everything on the Prodecotech is top of the line. Only problem I've had is how hard it is to get battery on and off (VERY). I usually drive it around 16 mph, as that is the allowed speed on the bike trail near my house. (Needed a permit, and instead of giving me the one year permit for $16, they charged me full price and only gave me 6 months (RIP OFF!), then they lowered the allowed speed from 20 to 15 when they found out my bike could go 20. Always best to check with the local bike trail office regarding permits and speed. Good luck!
I am well pleased with my front wheel 750 watt way tooo powerful e-bike 36 volt 15ah great for tootling about on only cost 300 pounds for conversion parts. usefull piece of kit
Awesome tutorial video. My build comes from the same dealer. My build is Gravity FX 2.0 2018 from BikesDirect.com.. I do use a 1500W rear hub motor with the 12 Mosfett 3077 controller with the Cycle Analyst. My power is a 52v 15ah. Tires are 26x2.0 Maxxis hookworm! Very fast and about the same price! I have just reached my 1000 miles on the "1500 W Black Lightening" motor! NOT USED OFFROADS! GO ELECTRIC!
The reason your chain is jumping is because you have a new chain on a worn rear sprocket. You should change the chain and rear sprocket together f you need to change the chain.
Look forward to seeing how it holds up under steady use. I have an old Ross I'd consider building onto like this. How much weight did this add to the bike?
I have a rad Rover. I ride the piss out of it. No problems at all. However it does not have the torque like a mid motor bike has. But it's not junk that I can assure you of.
I just bought a an ebike with a the bbshd. I have the mighty mini chain ring up front and I think the smallest out back is 11 tooth. I max out at like 20 mph which is fast, don't get me wrong. I just expected more. I also have a 52 volt shark pack. I do have a programming cable and I've heard about hot rod tuning. I have a feeling it should be hitting closer to 30.
Yes, you have to either get the hot rod tuning or tune it yourself to exceed the federally mandated 20 mph limit. Feds only allow bikes to be sold with that restriction. I got the hod rod tuning and then modified to my liking using a laptop. It's pretty easy. I started with a preset and tuned according to this electricbike-blog.com/2015/06/26/a-hackers-guide-to-programming-the-bbs02/
I am sold on mid drive for sure, but saying that rear hub is good for flat. I still want mid, if I stay at 15-mph which is as fast as I can go pedalling do I have to worry about the dreaded breaking chains and gears. Thanks
A most interesting video. I am currently in the process of building the Atomic Zombie Streetfox, a reverse recumbent bike. Since I made the frame using steel instead of aluminum, it's a bit on the heavy side, but looks like this motor can handle it. The brakes are caliper brakes but I never ride over 20mph anyway. Do you have a breakdown or list of the cost of your battery, motor, and electronics? Thank you for reading.
Rad Rovers aren't Junk ... The frame is as good or better than Motobecane , they use a 750watt Bafang hub drive , and use top notch Samsung cell Battery . I rode my buddies it's a Really sweet Ride . I just built a Fatbike with a Cyclone Motor from Luna , all said and done cost me about $1400.00. Very happy with it so far .. Happy trails
The frames are about as cheap as they come. They're only one size and really heavy (66lbs!). They have cheap 7 speed gears, no tapered head, threaded hubs, etc. The list goes on. Are they a great value, yes! Can you build something better for about the same price? Well, you already answered that and made my point. Cheers.
One area I would like to know is what chain did you upgrade to? What front sprocket did you use? Was it from Lunacycle or did you reuse the old one or order a new smaller Lunacycle sprocket. Again that heavy duty chain would be nice to know what parts you used. Thanks man.
This is a very well done video. I like everything about this video except you riding it without a helmet or gloves. If and when you fall down on the paved road at 35 mph for any reason, u will know what I mean.
For the electric bike accessories shown in this video visit hobotech.tv/amazon
Check out my e-bike series at th-cam.com/play/PLHEFQDjiZC_fZ-irhJqfFhgnRCXhOW-9v.html
*ALL HELMET COMMENTS WILL BE DELETED!* I was on the bike a whole 5 minutes to film this bit for you guys. I rode 1000's of hours as a kid on these streets without any safety gear. Time to land that helicopter, folks. I'm a grown adult responsible for my own safety.
Informative? Not saying how much you paid is resl informative in you book, right? Informative for idiots who dont know the obvious information you did give..
sailingsolar
1) Try actually watching the video: th-cam.com/video/gqMTgzaKfIw/w-d-xo.html
2) You are calling viewers idiots yet you apparently failed second grade grammar.
3) Thanks for watching.
amk, yes
This is awesome and what I've been thinking about .
