Drive MechanismBatteries
OwnerEric Hutchinson
Owner's Other EVs2008 Caddie Up
Dual Motor Electric Pusher Trailer
1999 Next Brand Bicycle
LocationLas Vegas, Nevada United States map
Web/EmailWebPage email image
Vehicle2008 Caddie Up
This is a Chinese-brand folding bicycle (20 inch).
MotorUnite Motor MY1016, 350 Watt, 2750 Max RPM,19.2 Max Amp Permanent Magnet DC
DrivetrainFriction Drive. I have a 2 inch diameter roller attached to the motor, which gives an overall ratio of 10:1. This seems to be a good compromise between speed and torque. The roller was made from using a BMX axel peg and then JB Welding a 1 1/4 gavanized coupling pipe around it in order to increase the gear ratio. So far the JB Weld seems to be holding!
Controller
No controller. Just a simple on/off switch.
Batteries2 Universal Batteries 18 Amp, 12.00 Volt, Lead-Acid, AGM
System Voltage24 Volts
ChargerSchumacher 6 amp
HeaterLas Vegas desert heat is enough!
InstrumentationI have a wireless speedometer to measure my speed.
Top Speed20 MPH (32 KPH)
This top speed can be reached by going down a slight incline. Normal cruising speed on the flat with a 200 pound rider is around 15 mph. Up a slight incline it will go around 10 mph, but usually I pedal with the motor so it doesn't drain down the batteries.
AccelerationI usually pedal up to about 15 mph and then turn on the motor. I can get up to 15 mph in a few seconds.
Range14 Miles (22 Kilometers)
This range would be for flat conditions. Any inclines or wind and the range will be decreased.
Curb Weight67 Pounds (30 Kilograms)
The batteries and controller alone were 26 pounds.
Tires20 x 1.75. I have a Cruiser Tire on the front and back.
Conversion Time3 months (working a few hours here and there when I have time)
Conversion Cost$300 (See comments for price break-down.)
Here is a breakdown of my costs:

Folding bicycle on Ebay: $105
Batteries, Charger: $70
Motor (350W) $50
Controller (350W, 24V) $20
Misc. Parts and Tools $55
___________________________________
Total: $300

The motor can pivot and can be lifted on and off the rear tire. When I don't want to use the motor I can lift it up with a bungee cord and then let it down on the tire when I want to use it. The motor's torque will apply pressure to the back tire when engaged.

My controller stopped working so now I just have a simple on/off switch.

NOTE: My current YouTube video is for my old set-up. I will be updating this soon.

If you have any questions or comments then please email me!

code by jerry