Showing posts with label currie technologies. Show all posts
Showing posts with label currie technologies. Show all posts

6/24/2012

Currie EZip Eco Ride Electric Bike Review

Currie EZip Eco Ride Electric Bike
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
Wow, what a fun bike! This bike provides much more than I expected....it is sturdy, well manufactured and fun to use. The battery charges easily and allows you to travel great distances: roughly 20 miles per charge. The bike was easy to assemble and has been a very reliable mode of transportation since I bought it. It has allowed me to get outdoors on a regular basis, to exercise more and to rely on my car less. I couldn't have asked for anything more! I would definitely buy this for a friend or loved one.

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6/13/2012

Urban Mover Sprite Men's Electric Hybrid Bike (26-Inch Wheels) Review

Urban Mover Sprite Men's Electric Hybrid Bike (26-Inch Wheels)
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I live just close enough to work that I could take a bike instead of driving. The thing is, I sweat wayyyy too easily so I first considered a scooter. After some research, keeping up with maintenance, storage, and having to get a license if the scooter was 50cc+, I figured it wasn't worth it.
Then I came across some electric bikes. I did my research once again and found that domestic electric bikes are not as efficient as European. I got the latest model of this bike from REI[dot]com.
This bike comes with a wheel lock, a chain to lock the bike up, front LED light powered by the front wheel, and a back light that is powered by the vibrations of riding.
I just took the bike out today for about an hour (the longest I have used this bike so far) I probably road about 5 miles (maybe more) with many MANY hills and the battery still has about 3/4ths of a charge left.
Just to see how much I was being spoiled by this electric assisted motor, I turned off the battery at one point and it was so difficult. That's how you know you get your moneys worth!
Anyways, the way the bike works is that the moment you start peddling the motor will kick in and boost you speed so that you can peddle comfortably while maintaining a speed of about 15 mph. Even up hill, you may not go 15mph but you do about 5 - 10 (depends on the hill) which is awesome. While riding my bike today I passed all the other bikers on the trail while going up hill and I watched their faces becomes confused because they have no idea how I look so calm while moving faster than the rest of them. It was awesome!
The only reason why I say to purchase this bike at REI is because they have the latest models and they offer free professional assembly if you do in-store-pickup and free shipping. Their website might say that the bike is 2g's but sometimes they have a bike special of 20% off.
In conclusion, I love this bike and it seems like it will last me a long time.
EDIT: according to google maps, my bike ride was about 12.5 miles and the battery is at least 2/3rds charged

Click Here to see more reviews about: Urban Mover Sprite Men's Electric Hybrid Bike (26-Inch Wheels)

The most popular form of transportation in the world is the bicycle, but few Americans take it seriously as a car alternative. Enter the Urban Mover men's Sprite electric hybrid bike, a battery-powered bicycle that can go farther and faster than a conventional bike with little effort. The Sprite is outfitted with such traditional bike features as a lightweight, double heat-treated alloy frame, a Shimano Tourney gear set and shifter, and 26-inch alloy wheel rims with stainless-steel spokes. It's the advanced Panasonic lithium battery and powerful UM brushless hub motor that really steal the show, however. The electric assistance makes it easy to pop into town for groceries or commute across the city, because the bike's sensor detects how hard you're riding and instantly matches the effort. Even a casual peddler can maintain speeds of 12 to 18 miles per hour with a minimum of effort. And when you stop peddling, the power is interrupted immediately so that you're always in total control. It's the perfect bike for commuters tired of facing traffic jams day in and day out or dealing with the spiraling costs of car ownership.
The Sprite offers a real alternative to the social and fiscal costs of driving. Maintenance and fuel costs are minimal, with the electricity for charging the fuel checking in at about 10 cents for every 12 to 18 miles (the charger works in standard outlets and charges in less than six hours). In addition, the bike effectively flattens hills by increasing your average speed on the approach, making it simple to climb hills of up to 12 percent without collapsing in exhaustion. And although it won't keep you as fit as a conventional bike, the Sprite will get you outdoors and moving. Perhaps the most popular feature, however, is the emission-free design, which is far cleaner and greener than carbon-based transportation. And if you charge the bike using power from a wind generator or solar panels, you'll be even greener. All that plus it doesn't smell or rattle, is completely silent, and is easy to maintain.
Bike Features:
Lightweight, double heat-treated aluminum alloy hybrid frame
Fully sealed bearing system
26-inch alloy wheels with stainless-steel spokes
Shimano Tourney 6-speed derailleur gears
Shimano Tourney thumb shift gear change
Kenda K series puncture-resistant tires
Kenda self-sealing inner tubes
Suspension seat post
Sealed headset and crank bearings
Variable pedal assist control
Tektro V-type front and rear brakes
Patented locking side release battery mechanism
Handlebar mounted charge indicator
UM-V sprung gel comfort saddle with quick-release mechanism
Rear alloy parcel rack
Metallic royal blue finish
5-year frame warranty; 1-year warranty on components and battery

