Question about Crystalyte's 700c wheels

[dan p]

Hi all, I've been lurking for a while and finally decided to register since I have a question to which I can't find the answer. I just bought a new bike (2007 Specialized Globe) with the plans of installing a 406 motor on it, but now I'm afraid that the 700c wheels that come with the kits will probably be too skinny. I'm not sure exactly what the width of the wheels that are on the bike now, but the tires are 42c.

Does anyone know how wide the 700c wheels are that come with the Crystalyte motors? Do all of the different companies that sell the kits lace different wheels or are they all made by Crystalyte? I emailed ebikes.ca and poweridestore and am awaiting a response, but I figured I'd try here.

I could have ordered a 2008 which I just found out has 35c tires on it and I'm assuming skinnier wheels, but I opted to just take the 2007 that was at the store. If it's going to be a huge PITA to deal with these wide 700c wheels, I might just bring the bike back tonight and order the '08.

 

[kyakdiver]

I have the Crystalyte with the 700C rear wheel and run 35's on it now. I would have no problem running wider tires up to the size you mention. My frame limits me more than anything else but I could run 37's and still fit. You shouldn't have a problem at all. The rim is much wider than a normal 700C rim. I like that bike! Nice price point from what I saw and the mat black color that I looked at was very cool.

 

[Drunkskunk]

I bought a 700c from poweridestore.com, and I run a 42c tire on it. its not too skinny at all. Actualy, the rim is a very nice aero style rim, and very strong.
Something you may want to consider, though. a 406 is pushing the limit on a 26 inch wheel, it would be a dog on a 700c. if you want speed, you might try a 407 or a 408. My 408 is good for 35mph at 72 volts.

Here's a shot of what it looks like installed, 700c, 42c tire installed.

 

[dan p]

Thanks so much for the quick responses, guys! I posted before leaving work and just got home and was about to call my friend at the bike shop about returning the bike, but I decided to check ES first, and I'm glad I did!

Drunkskunk, I've spent a lot of time on the ebikes hub motor sim and unless it is really inaccurate, I don't really see much of a difference between a 406 and a 407 other than the lack of top end on the 407. I'll be getting the 35a controller, and it seems like that will more than make up for some of the lost torque. Also, I live in a pretty flat area (Virginia Beach). ALSO, I'd rather sacrifice some low-end torque for the safety of my dropout. Do you really think it will be bad for me?

EDIT: By the way, your bike looks really nice! Hopefully mine looks that clean after the conversion.