Stromer E-bike / Go Anywhere with Power
As E-bikes get nicer and nicer, people start to notice. Climb aboard this electric-assist bike and there are many things that will get your attention. Lots of power and stopping ability are high on the list. Easy to use controls fit right in. Add some good looks and the all-terrain capabilities, and you’ve got the Stromer E-bike.
Bob's silver Stromer Sport
Even though these are on the menu at NYCeWheels, I rode one here on the west coast. All the hype that has been going around made my expectations high. After the first block, I could see that no one was just blowing hot air about this bike. Very nicely done, this E-bike delivers the goods. I enjoyed my ride and wanted more.
Looking more like a mountain bike that a street cruiser, the Stromer eBike is at home in both venues. Outfitted with some dual-purpose tires, I am sure you could go with either extreme and be happy. The plush front suspension has a lock-out feature, and the saddle is speced to please. With some nice drive train parts, it shifted and rode well.
The control system is done nicely. Using a high-tech load sensor on the drop-out (similar to the Gepida), it has a very responsive pedelec feel. With three levels of sensitivity at your fingertips, you can tailor the power assist to match your riding style. And unlike the European E-bikes, a throttle is here to allow you to power-up when you’re not pedaling.
It uses a half throttle, which is my preference. The power is smooth, silent, and quite noticeable. The computer that controls it all works fast, adding to the great feel the Stromer has. It gives you the juice to climb steep hills with minimum effort on your part. I should know, as I climbed the steepest one in town with a smile. Coming back down was a breeze too. The disc brakes work well.
It comes in four men’s frame sizes and two for the low-framed bike. Three different colors can be had. The frame is quite beefy, and has a spot where the battery fits in to make for a sleek and sassy look. If the brushless hub motor wasn’t visible, many people would never suspect it’s an E-bike. During the ride, I got the feeling that I could tackle any obstacle and keep going.
Speaking of going, the range of this bike should be very far. The large 37 volt lithium battery, combined with an efficient control system, can work together for some long rides. I didn’t get the chance to test the range, but my experience with similar set-ups tells me it should be doable.
The specs say up to 45 miles. At the low pedelec setting and on near level ground, I think it would make it. Under normal conditions, expect 20-25, which is still a long way.
Yes, it’s true that the Stromers’ price is on the high side. Quality doesn’t come cheap. I would suspect that it will be the second E-bike for many of the people you see riding one. You know, a person who has enjoyed and loved their first one, but is ready for the next level. But if you want an aggressive and powerful bike, jump right in. I can’t see anyone being disappointed on this electric-motored bike.
If you are close to NYCeWheels, by all means stop by for a ride. You can feel the smooth, quality features for yourself. Even if you can’t try it first, you might already know that this is the E-bike for you. A Stromer bike could make a definite change in your transportation world. I am sure you have read and seen many things that are drawing towards a bike like this. Park the car, skip the bus, and feel the open air. E-bikes just put a smile on your face while you save money, and trim your body. They will also change your attitude, for the better.
Check out the Stromer electric by at NYCeWheels
E-bikes are the best, Turbo Bob
“There is nothing, absolutely nothing, quite so worthwhile as simply messing about on bicycles.”
Tom Kunich.
Turbo Snakes a Reptila-Part 3 | The Reptila gets Slimed
With more than a few miles on the odometer of this Gepida Reptila 1100, I can start shedding some skin on the details of this European pedelec. With some hissing, puffing, and poison spitting, I will lay out the story of my first week of riding this electric-motored bike. I will dictate this while I take the time to do some push-ups on a hot rock.
Bob and his Gepida at the Park
First off, I have to say that the efficiency of the Reptila is something else. It uses a fairly small battery, and puts out a lot of distance between charges. The up-to-date power system is very intuitive to your needs when riding. The torque sensor has a fine feel for your output to the pedals, and responds quickly with the motor assist. On the display unit, you can easily vary the amount of overall assist to increase your riding range, or add more power for the hills. The motor is so quiet, you can only tell when its running, by the pull it gives.
The styling is very modern. Unlike some gaudy electric bikes on the market, this Gepida has the clean line of an everyday bike. The battery rack looks like a super-styled piece from the future, not a over-sized and unusable rack with a battery mounted to it. The frame, paint, and other pieces are well finished and pleasing to the eye. Only on closer inspection, have many people realized it is a pedelec.
One of the neat features of the Reptila is the quick adjust and almost infinitely settable handlebar and stem system. Once you have found the sweet spot for this, you are set, but if many people ride it, it is easy to adjust for their fit. And with a bike like this, you will want your friends to give it a try to see what the future of bikes is all about. The same goes with the seat adjustment. The suspension seat post height is changed with no hassle. Of course, most e-bikes have this feature nowadays. I did change the seat angle some with the included hex wrench. The cushy saddle is not the type you would use for major long-distance rides, but I think most people who would order this bike, would find it just right.
