Showing posts with label electric bicycle. Show all posts
Showing posts with label electric bicycle. Show all posts

10/18/2011

Currie Technologies iZIP Hybrid Via Mezza Electric Bicycle Review

Currie Technologies iZIP Hybrid Via Mezza Electric Bicycle
Average Reviews:

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While it was working, this bike got me around town more or less the way I needed. Then I started having problems with the chain locking up or falling off the gear. Just the other day, after only two months of use, the chain problem has effectively killed the bike. The chain locked so tight that it bent the rear axle and now it won't even move under the battery power.

When you have the battery charged and everything is working properly, it could be fun. You get where you need to without having to exert yourself too much, which is nice if you're not in the habit of changing in and out of riding gear. Again, when it worked, there were positive things about the bike. Ultimately, the experience has been negative.

Despite any of the companies claims, this is not a good option for a serious commuter. If you're in an area that's remotely bigger than a suburb, this bike will not cut it. I'm not in a big city by any means but apparently its too much for this bike to handle. Despite the fact that federal standards allow for electric bikes to go 20 miles per hour, they cap this bike at 15mph. You can pedal to gain speed, but the bike fights you. Honestly if the quality of the bike wasn't so tremendously awful I'd recommend it to serious cyclists as great resistance training. After about a week on this thing I was getting some serious leg muscles. In fact, I might have started peddling more than the bike could keep up with. Which brings me to another problem, no matter how hard you pedal, it doesn't give you enough of an edge in traffic. You'll pass by most cyclists on a full charge, which is good, but it's still hard work to get out of the way of cars.

For a while the motor was the saving grace of this bike. Because the pedal and chain aren't directly related to the motor, I'd have the ability to ride without peddling or at least keep riding until I could get to a safe spot to fix it. I figured even if it's not that great a bike, I'd just stop trying with the pedals and just use the motor power. Unfortunately, this idea came too late. The bike basically killed itself.

Bottom line, this is a cheap folding bike with an okay electric motor. It was overpriced even at Amazon prices. And for it to only last two months of basic commuting, is ridiculous. I'm looking through my information now to see what kind of warranty I might have, but I felt like I had to say something.

If you're thinking about getting this, give it a second thought. If you want this bike for the motor, a used gas scooter from a local dealer or craigslist won't cost too much more and is still a lot better than a car if you're concerned about being green. If you want this for the bike, just buy a regular bike, there a lot of good cheap bikes on Amazon.

The IZIP is just a mediocre product.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Currie Technologies iZIP Hybrid Via Mezza Electric Bicycle

Product Description:
Bicycles are a terrific mode of transportation, but sometimes you just need a little extra push while getting around town. Enter the iZip Via Mezza electric bicycle, which is equipped with a powerful high-torque brushless hub motor and a 24-volt rechargeable battery. Far cleaner than gas-powered scooters or even hybrid cars, the Via Mezza will get you from point A to B in no time at all, but won't guzzle gas or belch pollutants in the process. The battery offers a range of up to 20 miles per charge, so you can make it back and forth to the grocery store or work multiple times without running low on power. And once you're on the road, the Via Mezza boasts a top speed of 15 miles per hour (contingent on rider weight)--plenty fast enough for most side streets. Is the market too far to walk but close enough that a car seems wasteful? Turn to the Via Mezza, which comes with a rack on the back for panniers.
The Via Mezza is powered by both the electric motor and good old-fashioned foot power, with an easy-to-use Twist and Go (TAG) throttle helping propel you forward. The TAG throttle allows you to power the bike without pedaling at all, or you can use your legs to significantly increase your range and speed. As a result, you can get as much or as little exercise as you desire (in hilly terrain, pedaling may be required). The bike is also extremely comfortable thanks to the Velo suspension saddle. Perhaps the best feature, however, is the folding frame, which collapses into a compact footprint for easy transport and storage. The folding frame is ideal for families traveling to beach towns or users living in small apartments. Other features include a UL-listed Currie Smart Charger with an LED status display, alloy linear pull front brakes and DiaCompe band rear brakes, and adjustable alloy handlebars with dual-density grips.
Specifications:

