Excerpt:

You're a University of Washington medical student and you need to run an
errand at University Village, but you rode the bus to school and it's a
long walk from the university health-sciences campus to the shopping
center.

Beginning next fall, the university will have a solution: electric bikes.

In what's touted as a first in the country, the UW will partner with a
Boulder, Colo., company to provide electric bikes for students and faculty
members across campus.

"This is an organic process," said Joshua Kavanagh, director of the UW
transportation department. He said he learned about the innovative things
going on with the Boulder company, Intrago, and pursued a business
relationship.

The result is that the UW and Intrago are set to launch their
electric-bikes program in the fall quarter. Forty bikes — which can be
pedaled or ridden as electric scooters — will be spread across campus and
available to be checked out. Each bike can go 25 miles on a charged
battery, more if it's pedaled. And the bikes won't be restricted to
campus.

Under the plan, there will be four stations spread across campus where the
bikes can be charged, 10 at each station. "We'd really like to see this
take off and grow as much as people want it to," Kavanagh said.

He sees it as a way for students and faculty members to get from their bus
stops to where they're going, run errands during the day and get across
the vast campus for classes.

The program is being partially funded by a $200,000 grant from the state
Department of Transportation as part of a $1 million trip-reduction
program.

The Seattle Times: UW campus to plug in electric bikes
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/education/2004035112_uwbikes26m.html

Join MyGo-Pasadena and get a $500 instant rebate on a new electric
bicycle, plus up to $30 a month cash!

If you board the Metro Gold Line from either the Sierra Madre Villa,
Memorial Park or Del Mar stations in Pasadena at least 2 times a week, you
could qualify for $500 towards your purchase of new electric bike to
enhance your commuting options. Through our Rewards Program, you could
also receive up to $30 extra per month depending on how many days per week
you commute to your station using your new e-bike. What a great way to
reduce the cost of your monthly Metro Pass!

http://www.mygo-pasadena.com/

----- Original Message -----

From: Sarah B. Howell

To: ebikes@yahoogroups.com

Sent: Monday, July 23, 2007 3:19 PM

Subject: RE: [ebikes] A new member introduces himself

Hi John,

 

It was great meeting you yesterday, and thanks so much for the awesome message :)

 

I've experienced a similar problem trying to pull a kiddie trailer on my electric bike.  The clamp for the trailer fit on the frame ok, but it unavoidably pinched my brake wires.  Though I guess this could have happened on any bike, and the problem wasn't really unique to the electric setup.  Fortunately I was towing a vacume cleaner, not a child, so it was ok to be without rear brakes for a short trip :) 

 

But I have seen some towing setups that attach to the seatpost, and some that attach to the top of the rear rack.  Burley made the really great one that I saw. 

 

I'm always on the lookout for cool trailers and stuff that I can tow with my electric bike.  I've noticed that some of the bikes do better than others with added weight -- my giant lite doesn't blink, so I love to load it down and make it work :)

 

best,

 

Sarah

 

 

-----Original Message-----
From: ebikes@yahoogroups.com [mailto:ebikes@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Jerry
Sent: Monday, July 23, 2007 2:49 PM
To: ebikes@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [ebikes] A new member introduces himself

Hello John,

Thanks for that information. Maybe your post will jump start this formum (LOL).

A trick that folks use for small motorized bicycles (gasoline) is to zip tie or even solder the spokes where they cross which reportedly stops or reduces broken spokes. I haven't tried it but it sounds logical.

For trailering, you might look into a modification to attach the trailer directly to the seat post. I don't know of a kit for this but I believe a small electrical conduit could be bent.

Regards,

Jerry

 

----- Original Message -----

From: John C. Todd, Jr.

To: ebikes@yahoogroups.com

Sent: Monday, July 23, 2007 12:28 PM

Subject: [ebikes] A new member introduces himself

Hi everyone,

I met Sarah Howell at a Sustainable Living and Renewable Energy Fair in
Shoreline, WA on Saturday. I introduced myself because I bought an
electric conversion kit from her shop (Electric Vehicles Northwest:
http://www.electricvehiclesnw.com/ ) about 7 years ago, and continue
riding it to this day. She let me know about this group then..

The conversion kit I bought is no longer carried by that shop, I suspect
at least in part because my initial experience with it was not perfect,
but some of the issues I've had with it, and the ways we found to get
around them, may be instructive.

First, the kit I bought was a Currie US Pro Drive, which is still
available from some vendors:

http://www.electrikmotion.com/conversionkit.htm

Sarah's shop installed this on what's now a 20-year-old Puch steel-frame
road bike. I still go back and forth over whether it was better to add it
to an existing bike vs. whether I should've bought a new bike for it, but
in light of developments this year, I think I made the right choice: it's
a tough old bike and already fit me pretty well.

I bought this kit because I thought it would make it easier for me to
bike-commute a 30-mile round trip over two large hills, and in fact it did
so quite nicely, but I started encountering mechanical issues with this
setup not long after: my rear wheel started popping spokes and warping.
The result was that every few months I would have to bring it back to the
shop to have the broken spokes replaced and the wheel re-straightened.
Other people might not have had these issues, since I am a large, strong
rider (with a waistline that's increasing with my age!), and when I'm in
shape, between the motor and my pedaling, I probably torque the bike
harder than most would, especially going up one of those big hills.

I've used it on and off since I first bought it, but not heavily until
last spring and again this year. Last year I worked closer to home, but
with an equally large hill in between office and home. This year I work
farther from home than ever, with the same hills in between as before. My
experience this year may be the best example of how to use a kit like
this, vs. how not to.