Off we go. After some minor shake-down rides in my neighborhood, I was ready for the open road. My first ride was almost 25 miles. I expect the battery to hold more power as the charge cycles continue. I did use full power to attack a major hill that I try to avoid on my own electric-assist bike. After about three quarters of the way up, I was getting a little winded, so I pushed the bike to the top. That is way, way farther that I have ever made it on that hill before. On most of the ride, I left the power-assist adjustment at about half. That is a good way to maximize the range of the battery on level and near level ground.
The riding was smooth and easy. The motor's assist comes on with no abruptness. It acts as if your legs are much stronger than normal. The display unit keeps track of your speed in very large digits. It also records your trip distance, average speed and ride time. It remembers the total distance traveled (odometer) and has a two part display to let you know how much farther the battery will take you. The display has a few other features too. The Gepidas' computer is large, easy to read, and well thought out.
I felt pretty safe on the road with the Gepida Repila 1100 lighting package. This is standard equipment. The bright headlamp and tail light are run from the battery's power. It is controlled by an additional switch on the display. It even has an automatic mode that will switch in on when it gets dark, if you are in a tunnel or ?. I will report on the headlamp's power output after I get a chance to ride it at night. I am a stickler for using flashing lights on both ends, even in the daytime, but so far I have been happy with the performance of the factory lights. Gepida even included a cool bell with a nice tone and a continuously rotating button that is hard to explain. You might have to try it for yourself to see what I mean.
Oh yeah, the slimed part. I came out from a lunch stop to find the back tire flat. It was the perfect chance to off the Woods-dunlop valve stemmed tubes, and get some thorn-resistant ones. I squirted in some green goop (Slime) to reduce the chance of another flat. The Schwalbe Tyrago tires have puncture protection, but somehow the smallest piece of a stranded wire made it through to the tube. With the added thickness of the new tubes, the slime, and the American spec schrader valves, I think I will be much happier.
With a lot more riding, testing, and reporting to go, I am glad you are following this story on the Gepida Reptila 1100.
Thanks for reading, Turbo Bob.
"When I go biking, I repeat a mantra of the day's sensations: bright sun, blue sky, warm breeze, blue jay's call, ice melting and so on. This helps me transcend the traffic, ignore the clamorings of work, leave all the mind theaters behind and focus on nature instead. I still must abide by the rules of the road, of biking, of gravity. But I am mentally far far away from civilization. The world is breaking someone else's heart."---Diane Ackerman.
Random Post:
eBike
The ebike is a specific electric bike manufactured by EV Global motors. The ebike is a name brand for an electric bike that is very popular. Though the ebike is a 5 year old design, it still is one of the best performing ebikes.
Since there is some confusion about the ebike, or e-bike, or electric bike, etc., it is important to clarify some of that.
An e-bike is a short term used for an electric bike. There are a number of different manufacturers and many different models of e-bikes or electric bikes. If you are specifically looking for an ebike or eBike from EV Global Motors give the folks at NYCeWheels a ring. They stock the eBike SX and the new Enviro - both using the Heinzmann motors.
If you are looking for ebike reviews, or ebike parts than you can look through our resources page to find appropriate links for these.
In terms of the eBike (the company that makes electric bikes), these German made electric bicycles are well designed and well made. The powerful ebike electric bikes are popular because they offer powerful, reliable and efficient transportation.
There is a 36 volt eBike SX which is a high performance machine that many electric bike fans consider one of the finest electric bicycles made.
Today, the term "ebike"; or "e-bike" is more commonly used as a short-hand for an electric bike. It is a good idea to make sure you understand this so you are not confused.
If you are specifically looking for an eBike model, rather than a different make or model of electric bike than you will want to clarify that with the retailer.
The better retailers will obviously know the difference between an "eBike" (manufacturer) and an "e-bike" or "ebike" a generic term used to define electric bikes, so finding a reputable and knowledgeable retailer is always your best bet to ensure you are getting the right ebike.
Random Post:
My electric bike adventure
If you're like me, you probably suffered from all kinds of depression before you owned an electric bicycle and didn't even know why. In my case, I have something called Seasonal Affective Disorder or seasonal depression as it's more commonly known. Yes, I am quite literally SAD! This coupled with how defeated I felt when my doctor advised me to take better care of myself due to my diabetes was definitely a one-two punch for me last winter (that is, until I purchased my electric motor bicycle). SAD was something I vowed would not get me down this wintertime, not as long as I had my electric motor bike. I had made plans to ride my electric bike with the same frequency I had all spring and summer long into the decidedly less electric bike friendly winter months. I would be utterly unphased by whatever Old Man Winter put in front of me and my electric motor bicycle. Below freezing temperatures are no match for electric powered bicycles!
But then winter rolled around and it looked as if global warming took care of my SAD for me. Bright days and moderate temperatures allowed me to run down and get a newspaper in just a sweatshirt. I decided that this was a cause for celebration. I came upstairs and my wife was sitting on the couch with her laptop looking up electric motor bicycles for a future purchase. She had been so impressed by my Birdy BionX folder that she decided that she wanted an electric motor bike of her own. And who could blame her for those electric powered bicycle aspirations? Since I bought my electric bicycle, I felt like a completely new man. I think she knew electric bicycles be the best thing she's done since moving out of her Mom's house in Neptune, New Jersey around when she met yours truly. But enough about Meredith and New Jersey, this story is all about me and my electric motor bicycle!