Specifications:
System voltage: 26 volts
Battery pack: Panasonic lithium ion 26-volt, 9 Ah
Digital battery charger: 110 to 240 volts, (50 to 60 Hz)
USA motor rating: 250 watts, 26 volts
Motor type: Brushless with single-stage planetary gearing
Motor controller type: Digital VPAC
Gradient capability: Up to 12 percent
Maximum range (VPAC motor assisted): 21 miles
Maximum speed: 15 miles per hour
Wheel size: 26 inches
Rims/spokes: Alloy/stainless steel
Brake: V-brake front and rear
Rear gear set: Shimano Tourney 6 speed
Rear parcel rack and carrier: Yes
Full-chromed ABS mud-guard set: Yes
Bottom crank size: 48T
Saddle model and type: UM-V comfort sprung gel
Frame size: 21 inches
Frame length: 72 inches
Wheel base: 45.5 inches
Weight: 43.5 pounds



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1/20/2012

Currie Technologies eZip Skyline Men's Electric Bicycle Review

Currie Technologies eZip Skyline Men's Electric Bicycle
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I bought the Currie EZip Skyline as a commuter bike to try and minimize my carbon footprint. I wanted a bike I'd have fun riding and that I could use to get some exercise , but not arrive at work or home completely worn out from the journey. I researched a bunch of bikes and decided on this one based on the battery type, shape, water 'resistance' and price. I received the bike last weekend, and after making my way through a slightly annoying set of assembly instructions, I can review it's performance based on my first 15 mile roundtrip commute.
- Overall performance - The bike is a lot of fun to ride and it seems pretty sturdy so far. I really liked the variable modes of travel, PAS (pedal assisted) or TAG (full scooter mode). I was able to 'zip' past quite a few different bikers on the hills, which made the overall distance seem less. In fact, with this bike, my 15 mile commute felt completely doable. There's a little bit of a whine when the electronic motor is assisting you, which may bother some. The amount of force that the electric assist produces seems well balanced to the type of bike. It's not so much that you feel like you're speeding out of control, but it's enough to get a good boost.
- Functionality - I found the controls fairly intuitive, once I figured out what mode I was in. It pays to have some practice time on the bike to figure out what's happening before you get into traffic. The gears are enough for my plans (no big long hills, mostly bike paths all the way to work). I believe that the correct handlebar placement has eluded me thus far. It's important to figure that out, as your wrists are engaged in a different way if you're using the throttle a lot. It's heavy, so when the electric assist isn't on, it's not fun going up hills, though it's fine on the flats.
- Battery Life -
I fully charged the battery the day I assembled the bike, and it stayed full for the first leg of my trip (7.5 miles) after an hour charge at work, it stayed on full all the way home too. Seems to have long life on a charge.
- Assembly - It's not completely simple to assemble as the packaging is not customized to the bike, and so there's plastic parts that are there just to support the shipping that are hard to remove. Also, there are some places where the instructions point to the wrong location for a bolt, the Wedge bolt in particular, and so that gets frustrating. I did insist on doing it myself though, cause I wanted to be able to know how it was put together if I had any problems out on the road.
- Improvements -
I think this bike would be improved by adding an indicator to the PAS / TAG toggle that lets you know visually which mode you are in. A tilting seat would facilitate easier battery removal.

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12/14/2011

Currie Technologies iZIP Hybrid Via Mezza Electric Bicycle Review

Currie Technologies iZIP Hybrid Via Mezza Electric Bicycle
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I've had this for months now I've been riding it at least 2-3 times a week. The bike has been running fine for months now and I haven't had any need for repair on it. This requires some assembly when you first receive it but its not difficult. This is my first electric bike and it's okay for the price I bought it for about $570.
I commute to work and back with this thing at a distance of 14 miles total. It goes at 15 mph top speed, but begins to lose speed 10 miles or so into the ride. I read that the speed limit on electric bikes are about 20 mph. I wish they made their bikes cap around that speed. Also, pedaling on this thing is hard.
Overall, its a nice bike for short distances and its great for storing in the back of cars.