Early this spring I had the bright idea to take the bike back into the
shop for the usual rear-wheel repairs, but this time to ask for a new,
stronger rear wheel instead of the one this shop initially installed. The
result was been wonderful, with the new wheel taking everything I could
dish out, and enabling me to ramp up to my present 40-mile commuting round
trip, even over a pair of ugly hills. Here's a partial map of my commute,
showing my route to work (the return trip is several miles longer to avoid
the worst of the hills coming back) if you're interested:

http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=1146915

Note that you can easily use this page to plot your own route(s); just
click "Clear points and start over", then "Start Recording" button,
double-clicking the map to add each waypoint.

Things I love about my electric bike:

1. Except when I'm in excellent shape, it allows me to ride much farther
than I normally could, especially up large hills.
2. Because riding up hills or over long distances are possible even when
I'm in poor shape, I have many more opportunities to ride than I normally
would, which enables me to get into biking shape much more quickly than I
otherwise could.
3. I can ride with or without the battery (which weighs at least 12
pounds). I currently keep the battery at my office, riding mostly downhill
to work without it, with the option to use it while returning up the
largest hills. Because I don't bike-commute every day (I usually do so
twice a week), this allows me to carry the battery back and forth in my
car in between bike-commutes.

Things I don't like so much about my electric bike:

A. When I'm already in good shape, riding with the extra drag of a second
chain and the extra weight of the electric motor (and sometimes the
battery), means riding long distances is more draining.
B. The electric motor is mounted on the left rear horizontal strut, in the
same place where most bicycle trailers expect to be able to mount. This is
a bummer when I want to take my kids out for a family bike ride, pulling
the youngest in a trailer. It also reduces the usability of a bike like
mine for running errands to the grocery store and returning with several
bags of cargo in a trailer.

Note that newer conversion kits or stand-alone pedal-electric hybrid bikes
may not share these weaknesses, but if you're considering buying one, you
might want to check to make sure. In any case, now that my bike has a
stronger rear wheel, I think the pluses of my setup far outweigh the
minuses, and I'm very happy with my purchase!

-----Original Message-----
From: ebikes@yahoogroups.com [mailto:ebikes@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Jerry
Sent: Monday, July 23, 2007 2:49 PM
To: ebikes@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [ebikes] A new member introduces himself

Hello John,

Thanks for that information. Maybe your post will jump start this formum (LOL).

A trick that folks use for small motorized bicycles (gasoline) is to zip tie or even solder the spokes where they cross which reportedly stops or reduces broken spokes. I haven't tried it but it sounds logical.

For trailering, you might look into a modification to attach the trailer directly to the seat post. I don't know of a kit for this but I believe a small electrical conduit could be bent.

Regards,

Jerry

 

----- Original Message -----

From: John C. Todd, Jr.

To: ebikes@yahoogroups.com

Sent: Monday, July 23, 2007 12:28 PM

Subject: [ebikes] A new member introduces himself

Hi everyone,

I met Sarah Howell at a Sustainable Living and Renewable Energy Fair in
Shoreline, WA on Saturday. I introduced myself because I bought an
electric conversion kit from her shop (Electric Vehicles Northwest:
http://www.electricvehiclesnw.com/ ) about 7 years ago, and continue
riding it to this day. She let me know about this group then..

The conversion kit I bought is no longer carried by that shop, I suspect
at least in part because my initial experience with it was not perfect,
but some of the issues I've had with it, and the ways we found to get
around them, may be instructive.

First, the kit I bought was a Currie US Pro Drive, which is still
available from some vendors:

http://www.electrikmotion.com/conversionkit.htm

Sarah's shop installed this on what's now a 20-year-old Puch steel-frame
road bike. I still go back and forth over whether it was better to add it
to an existing bike vs. whether I should've bought a new bike for it, but
in light of developments this year, I think I made the right choice: it's
a tough old bike and already fit me pretty well.

I bought this kit because I thought it would make it easier for me to
bike-commute a 30-mile round trip over two large hills, and in fact it did
so quite nicely, but I started encountering mechanical issues with this
setup not long after: my rear wheel started popping spokes and warping.
The result was that every few months I would have to bring it back to the
shop to have the broken spokes replaced and the wheel re-straightened.
Other people might not have had these issues, since I am a large, strong
rider (with a waistline that's increasing with my age!), and when I'm in
shape, between the motor and my pedaling, I probably torque the bike
harder than most would, especially going up one of those big hills.

I've used it on and off since I first bought it, but not heavily until
last spring and again this year. Last year I worked closer to home, but
with an equally large hill in between office and home. This year I work
farther from home than ever, with the same hills in between as before. My
experience this year may be the best example of how to use a kit like
this, vs. how not to.

Early this spring I had the bright idea to take the bike back into the
shop for the usual rear-wheel repairs, but this time to ask for a new,
stronger rear wheel instead of the one this shop initially installed. The
result was been wonderful, with the new wheel taking everything I could
dish out, and enabling me to ramp up to my present 40-mile commuting round
trip, even over a pair of ugly hills. Here's a partial map of my commute,
showing my route to work (the return trip is several miles longer to avoid
the worst of the hills coming back) if you're interested:

http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=1146915

Note that you can easily use this page to plot your own route(s); just
click "Clear points and start over", then "Start Recording" button,
double-clicking the map to add each waypoint.

Things I love about my electric bike:

1. Except when I'm in excellent shape, it allows me to ride much farther
than I normally could, especially up large hills.
2. Because riding up hills or over long distances are possible even when
I'm in poor shape, I have many more opportunities to ride than I normally
would, which enables me to get into biking shape much more quickly than I
otherwise could.
3. I can ride with or without the battery (which weighs at least 12
pounds). I currently keep the battery at my office, riding mostly downhill
to work without it, with the option to use it while returning up the
largest hills. Because I don't bike-commute every day (I usually do so
twice a week), this allows me to carry the battery back and forth in my
car in between bike-commutes.

