Thread: new ebike!!
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Old 04-15-2008, 03:44 PM   #11 (permalink)
lovemysan
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Join Date: Mar 2008
Location: kansas city, mo
Posts: 140

gutless wonder - '02 Saturn sl sohc
90 day: 40.17 mpg (US)

econoburban - '05 chevy surburban 2wd LT
90 day: 19.43 mpg (US)
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I got the batteries in last night. One of the brake light switches was broken causing a no start on the wheel motor. Once I figured that out it was peachy. This morning I charged the batteries. I'm using a 24v scooter charger. Specs are 29v max charge@2.5amp then drop to 28v float. I checked the batteries periodically. The plumber arrived and I left them unattended. When I returned after 1 hour there was a slight sizzingling sound inside the batts. Voltage was 29.6. I pulled the plug. They seem okay but I think I hurt them. I'm pretty sure this charger is junk. I installed and made a hilly/windy 4 mile round trip in 25 minutes. At this point the bike weighs about 80lbs. Its a beast to pedal. It handles decent. My legs are very sore after even a short ride at 10mph average. I started with 13.1volts after the 4 miles and 15-20minutes testing I have 12.2volts per cell. I'm not sure what the lowest safe level of charge is. The 25-49% light was on. I need to get a DWM to check for voltage sag. I might also mention that I weigh 230lbs+. My current range with light to moderate pedaling is 6 miles. I'm glad that I didn't pay $1200 for one of these, I'd be disappointed. The weight of the SLA's seriously negate the assist provided by the motor. After 8 miles this bike would be a paperweight.

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2002 Saturn SL
sohc + 5spd = 50mpg
mod pics see link below

http://s75.photobucket.com/albums/i3...emysan/saturn/

Real men have wheel skirts.


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