Comment by glenjamin
4 years ago
Looking at those power numbers, I can't help but wonder how much you'd gain by doing this sort of modification on a bike that is more efficient and/or aerodynamic even without the motor attached.
A touring bike frame with 700c wheels and a more stretched out position would likely allow you to travel at the same speed for lower total power output - and make your battery go further (or not require such a large battery).
There are velomobiles here, and also e-bike versions of those that go wicked fast. They also ride on the bike paths. I think they're quite dangerous because they are so low that you are riding below the height of a car hood (or a mirror for that matter).
Here is a picture of one:
http://dutchbikes.nl/artwork2/kv4/passing.jpg
and a video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cAcy7EVRpXc
I think it's insane this is allowed on the streets without a license or anything. I'm afraid of riding my regular bike if there's no bike lanes, let alone something like this in the middle of all the cars. Insane.
Agreed, they are very dangerous. But there very few of them (because people realize they are dangerous).