Things I don't like so much about my electric bike:

A. When I'm already in good shape, riding with the extra drag of a second
chain and the extra weight of the electric motor (and sometimes the
battery), means riding long distances is more draining.
B. The electric motor is mounted on the left rear horizontal strut, in the
same place where most bicycle trailers expect to be able to mount. This is
a bummer when I want to take my kids out for a family bike ride, pulling
the youngest in a trailer. It also reduces the usability of a bike like
mine for running errands to the grocery store and returning with several
bags of cargo in a trailer.

Note that newer conversion kits or stand-alone pedal-electric hybrid bikes
may not share these weaknesses, but if you're considering buying one, you
might want to check to make sure. In any case, now that my bike has a
stronger rear wheel, I think the pluses of my setup far outweigh the
minuses, and I'm very happy with my purchase!

----- Original Message -----

From: John C. Todd, Jr.

To: ebikes@yahoogroups.com

Sent: Monday, July 23, 2007 12:28 PM

Subject: [ebikes] A new member introduces himself

Hi everyone,

I met Sarah Howell at a Sustainable Living and Renewable Energy Fair in
Shoreline, WA on Saturday. I introduced myself because I bought an
electric conversion kit from her shop (Electric Vehicles Northwest:
http://www.electricvehiclesnw.com/ ) about 7 years ago, and continue
riding it to this day. She let me know about this group then..

The conversion kit I bought is no longer carried by that shop, I suspect
at least in part because my initial experience with it was not perfect,
but some of the issues I've had with it, and the ways we found to get
around them, may be instructive.

First, the kit I bought was a Currie US Pro Drive, which is still
available from some vendors:

http://www.electrikmotion.com/conversionkit.htm

Sarah's shop installed this on what's now a 20-year-old Puch steel-frame
road bike. I still go back and forth over whether it was better to add it
to an existing bike vs. whether I should've bought a new bike for it, but
in light of developments this year, I think I made the right choice: it's
a tough old bike and already fit me pretty well.

I bought this kit because I thought it would make it easier for me to
bike-commute a 30-mile round trip over two large hills, and in fact it did
so quite nicely, but I started encountering mechanical issues with this
setup not long after: my rear wheel started popping spokes and warping.
The result was that every few months I would have to bring it back to the
shop to have the broken spokes replaced and the wheel re-straightened.
Other people might not have had these issues, since I am a large, strong
rider (with a waistline that's increasing with my age!), and when I'm in
shape, between the motor and my pedaling, I probably torque the bike
harder than most would, especially going up one of those big hills.

I've used it on and off since I first bought it, but not heavily until
last spring and again this year. Last year I worked closer to home, but
with an equally large hill in between office and home. This year I work
farther from home than ever, with the same hills in between as before. My
experience this year may be the best example of how to use a kit like
this, vs. how not to.

Early this spring I had the bright idea to take the bike back into the
shop for the usual rear-wheel repairs, but this time to ask for a new,
stronger rear wheel instead of the one this shop initially installed. The
result was been wonderful, with the new wheel taking everything I could
dish out, and enabling me to ramp up to my present 40-mile commuting round
trip, even over a pair of ugly hills. Here's a partial map of my commute,
showing my route to work (the return trip is several miles longer to avoid
the worst of the hills coming back) if you're interested:

http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=1146915

Note that you can easily use this page to plot your own route(s); just
click "Clear points and start over", then "Start Recording" button,
double-clicking the map to add each waypoint.

Things I love about my electric bike:

1. Except when I'm in excellent shape, it allows me to ride much farther
than I normally could, especially up large hills.
2. Because riding up hills or over long distances are possible even when
I'm in poor shape, I have many more opportunities to ride than I normally
would, which enables me to get into biking shape much more quickly than I
otherwise could.
3. I can ride with or without the battery (which weighs at least 12
pounds). I currently keep the battery at my office, riding mostly downhill
to work without it, with the option to use it while returning up the
largest hills. Because I don't bike-commute every day (I usually do so
twice a week), this allows me to carry the battery back and forth in my
car in between bike-commutes.

Things I don't like so much about my electric bike:

A. When I'm already in good shape, riding with the extra drag of a second
chain and the extra weight of the electric motor (and sometimes the
battery), means riding long distances is more draining.
B. The electric motor is mounted on the left rear horizontal strut, in the
same place where most bicycle trailers expect to be able to mount. This is
a bummer when I want to take my kids out for a family bike ride, pulling
the youngest in a trailer. It also reduces the usability of a bike like
mine for running errands to the grocery store and returning with several
bags of cargo in a trailer.

Note that newer conversion kits or stand-alone pedal-electric hybrid bikes
may not share these weaknesses, but if you're considering buying one, you
might want to check to make sure. In any case, now that my bike has a
stronger rear wheel, I think the pluses of my setup far outweigh the
minuses, and I'm very happy with my purchase!

Hi everyone,

I met Sarah Howell at a Sustainable Living and Renewable Energy Fair in
Shoreline, WA on Saturday. I introduced myself because I bought an
electric conversion kit from her shop (Electric Vehicles Northwest:
http://www.electricvehiclesnw.com/ ) about 7 years ago, and continue
riding it to this day. She let me know about this group then..

The conversion kit I bought is no longer carried by that shop, I suspect
at least in part because my initial experience with it was not perfect,
but some of the issues I've had with it, and the ways we found to get
around them, may be instructive.

First, the kit I bought was a Currie US Pro Drive, which is still
available from some vendors:

http://www.electrikmotion.com/conversionkit.htm

Sarah's shop installed this on what's now a 20-year-old Puch steel-frame
road bike. I still go back and forth over whether it was better to add it
to an existing bike vs. whether I should've bought a new bike for it, but
in light of developments this year, I think I made the right choice: it's
a tough old bike and already fit me pretty well.