Not to be a Copy Cat .... but I would like to Copy your Project .
Already met the Guys at BIKES DIRECT in Jacksonville Florida and wasn't sure which Bike I would use until now .
Haven't been to your other Videos yet .... Hope you list What and Where to Purchase etc.
Thanks !
ebike more. to
I used your build as a guide for my own. I am delighted with my Ebike hot-rod!
As a disabled person, riding a mountain bike was too strenuous to be enjoyable. That is all over now! It's like suddenly getting bionic legs! I can ride over difficult terrain, up and down hills, and over long distances with the exact same resistance.
Maybe not great for endurance but awesome for someone who hasn't been able to enjoy bike riding for a decade or two.
Thank you.
What a well spoken gentleman , everything clearly explained , nothing rushed . thank you and congrats on the great build . that bike is a bargain .
Thanks for watching and for the great comment.
I have a 2019 RadRover fat tire E bike that I love. I live on the Southern California high Mojave Desert and ride the bike over sand trails where it handles beautifully. The bike cost me $1499 which included shipping directly to my house. I'm 82 and this bike is well engineered and is the best and most fun thing I've bought myself in years.
That is awesome. Im in Pa. And been wanting an ebike. Im 63 and want to get back to riding, and this would help.
Thank you HOBOTECH, this video is where my e-bike journey began. Until I found this video in 2019 I hadn't come across any videos talking about the mid-drive conversion kits in any detail. I had been looking at gas engine conversions because they seemed simpler and there were many in-depth how-to videos on the subject. This video gave me all the info I needed in order to find answers and tutorials.
Thank you. Been wanting to build an electric bike. Looking around you tube and on line. You saved me a bunch of brain cells. My head smelled of fire burning. You be safe and thanks again
I'm a passionate bike-cyclist going on 75 years old and thinking of getting an E-bike as well. I ride 45-60 miles a week on average on my bikes pretty much year round ( Petaluma, CA) for pleasure,health and errands. Like you I am a DYI and on the fence on getting a pre-built or DIY E-bike and your vid is great food for thought on a well thought out build, thanks.
Just wondering. Do you think that since you've been peddling as long as you have that switching to an ebike would atrophy those muscles that have been peddling so long?
Great vid, I just recently got my own ebike, its a "Electric City Bike 26" (pedal assist) from Hobby-king, it usually goes for $920 , but I caught it on 1 day sale for $269! Its range is 25 miles & a top speed of almost 20mph, I know, not close to the top of the line, but overall I'm very pleased with it, especially the price I paid.....anyone interested, keep checking back with them, its back to $920, but you never know when they will have it on sale again. I'm watching vids like yours to try & build my wife an e bike now
Next year I will have my eBike completed and will have a video on it after it is finished.
It will feature 2 1kW Hub Drive Motors, 2x 48v 15ah Lithium with motorcycle hardcase saddlebags, motorcycle handlebar control console for lights, turn signals, car horns. Top speed of this bike (GPS only) so far is 32mph. However others have said they swore I was doing almost 40mph.
The thing I am lacking atm is disc brakes and what I have atm is rim brakes. I think I may get a bike that already has disc brakes so I don't have to do any crazy conversions.
So far the total cost for my custom ebike is...
$157 each for the hub kits (which come with the controller and throttle) ... $314 total
$310 for each of the 15ah Lithium Batteries ... $620 total
$60 for the motorcycle hard case saddle bags (for the set) ... $60 total
$40 each for High PSI (60psi max) 26" Mountain bike street tires
$30 for double set of heavy duty thick walled innertubes
$10 for Slime(R) Tire Liners (helps prevent punctures)
The horns, motorcycle handlebar control console, lights, turn signals and 7ah 12v SLA for them, plus wiring, heat shrink sleeving, connectors, etc... the little crap mostly ... will probably run about $300 to $400
Gotta mention the bike was given to me for free and I've had it for 4 years now.
So in essence, just about $1,500 for an insanely high torque moderate speed 100% throttle controlled Motor-pedal-cycle. Sorry, it isn't a MOPED. LOL, and I hope folks here don't start squealing "PEEWEE HERMAN" cuz this bike looks nothing like that clowns toy cycle. :P
Quite frankly, I look like a bona fide bad ass. Sadly though, only my co workers say that. The rest of the folks on the roads here in Florida don't think any bicycle rider has any right to be on the roads and they will make sure to treat you like it.
Stay tuned!!!
Nice build I just finished a Trek 4500 with Bafang 750 W with a 48V-10 Ah battery. I should have gotten the bigger battery but, total cost was under $1000. Fun to ride !
I have been riding a RadWagon for 2 years (10,000 miles+). I am building a BBSHD with a Haro frame soon. This is a great video. Best BBSHD review yet!