I decided that I would take advantage of the gorgeous weather with one of my patented Manhattan adventures. These almost always involve electric powered bikes. One of my favorite pastimes is to head out to my local dealer and check out the latest and greatest electric motor bikes. I go to a little place out here on the Upper East Side of New York City called NYCeWheels and they always seem to know what the coolest new gadgets are. I hopped on my electric bike and zipped off to the shop. My favorite R.E.M. song was playing ("Shiny Happy People" for those of you who might be curious!) as I waltzed in and leaned my electric powered bike on the side wall and took in the vast selection of electric bikes in stock.
I decided to take an Ezee Quando out for a test ride (another electric powered bicycle that folds, I'm obsessed!) and I had a great time zipping in and out of the park. I brought it back into the shop with a smile on my face that was both huge and genuine. What a great ride! I might have to get one for Meredith just so we can maybe take a trip down to Florida sometime and ride around on our brand new electric bicycles. I also tried out something that has been referred to as a California electric scooter, the GoPed. In my opinion, an electric bike has it beat any day!
Random Post:
Electric bike motor, electric bike kits
Electric bike kits are comprised of an electric bike motor, a battery pack, throttle, and charger. The electric bike motor kit should (and most do) include everything you need when you want a conversion kit for electric bike.
It is a good idea to make sure that the electric bike motor kit you are buying does include everything you will need to convert your bike to an electric bike. If the retailer does not indicate that the electric bike kit includes everything you need than you may want to ask the question before buying.
An electric bike motor kit is a great investment if you already have a quality bike that you are comfortable with and is compatible for an electric bike motor kit.
This is when it becomes really important to choose your retailer carefully. The reality is that some online retailers are just looking to make a profit and will sell an electric bike kit to anyone that wants one, whether or not it will work with their specific bike.
A reputable retailer will make sure your bike is compatible first or they will advise you before you buy your electric bike kit.
The electric bike motor and the full electric bike kit can also give you the best of both worlds when it is combined with a folding bike. A folding bike is a great way to minimize the storage space needed while maximizing your ability to obtain all the benefits of a great bike.
Some retailers offer folding bikes that are already electrified – the retailer adds the electric bike conversion kit to the bike for you. Finding a retailer that can do this is great because then you can be assured that your electric bike conversion kit is installed properly and will operate when you receive it.
Though it is relatively easy to install an electric bike motor kit on your bike, if you have the ability to hire a retailer to do it for you than you are better off. For those that cannot, you can probably install your electric motor bike quickly and easily.
BionX electric bike kit
Again, the most important thing to remember if you are considering buying an electric bike kit is to make sure your motorized bike kit includes everything you need to convert your bike to an electric bike – and, of course, that your bike can be converted with an electric bike kit.
More and more retailers offer custom made electric bike kits. If you are considering buying a custom electric bike conversion kit you again want to make sure that you are buying from a reputable retailer. We found a great electric bike motor kit at a shop in New York City called NYCewheels. Click here for details on the BionX electric bike kit.
Random Post:
eZee bike electric bicycles
The eZee bikes are in, he said without even asking who might be on the other end. Actually I have been on the phone with Bert an hour earlier when he told me this is the big day. It was around 2-3 in the afternoon and the shop on New York City’s Upper East Side was going to close at 7pm. Bert said he needs a couple hours to tune them up, I should be on the way by no later than 4pm since I could be hitting traffic coming in from Long Island at this time.
The brand new ezee bikes are made in Shanghai by Mr. Ching’s eZeebike Kinetic Technologies. The bikes have been around in the UK for a few years now, 50cycles is the main distributor there. Nycewheels together with Electric Vehicles Northwest are the US importers of the ezee bikes. I have been the unofficial new product tester for Nycewheels for the past year - a rough job but someone has to do it 
Bert has been talking about the eZee electric bikes for many months now and seemed very exited every time they came up – I knew it had to be something special.
Unfortunately I hit traffic on the way in from my Long Island and arrived only one hour before the electric Bike shop in NYC closes for the day. I will of course go back soon to spend a few hours on every single eZee bike.
Below are some quick notes about the four eZee bikes I rode for about 10-15 minutes each.
I will post a full review soon, I just need to get to the shop first thing in the morning and take each of the eZee bikes for a good one hour test drive.
Overall the eZee bikes are beautiful machines, top quality frames with high-end components and comfortable seats. All eZee bikes come with a choice of NiMH or Li-Ion batteries/chargers. The Battery cases are the same, so each bike can run on either one. All eZee bikes are suited for commuters and everyday use, they are equipped with lights, fenders and racks. I think they have bells and bike computers as well. The lighting system on some of them was powered by a generator and on others by the electric bikes power system, I don't have a preference there.
