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

9/28/2011

Zero X Electric Motorcycle Review

Zero X Electric Motorcycle
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
Bought my Zero summer 2008, put close to 600 miles on it before the snow hit. Have taken it everywhere you would take a motorcycle in the hills of Western Montana. Since I'm the only Zero in the woods around here, rode with a lot of motorcycles, in the woods the Zero blew them away due to its agility and quickness.
Used it during hunting season, for hunting the Zero is deadly quiet....eliminated several coyotes who tried to figure out what a Zero was.
The electric features have been talked about, but what's really special about the Zero is its forgiving nature. It has a level power band which means you can move at a crawl and then punch it without the usual lag, associated with motorcycles even new 4 strokes...Did more sightseeing with this bike because just riding it is addictive. This bike lets you completely forget about managing your motor and enjoy the ride.
Really, comparing the Zero to a motorcycle isn't fair......to the motorcycle that is.

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Product Description:
A full-sized, high-performance electric motorcycle, the Zero X is built from the ground up using revolutionary electric motorcycle technology. Boasting 50 pounds of torque, the proprietary Z-Force drive train supplies the raw power needed to stealthily race up hills, fly over jumps, and plunge through streams. Elimination of combustion noise makes aggressive riding possible without the disruption of nature or neighbors. The Z-Force drive train and specially-engineered, aircraft-grade aluminum frame combine to form a motorcycle that is fast, light, and clean. An exceptional power-to-weight ratio and spontaneous acceleration make the Zero X stand out in the dirt.
Frame
Welded by hand by highly-skilled aluminum welders, the Zero X features double pass welds in critical areas and other techniques to ensure against failures. After welding, the entire frame is heat treated to restore the strength around the weld areas. The heat treatment process involves heating the frame in a furnace and then solution-bath quenching the hot metal. Finally, critical areas such as pivots, brake mounts, and chain-guide mounts are re-milled for absolute accuracy.

    Hydroformed top tub for increased strength and reduced weight
    Massive swingarm for increased strength and torsional rigidity (better cornering and tracking)
    Large cylindrical swingarm cross tube for increased stiffness and suspension response
    Thru-axle rear hub for exponentially increased strength and rigidity
    Entire frame is shot-peened and anodized for resistance to corrosion and abrasion
    Organic frame gusseting for increased strength and smoother body lines

Motor and Energy


The Fast Charger will fully recharge your battery in less than two hours.

The power packs deliver 300 amps of current without overheating, offering a strong power-to-weight ratio.

Zero's magnet electric motor delivers over 20 horsepower and requires very little maintenance. Zero only uses safe second-generation lithium ion cells to ensure against thermal runaway (fire). The power packs also feature an intelligent monitoring system that constantly tracks the voltage and temperature of each and every cell. Additionally, the power packs deliver 300 amps of current without overheating, offering a strong power-to-weight ratio. Zero's permanent magnet electric motor delivers over 20 horsepower and requires very little maintenance.
Drivetrain
To accommodate the Zero X's increased traction and ability to accelerate in the dirt a hardened steel 420 chain and direct drive gearing are used. The result is a stronger and more durable drivetrain that puts the power from the throttle directly into the dirt.

    Hardened steel 420 Chain
    Front and rear accompanying 420 Sprockets
    Larger rear sprocket mounting/bolt pattern for increased durability and better management of high torque acceleration

Suspension
The Zero suspension system is tough enough to handle monstrous jumps and includes custom-built, fully-adjustable hydraulic front forks. The rear suspension is a unique double diamond swingarm and adjustable coil-spring rear shock.
Handling
To take full advantage of the Zero X's spontaneous acceleration,the handling was refined based on the comments of pro riders. The result is that this electric dirt bike provides the control you need for quick handling in tight situations.

    Direct mount (to fork crown) double clam stem for increased rigidity and control
    Increased rise and reduced reach stem for better control and stability
    Wider, taller, and stronger full sized dirt bike handlebar
    Higher strength hardened race headset for longer life and smoother turning

Brakes

    6 pot calipers front and rear
    Larger 9-inch rotor in front
    Increased reservoir size for more responsive braking under high strain
    High thermal mass rear rotor for improved heat transfer

Instrument Panel and System Upgrades
A quick look at the instrument panel tells you everything you need to know on the Zero X. All the important dials and switches are centrally located. The accompanying wiring system is also designed for increased safety and electrical system longevity. The Zero X also comes with a keyed ignition.

    Easy access to gauges and switches with "quick look" clustered instrumentation
    Light for increased awareness and safety
    Key switch with solenoid for added safety, peace of mind, security and ease of use
    Flush mounted rockers switches for speed settings (easy/sport and 30/50mph)
    Integrated battery power connector for ease of use and durability
    Integrated battery fuse for added safety in handling and adverse circumstances

Rear Wheel and Tire
The Zero X comes with a beefy wheel setup on the rear for increased traction and durability. This means quicker acceleration, faster hill climbs, and more fun.