Thanks! RadWagons are pretty cool. If I didn't ride mostly off road I would have considered one.
Old video, but still good. I highly recommend people build their own ebike instead of buying ANY pre-builts. I love the BBSHD, but if 1500 watts is not enough for you, just upgrade the controller and make it 3000watts!!!!! Warning, you will need more/ larger battery packs. But man is it night and day. Theres only 2 ways currently to do this: 1)Grin Phaserunner, and 2) LunaCycles Ludicrous controller. I have tried both ways and recommend the LunaCycles route. VERY simple swap vs the Grin takes some tinkering. The Grin is also a stand alone controller while the Luna one fits exactly where the original one comes off. So it still looks stock, and police will only see a 750w stamped BBSHD motor, but your will have up to 3000w!
The knight rider theme with the best awesome build
This video WAS GREAT!!!. Very informative for me amd u can relate lots of the content. I live in Seattle Washington. Last year my sister purchased me a Rad city power bike. I loved it so much I started dojng food delivery with it for Uber Eats and it became my main form of trwnsoortation. in 5 months I put 3500 miles on that bike. Three weeks ago I left it in the yard 15 min before going out because i had to run back into the house for something. I go back out and the bike is gone!!! STOLEN RIGHT OUT OF MY YARD. So a couple weeks ago my brother-in-law tells me that this guy at his work is selling a bike and it's called a Luna cycle which I had never heard of. He said it was a mountain bike with a kit from Luna cycle and I looked it up on the internet and I never even used a mid Drive motor bike before. So anyhow I basically have the same thing you have it's a 1500 watt artist Street surface will do about 9:34 I think. That's about where I'm chickening out anyways but I can't have it in the Top Gear because some reason I got some kind of slipping God knocking banging slipping something going on that I don't know what it is I don't know if it's the chain slipping on the the sprocket on the back or if it has something to do in the something to do with the mid Drive motor clutching with the paddles or something like that it almost feels like my pedals are slamming into a kickstand is I'm peddling and if I'm in that job here but other than
Sounds like you need to adjust the play between gears by rotating the adjuster at the shifter. If that doesn't help remove the quick links from the chain and reverse them. I had this same issue in my tallest gear and these corrected it.
Wow great build. I have a pick up truck w camper shell and love your stealth build. Excellent video thank you
I respectfully disagree about the Rad Bikes being 'junk'. 2018 batteries are 14AH 48 volts. (they are not overvolted to 52volts to avoid burning the controller and motor over time.) The hub motor has 1 moving part unlike the complex mid drives. No DIY build issues and less wear on the chain (and potential for snapping) Sure it only goes 24mph in off-road mode. But hey a 30mph wipe out on a bike sounds like a trip to the hospital. The Rad 100watt charger will work all day on solar. Anyway I dig your channel and subbed. And yeah there is a lot of junk out there, I won't name. Everybody do your research, but get any EBike and have fun.
They did update them in 2018 to be a better value but the bikes themselves are still made on cheap single size heavy frames. Bike review sites generally agree it's a good starter bike for someone not too serious about riding, making it the right bike for a lot of people. It wouldn't have worked for me, and that's why I built my own and decided to show others how to do the same in case they wanted something better. I agree that everyone should get one and go have fun. Thanks for the comment and welcome aboard!
Thanks HT. ( My next bike may be be a mid drive after all )
Rad Power uses geared hub motors not direct drive, so there are a few more than ONE moving part! Actually is on par with the mid drive in moving parts.
From the EBR Review of the RadCity 2018 ..."Gearless hub motors are durable but also weigh more, produce some magnetic drag, and aren't as zippy or powerful at low speeds" Perhaps other models do.
RadRover and RadMini use geared hub motors; RadWagon and RadCity use direct drive motors.
Thanks for the video. You answered all my questions without me asking. Very good video.
Dude, I owe you a beer-you have such a great way of explaining things! Still lovin the vids 🤓
Hi Tom,
Really a well planned, well executed build. If yours is the Porsche mine is the VW Bug. About four years ago, I built a Dahon folding bike with the Bafang Mid Drive. I think at the time I might have had one of the only mid drive folders there was.
Fast forward to today, I still have it, still ride it and it hasn't given me a lick of trouble. I have a rack and a bag on the back that opens up to become one regular sized ( brown paper bag size) grocery bag and one thing I use it for is grocery shopping. I actually walk it through the store instead of a grocery cart, throw the stuff in the bag that has one of those reusable grocery bags stuffed in it. Then on to self check out, un-bag, scan, re-bag, pay and off I go.
Back at the van, I unload, partially fold up the bike and stow it inside the van.