EZee Torq:
What a great electric bike. The Torq ezeebike is super light and feels like a non powered road bike. The Torq has a smaller 250 watt front hub motor with amazing pull, it just keeps building up speed – the eZee TorQ very smoothly goes to what seems to be past 20 mph. It feels like a very efficient setup that probably runs for many miles per charge. (unlike those older, heavy EV Global eBikes)
The eZee TorQ is the bike riders electric bike, a throttled bike unlike the pedal activated Giant Lite but almost as light and smooth.
EZee Sprint:
The second eZee bike I took around the block was the eZee Sprint. This electric bike also has a front hub motor but a bit more powerful than the eZee Torq. It rides very well and is super easy to use. It has one of those 7 speed internal hubs which you can shift without pedaling, this comes in handy when driving in NYC traffic. You can down shift to first gear if you get forced to stop short, on a derailour bike you have to take off in high gear - no fun at all. The bike has a smooth front suspension and handles well on rough roads and feels very save and stable. The step through frame is great for stop and go traffic and city riding. If you’re looking for a bike that does it all – this is it.
EZee Cadence:
The Luxury Cruiser of the line of eZee bikes. The Cadence uses a triple-crown-fork for a Cadillac like ride. The electric motor and battery system is the same is the Sprint and provides plenty of pull. The eZee Cadence even has a lighting system that runs of the main battery rather than a Dynamo. The Cadence is a muscle Cruiser that replaces the retired Wavecrest electric powered Tidalforce iO-Cruiser.
EZee Quando:
What a surprise, the Quando looks like a standard little motorized fold-up bike, but boy does it move. The eZee Quando uses a similar hub motor as the Torq but in the rear instead of front. This little guy has amazing hill climbing ability and top speed. I am certain this electric folding bike will take the place of many scooters for it being light, fast and has 3 times the range of most electric scooters. Some people argue that it's the best folding bike out there because of its superb electric assistance. The Quando has to the perfect New York City commuter bike. Since it's a bike that folds it will be allowed to go on all trains and buses during rush hour as well. It may not fold as compactly as the Brompton folding bike, but it holds the honor of being the most compact electric folding bike on the market. The Quando is truly a portable bike.
Sorry about the brief reviews, I will try do a detailed one for each eZee bike once I get back to Bert’s shop. In the meantime, stop in yourself for a test ride, you will be amazed by the performance and looks of the new eZee bikes electric bikes at Nycewheels.
Random Post:
Electric bicycles, alternative to cars?
Second and third cars for a family are becoming obsolete with the skyrocketing costs of auto insurance and gasoline. Many families are looking for alternatives to having a second or third car and electric bicycles are being viewed as a great alternative.
Electric bicycles offer you the ability to get to where you need to go quickly, safely and economically - a winning combination! Electric bicycles are much more efficient and cost-effective as compared to cars and even motorcycles.
Electric super bikes as some would call them can either assist you with your trip by offering 50% of the legwork (power assist models) or can whisk you to wherever you need to go as you steer (power-on-demand models). Electric bike kits can even turn an existing bike into an electric bicycle by adding a conversion kit for an electric bike.
Electric bicycles have improved in terms of technology to the point where they are far more economical than even the hybrid vehicles on the market. The long-life of electric bicycles and the mere pennies it costs to recharge the battery make electric bicycles a far more economical choice for anyone commuting to work, school or anywhere else you need to go.
A commuter bicycle made in commuter heaven - electric bicycles are a great choice for people in small or large cities around the globe. It is easy to travel into work on electric bicycles and you can even buy a folding electric bicycle so you can be assured to be able to take your bicycle into the office, gym, house or anywhere you want to store it rather than leaving it outside.
Electric bicycles are also safer for the environment than any car or hybrid vehicle. Electric bicycles have become very popular with many families looking for alternatives to second or third vehicles. In fact there are likely more electric bicycles on the road than you may realize.
Electric bicycles do not necessarily stick out any more than traditional bicycles. With electric bike kits, for example, you can convert almost any bike into an electric bike. But, before you rush out to order a conversion kit for an electric bike you want to make sure that your bike can be converted - there are some models that may not be able to be converted for one reason or another.
Most bike shops will let you know if your bike can become an electric bike or not and some will even do the conversion for you and test it so you know your electric bike kit was set up right.
Today's economy almost demands that people find alternative means of transportation other than buying 2nd or 3rd cars. Electric bicycles have been seen as one of the safest and most economical alternatives to traditional cars and even hybrid cars.
Rather than spend thousands of dollars per year on insurance and skyrocketing gas prices you can get where you need to go by selecting on of the electric bicycles on the market.
Turbo Snakes a Reptila (1100), Part 2-Bob Digs His Claws into a Gepida Reptila 1100
The rumble of a large truck was my first clue that my new Gepida Reptila pedelec had arrived. I was coiled and ready to strike, but by the time I had slithered out front, the driver had already opened the back door and I could spy the package he was delivering. Although large, it was not difficult for me to help him maneuver it into my garage. With a quick signature, he was gone as quickly as he appeared, and it was time to see what was inside waiting for me.