    Motor: Exclusive DC brushless geared 24-volt, 180-watt hub motor
    Battery: EV-rated, SLA-type plug-and-play design, 24-volt/12 Ah pack, (2) 12-volt/12 Ah valve-regulated, rechargeable
    Charge system: UL-listed Currie Smart Charger with LED status display
    Controller: Exclusive Currie Electro-Drive, 24-volt with Power Gauge function
    Top speed: Up to 15 miles per hour (contingent on rider weight, rider input, and terrain)
    Range: Up to 20 miles with normal pedaling (contingent on rider weight, rider input, and terrain)
    Drive: Exclusive Currie Geared Hub Motor system with 44T x 16T gearing
    Brakes: Alloy linear pull front and DiaCompe band rear with alloy/resin brake inhibit levers
    Wheels: Heavy-duty alloy, 16-inch rims with stainless-steel spokes and full fenders
    Tires: Currie 16 x 1.75-inch, slime self-sealing flat tire prevention system
    Handlebars: Alloy folding adjustable bars with dual-density grips
    Fork: Suspension, fender eyelets
    User controls: Twist throttle with battery gauge, power on/off switch, and easy-access charger port
    Saddle: Velo suspension comfort and alloy post
    Frame: Exclusive Currie folding design aluminum frame with integrated rear carrier, bottle bosses
    Crank and pedals: Alloy 44T crankset, single chainguard, alloy folding pedals
    Size: Low step thru (unisex)
    Rider age: Young adult to adult
    Weight limit: 240 pounds
    Weight: 58 pounds
    Warranty: 1 year



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9/19/2011

Currie Electro Drive Electric Bike Conversion Kit w/ 24 Volt Plug & Play Battery Pack Review

Currie Electro Drive Electric Bike Conversion Kit w/ 24 Volt Plug & Play Battery Pack
Average Reviews:

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The kit came complete.Instructions were more pictures than instruction,but most of the installation was obvious.Some of the hardware was too short and not strong enough.had to buy machine bolts to substitute.Once the installation was complete,the bike rode great.Its exactly what I was looking for.An electric bike conversion to a bike I already own.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Currie Electro Drive Electric Bike Conversion Kit w/ 24 Volt Plug and Play Battery Pack

Product Description:
The 2009 Currie Conversion Kit Includes:1.Rear Wheel (Less Tire/Tube/Freewheel), Brackets and Hardware2.24V 10AH Battery Pack (One)3.Rear Rack (Controller Inside)4.Throttle5.Battery Charger6.450W MotorTOP SPEED: 15+ mph/24km (Rider Weight, Rider Input and Terrain Contingent)RANGE: 10 - 15 or More Miles/16 - 24 km with Normal Pedaling (Rider Weight, Rider Input (Pedaling) and Terrain Contingent). Easily Add an Optional Second Battery Pack to Double the RangeDRIVE: Patented Currie Electro-Drive System. Combine with the Drive Train System from your Standard Bike to get Hybrid PowerREAR WHEEL: Alloy 26" x 1.75" Rim: Suitable for Mounting 26 x 1.5" to 26 x 2.2125" Tire, Inner Tube and Rim Strip from your Original Bike; Hub: will Accept 7-Speed Freewheel from your Original Bike; Hub Spacing 135 mm OLN (Standard 7-Speed)USER CONTROLS: Power On/Off Switch on Back of Rack; Easily Access Charger Port in Removable Battery Pack (Can Charge On or Off the Bike), Twist Thumb Throttle with TAG (Twist and Go) Function & Battery Guage Indicator for Mounting and HandlebarRIDER AGE & WEIGHT LIMIT: Young Adult (13+) to Adult / Do Not Exceed 240 lbs/ 109 kg

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8/25/2011

E-Zip Mountain Trailz Electric Bicycle, Model# EZ-MT8-BL Review

E-Zip Mountain Trailz Electric Bicycle, Model# EZ-MT8-BL
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Assembly: I've never assembled a bicycle before, but some assembly is required for the e-zip.I managed to put it together in about 3-4 hours, and someone with experience could probably do it in 1-2 hours.Some parts of the instructions aren't terribly clear, but not too much assembly is necessary.The electric components are already installed, so it's just a matter of putting together the handlebars, front wheel and brakes, and seat.

Range: The claim is that this bike has a range of 18-24 miles, but I don't think this is accurate.My bike will go about 13 miles before the engine appears to run out of energy.The battery indicator says that there's still almost half the energy left in the battery at that point, as there should be, but it acts as though it's run out of juice.

Fortunately my bike commute is just 13 miles, so I can manage with the reduced range.A couple of times when I haven't put as much effort into pedalling, it's run out of juice on me after just about 10 miles, and it's a tough bike to pedal without the electric motor going as it's so heavy.As long as I put some decent effort into pedalling and go a little easy on the throttle, it will get me the 13 miles.You actually don't want to go much further than that anyway, because sealed lead acid battery life is significantly reduced when the battery is discharged more than 80%.

Performance: On my regular mountain/road hybrid bike, my commute takes about an hour, averaging about 13 mph.On this electric bike, the commute takes about 50 minutes averaging about 15 mph.The ride takes significantly less energy, as the throttle makes pedalling much easier.Accelerating and climbing hills (and going against a headwind) in particular are a piece of cake in comparison.