One thing I have done is turn on an inverter, plug in the charger and re-charge the battery on the bike while I drive. While putting a couple hours or more on a trip in the van, I can put a little charge back into the bike battery to use when I arrive and want to explore a new spot.
Since my bed goes lengthwise, I just leave the bike set up alongside the bed when I know I'm going to ride it.
These Bafang motor kits with the mid drive are really catching on and your build shows how you can have a much better form of transportation than a gas scooter, etc.that is lightweight, easy to carry, get great mileage and requires very little maintenance. For my part I would add this setup give years of dependable service as well. A great tool we get a lot of utility use out of and a lot of fun to build and ride.
Hey, Rich! I saw your one video with the bike inside a while back. I could never store mine inside because of the bed (and size/weight), but that's a great idea about taking it shopping instead of using a cart. I also like the idea of charging it off the inverter while driving. I usually run my propane fridge that way on long trips (the 12v switch broke) and adding low amp charge to the bike battery would work. Typically, I charge it off the generator the next day after riding as I don't ride it every day. I agree the bikes are way easier to maintain than their gas counterparts.
I am 290 lbs and have a rear hub Bafang 500W motor and it gets me up hills without a problem in pedal assist mode. My 20” fat tire bike will top put at just under 28 mph.
I meant without pedaling. You could never go up a hill unassisted with a 500w hub drive.
I have an ebike because I like the exercise of peddling...I have a motorcycle for when I don’t. I acknowledge your comment, however as I originally stated, “gets me up hills without a problem in pedal assist”. Keep up the reviews
My son has some sort of powered bicycle that uses a gasoline motor (and barely any gas at all). All I know is he rode it 138 miles to come visit me on less than two gallons if I recall correctly...also it's extremely heavy. It took him about 18 hours to ride up and see me, but that includes stops, confusion about directions, or letting it cool now and then. He just pulled a really lightweight bike trailer on the back that is all enclosed. Edited to add that I just remembered he said it had a 2-cycle motor on it. It was super cheap to build/maintain and I like that it isn't dependent on more modern systems which I think would be perfect and more practical in a SHTF situation.
Nearly every state in the union classifies gas powered bicycles either as mopeds or motor driven cycles and therefore in most cases you either have to register it (meaning annual tag renewal fees) or you need a motorcycle license to ride it on pubic roads. They are also not legal on most bike trails, or in most National Forest areas for that matter. 2 strokes are annoyingly loud and a great way to have rangers/cops show up at your camp. Yes, 2 stroke kits are a fraction of the price of a decent e-bike but aren't really practical in most cases. As for SHTF I can recharge my bike indefinitely from the sun and ride around in silence without anyone even knowing I'm there.
You make valid points, and yes the gas mix powered ones can be quite loud, which I also dislike. :) Here in Michigan, it appears the bike can be up to 50cc, no title or plate needed and if registration becomes required then it is only $15 once every 3 years. No need for a special license if a person has a driver license already. I believe if it is over a certain number of cc's then it would be classed as a motorcycle and need those endorsements...but then with that kind of power, a person would likely twist up their frames and rear tire rims I guess. As for where it is not ok to ride them in my state, I haven't looked into that yet, but I suppose a person could just use the pedals and not engage the motor if only a regular bicycle is permitted(?). They've become quite popular and are seen frequently in some counties.
Nice buddy. I took a Santa Cruz superlight and 52.2v Panasonic cells to a hacked BBS02 (1500 w). I have had it to 45. It is terrifying.
I put a 1200 watt ebikeling hub motor $239 - 48 volt 20 amp/5 amp charger lifepo4 sunbike - $395 - Diamondback insight 2 with manual disc brakes - $309 - tuffy tire liners $20 - Single wheel bike trailer ebay $99 - Total cost $1062 - South florida not many hills - just bridges. Pro`s light weight bike 26 lbs motor 14 lbs very fast 34 mph estimate 40 to 50 miles per charge. Cons i wish i bought a battery mount like Hobotechs where it mounts on frame water bottle screws. Mine is temp mounted on bike rack with bungie chords Battery weighs 22 lbs. Haven`t hooked up pedal assist yet but that will add miles to charge and get some good exercise - maybe add another 20 - 30 miles depending on the assist level. Came in handy when old car was in shop. Hope to mount bike trailer this week so i can ride to work soon 8 miles all up hill and in the snow heh !!! ps like the twist throtle grip. Need to cover the wire trails but then like Hobotech said you can pay upwards of $4k as my friend did with a trek bike. He top speed is 28 mph and the battery is like 48 volt 10 amps. Thats how the bike company make their money - like a 20 foot boat with a 90 hp motor - goes nowehre fast ! Good luck with your bike hobotech you may need to get a new tooth brush to get the bugs out of your teeth from all the smilling while riding !!! Pat
Yep! Those bike companies have a huge markup to pay for warehouses and employees. You can simply DIY or pay a bike shop labor only to build one with your parts. Your setup sounds great for street use. Hub motors are actually better on power since they have no moving parts like the mid drives so you get better "MPG".