The box label confirmed it was the Gepida Reptila 1100 I was expecting.
Bob Un-packing Gepida Reptila
After opening the top flaps of the box, I lifted out the box of pieces I was to install myself. A pair of pedals, that was it. Also in the box was a pedal wrench, a set of allen wrenches, a pair of battery keys, and the battery charger. The electric bike was as close to 100% assembled as you could get. I laid the box on it's side and slid out my new bike. Setting it upright unto the kickstand, I got my first chance to see this Reptila. Very nice.
It actually took longer to remove all the packing material from the bike, then to do the final assembly. And the bike was well packed. Lots of padding was tie-strapped to all parts of the bike. It made the journey with no damage or problems. I clipped off the tie-straps in such a way that would allow me to re-use them on other projects, I'm all about recycling.
The pedals go on easily. They are marked R and L. The left side pedal has threads that turn the opposite way of normal. The pedal wrench made quick work of securing them. I do like to use a little anti-seize on the threads, but any kind of grease is better than nothing.
The supplied allen-wrench is for tightening the handlebar stem. Straighten the stem to align it with the front wheel, insert the long end of the allen wrench through the stem (there is a hole for it), and use a box end wrench or crescent wrench on the end of the allen to get enough leverage to tighten it securely. It does have to be fairly tight. That's it, the bike is assembled. We'll talk about the seat and handlebar adjustment after we start the battery charging procedure.
Your new Gepida electric bike will come with one battery and one empty battery housing. Using one of the keys, figure out which is which. As you look at the battery, you will notice one end has a button and a group of lights. This will allow you to determine the state of charge. Push the button, and the number of lights that light, will give you an idea of how fully charged it is. These lights will also show you when it is charging and when it is done. Before plugging the charger into the wall socket, plug the other cord into the battery. Make sure the battery is on a solid surface, and you can see the lights on the end. It is a good idea to wait 10-20 seconds after plugging in the battery before you plug the charger in to the wall socket. This will let the two units know they are one, and reduce chances of problems.
Once the charger is plugged into the wall socket, you will see the lights come on in sequence. When the light go out, it is fully charged. The book says the battery will fully charge in 4 1/2 hours, but your first charge might take a little longer. Also, it might take up to five charge cycles (charge and then discharge while riding), before the battery reaches full strength. Gepida gives you the option of purchasing a second battery to double the electric-assisted range. You probably won't need it, but if you do, they say up to 70 miles with a pair of batteries is possible.
If you have seen the Gepida video on the NYCeWheels site, then you will know how easy and cool the handlebar adjustment is. Find a spot you like, and change it around until it feels just right. Same for the seat height. I like the front of the saddle a little higher than the rear. Use one of the allen wrenches to change that if you like. Pinch the tires to make sure they are full. Go for a short test ride. Fiddle with the few adjustments until they are comfortable.
Two more quick things before I finish today. Setting and operating the computer / dash display is pretty simple. Check the manual on NYCeWheels website for details. Also, watch that video for a few tips. Make sure to set the speedometer for MPH, if that is your preference. It comes in KMH, which is not mine. Also, set the clock and learn to get through the other menus. The other thing is the valve stems on the tires. Mine came with European spec stems. Bert at NYCeWheels tells me that standard American spec Schrader valves will be on all future bikes he ships. These European ones are a little like a Presta valve, but work a little differently. The supplied air pump fits them fine. It wouldn't be hard to install some standard tubes, and I just might. If I do, they will be the thorn-resistant ones, filled with green goop.
So you can see, getting your new Gepida Reptila 1100 shipped to you and making it ready for daily use, is a breeze. I have over a hundred miles on my new bike already. I am loving the feel, power, and comfort of my Gepida Reptila. Plenty more on this fantastic European E-bike is coming your way soon.
Turbo Bob, San Diego CA
"Just as the idea of classic Greek culture was the most perfect harmony of mind and body, so a human and a bicycle are the perfect synthesis of body and machine."
Richard Ballantine, Richards' Ultimate Bicycle Book.
Turbo Snakes a Reptila (1100), Part 1-Bob Stalks His Prey
Another great extended test begins today. After getting my order confirmation from NYCeWheels last week, the shipping company has called to schedule the delivery of my new Gepida Reptila 1100 this afternoon. To say I am excited doesn't do justice to the word. Watching the Gepida video of Peter demonstrating this bike has fueled my fire to grasp it. If you haven't seen this clip on NYCeWheels website or Facebook page, I suggest you have a look. I am already impressed with this new electric-motored bike, and I haven't even ridden it yet.
Bob waiting for the Gepida Reptila 1100
If you've read my articles on the Brompton folding bike, then you might have a feel for the reason I titled this story the way I did. The name of this bike is just so cool. I will make every attempt to add reptile references to the titles and story lines. I am even thinking about getting a snakeskin to attach to the top tube of my new bike. I'm still debating on if a pair of large fangs on the handlebars would be too much.