I bought this kit because I thought it would make it easier for me to
bike-commute a 30-mile round trip over two large hills, and in fact it did
so quite nicely, but I started encountering mechanical issues with this
setup not long after: my rear wheel started popping spokes and warping.
The result was that every few months I would have to bring it back to the
shop to have the broken spokes replaced and the wheel re-straightened.
Other people might not have had these issues, since I am a large, strong
rider (with a waistline that's increasing with my age!), and when I'm in
shape, between the motor and my pedaling, I probably torque the bike
harder than most would, especially going up one of those big hills.

I've used it on and off since I first bought it, but not heavily until
last spring and again this year. Last year I worked closer to home, but
with an equally large hill in between office and home. This year I work
farther from home than ever, with the same hills in between as before. My
experience this year may be the best example of how to use a kit like
this, vs. how not to.

Early this spring I had the bright idea to take the bike back into the
shop for the usual rear-wheel repairs, but this time to ask for a new,
stronger rear wheel instead of the one this shop initially installed. The
result was been wonderful, with the new wheel taking everything I could
dish out, and enabling me to ramp up to my present 40-mile commuting round
trip, even over a pair of ugly hills. Here's a partial map of my commute,
showing my route to work (the return trip is several miles longer to avoid
the worst of the hills coming back) if you're interested:

http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=1146915

Note that you can easily use this page to plot your own route(s); just
click "Clear points and start over", then "Start Recording" button,
double-clicking the map to add each waypoint.

Things I love about my electric bike:

1. Except when I'm in excellent shape, it allows me to ride much farther
than I normally could, especially up large hills.
2. Because riding up hills or over long distances are possible even when
I'm in poor shape, I have many more opportunities to ride than I normally
would, which enables me to get into biking shape much more quickly than I
otherwise could.
3. I can ride with or without the battery (which weighs at least 12
pounds). I currently keep the battery at my office, riding mostly downhill
to work without it, with the option to use it while returning up the
largest hills. Because I don't bike-commute every day (I usually do so
twice a week), this allows me to carry the battery back and forth in my
car in between bike-commutes.

Things I don't like so much about my electric bike:

A. When I'm already in good shape, riding with the extra drag of a second
chain and the extra weight of the electric motor (and sometimes the
battery), means riding long distances is more draining.
B. The electric motor is mounted on the left rear horizontal strut, in the
same place where most bicycle trailers expect to be able to mount. This is
a bummer when I want to take my kids out for a family bike ride, pulling
the youngest in a trailer. It also reduces the usability of a bike like
mine for running errands to the grocery store and returning with several
bags of cargo in a trailer.

Note that newer conversion kits or stand-alone pedal-electric hybrid bikes
may not share these weaknesses, but if you're considering buying one, you
might want to check to make sure. In any case, now that my bike has a
stronger rear wheel, I think the pluses of my setup far outweigh the
minuses, and I'm very happy with my purchase!

-----Original Message-----
From: ebikes@yahoogroups.com [mailto:ebikes@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of ncoastwmn
Sent: Wednesday, July 11, 2007 4:27 PM
To: ebikes@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [ebikes] Lithium battery charging

I have been asked a question about how I am charging the battery on my
Ezee Quando II. I looked up the proper way to charge the lithium ion
battery on the web because I thought it would be very different from
the metal halide or other batteries. I was right, the references say
that we should recharge the batteries frequently and not let them get
too discharged. The charger that comes with the bike is set up to
charge at the correct rate, so using it is very important. If you're
going to store the battery for long periods, just leave it partially
discharged and put it in a cool place, even the refrigerator.

Does anyone have more information?

Linda

-----Original Message-----
From: ebikes@yahoogroups.com [mailto:ebikes@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Don
Sent: Friday, July 13, 2007 8:28 AM
To: ebikes@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [ebikes] Having Fun in PT

Hi e-bikers, we're really enjoying our new e-bikes! Both my wife and I
have been out as often as we can. We both work in town and are able to
ride to work as well as run errands on our bikes. If anyone is
interested in an inexpensive entry into the e-bike world check out the
Mongoose CB24v450. Costco and Walmart on-line carry it. I haven't run
the battery down all the way on an outing yet, I've gone about 20 miles
on a trip and weigh 210 lbs. I find myself peddling on the flats, w
and w/o the motor, and even gearing down uphills when I use the motor.
It's great exercise and you can control the level of intensity by just
using the motor. The bike is heavy and would be a bear to ride w/o the
motor, but the combination is great fun.
I'm wanting to buy a rear rack for the bike and with its motor sitting
over the left rear hub no common rack fits. I've looked on-line and
can't find one that fits. Any suggestions? Don

Hi e-bikers, we're really enjoying our new e-bikes!  Both my wife and I
have been out as often as we can.  We both work in town and are able to
ride to work as well as run errands on our bikes.  If anyone is
interested in an inexpensive entry into the e-bike world check out the
Mongoose CB24v450.  Costco and Walmart on-line carry it. I haven't run
the battery down all the way on an outing yet, I've gone about 20 miles
on a trip and weigh 210 lbs.  I find myself peddling on the flats, w
and w/o the motor, and even gearing down uphills when I use the motor.
It's great exercise and you can control the level of intensity by just
using the motor.  The bike is heavy and would be a bear to ride w/o the
motor, but the combination is great fun.
I'm wanting to buy a rear rack for the bike and with its motor sitting
over the left rear hub no common rack fits.  I've looked on-line and
can't find one that fits.  Any suggestions?  Don

I have been asked a question about how I am charging the battery on my
Ezee Quando II. I looked up the proper way to charge the lithium ion
battery on the web because I thought it would be very different from
the metal halide or other batteries. I was right, the references say
that we should recharge the batteries frequently and not let them get
too discharged. The charger that comes with the bike is set up to
charge at the correct rate, so using it is very important. If you're
going to store the battery for long periods, just leave it partially
discharged and put it in a cool place, even the refrigerator.