Interesting video, I am new to the e-bike evolution revolution and found your very informative (and easy to understand). Thank you.
I contemplated making a bike from a kit and parts but now in 2020 there are so very many models on the market I’m just going to buy one ready made.
I built a 2000w hub motor carrera vengeance with a 52v 17.5ah battery for £1400, range is about 70 miles on pedal assist 1 (250-300watts) the price includes all upgrades too like mechanical to hydro brakes, shifter, deraileur and a new deraileur. Tops out at 42 mph on flat....
It’s all about philosophy of use, for city riding, Rad Rover is fine and decent quality, for off-road use, you want mid drive period. Nice review.
Im looking for a Efat slow for trail riding . any idea. 2k 3k . mid drive? What brand . im in USA. Arizona.TY
you need the the MPT7210 MPPT charge controller, with it you can charge any battery with a higher voltage than your solar panel and you can set the terminal charge voltage to any value you want (80, 90 or 100% and any other percentage)
I really enjoyed this video, i learned a lot. Looking forward to the bike build video. Keep on keeping on!
I have a 42v 15ah BATTERY on mine, get 15 miles in the winter here in England and I'm 6'2" 240 pounds using a 250w "minimal" geared front hub, bike weighs approx 46 pounds. Best item I've purchased was this kit, and I've bought alot of toys in a HALF CENTURY 😎🙋♂️
OMG! I lost it when that "NIGHT RIDER" music started!
Great video mr.HOBO. Cheers from Czech Republic. Keep nice videos coming.
Nice, I was curious to see what the HD Kit did, I've got the 750w bafang with a 52v, it tops out around 34mph with the 46t chain ring to a 14t in the rear.
750w 20mph. ..sounds like heaven. Here in the UK and Europe it's measley 250w and 15.5mph. Hopefully one day this will be addressed. Great vid by the way.
Yep. On the flat I can pedal faster than that. Main reason to geta motor is so it can climb hills for you. If it can't get me up the black mountain in Wales, the purpose of the motor is NONE. What's the point? It's useless in all of Wales and Scotland because mountains.
So glad you done it in mph than kph. And getting up to 30mph. I'm in the UK so bikes here have to apply to EU (spit) law so its 25kph. Needless to say I upgraded mine, just careful where I thumb the throttle 😁
Great video 🇬🇧🤝🏻🇺🇸
In the UK so 25kiphs ? 16mph or 15.5mph because 100% metric equivalent. You can go to 350w boost if pedal assisted.
I've seen it in person folks & let me tell you it is a SWEET E Bike!
You need to get one too, dude! We could have a sick biker gang going on the next RTR.
HOBOTECH YES! I Concur...
Lol you guys are funny, hey I got 2 harleys and 1 and 1/2 ebikes, (building my 2nd one now) , I'd ride with your gang! Lol, love the name dingle berry hahaha! Made me laugh out loud. But one thing I've gotta disagree I can take my rear hub drive anywhere you can your mid drive, it just requires little bit keep it in right gear and pedal assist. Sounds like we're starting a Chevy's better Ford's better type of deal except it's mid drive and hub Drive all in good fun anyway good video.
38mph on my one in the UK 2019 but most of the time I don't need it, but its good to know it's there.
38 on an e-bike there will get you put in prison! You're brave. Kidding aside, I heard the laws there on e-bikes are insanely strict.
@@HOBOTECH Non existent, I'm in England and blast about all day ,there's no coppers left on the streets, they're all policing rude behaviour on the internet lmbo
SUPERB VIDEO, VERY WELL DONE. I HAVE WONDERED ABOUT HUB VS MID BIKE DRIVES. EVEN THE GUY AT THE BIKE SHOP WAS ABOUT 25% AS INFORMATIVE AS YOUR VIDEO
I have a LunaCycles BBS02 on my Diamondback Overdrive 27.5. I've maxed out at 36mph. One got over 1,400 miles on it now. I did have the hanger bend causing the derailleur to literally blow apart. On replacing that I also replaced the chain. After that I had issues skipping teeth and couldn't adjust the higher gears without a horrible noise. I fixed that by replacing the cassette also. Your issue with skipping after replacing the chain might be solved by replacing the cassette.
