Brompton Nano

[faphillips]

I am considering buying a Nano Kit for a Brompton and wonder if anyone has direct experience of these or indeed the motor, which seems to from Tongxin. I have read the A to B review.

In spite of the work that the supplier claims to have put in to developing this the kit appears to be entirely sourced from Tongxin parts. The latest version apparently now places the controller in a canvas bag attached to the handlebars ( I have a picture but cant upload it). I appreciate that the connection of the battery via the Brompton luggage block is quite novel however and they have developed the application for the Brompton.

I have read of problems with the Tongxin motor particularly relating to the strength of the axle and it's propsensity for bending if overloaded (me possibly?).

I have an eZee Torq and the motor in this appears to be similar albeit that it is the rear wheel version. Can anyone confirm if this is the same motor or does the Quando use planetary gears?

Any input would be appreciated before I spend £1,000 on a Brompton S2L X and another £776 (inc postage) on the Nano kit.

 

[flecc]

The Quando and Torq have identical motors (but it's not the Nano), except for the spindle length which is slightly greater on the Quando to accommodate the freewheel for the rear wheel position. They also have a fairly weak spindle, but it's well inboard supports mean it's not a problem on those bikes.

The motor has orbital gears shown here:

on my Torq and Quando site, and you can see other pictures on this page.

The Nano has an orbital roller drive of course, and I very much doubt there's be any problem with spindle strength in the revised 100 mm fork spacing on the Brompton Nano, the load being secured well inboard.

To read and see what I did about the spindle strength on the eZee bikes when adapted for multisprocket use with wider spaced supports, see this page.
.

 

[faphillips]

flecc

Thanks for the info - very helpful. I meant to say that I have a Quando 1 not a Torq but your answer would have been the same in any event.

FAP