    Tall knobbed and grippy full size rear tire measuring 17 x 3.5 inches
    Large lugged high strength rear rim 17 x 2.5 inches
    Thicker 12g spokes
    Custom oversized and reinforced hub





Speed Controller
The ZERO X Speed Controller features the ability to customize both the speed and acceleration. With a flip of the switch you can limit the top speed to a motorized bicycle legal limit of 30 miles per hour. Another switch sets the acceleration from beginner-friendly "easy" mode to a wheelie poppin' "sport" mode.
Specifications:

    Engine Type: Brushed permanent magnet electric
    Torque: 50 ft-lbs (67.7 Nm)
    Peak Horsepower: 23 horsepower
    Peak Electrical Input: 17,400 watts
    Power System: Patent-pending lithium ion array
    Capacity: 2 kWh (58volts @ 35Ah)
    Range: 45 minutes to 2 hours or up to 40 miles (64 km)
    Recharge Time: 2 hours
    Input Standard: 110V or 220V
    Transmission: Clutchless, one speed
    Drive system: 13T / 71T, 420 Chain
    Front Suspension Travel: 7 - 8 inches (178 - 203 mm)
    Rear Suspension Travel: 9 inches (229 mm)
    Front Brakes: 6 Pot Hydraulic, Stainless Rotor, Hand Actuated
    Rear Brakes: 6 Pot Hydraulic, Stainless Rotor, Hand Actuated
    Front Tire: 20 x 3.0 inches
    Rear Tire: 17 x 3.5 inches
    Wheel Base: 54 inches (137 cm)
    Seat Height: 36 inches (91 cm)
    Head Angle: 24 degrees from vertical with 8 inch (20 cm) fork
    Frame: 18 pounds (8 kg)
    Total Weight (without Power Pack): 106 pounds (48 kg)
    Power Module: 45 pounds (20.5 kg)
    Total Weight: 151 pounds (68.5 kg)

Zero X and the Environment
The Zero X includes a Fast Charger that is automatic and will fully recharge your battery in less than 2 hours. The charger plugs into any standard 110 or 220 volt outlet. It is fully sealed, vibration-proof, and waterproof. A Zero motorcycle will produce less than one-tenth the pollution at the power plant than a gas powered motorcycle.
Zero uses a revolutionary lithium-ion technology that is non-toxic. The Zero power pack does not contain toxic metals such as cobalt, nickel, lead, or mercury. They are rated for land-fill disposal in the US, Canada, and Europe are also completely recyclable.
Zero's permanent magnet electric motor delivers over 20 horsepower and requires very little maintenance. The motor uses considerably less steel and copper of other DC motors and delivers a strong power-to-size ratio.
Age Recommendation
Zero Motorcycles recommends that riders be of legal driving age (16 years) or older and that they have an M1 license.
Important Safety Information
This is a high-performance motorcycle and should be treated with extreme caution. Proper safety gear including a helmet, riding boots, gloves, and protective clothing should be worn while riding to reduce the risk of potential injury.
Full-height riding boots are strongly recommended, as the vast majority of injuries are leg and foot injuries.
Never carry a passenger. This motorcycle is designed for an operator only.
Prior to each use, the rider must check the tire pressure, brakes, and power pack function.
Never use alcohol or drugs before operating a Zero Motorcycle.
Minors without adult supervision should not use this product.
Never permit a guest to ride your Zero Motorcycle without proper instruction. These are high-performance motorcycles and should be treated with extreme caution.
Read all additional warnings and product instructions in this Owner's Manual and safety labels before operating the Zero Motorcycle.
Your safety depends in part on the good mechanical condition of the motorcycle. Be sure to follow the maintenance and adjustment requirements contained in this manual. Be sure you understand the importance of checking all items thoroughly before riding.
Assembly Information
Assembly is estimated to take less than 30 minutes. The Zero X arrives securely packed within a specially designed motorcycle box and the power pack accompanies the Zero X in a separate box. Upon arrival you remove the motorcycle from the box, install the front and rear wheels, connect one set of wires, then slide in and connect the power pack. After that, you can insert your key, flip a switch, and you're ready to ride.
Zero Motorcycles Limited Warranty
Zero Motorcycles warrants that its motorcycles will be delivered in good working condition free of manufacturing defects. Zero Motorcycle warrants that it will repair or replace without charge any parts delivered with defects in factory materials or workmanship. In addition, Zero Motorcycle warrants that it will repair or replace, without charge, the motor, motor controller, battery, fork, rear shock or frame delivered with defects in factory materials or workmanship as long as Zero Motorcycles has been given notice of such defects within one year of delivery. Such repair and replacement is Zero Motorcycles' sole obligation and the customer's sole remedy under this warranty.
The duration of this limited warranty is measured from the date of the initial delivery from Zero Motorcycles. Any unexpired portion of this limited warranty may be transferred to a subsequent owner, upon the resale of the motorcycle during the warranty period. The warranty will not apply when the motorcycle has not been operated or maintained as specified in the owner's manual, abused, misused or improperly stored, or if the motorcycle has been used for racing or competition of any kind. Alterations to the motorcycle may void this limited warranty.
About Zero Motorcycles

Zero Motorcycles is the next step in motorcycle evolution and represents the ultimate electric motorcycle technology. Unencumbered by conventional thinking about how they design, manufacture, and sell high-performance electric motorcycles, the company is on a mission to turn heads and revolutionize the industry by combining the best aspects of a traditional motorcycle with today's most advanced technology. The result is an electric motorcycle line that's fast and environmentally friendly.
Since inception, Zero Motorcycles, Inc. (formerly Electricross) has been dedicated to developing the very best in electric motorcycle technology. Built for both experienced and entry-level riders, their premium motorcycle line offers blistering acceleration and speed with optional settings for the less aggressive.


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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
Average Reviews:

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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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