sub-$1k setup for trailing 1yo son thru hilly paved trails

[ryan]

Wow, that's certainly within budget. Thanks!

I'm not against a little modding, but just so I understand the cost-benefit, what are the more plug-and-play options for a similar setup? (specifically the controller)

If you felt like taking the time to learn about how to use them safely, you could do LiPo + 9C + 6-fet infinion modded with IRF4110s.

9c = $150
6-fet infinion + 6x irf 4110's + an hour of your time = $<50
44.4v 20Ah of 20c LiPo = ~$400-500
good RC hobby charger and power supply = $150

That would be $750-850, and it would certianly yeild better performance than any of the other options presented, BUT! You would need to have a decent understanding of specialized battery care and feeding, as well as decent DIY electronics skills. It is not just a plug-n-play option.

 

[ryan]

Just looking through old posts and saw my first thread on E-S. It's gotten a ton of views, so I think it deserves a conclusion...

I ended up increasing my budget a bit to about $1800 and gained extra mountain climbing torque, range, and top speed.

Before:


After:


Ingredients:

• Marin Downhill donor bike, Full Suspension, 26" wheels
• Crystalyte 5305 (rear)
• 72v40A Crystalyte 4110 controller
• (2) 36v20Ah Headway LiFePO4 packs w/ BMS for a total of 72v20Ah
• Cycle Analyst
• Old Man Mountain Cold Springs Front Rack (50lbs Load Capacity)
• Axiom Seymour Panniers
• Two 3A LiFeP04 chargers

Results:

• Top speed:
  • 36mph, no wind, flat
  • 45.6mph slight downhill
• Range: Depends on terrain...
  • 20 miles including 2000-3000 ft of climbing
  • 16 miles, aggressive, WOT up mountain roads
  • Or up to 50 miles (so far) by riding efficiently
  • Up to 40 miles while towing my son in a double trailer.
• Milestones: Rode 200 miles in the first week
• Total Cost: About $1800 (not including bike)
• Any other stats worth mentioning?

Archived Build Thread with more photos: http://endless-sphere.com/forums/viewtopic.php?f=6&t=18309

 

[REdiculous]

Hey, there's some funny lookin' dude taking off with your bike and kid! oh..nevermind. :lol: :wink:

 

[julesa]

Wow! What is that, like 40 pounds on your front wheel? How's the handling?