I just had the quick links on backwards. After reversing them the noise went away. However, the new chain ended up being crap. I'm in search of something better.
Is that Night Rider music?
Tom you must aim that rear light directly at the cars behind you because it's led light angle is very narrow sweep, anything else is very dim. As shown it's aimed at the blacktop
Engaging Warp Drive, Michael. Great music!
You could make a pull behind trailer with a charging unit for extra batteries yes slow charging but anything is better then nothing when your out in the bush and need the extra juice.
The clicking in your gears is a worn gear on your cog. Good idea to change rear cluster with a new chain, they wear together. And a worn chain will wear out the most used gears.
Bike only had 100 miles on it wasn't worn. I had the quick link backwards.
@@HOBOTECH Think about the old chain. Bike chains are made to take the power of a man, maybe a watt or 2. You have been putting 10 times that with the motor, or more. I bet you put it in a comfortable gear and just go and that would be the gear that is skipping. Did you measure the old chain? Mic out the scallop on the gear that is skipping and it will be wider. Even if the chain has only moderate stretch the extra power will start distorting the gear. One of the draw backs of mid-frame motors is putting the power thru an under engineered drive system .
@@bryanburnside9783 OEM chain worked fine for 2 years only breaking twice. I recently installed an ebike chain after it broke a 3rd time. I don't grind the gears.
I'm not sure what the wattage limit is here in Florida, but I've got news for ANYONE who wants to harass me over having 2000w and able to do 30+ mph. (meaning, I know I am not legal, in terms of the law ... but.)
for SAFETY REASONS, to myself and other motorists on the roads, being able to EXCEED what a 750w 20mph cap can do can drastically change your chances of LIVE or DIE or CRASH and BURN or RIDE AWAY a little shaken up.
I'd much rather have fair bit of wiggle room if I need to suddenly speed up to avoid an accident either to myself or to another motorist. I don't typically ride over 20mph anyway, that is just insanely stupid on a bicycle to go faster. But while you're laying in the hospital in critical condition that could have been avoided if you only had 65% more wattage and 10-15mph more speed .... you get my point?
You can't follow some of the rules the state lays down for bicyclists on the roads because those rules are made by folks who don't understand the dangers to the bicyclists and other motorists by limiting wattage and/or speed.
For the record, I follow all rules, by the book.
Off the record though? I'll do what I need to stay safe while exercising my privilege to ride my bicycle on Florida roadways.
I just saw the video. I agree. I follow laws that aren't stupid. Fed. law is 751 watts, 20 mph on a flt level paved surface carrying a 170 man not pedaling.
I weigh 340. To be limited to specs. that are meant for someone who is literally 1/2 my size is ridiculous.
Love your logic.....the same apples to cars on an interstate.....
In Switzerland they allow much more powerful Ebikes and they have a lot of deaths in comparison to countries that only allow 250 watt. I assume they allow more powerful bikes because of the hills / mountains. But I guess other road users aren't used to bikes being able to go fast and don't make allowances.
god what a fucking badass
Great bike. A rack would make it much nicer for carrying things. Topeak makes some great models with removable bags that expand.
Answers a lot of my questions about e bikes, you sure built a rad bike.
Thanks. Glad to help!
That was a great review video and a great machine you have built. Congratulations!
Nice video but there's a different route you can take like I did. I bought a Cannondale prophet lefty bike for $600.00,. I sent off for a tongsheng tsdz 2 mid drive motor for $550.00, then I got a 48volt hailong battery for $250.00.
So for under $1500 I got a high spec beautiful mountain ebike that's full suspension for peanuts.
It's really rad off road and the motor runs on open source firmware therefore it's programmable and can be made to run like a Bosch motor.
Go for it geezas!!
I'll have to upgrade at Farrs in Manchester CT
Well thought and skillfully executed production. Great overview. My interest is sparked. TY
smart choice on the tires.
Built one on a Specialized Roll and was a great bike, sold it as it no longer provided any exercise...
Awesome! I wanted to see that at the RTR, but couldn't make it out because I was ill. I can't wait for the build videos! Thanks!
I'll get to work on those soon. I need to plan the next leg of my trip first now that it's warming up.
Nice ebike! How is it holding up for you? I am loving my ebike. It has been a game changer for me.
This video worth every second of my time. Dude your knowledge of &#¡t is limitless.
Appreciate the comment!
VIDEO STARTS AT 5:50 You're welcome.
8
Mid-drives can be finnicky unless you have an internal gear hub because bike chains don't like skipping sprockets at 1500w of torque and they will break or fall off, so you have to be really concious of what you're doing which is a pain in the ass. 1500w hub motors are way less hassle at the end of the day and the regen braking that they have is handy.