So here is the bite to this series of articles. Bert is a 'nice' guy. Bert is the top Gecko at NYCeWheels. Bert knows I have been riding my E-bike for over three years. Bert thinks I can evaluate this bike and convey its quality and worth. Bert sends me the bike fully assembled and ready to ride. Bert lets me give it the full shakedown and then tell you how cool it is. Bert expects you to believe me and then you rush over to get your own Gepida Reptila 1100. Sounds simple enough to me.
Lets do this!
Since before, and after, my wife and I purchased the electric-assist bikes we have now, we have test ridden many different ones. I have reported on many of them on my own blog site. I have a long relationship with bikes and electro-mechanical things. I have devoted my life to the repair and modification of transportation machines. I think Bert is correct in thinking that my opinion on such matters can be trusted. As he, and you found in my Brompton blogs, I will tell you the straight story without the salesperson slant. I'm a mechanic, not a salesman.
Enough of that, on to the bikes. The electric motored bike I ride is the least expensive one on the market. Fairly low quality and very heavy, I have still been happy with it. I have found that most people wouldn't. They wouldn't put up with the mechanical problems I had to overcome to make it dependable. Most people want an E-bike that is built well and exhibits no problems. That is kind of a by-product of cost. I tell people you don't want the cheapest, and you don't need the priciest. Somewhere in between those extremes is the machine for you. The Gepida Reptila 1100 fits into that category. With it's European quality and it's mid-range cost, it should be a perfect fit for most people who are looking for an electric motored bicycle. That's my story and I'm sticking to it.
Chances are if you are reading this, you have a fairly good idea what an electric bike is and why you want one. They go by many names. I have found I like the term 'E-bike'. Also used are--Electric bike--Electric bicycle--Electric assist bike--Bike with an electric motor--Pedelec--And others. Some of these have to do with your ability to power up the motor without pedaling. There are many brands and types of E-bikes. The best and most popular use a brush-less motor in the hub of the front or rear wheel. A lithium type battery is the strongest and lightest one available. There are different type of lithium batteries, the Reptila uses a lithium-ion. But all in all, it is a bicycle, with a seat, pedals, and wheels.
So check out that video, search the NYCeWheels site for info, and follow along here as I power down on my new Gepida Reptila 1100.
In the meantime you can read Harrison's first review of the Gepida Reptila
Turbo Bob
"I took to calling my bike my friend. I carried on silent conversations with it. And of course I paid it the best attention. Which meant that every time I returned home I stood the bike upside down, searched for a clean rag and polished the hubs and the spokes. Then I cleaned the chain and greased it afresh. That operation left ugly stains on the stone in the walkway. My mother would complain, beg me to put a newspaper under the wheel before starting to clean it. Sometimes she would get so incensed that she would say to me, in full sarcasm, 'I'm surprised you don't take that thing to bed with you!' And I would retort---'I would if I had a decent room and a big enough bed.' "
Henry Miller, My Bike and Other Friends.
Cruising on the Gepida Reptila 1100 electric bike
Who knew that fouling up the print drivers at work would earn me a glorious mid-afternoon bike ride through Central Park?
Harrison astride the Gepida Reptila after his exhilarating ride
That is exactly what happened on the lovely faux-spring day we enjoyed here in New York last Friday. While the IT guy dialed in to fix my mess (sorry Bert!), I took the opportunity to take the new Gepida Reptila 1100 for a spin.
These new Gepida electric bikes came to us straight from the Budapest factory back in December. I’ve been itching to take one out ever since, and only restrained myself due to the nasty weather we’ve had. Did I really want to take this beautiful Hungarian-built machine over the dirty, pitted, salt-encrusted New York City streets?
But as I found out the notorious NYC streets would have been no match for this tough four-season commuter. The Gepida Reptila after all comes from that distant polyglot land, Europe, where the electric bicycle is taken seriously as a legitimate form of year-round transportation and where, I understand, they also have their share of snow and cobblestones.
As a result the Gepida Reptila is built to be a tough, sturdy, every day electric bike. Unlike many other electric bikes in this category, the Gepida Reptila is also light, maneuverable, and rides just like a regular bike. Don’t let the elegant classic-cruiser frame fool you: this is hydro-formed alloy – light, stiff, and strong.
Gepida Reptila, the perfect electric bike?
Probably the best thing about the Gepida Reptila is the range afforded by the combination of efficient 250w motor and the twin 6ah batteries mounted discretely on the rear rack. Gepida balanced larger batteries against the resulting heavier load and settled on a happy medium. With the second battery in place the Gepida Reptila can travel as far as 70 miles (depending on rider weight, wind, and terrain) on a single charge.
While I didn’t get a full feel on my initial ride for all the capabilities of Gepida’s proprietary console, which blinked up at me with all sorts of readings, the most important read out I noticed was the battery charge indicator: it remained at full charge throughout my 30 minute ride. Not a tick lost.
