09-06-2013, 01:35 AM
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#1 (permalink)
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Master EcoModder
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Quite possibly the coolest motorized bicycle I have ever seen!
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 Today
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09-06-2013, 10:56 AM
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#2 (permalink)
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Not Doug
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It definitely looks interesting! It says "80-100 MPG" and considering that the bike weighs a little over one hundred pounds and has a 50cc engine, that definitely sounds reasonable.
What if you aeromod it?! 
My main question was how much everything cost, which was not in their FAQ. They listed companies that sold the components, although I wish that they specifically linked to everything.
They also say that with a 150cc engine, you could go 65 MPH! |
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09-06-2013, 11:39 AM
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#3 (permalink)
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EcoModding Apprentice
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Xist
It definitely looks interesting! It says "80-100 MPG" and considering that the bike weighs a little over one hundred pounds and has a 50cc engine, that definitely sounds reasonable.
What if you aeromod it?!
My main question was how much everything cost, which was not in their FAQ. They listed companies that sold the components, although I wish that they specifically linked to everything.
They also say that with a 150cc engine, you could go 65 MPH! |
Go to the kickstarter page and scroll 3/4 of the way down. They list a total price of $2898 after purchasing all components.
The problem is with the 150cc (or any engine really), moving >30mpg requires registration as a motorcycle which requires lights, inspection, insurance, etc. Not sure I'd be happy with MTB tires at those speeds (sustained), and I don't believe they would pass inspection anyway.
Its a very interesting concept, but not sure what I would actually do with one. If I can only go 30mph, I might as well just ride my bicycle. |
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09-06-2013, 12:52 PM
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#4 (permalink)
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Not Doug
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Quote:
Originally Posted by ProDarwin
Go to the kickstarter page and scroll 3/4 of the way down. They list a total price of $2898 after purchasing all components.
The problem is with the 150cc (or any engine really), moving >30mpg requires registration as a motorcycle which requires lights, inspection, insurance, etc. Not sure I'd be happy with MTB tires at those speeds (sustained), and I don't believe they would pass inspection anyway.
Its a very interesting concept, but not sure what I would actually do with one. If I can only go 30mph, I might as well just ride my bicycle.
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Quote:
Pledge $2,950 or more
5 backers
This will be the full bike with a Lifan 49cc motor. The bike will include Marzocchi 888 CR forks! With this option you must pick up the bike yourself in Santa Cruz, CA.
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I did not realize that the Kickstarter logo was an icon! 
This might be perfect if you lived somewhere like LA, where you would be passing cars. Compared to a car, you would save tons on gas, although I wonder how much more you would pay on tires.
I looked at the laws for Arizona. It seems like I could ride it anywhere I can use my Gary Fisher.
I just cannot maintain 30 MPH! |
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09-06-2013, 01:04 PM
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#5 (permalink)
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NightKnight
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09-06-2013, 01:34 PM
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#6 (permalink)
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EcoModding Apprentice
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Xist
I just cannot maintain 30 MPH! |
Neither can I. But a $3000 depreciating asset to average maybe 25mph to work and get 80mpg doesn't really outweigh averaging probably 15mph on my $100 bike and getting infinity mpg.
I think the rules here would limit it to mostly street use. No trails allow motorized bikes. |
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09-06-2013, 02:50 PM
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#7 (permalink)
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Not Doug
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Quote:
Originally Posted by ProDarwin
Neither can I. But a $3000 depreciating asset to average maybe 25mph to work and get 80mpg doesn't really outweigh averaging probably 15mph on my $100 bike and getting infinity mpg.
I think the rules here would limit it to mostly street use. No trails allow motorized bikes.
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I cannot imagine that you would be allowed, or that you should if you could, take this in highways or freeways.
Who here loves surface streets?! |
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09-06-2013, 03:30 PM
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#8 (permalink)
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EcoModding Apprentice
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This seems cool at first, but after thinking about it, it would get the same MPG as my Honda Metopolitan. It would cost a lot more. It has less storage space.
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09-13-2013, 05:55 PM
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#9 (permalink)
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Master EcoModder
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For a commuter bike one can do better with a decent full suspension cross country style mountain bike and a Golden Eagle motor kit. Add a fairing and 30 mph is no problem. One should expect at least 150 mpg from such a bike compared to the 50cc scooters.
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09-13-2013, 07:50 PM
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#10 (permalink)
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Master EcoModder
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Grant-53
For a commuter bike one can do better with a decent full suspension cross country style mountain bike and a Golden Eagle motor kit. Add a fairing and 30 mph is no problem. One should expect at least 150 mpg from such a bike compared to the 50cc scooters.
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But yours won't be nearly as cool, hence the title of this thread.
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