Front mechs were always crap, but the idea of using one on an e-bike seems insane.
Would also recommend a chain guide if doing electric drive from the front sprocket.
Great work on video mate greetings from Spain
Can you install a wheel generator to charge the battery as you ride?
I enjoyed that vid way more than the others
( rad n juiced )
I learn more from diy’ers ! Right on 👍
HT. YOU HAVE TO LOCK YOUR TIRE ,PLACE THE LOCK (U-LOCK)AROUND THE SEAT TUBE AND THE TIRE.
An ATV throttle, instead of yours that moves up and down, would be a good upgrade and be easier to use since it moves horizontally.
Aren't the chain and the sprockets sized for human output i.e. about 1hp continuously? I think you would get high chain and sprocket wear if you put 2hp on it very often. Chain stretch would start it skipping on the high gear ratios.
Great videos and channel dude!!
I have v breaks but planning on upgrading down the road
I just bought a sonders e bike original for 150$. Thinking about reselling it and making my own.
sure like to see more of your bike rides, please. I have a day 6 mid drive e-bike. It is a very comfortable road bike, big seat, heavy frame. Right now I am not riding because something is wrong with the magnet and or magnet sensor which effects the operation on my mid-drive. I really like this bike, maybe send you some pictures of it.
I have a playlist of bike rides. Enjoy.
Nice bike you put together. Well thought out and you hit all the sweet spots for an all-rounder.
good job and happy to see you in Pgh.
Have you ever had any issues with gear slip after riding for awhile. Cause after 2 weeks of riding about 150 miles I'm getting gear slip in the higher cogs now. Typically the first 3 smaller cogs using 46t stock chainring
wow, can't wait for the video on the build...really nice rig
So glad you are a cat person - best kind!
I didn't see it in any comments(yet), what's the approx gross weight after the conversion and max load capacity??? I live in an apmt where I will be parking it inside and need to clear 8-10" door step....
Way cool video!very well explained.Ive been looking into ebikes and like the idea of building my own,I like the fact you had it going 36 mph.
The cat, spot on!
Thank you for the information, & no thanks on cleaning the litter box, LOL. Good job on the bike.
Friends have told me to ride a bike to get in shape. This is exactly what I need! 🚴♂️
The best part is you can pedal as little or as much as you like for exercise.
I have tested out an E-Bike for peddeling. I must of had the wrong gear , it was a workout fer sure.
Sister Wendy, the hub drive bikes can feel like that because they don't use the gears like the mid drive bikes. They help more once you get going.
Very True, I could have added that to my statement..check this out, th-cam.com/video/VIcZaoL8bWg/w-d-xo.html
I hear all the time adding a motor is "cheating". Lest they forget adding all that weight to the bike makes it a lot harder to handle. These guys know where it's at.
I am disabled and cannot pedal. I am looking for a bike with at least a 20 mile range, but it only needs to go 5-7 mph, because I want it to ride on a specific bike path that runs along a canal bank near my house. I used to ride it on a pedal bike, but can no longer do that. The whole path is over 16 miles one way, but I do not need to go that far. At 5 mph, a 20 mile ride is still 4 hours. I have been looking at prebuilt bikes in the $3500 range, it would be nice to get something that would meet my needs. But I really don't want to get into learning all about electric bicycles, I have never cared much for electric anything. I'm a former auto mechanic, and if it was legal, I'd rather have a gas powered bike. So it is tempting to buy a factory made bike, but the idea of saving $1000 is tempting. On a mountain bike I would need a larger seat, with a suspension seatpost, and I would need to raise the bars several inches. I need to sit up straight. Do you think this is a viable option for what I need?
It sounds like a RadCity or RadWagon would be a better fit for you and they are under $1600. You have no need for a mountain bike if you are only going to run on bike paths.
I'm in my late sixties and health issues. Needed an ebike and bought a Prodecotec 500 with upgraded battery and biggest motor I could get. It's flat around here, and I have gotten 45 miles on one charge, with power to spare. Everything on the Prodecotech is top of the line. Only problem I've had is how hard it is to get battery on and off (VERY). I usually drive it around 16 mph, as that is the allowed speed on the bike trail near my house. (Needed a permit, and instead of giving me the one year permit for $16, they charged me full price and only gave me 6 months (RIP OFF!), then they lowered the allowed speed from 20 to 15 when they found out my bike could go 20. Always best to check with the local bike trail office regarding permits and speed. Good luck!
My bike (ancheer) on eBay cost $460, but will only go about 17 miles Max.