The one cycling activity I love more than test-riding beautiful new electric bikes on a lovely day is long distance bicycle touring. How would the Gepida Reptila hold up on a long-distance tour? Given the battery life, the comfortable ride afforded by the front suspension, the rear rack, the wide 8 speed internally geared hub, and the ample torque for tackling long inclines, the Gepida Reptila I think would make for a supurb bike for a supported tour. TransAmerica Trail anyone? It could probably be done on a Gepida Reptila electric bike.
Tough Electric Mountain Bikes
Two OHM Electric Mountain Bikes hit the trails
A big misconception about electric bikes is that they're all laid-back cruiser bikes, built to ride on boardwalks and nicely paved bike trails. A die-hard mountain bike enthusiast probably wouldn't consider an electric bike for a bumpy, dirt trail with lots of hills. However, there are electric mountain bikes that have fully-loaded frames and can take quite a beating on a rough trail. For an aging mountain bike rider that can't quite tackle those hills anymore, this is the perfect solution. Electric assistance can be applied when needed: on the last leg of the trail, near the top of a large hill, or throughout the ride, making it less strenuous and more enjoyable.
OHM Sport Electric Mountain Bike
One of the best electric mountain bikes on the market is made by OHM Cycles. The OHM Sport electric mountain bike is the best model in their line of electric bikes, and comes equipped with all of the bells and whistles for heavy-duty mountain bike rides. There are hydraulic disc brakes, full suspension, 27 speeds on a Shimano Deore shifter, knobby Kevlar tires, and a lightweight 48 lb frame. This is extremely light for an electric bike!
The OHM Sport uses a high-torque 350 watt motor to power up hills. It has four levels of motor assistance, as well as regenerative braking for hills. The electric system is one of the best out there, and with regenerative braking, the Lithium battery can last up to 30 or 40 miles on a single charge. As an electric mountain bike, the OHM Sport has some of the best mechanical and electrical components.
Electric Mountain Bike Conversion
This Felt 68 Electric Mountain Bike is built with BionX
Many people can't bear to part with their mountain bike, especially if it's already souped up and tough. Luckily, you can convert a standard bicycle to an electric bicycle using an electric conversion kit. One of the best electric bicycle kits on the market is made by BionX. With different motor speeds, wheel sizes, and battery mounts, the BionX electric conversion kit is the most versatile motor kits for bicycles. It's also tough enough to ride mountain trails without any problems.
Similar to the OHM Sport, the BionX system has different levels of pedal-assistance as well as regenerative braking. It's one of the best electric bike kits on the market, and is adaptable to almost any bicycle. An electric mountain bike built with BionX is sure to be reliable for years of rough riding.
Camping With a Bicycle Trailer
The appeal of a bicycle camping trip seems too good to be true. Going off to live off of the land with only the bare essentials, it seems silly to load up that SUV and tread all over nature's trails. Luckily, with some of the new bicycle trailers out there, it's easy to bring all the gear you need and just pedal a bicycle. It's 100% eco-friendly, and it's more fun than driving a car!
Burley Bicycle Trailers
Some of the best quality bicycle trailers available are made by Burley. Lightweight, durable, and easily detachable, the Burley bike trailers attach to almost any bicycle.
For a short camping trip with only one or two people, the Burley Travoy folding bicycle trailer is the best option. Carrying up to 60 lbs., the Travoy functions just like a hand-truck, and can actually be detached and used as one! Two air-filled wheels provide a smooth, maneuverable ride. The Transit Bags are a perfect fit for camping gear, with compartments to fit a tent, cooking supplies, and tools. The best part? When you're not using it, the Travoy folds up to the size of a small suitcase. Cool, right?
Electrify The Camping Experience With an Electric Bike
Pulling a cargo trailer is a lot of work on a bike. You can take away most of the effort by riding an electric bike instead! With new Lithium batteries, these electric bikes travel up to 20 miles on a single charge, and have more than enough power to pull a bicycle trailer. If the camp has an outlet, you can even charge the bike after you set up camp, or ride it around some of the trails.
This electric recumbent tows a bike trailer full of camping gear
Converting a bike to an electric bike is always a great option, and the BionX electric bike kit is the best way to keep your favorite bike, but add a bit of electric power. Attach a bicycle trailer to a BionX bike and there is little to no effort with the highly intelligent BionX motor.
Instead of loading up a truck or SUV with camping gear, why not load up a bicycle trailer? It adds the element to your trip of actually getting there, an adventure that can hardly be experienced inside the shiny interior of an automobile.
Dahon Creates a Folding Electric Bike
The Dahon Boost is a compact electric folding bike
Dahon is one of the biggest and best folding bike manufacturers in the world. They've been consistently winning folding bike competitions for quality, popularity, and convenience for years. The lightweight bikes are easy to fold, and great for city commuters, since they fold down to a small profile and can be easily stored in a small apartment.
Over the last year, Dahon has been developing their first electric folding bike. One of their lightweight folders with an added boost of electric-assist power could be really convenient and fun for the daily commuter. Finally, after a year of planning, the Dahon Boost electric bike is available to buy.
