mikeross said:
...How do you like the performance from that motor? Is it noisy, does it get hot?
Mike,
Thanks for the comments. I literally have about 1/2 mile of riding on the bike as I'm not healed up enough from surgery to ride (I took the bike to the corner store and back.) It makes a racket upon startup but settles in once up to speed. I believe the quick video I made has captured the sound but I plan to make a better video this weekend. I was able to perceive warmth through the side of the motor case but could leave my hand on it forever (the axle was at ambient temp) and this was on a 91F and ~90 humidity day (typical summer day here).
John Rob Holmes was able to get the Bafang powdercoated for me when he built the wheel and the fact the brake rotor has a larger diameter than the motor help to fade the motor into the background. I'm working on a different battery/controller box to go up around the headtube which will open the space back up in the triangle further causing the bike to look just like a bike.
I'm not impressed with the 160mm rotor upfront and may go to a 180(?). Honestly I think the v brakes are as good but I'm really unable to physically handle the after effects of grabbing a handful of brakes right now so have been gentle when stopping.
Based on my seat of the pants comparision to my ICE setup I think my top speed is around 15-17mph. It's enough topend for me on a bicycle and I have a few hills on my commute which I'll be able to test it's assit ability.
mikeross said:
I am not familiar with the n'lock security system. Can you write a bit about what it is, how it works, cost, etc.?
I'll let the page on elations talk about the n'lock
n'lock security stem and add this:
-Background: I've never liked carrying a heavy lock, chain, etc either on the bike or in my pack and I usually park my bike where I only require theft deterrant and not prevention. This fits that task nicely.
-Form: I chose this system because it integrates into the bike beautifully and I plan to incorporate a storage compartment for the additional cable into my battery box.
-Function: It is a well designed and built piece and I think will last for my lifetime. The handlebars rotate freely when engaged making it impossible to drive (which also aids in storage/transportaion) and the cable prevents someone from walking the bike away. I think the cable could be cut rather easily so it only keeps the honest people honest. I bought the adjustable stem and that has helped in setting up the bars to the position I find most comfortable. Installation should be easy for those who have built their own ebike. One may need to cut their fork tube to an appropriate length but I was able to fit it with adjusting my spacers. Operatation is easy peesy.
-Cost: This is relative to the buyer. I'm very fortunate to be in a position where I don't mind paying for something which fits my needs and saves me time (my most precious commodity). I think MOST on this site would consider it expensive (ALOT of creative DIYers here) but I feel the cost was worth the form and function this piece provides. This staement also applies to other things on the bike (ie Ayup lights). I'd love to build my own but choices have to be made on what I devote my freetime. Shipping cost was reasonble and arrived packaged well and in a timely manner. Elation was easy to deal with.
Hope this helps,
Triton