My Mongoose Envoy build v2 - Goodbye EBikeling, hello Grin Tech

[phj]

Quick post to start a thread for what i've been working on. Will follow up later w/more details...

I started this build in fall/winter of 2022 using a Mongoose Envoy cargo bike w/a refurb Ebikeling 1500w rear hub + a bunch (probably over 100lbs) of "as-is" 48v batteries from BatteryClearingHouse.com in parallel (which I was lucky didn't burst into flames). After getting v1 of this build finished, in 2023 I took it on a 9 day 430mile tour and loved every moment of it.



This spring I revamped the bike w/a RH212 kit from Grin + 2x of their 52v "Fuel Tank" 28ah batteries so I don't need to drag around a trailer with tons of battery weight and to have something a bit more reliable.



The Grin kit + batteries has been a huge upgrade. With the Grin kit in place and an ERider T17 torque sensor BB w/52T, I'm finishing up swapping out the rear gears with an Advent X 10 speed + derailleur. What a difference the 10 speed makes! So much better than the gear set that came stock on the bike. I can actually pedal it, un-powered, without feeling like I'm going to die now. Currently working on building a camper trailer out of a couple Wike DIY kits combined into one for more touring . Longer term the bike will probably be getting an FH212 for dual drive and the trailer a solar roof.


Still more wire clean up to do on the bike itself, a place for my Pomeranian to sit, as well as running the line for the rear Magura MT5e brake through the frame/shortening the line on the front brake. But, it's finally coming together and can replace my car for 95% of what I need to do for local errands and other stuff.

It'll hit 30mph and ~50miles per charge on throttle only when pushing it, haven't tested the full range at lower/more reasonable speeds yet. I expect it'll get about the same (maybe a bit more) with reduced/trail friendly speed + the weight of a camper trailer and me pedaling a bit.

 

[99t4]

But, it's finally coming together and can replace my car for 95% of what I need to do for local errands and other stuff.

Most excellent! My ebike setup also has replaced the vast majority of my automobile use. What a great feeling!

 

[phj]

It’s been a grip.


ditched the trailer build for winter. Trailer is more of a platform for solar, more batteries, and AC anyway

upped the cargo and range game with oversized racks and a small generator. Considering having the rear work as a hammock hang to go with a Tensa solo on the other end, dual purpose as a service stand.

next trip is ~140 miles each way the first week of November, camping with my dog. Still torn between using my tent or hammock. Better get my shit together with the bike regardless.

 

[99t4]

What are the handling characteristics with the heavy generator hanging off the rear overhang?

Interesting fabrication jig.

 

[phj]

What are the handling characteristics with the heavy generator hanging off the rear overhang?

Interesting fabrication jig.

It wasn't bad, until I hooked up my Nomad and took off for a trip a few weeks back. I didn't have the generator secured enough so it shifted around, I also had moved my hitch since the last trip and it didn't work as well out on the trail as it did around the neighborhood. Had some other unrelated issues that trip too.

TL;DR: I broke my shoulder. Going to buy a Larry vs Harry Bullitt frame and transfer what I didn't break over to it over the next few months as my arm heals up.