Does anyone have more information?

Linda

----- Original Message -----

From: Sarah B. Howell

To: ebikes@yahoogroups.com

Sent: Monday, June 25, 2007 11:24 AM

Subject: [SPAM] RE: [ebikes] Welcome everybody

Hi Everybody,

 

My name is Sarah.  I live in Seattle, a city of hills, and I have a Giant Lite and an Ezee Sprint.  I work at Electric Bikes Northwest, where we currently carry Ezees and Giants, so those are brands I'm most familiar with, but I'm also learning a lot about older models, and am interested in all kinds of ebikes.   I'm fairly new to electric bikes so I'm learning as I go, but I find the whole thing quite fascinating.

 

I use my electric bikes for going pretty much anywhere around town.  I can cram a lot of groceries, books, sailing gear, and junk in my bike bags :)

 

best,

 

Sarah

 

 

 

-----Original Message-----
From: ebikes@yahoogroups.com [mailto:ebikes@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of ncoastwmn
Sent: Sunday, June 17, 2007 8:38 AM
To: ebikes@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [ebikes] Welcome everybody

Well, we hve quite a few members now. How about some of you posting
either an introduction or information you'd like to shrare or learn
about electric bikes?

Linda

-----Original Message-----
From: ebikes@yahoogroups.com [mailto:ebikes@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of ncoastwmn
Sent: Sunday, June 17, 2007 8:38 AM
To: ebikes@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [ebikes] Welcome everybody

Well, we hve quite a few members now. How about some of you posting
either an introduction or information you'd like to shrare or learn
about electric bikes?

Linda

Don,
I have emailed with several dealers about this issue, and it sounds to
me like they recommend against the suspension forks for liability
reasons.   It's POSSIBLE the forks could fail.
So today I moved my electric kit to the Mongoose, suspension forks and
all.
I had to modify the battery mount so it would allow the rear
suspension to function, but everything works fine.
The smooth ride is such an improvement it's amazing.
I can't recommend anybody else try this, but so far it looks good.
So, tell me a little about your bike Don.
Les


--- In ebikes@yahoogroups.com, "Don" <djlandstar@...> wrote:
>
> -Les, in looking at your Mongoose bike, the forks look to be the same
> as I have on my CB24v450 Mongoose ebike.  I recently got mine on
> Costco.com for a good price, I think.  I have'nt put many miles on
> mine yet but don't see any problems with these forks.  Don
>
>
>
>
> -- In ebikes@yahoogroups.com, "Les V" <rocketcaver@> wrote:
> >
> > Hi folks!
> > I live in a small town in Southern Illinois, and ride my ebike
> > conversion to work and back every day (about 7 miles round trip) in
> > fair weather.
> > It is the BD36 conversion kit from WeRelectrified, with the extended
> > range battery pack, installed on an old Sears mountain bike.
> > I am very happy with it, with a few minor issues.
> > The charger burned up after the first season, out of warranty of
> > course.  The replacement isn't as nice, it doesn't even fit in the
> > storage compartment of the battery sack, but it does work ok.
> > The other issue is that the key falls out of the switch very
> easily, I
> > have to tie it to the bike to keep from loosing it.
> > And yes, it keeps running when the key falls out.
> > Anyway, as our roads are a bit rough in places I would like to move
> > the kit to my Mongoose XR150, which is a much smoother ride, with
> it's
> > rear suspension.
> > I know I'll have to replace the suspension front forks with stiff
> > forks, but have no idea how to pick a set that will fit my bike.
> > Searching for Mongoose parts so far hasn't been very helpful.
> > The original forks have a great set of brakes, much better than the
> > old Sears bike, I would like to preserve the braking system so I
> need
> > the new forks to have the same brake mounting configuration.
> > Any ideas?
> > I'll be glad to share any info about the kit or whatever.
> > Les
> >
>

-Les, in looking at your Mongoose bike, the forks look to be the same
as I have on my CB24v450 Mongoose ebike.  I recently got mine on
Costco.com for a good price, I think.  I have'nt put many miles on
mine yet but don't see any problems with these forks.  Don




-- In ebikes@yahoogroups.com, "Les V" <rocketcaver@...> wrote:
>
> Hi folks!
> I live in a small town in Southern Illinois, and ride my ebike
> conversion to work and back every day (about 7 miles round trip) in
> fair weather.
> It is the BD36 conversion kit from WeRelectrified, with the extended
> range battery pack, installed on an old Sears mountain bike.
> I am very happy with it, with a few minor issues.
> The charger burned up after the first season, out of warranty of
> course.  The replacement isn't as nice, it doesn't even fit in the
> storage compartment of the battery sack, but it does work ok.
> The other issue is that the key falls out of the switch very
easily, I
> have to tie it to the bike to keep from loosing it.
> And yes, it keeps running when the key falls out.
> Anyway, as our roads are a bit rough in places I would like to move
> the kit to my Mongoose XR150, which is a much smoother ride, with
it's
> rear suspension.
> I know I'll have to replace the suspension front forks with stiff
> forks, but have no idea how to pick a set that will fit my bike.
> Searching for Mongoose parts so far hasn't been very helpful.
> The original forks have a great set of brakes, much better than the
> old Sears bike, I would like to preserve the braking system so I
need
> the new forks to have the same brake mounting configuration.
> Any ideas?
> I'll be glad to share any info about the kit or whatever.
> Les
>

Hi, I'm new to this group. I've searched the message archives but
haven't found anything related to my problems so thus this post.

