Brainstorming: Pedal Assisted Electric Scooter

[Frank Lee]

Not saying it's impossible, but if this thing is really the deal, why doesn't it exist? Sorry, can't work up much enthusiasm for something that's so "easy" yet totally unbuilt and unproven. New product development usually isn't all that easy in my experience.

[NiHaoMike]

Probably because the masses don't really see a need for it. But it is definitely possible to build one using today's technology.

If you want a bicycle that can operate as a pedal generator, you can simply put a ("IMA"-based) hybrid on a stand that allows the rear wheel to spin free. Then pedal and use a clamp or something to hold the regen lever, or you can can hack the wiring. Then connect a load of some sort to the battery to make use of the electricity.

With an eCVT bike, you do the same but you don't need to let the rear wheel spin free. You'll definitely have to program the controller to operate in pedal generator mode. Interesting part is that since stands that allow the rear wheel to spin free ("trainers") are way overpriced, the extra small cost of an eCVT over an "IMA" may be well worth it.

[Frank Lee]

Forget the masses. Build one. Be the first to reap the millions!

[Ryland]

just start with something that works, an E-bike is not hard to make out of a normal bicycle and gives you alot of freedom in your design.

[NiHaoMike]

One of the easiest ways to build a hybrid is to start a bike that has a double sided gear (there is a gear on both sides of the rear wheel). Install it so the ratcheted side connects to the pedals. On the other side, connect it to a motor with the proper reduction gear. Then add an inverter, batteries, and controls.