Well, I've finished the bike and took it for a ride today.
I cannot believe I am allowed such a thing. It makes cycling really, really easy and I think it will pay for itself in no time. I can't see any point in keeping my car now. Not turning up at places all sweaty.
Installation was really straightforward - the only thing I did was fit it to a different frame to the one I planned because I was too chicken to file out the dropouts on the frame I originally planned to use.
The only issues on installation were:
A very positive experience. I will report back in aear.
Really pleased with the bike.
I cannot believe I am allowed such a thing. It makes cycling really, really easy and I think it will pay for itself in no time. I can't see any point in keeping my car now. Not turning up at places all sweaty.
Installation was really straightforward - the only thing I did was fit it to a different frame to the one I planned because I was too chicken to file out the dropouts on the frame I originally planned to use.
The only issues on installation were:
- You probably need new tubes or valve extensions if you want to use a modern pump. The supplied rim has a very deep profile.
- The front wheel was not very good on this bike so I managed to find an "ebike" front wheel from Wheelson_shop on eBay which seems to have the same rim. This is a potentially very strong wheel (that massive rim and stainless Sapim spokes) but it was really badly made - I had to stress relieve and retension everything before use. Still, you can pay that much for the spokes! I could see these wheels being great for a low-cost touring bike with a little bit of attention.
- The battery has a very high centre of gravity which is not ideal. This is not an issue for me because I'm going to transplant this wheel to a different bike with a front rack once I feel it's proved itself and brazed some alterations onto it, but still - if you can possibly do so get the downtube battery, it's a much better choice.
- I didn't realise this until I read the instructions, but you are advised not to store the battery indoors. That is a new headache I hadn't thought of. I will need to build a shed for the new bike.
A very positive experience. I will report back in aear.
Really pleased with the bike.
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