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

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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8/01/2011

Currie Technologies Power Kit Review

Currie Technologies Power Kit
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
Recently purchased this kit to help with some of the hills we have here in Dayton OH. I use my bike for commuting. I installed the kit on a used full suspension mountain bike. I purchased a new Shimano Tourney 7Spd 14-28T Freewheel to go with it as well as a heavy duty kickstand. I recommend you do the same. Installation took a couple of hours since the kit isn't really made for this type of bike. If you are not mechanically talented you should probably find help from someone who is because installation is necessarily flexible to fit as many bikes as possible. Tools needed are wrenches to fit your bike, a set of metric Allen wrenches, #2 Phillips screwdriver and tire tools. I won't go into details as the manual is here:
[...]
Some notes on the installation:
First I recommend some thread lock, like Henkel Corp 209728 Loctite Blue Threadlocker, since not all fasteners have lock-nuts or lock-washers and will vibrate loose eventually. The kit comes with some extras but not many. You will probably also want some extra zip-ties to tie the wires to the frame. Make sure all fasteners are tight after assembly and check them daily for the first few days as metal mounting straps will "set" over time allowing fasteners to become loose. Be sure the wiring isn't going to get pinched in any way or is allowed to rub on any moving parts like wheels, chains or brakes. The kit is fairly heavy so the heavy duty M-Wave Steel Double Leg Side Bicycle Kickstand is HIGHLY recommended. Your bike's normal lean-over stand will probably not hold it. It wasn't meant to hold more than the bike. The wheel in the kit fit my tire and tube but is a wider wheel than the original so a longer rear brake cable or wider brakes may be needed by some.
Ride Report:
I am a big guy. I'm 5'10" and 250lbs. We have lots of steep hills here and I live on the tallest one in town. The motor has very good torque for only being 450 watt (about 1/2hp) but with hilly terrain and a heavy rider range WILL suffer. 10-15 miles on this kit would need flat terrain and a smaller, more athletic rider. For me and where I live, I'm estimating 3-5 miles. The weight of the kit isn't noticeable when riding.
Speed is good, I can pedal along in the top two gears of a 21 speed comfortably at full throttle. Throttle response is good, if a little delayed. This seems to be due to a "soft Start" function of the motor controller. Very fine speed control with no noticeable "Stepping"
One thing to note, always lock the battery in place since it gets a good rattling around being bolted to the rear suspension. (If it doesn't fit good and tight, bend the mount's rails inward till it does or the battery will bounce around on it's contacts and arc, causing overheating in the contacts.) So far, the kit has not been adversely affected by the record setting rain we've been getting around here, though the thumb throttle seems to be stiffening up a bit.
Overall I think I got my money's worth. Until I get in better shape, this is great help up hills. It has a fair turn of speed at full throttle, but cruises well at half throttle too. The only downside is that it adds a fair amount of weight to a bike (mostly the battery) so if you have to lift it onto a bike rack it's going to give you a workout doing so. Currie could have designed the rear of the rack with more space as a handle to help with this.

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7/15/2011

Currie Technologies 24-Volt Bicycle Battery Pack, Black Review

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

(More customer reviews)
Here is the instruction from Currie Customer Service (Chatsworth, California) regarding proper procedure to keep the SLA battery in optimal performance and longest life.
(1) fully charge the battery before first use;
(2) run the bike until the battery is totally dead then recharge it to full;
(3) repeat step 2 two times;
(4) after the battery died for three times, the battery has attained its optimum condition.
Then, after each subsequent ride (regardless long or short), recharge the battery to full whenever possible. Note, after each overnight recharge, always unplug in the morning, never leaving the battery in overcharging state for more than 24 hours. Therefore, whenever we start riding on a certain day, we always have a fully charged battery.
I was also reminded that when recharging, always connect charger cable to the battery first; then plug charger to the wall outlet. After recharging, always unplug first, then disconnect charger from battery. This sequence will avoid unexpected damage to the charger and the battery.

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