I have a Giant LAFree Sport. When you turn it on, it just beeps
twice and all 5 (or sometimes just 1) of the LED light in
the 'dashboard' blink on and off continuously once a second. The
electric motor does not run.

Does anyone have a copy of the service manual for this bike or know
where I can get one?

Where can I buy parts for Giant E-Bikes?

I have taken this bike apart and there are no obvious burned wires or
parts. The motor runs fine when you put the 24 volts from the
battery to it directly. It passes all the diagnostic tests (both
brake handle interlocks, speed sensor, torque sensor).

Any advice on how to diagnose the problems with this e-bike?

Thank You!

Bruce

By the way, I posted some photos of my bikes in the photos section,
check them out.
Les

--- In ebikes@yahoogroups.com, "Les V" <rocketcaver@...> wrote:
>
> Hi folks!
> I live in a small town in Southern Illinois, and ride my ebike
> conversion to work and back every day (about 7 miles round trip) in
> fair weather.
> It is the BD36 conversion kit from WeRelectrified, with the extended
> range battery pack, installed on an old Sears mountain bike.
> I am very happy with it, with a few minor issues.
> The charger burned up after the first season, out of warranty of
> course.  The replacement isn't as nice, it doesn't even fit in the
> storage compartment of the battery sack, but it does work ok.
> The other issue is that the key falls out of the switch very easily, I
> have to tie it to the bike to keep from loosing it.
> And yes, it keeps running when the key falls out.
> Anyway, as our roads are a bit rough in places I would like to move
> the kit to my Mongoose XR150, which is a much smoother ride, with it's
> rear suspension.
> I know I'll have to replace the suspension front forks with stiff
> forks, but have no idea how to pick a set that will fit my bike.
> Searching for Mongoose parts so far hasn't been very helpful.
> The original forks have a great set of brakes, much better than the
> old Sears bike, I would like to preserve the braking system so I need
> the new forks to have the same brake mounting configuration.
> Any ideas?
> I'll be glad to share any info about the kit or whatever.
> Les
>

My wife and I are new to the world of ebikes.  I just ordered from
Costco.com 2 Mongoose 26'' Electric bikes, model: CB24v450, one for
each of us.  We live in Port Townsend, WA. are in our early 60's, both
work close to home.  It's a small town so we can ride to work, the
store, library, etc. easily, especially with the e-boost.
These bikes are last years e-technology, but the price is right and we
are on a budget.  Can't wait until the bikes are delivered.  Perhaps
most of all, can't wait 'till summer.  It's been a long gray winter
here.  Best wishes to you all and I'll keep the group updated on our
fun and progress in the e-world.

Thanx 4 the wake-up call Linda.

Well I've been around the horn on this e-bike thing and currently I'm
concentrating on the Quando II primarily because of its fold-up
capability.

It appears the 2(?) US dealers only have Lithium batteries and will not
have NiMh until the next shipment. I'm reluctant because of the fire
hazard.

Any thoughts are welcome
Jerry

Hi folks!
I live in a small town in Southern Illinois, and ride my ebike
conversion to work and back every day (about 7 miles round trip) in
fair weather.
It is the BD36 conversion kit from WeRelectrified, with the extended
range battery pack, installed on an old Sears mountain bike.
I am very happy with it, with a few minor issues.
The charger burned up after the first season, out of warranty of
course.  The replacement isn't as nice, it doesn't even fit in the
storage compartment of the battery sack, but it does work ok.
The other issue is that the key falls out of the switch very easily, I
have to tie it to the bike to keep from loosing it.
And yes, it keeps running when the key falls out.
Anyway, as our roads are a bit rough in places I would like to move
the kit to my Mongoose XR150, which is a much smoother ride, with it's
rear suspension.
I know I'll have to replace the suspension front forks with stiff
forks, but have no idea how to pick a set that will fit my bike.
Searching for Mongoose parts so far hasn't been very helpful.
The original forks have a great set of brakes, much better than the
old Sears bike, I would like to preserve the braking system so I need
the new forks to have the same brake mounting configuration.
Any ideas?
I'll be glad to share any info about the kit or whatever.
Les

Well, we hve quite a few members now. How about some of you posting
either an introduction or information you'd like to shrare or learn
about electric bikes?

Linda

-----Original Message-----
From: ebikes@yahoogroups.com [mailto:ebikes@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of jerry talley
Sent: Friday, April 27, 2007 5:13 PM
To: ebikes@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [ebikes] Re: Crank Forward Model

Hi Sarah,
Thank you for posting the comments from Eric; they are much
appreciated. Frankly though,I'm not sure what he is saying regarding
unsprung weight.Guess I'll research unless you know.
I'm still leaning toward the Suede for the previously mentioned
reasons and also for the cost which I understand is $300 +/- less.
Also, it strikes me that the hub motor, while not as efficient as the
Lite motor (I don't know what the design name is) may be easier to
service and/or replace especially since the Lite is no longer in
production.
I'm going back tomorrow to look at the Suede E again.
Regards,
Jerry

