Electric conversion of Sachs MadAss

[lukehutch]

I want to e-convert a Sachs MadAss (a small, light scooter-like motorcycle) to have good pickup, and a top speed of say 65 MPH while operating well at 35 MPH. Roughly what size electric motor will I need (in terms of power output and voltage), and what are the battery tradeoffs I should worry about?

Has anybody attempted something like this on a medium sized scooter? How much time and effort is involved? (Just want to know if I'm talking hundreds or thousands of hours... I'm not new to mechanical or electrical work, but I am new to electric conversion.)

Thanks!

 

[fizzit]

Lifepo4 or Lipo are the only real options for batteries for this, if you want a useful range. I would recommend LiPo because it's smaller size and lighter weight would be easier to mount on that frame.

 

[sflorlando]

Those are definitely cool looking scooters, but probably not the best for a conversion due to the lack of battery space.

 

[lukehutch]

There's space where the original engine is (minus space for an electric motor), and there's space underneath the seat where the muffler is. I think there's plenty of room for batteries.

 

[sflorlando]

excellent. Cant wait to see what you come up with.

 

[ieshua]

Thought about doing this to my madass once I have the time for it. Check out electric motorsport for a motor, though I am not a huge fan of hub motors, in this case it would make sense to save you battery space, they sell a pretty powerful one that will take the bike as fast as it goes with a 150cc motor.

 

[wheelbender6]

Just a thought - Honda CT70s and some of the 90s had a bolt-on engine cradle (usually chrome). You could take one from a Honda parts bike and bolt it to your Madass frame to hold the batteries. Paint it to match and nobodu will know it's a Honda part. See CT70 pics on the page at the link.
http://www.hondatrail70.com/RestorationsCT70.htm