The bike has 7 gears, but I only use about 4, if that many.Most of my ride is spent in the lowest gear going at about 17 mph.If I'm climbing a hill I'll probably drop it down a gear or two until I reach the top.As I mentioned, the motor is engaged with a throttle on the right handlebar, below which is a battery level indicator (full/half/empty).The battery attaches into a slot on either side of the rack on the back of the bike (only 1 battery is provided and necessary).The bike is pretty heavy (50-60 pounds), especially with the heavy lead battery on board.The charger is included and the battery is removable, so you can take it off and bring it with you for recharging.

Battery: Recharging usually takes me 4 hours.The charger claims it takes 6-8 hours, but that's probably if the battery is fully discharged (and you don't want it to be, as that will reduce the battery lifetime, as mentioned).It costs about 0.2 cents per mile (2 cents per ten miles) to recharge the battery, so it's practically free.The battery should last 150-300 charges, and costs about $100 to replace.You also want to recharge it immediately after use to maximize the lifetime of the battery.When I get to work I bring the charger and battery inside and recharge it at my desk, and do the same at home.

The only complaints I have are that I wish the range were a little better and the bike were a bit lighter.A few of the parts are a bit on the cheap side (like the seat), but easily replaceable with better parts if you're so inclined.For $350 I really can't complain.An electric bike conversion kit on its own will cost close to $300, and a regular mountain bike on its own will cost on the order of $400, so $350 for a combination of the two is great.I didn't find any other electric bikes for under $500, so this bike is a great value as long as you don't need to go more than 13 miles at a time.

Click Here to see more reviews about: E-Zip Mountain Trailz Electric Bicycle, Model# EZ-MT8-BL

Product Description:
All-terrain bicycle boasts a mountain-style steel frame. Reaches a top speed of 15 MPH and has up to 20 mile range with normal pedaling! For ages 13 and up; not to exceed 240 lbs.

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8/11/2011

A2B Lithium Ion 7 Speed Electric Bicycle By Ultra Motor 500w/36v **Upto 40 Miles on a Charge Review

A2B Lithium Ion 7 Speed Electric Bicycle By Ultra Motor 500w/36v **Upto 40 Miles on a Charge
Average Reviews:

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I bought two of these bikes for commuting...and two extra chargers to keep at each of my offices, so that way I can charge for the ride home.The second battery is very expensive, but the second charger is not.I had a flat tire from letting the tire go too low and then taking a curve...the bike shop called it a "slider" flat...otherwise, I ride long distances and don't have trouble.It needs to have rack accessories, inlcuding panniers, that you can actually get...they don't seem to sell them even though they have pictures.You will experience the motor cut out the other reviewer talked about if you "ride the brake"...as long as you let go of the brake before you engage the throttle, that doesn't happen.These bikes are so zippy they are a blast!My biggest problem has been with the brakes...they do seem to need adjustment often, and new pads.I try not to use the brakes, but let's face it, the disks are tiny and the bike weighs 75 pounds.Still, the world would be a better place if everyone rode these bikes.I also own several Segways and an electric boat (DUFFY), so I like electric stuff.As with all the other electric things, it is best to keep charged...the lower half of "the tank" always seems to go faster than the 1st half...so you may have to pedal if you run out...and if you do, it will probably be on a hill!But the good news is that you CAN pedal...and it's good for you.Great product.And I'm sure it will get better.

Click Here to see more reviews about: A2B Lithium Ion 7 Speed Electric Bicycle By Ultra Motor 500w/36v **Upto 40 Miles on a Charge

Product Description:
This Light Electric Vehicle offers the fun of a bike with the power of an electric motor, all wrapped up in a quiet riding and decidedly stylish design. It's perfect for those who want an economic transportation solution that is good for the environment and good for the soul. Designed for urban or suburban commutes, this Light Electric Vehicle offers lightweight aluminum construction with full suspension. Add in its comfortable,oversized seat and you have a powerful ride that's easy to handle.When you don't feel like pedaling, the A2B offers unassisted power on demand for up to 20 miles at a cruising speed of 20mph. Plus, the A2B can be easily upgraded to double its range to 40 miles with the purchase of an additional secondary battery pack.Speed 20 Mph / 33kmph Range 20miles* / 33km* - (extendable to 40miles**) Vehicle weight 73lb / 33kg Battery type Lithium Ion Operating voltage 36V Motor Power BLDC hub motor 500W Frame Tig Welded 6061 Aluminum Wheel size 20 X 3.0 Kenda Kraze Derailleur Shimano Alivio 7 Speed Front suspension Front shock Rear suspension Rear swing arm Seat type Ultra Motor oversize comfort seat Brake type Hayes MX4 V7 Cable Disc Extras A range of additional accessories * Dependent on rider weight, pedaling and terrain ** 40 miles (66km) is based on addition of secondary battery pack components are subject to change without notice