I am well pleased with my front wheel 750 watt way tooo powerful e-bike 36 volt 15ah great for tootling about on only cost 300 pounds for conversion parts. usefull piece of kit
Awesome tutorial video. My build comes from the same dealer. My build is Gravity FX 2.0 2018 from BikesDirect.com.. I do use a 1500W rear hub motor with the 12 Mosfett 3077 controller with the Cycle Analyst. My power is a 52v 15ah. Tires are 26x2.0 Maxxis hookworm! Very fast and about the same price! I have just reached my 1000 miles on the "1500 W Black Lightening" motor! NOT USED OFFROADS!
GO ELECTRIC!
Steve Aldebaran what's your top speed?
That's crazy awesome fast. Be safe!
What batteries do you use? 52volts sounds super heavy and expensive
Isn't this the bafang bbshd, they do a kit based on this on aliexpress. Just looks like it's rebranded, great kit though. Love to have one.
How much resistance is there pedaling with zero assist? Do these motors have condensation/ erosion problems from winter use?
You should go with the 62 t front
The reason your chain is jumping is because you have a new chain on a worn rear sprocket. You should change the chain and rear sprocket together f you need to change the chain.
I had the quick links on backwards that's all. The chain ended up being junk anyway.
Hi Tom, How much does the ebike weigh the way you have it set up battery and all?
Wicked video
How much did the total kit cost and how many miles does it do on one charge
Thanx
Look forward to seeing how it holds up under steady use. I have an old Ross I'd consider building onto like this. How much weight did this add to the bike?
This video is the 7 month review of the bike. It held up great. The motor and battery probably adds 25lb.
I have a 2019 Trek Roscoe 8. Thinking about getting this. Trying to do research if it will work.
I heard that not all bikes work with the bafang I don't know why, is the motobecane one of the bikes that works, what other kinds work?
Born and raised in Pittsburgh myself ,I built an E bike and ride all over the city and parks I love my bike I have over 800 miles on it so far.
I have a rad Rover. I ride the piss out of it. No problems at all. However it does not have the torque like a mid motor bike has. But it's not junk that I can assure you of.
Excellent vid!
You made an e-bike vid that actually provided all the answers to the most common questions--well done, Tom!
Thanks for sharing!
I just bought a an ebike with a the bbshd. I have the mighty mini chain ring up front and I think the smallest out back is 11 tooth. I max out at like 20 mph which is fast, don't get me wrong. I just expected more. I also have a 52 volt shark pack. I do have a programming cable and I've heard about hot rod tuning. I have a feeling it should be hitting closer to 30.
Yes, you have to either get the hot rod tuning or tune it yourself to exceed the federally mandated 20 mph limit. Feds only allow bikes to be sold with that restriction. I got the hod rod tuning and then modified to my liking using a laptop. It's pretty easy. I started with a preset and tuned according to this electricbike-blog.com/2015/06/26/a-hackers-guide-to-programming-the-bbs02/
I am sold on mid drive for sure, but saying that rear hub is good for flat. I still want mid, if I stay at 15-mph which is as fast as I can go pedalling do I have to worry about the dreaded breaking chains and gears. Thanks
If you get an e-bike specific chain then you won't break them. Just carry a spare and it is a non issue.
just ran across your channel,went back watched a couple other vids. like your presentation and reviews. subbed.
Welcome aboard!
A most interesting video. I am currently in the process of building the Atomic Zombie Streetfox, a reverse recumbent bike.
Since I made the frame using steel instead of aluminum, it's a bit on the heavy side, but looks like this motor can handle it.
The brakes are caliper brakes but I never ride over 20mph anyway.
Do you have a breakdown or list of the cost of your battery, motor, and electronics?
Thank you for reading.
Rad Rovers aren't Junk ... The frame is as good or better than Motobecane , they use a 750watt Bafang hub drive , and use top notch Samsung cell Battery . I rode my buddies it's a Really sweet Ride . I just built a Fatbike with a Cyclone Motor from Luna , all said and done cost me about $1400.00. Very happy with it so far .. Happy trails
The frames are about as cheap as they come. They're only one size and really heavy (66lbs!). They have cheap 7 speed gears, no tapered head, threaded hubs, etc. The list goes on. Are they a great value, yes! Can you build something better for about the same price? Well, you already answered that and made my point. Cheers.
I wish you were in CT where I live
One area I would like to know is what chain did you upgrade to? What front sprocket did you use? Was it from Lunacycle or did you reuse the old one or order a new smaller Lunacycle sprocket. Again that heavy duty chain would be nice to know what parts you used. Thanks man.
I used a Luna 36T chain ring.
I wonder if they will sub this part in their kit?
This is a very well done video. I like everything about this video except you riding it without a helmet or gloves. If and when you fall down on the paved road at 35 mph for any reason, u will know what I mean.