--- In ebikes@yahoogroups.com, "Sarah B. Howell" <thirdwavemedia@...>
wrote:
>
> Hi Jerry,
>
> Eric from the bike shop had some comments about the email
> I sent to you. This is a good learning experience for me,
> as I'm trying to learn about the different ebikes and he
> knows pretty much everything.
>
> COMMENT: Some customers do find the SuedeE just as rideable without
> power. Also think the issue of unsprung weight works in reverse.
>
> COMMENT: The SuedeE does offer what Jerry refers to as 'crank
forward
> model, sometimes called a foot forward or semi-recumbent'.
>
> COMMENT: In the end its Watts (not V) that counts and both are 240
W.
>
> COMMENT: The SuedeE's weight is not related to the VPC function. The
> SuedeE is a heavier bike than the Lite becuase of its cruiser
design and
> lower price. The battery is heavier because is 9 versus 6.5 AH.
>
> And in reference to:
> > The other thing is the Lite is known to be an exceptionally
reliable
> > bike,
> > with close to 100% owner satisfaction, something the Suede E
can't claim.
> COMMENT: Perhaps not but the SuedeE is more reliable than any other
> make/model on the U.S. market.
>
> I hope that helps!
>
> Sarah
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: ebikes@yahoogroups.com [mailto:ebikes@yahoogroups.com] On
Behalf Of
> jerry talley
> Sent: Thursday, April 26, 2007 5:54 PM
> To: ebikes@yahoogroups.com
> Subject: [ebikes] Crank Forward Model
>
>
> Hello,
> I'm a new member and I'm in the market for a new Ebike that
is "back
> and arthritis" friendly. I believe a crank forward model, sometimes
> called a foot forward or semi-recumbent fits in this category. Even
> better if it has a back support.I'm throwing out these phrases like
I
> know what I'm talking about but I really don't know for sure.
>
> I'm retired and will use this bike for exercise w/o power and fun
with
> power. I want good rideability with or without power, and I am
> concerned with battery life and replacement cost.I live in the
flats
> and will rarely encounter hills.
>
> I've looked at Giant Suede E which appears to be well made.It costs
> $1000 and has an NiMH battery which I understand from another user
> group costs $500 to replace.I don't know how long it will last.
>
> I've also looked at models which I would add an electrical motor
like
> the Elektra Comfort models and Day 6.
>
> Any comments or advice will sure be welcome.
>
> Jerry
>

Hi Sarah,
Thank you for posting the comments from Eric; they are much
appreciated. Frankly though,I'm not sure what he is saying regarding
unsprung weight.Guess I'll research unless you know.
I'm still leaning toward the Suede for the previously mentioned
reasons and also for the cost which I understand is $300 +/- less.
Also, it strikes me that the hub motor, while not as efficient as the
Lite motor (I don't know what the design name is) may be easier to
service and/or replace especially since the Lite is no longer in
production.
I'm going back tomorrow to look at the Suede E again.
Regards,
Jerry

--- In ebikes@yahoogroups.com, "Sarah B. Howell" <thirdwavemedia@...>
wrote:
>
> Hi Jerry,
>
> Eric from the bike shop had some comments about the email
> I sent to you.  This is a good learning experience for me,
> as I'm trying to learn about the different ebikes and he
> knows pretty much everything.
>
> COMMENT: Some customers do find the SuedeE just as rideable without
> power. Also think the issue of unsprung weight works in reverse.
>
> COMMENT: The SuedeE does offer what Jerry refers to as 'crank
forward
> model, sometimes called a foot forward or semi-recumbent'.
>
> COMMENT: In the end its Watts (not V) that counts and both are 240
W.
>
> COMMENT: The SuedeE's weight is not related to the VPC function. The
> SuedeE is a heavier bike than the Lite becuase of its cruiser
design and
> lower price. The battery is heavier because is 9 versus 6.5 AH.
>
> And in reference to:
> > The other thing is the Lite is known to be an exceptionally
reliable
> > bike,
> > with close to 100% owner satisfaction, something the Suede E
can't claim.
> COMMENT: Perhaps not but the SuedeE is more reliable than any other
> make/model on the U.S. market.
>
> I hope that helps!
>
> Sarah
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: ebikes@yahoogroups.com [mailto:ebikes@yahoogroups.com] On
Behalf Of
> jerry talley
> Sent: Thursday, April 26, 2007 5:54 PM
> To: ebikes@yahoogroups.com
> Subject: [ebikes] Crank Forward Model
>
>
> Hello,
> I'm a new member and I'm in the market for a new Ebike that
is "back
> and arthritis" friendly. I believe a crank forward model, sometimes
> called a foot forward or semi-recumbent fits in this category. Even
> better if it has a back support.I'm throwing out these phrases like
I
> know what I'm talking about but I really don't know for sure.
>
> I'm retired and will use this bike for exercise w/o power and fun
with
> power. I want good rideability with or without power, and I am
> concerned with battery life and replacement cost.I live in the
flats
> and will rarely encounter hills.
>
> I've looked at Giant Suede E which appears to be well made.It costs
> $1000 and has an NiMH battery which I understand from another user
> group costs $500 to replace.I don't know how long it will last.
>
> I've also looked at models which I would add an electrical motor
like
> the Elektra Comfort models and Day 6.
>
> Any comments or advice will sure be welcome.
>
> Jerry
>

-----Original Message-----
From: ebikes@yahoogroups.com [mailto:ebikes@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of jerry talley
Sent: Thursday, April 26, 2007 5:54 PM
To: ebikes@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [ebikes] Crank Forward Model

Hello,
I'm a new member and I'm in the market for a new Ebike that is "back
and arthritis" friendly. I believe a crank forward model, sometimes
called a foot forward or semi-recumbent fits in this category. Even
better if it has a back support.I'm throwing out these phrases like I
know what I'm talking about but I really don't know for sure.

I'm retired and will use this bike for exercise w/o power and fun with
power. I want good rideability with or without power, and I am
concerned with battery life and replacement cost.I live in the flats
and will rarely encounter hills.

I've looked at Giant Suede E which appears to be well made.It costs
$1000 and has an NiMH battery which I understand from another user
group costs $500 to replace.I don't know how long it will last.

I've also looked at models which I would add an electrical motor like
the Elektra Comfort models and Day 6.

Any comments or advice will sure be welcome.

Jerry

Hi Jerry,

Eric from the bike shop had some comments about the email
I sent to you.  This is a good learning experience for me,
as I'm trying to learn about the different ebikes and he
knows pretty much everything.