The Dahon Boost is a Top Quality Electric Bike
Skeptical of an electric bike manufactured by a folding bike company, I was surprised at the ride of the Dahon Boost when I first stepped down on the pedals. It was ultra-responsive, and gave me a proportional motor assistance based on my own pedal power. I just set the power on a controller on the handlebars, and pedaled the bike. The motor was seamless, and I didn't feel a jolt or any skipping when I started and stopped pedaling. It felt just like a regular Dahon folding bike, with someone gently pushing me along.
The Dahon Boost uses a Lithium Battery
Every bike with electric motor power manufactured today is built with a good quality Lithium battery. This allows the bike to travel for roughly twenty miles on a single battery charge. The Dahon Boost, with its integrated pedal-assist, can travel up to 25 or 30 miles, depending on the mode. Its battery is also about half the weight of other electric bike batteries, weighing about 4 lbs! Needless to say, this is one lightweight electric folding bike, with a total weight of about 43 lbs. altogether.
The Dahon Boost has the same folded profile as other Dahon folding bikes, so space is not an issue. It's one of the only electric folding bikes on the market that is portable, lightweight, and also has great range. For city commuters, there is really no better choice for a great electric folding bike.
Sanyo Eneloop Electric Bike: The Future?
The Sanyo Eneloop is $300 off for the summer!
The Sanyo Eneloop electric bike blasted on to the scene in early 2010 as a new breed of electric bike. It's considered a hybrid electric bike, or one that uses an automatic pedelec motor system. This type of electric bike is generally more efficient than a throttle-powered bike, and the Sanyo Eneloop can travel for 20-30 miles on a single charge due to its Lithium battery.
Not only does the Eneloop sport a lightweight battery and a smooth electric motor wheel, but it also has a sweet looking frame. The easy step-through frame has a comfortable, upright riding position, and it comes with fenders and an aluminum rear rack.
Since the Sanyo Eneloop electric bike debuted, it has been one of the most popular electric bikes on the market. It's also practically maintenance free, with an internal 3-speed hub, a rack and fenders, and front and rear lights that are wired into the battery.
After six months, the popularity of the Sanyo Eneloop drove it's price down to $1999, which is $300 less than the original retail price. At this price, the Sanyo Eneloop is a better deal than most other electric bikes at the same price, especially with all of the accessories included. If this is still too expensive, Sanyo has developed another version of the Eneloop without a rack and lights, and includes a sportier hybrid frame. The price on this stripped-down model is only $1699, making it one of the lowest priced Lithium electric bikes out there!
As one of the leading manufacturers of long-lasting Lithium batteries in the world, Sanyo has surprisingly created one of the best electric bikes ever made. At this price, it's foolish to look at any other electric bike.
The Sanyo Eneloop electric bike is available for purchase at NYCeWheels in New York.
Electric Bike Motor Kit: Front or Rear Wheel Drive?
Biking across the country with an eZee conversion kit
Picking out the best electric bike motor kit can be difficult if you're not really sure how an electric bike operates. There are electric bike kits with different kinds of batteries, controls, and motors. Picking out the best kit requires a basic knowledge about how each component works. Getting past the quality of each part, there are certain aspects of an electric motor kit that depend on the preference of the rider. For example, is an electric motor better in the front wheel or in the back wheel of the bike? Neither choice is better than the other, but there are certain advantages to each one.
Front Wheel Electric Bike Motor Kit
The front wheel motor is a common piece of the electric bike motor kit, because of the ease of installation. Just remove the front wheel and pop on the new motor wheel and you're finished! Usually, these types of motors work with a throttle-based electric bike motor kit, such as the eZee Bike Conversion Kit. It feels a bit like getting "pulled" by the bike, rather than "pushed," but with the weight of the rider and battery in the back, it's a nice equal weight distribution.
Another advantage of the front hub motor is the ability to install internal hub gears inside the back wheel. This type of low-maintenance electric bike, with a front hub motor and rear hub gearing, has practically no problems as an everyday commuter bike.
Rear Wheel Electric Bike Motor Kit
A Trek bike with a BionX electric motor kit
The rear wheel motor is a great choice for electric bike motor kits that utilize a pedal-assist mode. Since the motor is attached to the gears, a torque sensor can actually measure how hard the rider pedals the bike. This is utlizied in the versatile BionX electric bike kit. With a pedal-assist bike, the added pedal power takes much of the strain off of the battery, and the bike can travel much further on a charge. On a BionX bike, there is an option to push a throttle for an added speed boost.
Rear wheel motors tend to feel like they're "pushing" you, rather than "pulling," which doesn't change the feel of the bike too much, but tends to be easier to power around sharp turns.
Ultimately, the location of the motor is up to the preference of the rider. Some people enjoy the front wheel for its easy installation and ability to work with a rear hub, while other people like the torque sensitive rear wheel and "pushing" sensation.
Both options are available at NYCeWheels as electric bike motor kit options.
