Motor/Kit Selection Question

[Frank]

Hi All,

I've been lurking here for awhile but am interested in moving forward with something for my son. Probably a father/son type of project. I've recently converted a small m-cycle and Toyota pickup. (http://www.austinev.org/evalbum/1428)

Anyway, I've been wondering about experience with, and any advice about the "dual-motor" type of hubs versus single speed? We live in lightly rolling country in coastal Maine. I'd appreciate any advice, recommendations, etc. I'm thinking that probably some type of SLA kit would be the way to start with an eventual move to lithium. My kid is pretty tall, weights maybe 150# and I'm hoping to use this as an indoor winter project. Would appreciate any/all advice on kits, controllers, etc. What about the Phoenix Cruiser versus a dual-motor hub?

Thanks!

 

[fechter]

The dual speed hub essentially gives you two different gear ratios for the motor. They are only available in the 400 series as far as I know, so the power will be less than a 53xx series motor. Having two different speeds is handy, but whether you really need it may depend on how steep your hills are.

I don't think you can go too far wrong with a Phoenix Cruiser. You will not be disappointed with the power and speed capabilities of the motor itself. The controller is the limiting factor. It would require more batteries to feed it, and the cost would be higher.

 

[Frank]

Thanks for the info fechter. Do they switch in more windings or is there actually some type of physical change? How about weight? Sorry, I know these are basic questions but I'm trying to accelerate my learning curve pre-purchase.

 

[BiGH]

depends what speed you want to be doing the hills. I also have undulating hills but at 72v 35a and a 408 i have no problems powering up them at speeds cyclists do DOWN hills

 

[Drunkskunk]

I've been running the dualspeed motor since I got started in E bikes. I like it, it gives much more flexability to the bike than a single speed would.

But.. its not exactly like changing gears. because of the way the controllers work, on trying to climb a hill, both selections of motor can provide the same torque (its being limited to 20 amps). What it does give you is higher efficancy and better throttle controll at a given speed. At higher voltages and amperages, it starts to work more like gearing, but the main advantage is the selectable efficancy.

 

[Gregory]

Yes, there is a whole second set of windings inside a dual motor.

solarbbq has a few pictures and a write up about the 408/4012 motor on his website.

http://www.users.bigpond.com/solarbbq/dual%20function%20motor.htm

I think they weigh more, and are just a little slower in 408 mode.