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5/14/2011

Currie EZip Trailz Men's Electric Bike Review

Currie EZip Trailz Men's Electric Bike
Average Reviews:

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After three test-rides, and having contemplated retro-fitting one of our existing bikes with a Currie electric drive, we decided to go ahead and purchase this bike.As the adage goes, "you get what you pay for" - which is certainly the case with this bike.I didn't expect top-of-the-line componentry, but I did expect better functionality with certain aspects of the build.

As I've ridden it around town, I found that the shifting is a bit clumsy - even after numerous adjustments to the derallieur.I was also aware of the total weight when I purchased it - nearly 70 lbs when one battery is installed - and have come to the conclusion that it is NOT a bike an average person can easily ride around without frequently using the electric assist; it's really a tank (even compared with my Xtracycle loaded with 50 lbs of groceries).I also was sad to discover that my Sunlite pannier could not be attached to the non-battery side of the rear rack because the hooks (on panier) are not set wide enough apart to span the battery placement gap.Another everyday annoyance is the fact that there is no quick-release lever on the front wheel making it a pain if you need to remove the wheel (flat, transport, etc.).

Maybe I can overlook most of the above, but the real headaches came when I got a flat on the rear tire.There is nothing - in Currie's documentation or on their website - that gives any indication on how to remove the rear wheel when you need to replace a tube.I searched forums and everywhere else I could, and came learn that in order to remove the rear wheel, you have to REMOVE THE ENTIRE MOTOR ASSEMBLY - which is not a simple procedure.And, since the motor/drive housing is hardwired (rather than having a plug-in connection) you have to figure out a way to support the motor while it is hanging disconnected from the wheel.This was the worst flat-repair job I have ever had to deal with - and definitely not something that could be accomplished out on the road, even if you had all of the tools you end up needing.I immediately went and replaced both tires with puncture-proof (resistant) tires - and if you are considering buying one of these bikes, I would definitely recommend you have this change made, preferably before you take delivery.

Bottom line: So far the electric assist modes have worked well during riding.It is a heavy, clumsy bike - and really meant to be ridden with the electric motor engaged most of the time, rather than without.I'm not convinced that the distance ratings are accurate.I suspect a more truthful average is 15-18 mi/per single battery. I am totally not impressed with the support or documentation offered by the manufacturer (Currie), and I see alot of room for small but significant improvements on the basic bicycle (quick releases, please!!!).Worth the $500? ... the verdict is still out for me.I think you can buy a higher quality commuter bike for a similar pricetag - it all depends how much effort you are looking to save riding an ebike.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Currie EZip Trailz Men's Electric Bike

Product Description:
Bicycles are a terrific mode of transportation, but sometimes you just need a little extra push while getting around town. Enter the eZip Trailz men's electric comfort bike, which is equipped with a 450-watt DC earth magnet motor and a 24-volt rechargeable battery. Far cleaner than gas-powered scooters but zippier than a traditional bike, the Trailz will get you from point A to B in no time at all, but won't guzzle gas or belch pollutants in the process. The battery offers a range of 15 to 22 miles per charge, so you can make it back and forth to the grocery store several times without running low on power. And once you're on the road, the Trailz boasts a top speed of 15 miles per hour (contingent on the rider weight)--plenty fast enough for most bike-friendly city streets. Is your work commute too far to walk but close enough that a car seems wasteful? Turn to the Trailz, which comes with a rear rack to carry groceries and other gear.

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3/08/2011

Currie Technologies 24-Volt Bicycle Battery Pack, Black Review

Currie Technologies 24-Volt Bicycle Battery Pack, Black
Average Reviews:

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One of my concerns in riding an eBike was "getting caught" away from home with a dead battery.Further, knowing the distances offered as expected range on the eBikes assumed someone slightly less voluminous than me - that's a mild mannered way of stating I am somewhat rotund.So, it just made sense to have a second battery.This allows me to travel 1 battery's distance away from home, knowing I have a like amount of reserve energy to make it back.Fact is, since using the eBike, I've rarely had to use the second battery to make it home.No surprises with the eBike or the batteries - both work well, and I'm using the older SLA type of battery.m

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Product Description:
The 24V Battery pack is compatible with the Trailz, Ezip Coastline, & Mtn Trailz electric bikes.

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