You're probably wondering why this post? This is the mop up of all the loose ends, or maybe just the proof that the Mesquite Hugger mind is indeed a messy desk.
Answering a few questions:
Why 36 volt/500 watt when we could've easily gone for 48V/1000 watt?
- Well, first, we were shooting for low money, and 48 volt batteries are not cheap.
- Second is the efficiency versus speed issue. 500 watts should let us travel around 20 mph for a much longer distance than 1000 watts at 25 mph (and I've met very few e-bikers who have tremendous restraint when it comes to a throttle or pedal assist.)
- Also, the intended audience is beginning e-bikers who are focused on inexpensive transportation. Fast e-bikes create a lot of new problems - one of the biggest is the problem of speed perception. Car drivers do not expect to see a bike traveling at 30 mph, so they misjudge and cut you off. If you ride a bike at 30 on the street you will have close calls on a regular basis. (You better have great brakes and even better judgment.)
Why choose a cruiser?
Mostly because they are cheap, readily available, and often have just the layout needed for an entry-level e-bike. Also, you want a fat, heavy, laid-back bike for an old guy who is fat and laid back.
Why not a fat bike like the Sondors Original?
Quite simply, the the components are much more expensive and flats tend to be a bigger issue on them than on the more readily available sizes. (And they ride like a tractor.)
Just a bunch of random stuff I did not include in the other posts:
How to build a pretty killer mid-drive bike for less than $1000
Order this kit (while it's still on sale) and add it to a used mountain bike with really good brakes:
The Schwinn Blackwell dropped in price on Ebay
Can you build a decent-ish $350 e-bike?
Sure, but be prepared to sacrifice the LCD screen, pedal assist, and the advantages of a geared hub motor.
If I'm a glutton for punishment, which bike should I choose for my build?
Drool!
It's all about the jacksons! (Need fixing = run away!)
If I'm a Parrothead, what bike would you recommend?
It has a squawking parrot in place of a horn or bell!
What is the Mesquite Dream Build (this week)?
The cargo bike equivalent of the Karmic Koben S
plus the Bafang BBS
plus the Nuvinci N380
What's your most fervent Mesquite Hugger wish?
That we'd stop fighting each other and fight climate change together.
May your messy desk inspire something better for others!
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