Showing posts with label motorized bicycles. Show all posts
Showing posts with label motorized bicycles. Show all posts

7/03/2012

Currie EZip Trailz Men's Electric Bike Review

Currie EZip Trailz Men's Electric Bike
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
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.

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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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6/10/2012

Urban Mover Glider Mountain Electric Bike (26-Inch Wheels) Review

Urban Mover Glider Mountain Electric Bike (26-Inch Wheels)
Average Reviews:

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I feel I have to warn people about this bike, which I bought largely for its good looks - yes, it leaves other electric bikes in the shade. Although I bought it less than two years ago, I have got less than 40 miles out of it. The battery (not lithium as advertised) is supposed to do at least 20 miles; in my experience, it did no more than 15 and cycling it home on wet evenings into a headwind was not funny. The power guage on the battery didn't work - ever - and yes, I should have sent it back immediately but I didn't. Instead I went back to an ordinary bike (I have been a cyclist all my life which may colour my view of this bike).
When I tried to cycle the Urban Mover again, the battery had completely died. So I got it replaced. The new one was no better. Add to that a very uncomfortable saddle, handlebars that can't be adjusted, and only five gears; any cycle over 10 minutes was a pain not a pleasure. What you have is an OK if heavy 5-gear bike which should cost about $300 bumped to many times more than that because it is electrified. To say I am annoyed at having wasted so much money is an understatement. I am not at all convinced that battery technology is good enough for any bike yet - even the top of the range batteries are very heavy and of uncertain reliability. Any one considering buying one should also try a quality road bike for comparison. They may find themselves surprised at how easy they are to cycle.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Urban Mover Glider Mountain Electric 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 Glider electric mountain bike, a battery-powered bicycle that can go farther and faster than a conventional bike with little effort. The Glider is outfitted with such traditional bike features as a lightweight, double heat-treated alloy frame, a Shimano Tourney gear set and shifter, and 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 Glider 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 Glider 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 alloy frame
Fully sealed bearing system
Kenda puncture-resistant tires and tubes
High-quality Tektro V-type brakes
26-inch, double-rim, multi-terrain wheels
Advanced Lithium battery by Panasonic
Patented side-loading locking battery
Shimano Tourney gear set and shifter
Powerful UM brushless hub motor
Sports gel saddle
VPAC advanced motor control system
Professional telescopic front suspension
Mono sports ABS MTB mudguards
Special semi-matte black paint 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: 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
Gear shifter: Shimano thumb shift
Bottom crank size: 48T
Saddle model and type: UM-V sport gel
Frame size: 19 or 21 inches
Frame length: 72 inches
Wheel base: 47 inches
Weight: 43.5 pounds



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5/30/2012

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

E-Zip Mountain Trailz Electric Bicycle, Model# EZ-MT8-BL
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
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

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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8/14/2011

SCOOTER Accessories BAG w/light and bell Review

SCOOTER Accessories BAG w/light and bell
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
it very help full and strong to carry very heavy little items every where you go with a bike or electric scooter, the bag will fit you electric scooter more then all other bags', buy it and you be more then happy with it you see, buy from amazon and get it faster

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7/25/2011

Razor MX650 Dirt Rocket Electric Motocross Bike Review

Razor MX650 Dirt Rocket Electric Motocross Bike
Average Reviews:

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This is a great bike. My 11 year old son loves this bike and rides it almost everyday. The bike has a tremendous amount of power. I weigh 190# and it carried me well on an initial test drive. My 11 year old son who has been riding electric bikes for several years does terrific on this bike. He weighs 65 pounds and is 55" tall. The bike seems to be perfect for him based on his size and experience riding. The bike is interesting in that it is extremely powerful but size wise is designed for kids 9-12 years old. The box says 16 and up, which is ridiculous. The bike seems well designed and has a nice suspension system and dual disk breaks. The price is unbelievable for what you get but I would only recommend it for kids 9- 12 who have experience riding other powered bikes. The tires are pneumatic however they are very hard and knobby. They are fine for off road use but a slip out fast on slick pavement. Over all a great bike for experienced 9-12 year olds who have a non paved surface to ride on. We didn't experience any problems mechanically or electrically.


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The high-performance, electric powered Razor MX650 Dirt Rocket is ideal for teens (ages 16 and up) who want to enjoy an authentic dirt bike experience without breaking the bank. The Dirt Rocket's powerful motor carries riders at speeds of up to 17 miles per hour--more than enough for most bumpy dirt trails--and can cruise for up to 10 miles (or 40 minutes) on a single charge. At the same time, the bike's dual suspension and riser handlebars deliver a smooth and comfortable ride regardless of the terrain, so the fun isn't restricted to flat pavement. As a final bonus, the Dirt Rocket's variable-speed, chain-driven motor is extremely quiet, a marked contrast to traditional gas-powered motocross bikes.
Other details include 16- and 14-inch pneumatic knobby tires for a maximum power transfer, authentic dirt bike frame geometry, Supercross inspired design, and folding metal foot pegs. The MX650, which requires roughly eight hours to fully charge, offers a maximum weight limit of 140 pounds. It's also backed by a 90-day warranty.
Features:
Twist-grip throttle acceleration control
Double crown fork
16-inch (front) and 14-inch (back) pneumatic knobby tires
Folding metal foot pegs
Hand-operated front and rear disc brakes
Adjustable riser handlebars
Chain driven motor for quiet yet powerful operation
Rechargeable Battery
Tools included

Specifications:
Motor: 650 watts
Run time: Up to 40 minutes of continuous use (approximately 10 miles)
Battery: 24V (two 12V) sealed lead acid batteries
Battery charge time: Approximately 8 hours
Speed: Up to 17 MPH
Maximum rider weight: 220 pounds
Ages: 16+
Dimensions: 56 x 24.5 x 36 inches (LxWxH)
Product weight: 98 pounds



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