COMMENT: Some customers do find the SuedeE just as rideable without
power. Also think the issue of unsprung weight works in reverse.

COMMENT: The SuedeE does offer what Jerry refers to as 'crank forward
model, sometimes called a foot forward or semi-recumbent'.

COMMENT: In the end its Watts (not V) that counts and both are 240 W.

COMMENT: The SuedeE's weight is not related to the VPC function. The
SuedeE is a heavier bike than the Lite becuase of its cruiser design and
lower price. The battery is heavier because is 9 versus 6.5 AH.

And in reference to:
> The other thing is the Lite is known to be an exceptionally reliable
> bike,
> with close to 100% owner satisfaction, something the Suede E can't claim.
COMMENT: Perhaps not but the SuedeE is more reliable than any other
make/model on the U.S. market.

I hope that helps!

Sarah


-----Original Message-----
From: ebikes@yahoogroups.com [mailto:ebikes@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of
jerry talley
Sent: Thursday, April 26, 2007 5:54 PM
To: ebikes@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [ebikes] Crank Forward Model


Hello,
I'm a new member and I'm in the market for a new Ebike that is "back
and arthritis" friendly. I believe a crank forward model, sometimes
called a foot forward or semi-recumbent fits in this category. Even
better if it has a back support.I'm throwing out these phrases like I
know what I'm talking about but I really don't know for sure.

I'm retired and will use this bike for exercise w/o power and fun with
power. I want good rideability with or without power, and I am
concerned with battery life and replacement cost.I live in the flats
and will rarely encounter hills.

I've looked at Giant Suede E which appears to be well made.It costs
$1000 and has an NiMH battery which I understand from another user
group costs $500 to replace.I don't know how long it will last.

I've also looked at models which I would add an electrical motor like
the Elektra Comfort models and Day 6.

Any comments or advice will sure be welcome.

Jerry

Hi Sarah,
Thanks so much for your views based on your experience.
I have seen the Lite on-line and have read elsewhere how good it is.
There is a site based in the UK that rates the Lite as the best (I
believe) Ebike on the market and rate the Suede fairly good but
inferior to the Lite.I believe this bike is now out of production
although there appear to be some still on the retail market. Please
correct me if I am misinformed.
The Suede has 2 things that attract me.
1. The crank and pedals are not in a line with the hips but are
forward which supposedly is easier on the back according to the
videos on the Day 6 website. Heres the link if you are interested
http://www.day6bicycles.com/
I haven't actually tried this configuration yet but I will prove it
to myself.
2.The more powerful 36v Suede is probably better for a heavy weight
like myself.

I will call the Bike shop you recommended and I notice they have a
branch here in southern Ca.
Thanks again
Jerry


--- In ebikes@yahoogroups.com, "asterik65" <thirdwavemedia@...> wrote:
>
> Hi Jerry,
>
> I'm also a new member, but I have experience with some different
> models of ebikes and can take a shot at answering your question.
>
> > I want good rideability with or without power
>
> If this is really a factor, then I wonder if you've looked at the
> Giant Lite, which offers the best rideability without power.  The
> Suede E doesn't share this quality because it's a front wheel drive
> bike, and a pound in a wheel is like ten pounds on the frame.  That
> said, even the Lite is tough to pedal uphill without power, but you
> live on the flats, so that's not a big issue perhaps.
>
> > I'm a new member and I'm in the market for a new Ebike that
is "back
> > and arthritis" friendly.
>
> I'm not a doctor, but I share your back concerns, and the Suede and
> the Lite are both great bike for that condition because you can
adjust
> the handlebars so that you're sitting comfortably upright -- maybe
not
> as beneficial as an recumbant, but it's quite nice on the back.
>
> Both the Lite and the Suede have a NiNH battery, but the Suede is
> slightly more powerful at 36v compared to the lite's 24v system.
>
> The Suede E also has a nifty cruise control feature where you get
the
> engine up to a certain level (by pedaling), twist the throttle, and
> then can stop pedalling.  The downside is that a lot of the weight
and
> power of the bike goes to supporting this feature -- it's 9 lbs
> heavier than the lite (5 lbs in the bike, 4lbs in the battery)
>
> The Suede E battery is about $100 more than the Lite's.  These
> batteries generally last years without any problem.
>
> The other thing is the Lite is known to be an exceptionally reliable
> bike, with close to 100% owner satisfaction, something the Suede E
> can't claim.
>
> Check out this web page on the electric vehicles nw for comparison
> http://electricvehiclesnw.com/main/ebike-comp.htm
>
> You can also call the shop in Seattle to talk to Eric about these
and
> other bikes.  This is the shop where I bought my bike and I can't
> recommend them highly enough.  You can buy a bike over the phone and
> they will ship it, if you don't live in Seattle.  ph: 206/547-4621
> ph: 800/940-6548
>
> Good luck, and keep us posted about your bike hunt.
>
> Good Luck!
>
> Sarah
>
>
>
> --- In ebikes@yahoogroups.com, "jerry talley" <hgtalley@> wrote:
> >
> > Hello,
>  I believe a crank forward model, sometimes
> > called a foot forward or semi-recumbent fits in this category.
Even
> > better if it has a back support.I'm throwing out these phrases
like I
> > know what I'm talking about but I really don't know for sure.
> >
> > I'm retired and will use this bike for exercise w/o power and fun
with
> > power. I want good rideability with or without power, and I am
> > concerned with battery life and replacement cost.I live in the
flats
> > and will rarely encounter hills.
> >
> > I've looked at Giant Suede E which appears to be well made.It
costs
> > $1000 and has an NiMH battery which I understand from another
user
> > group costs $500 to replace.I don't know how long it will last.
> >
> > I've also looked at models which I would add an electrical motor
like
> > the Elektra Comfort models and Day 6.
> >
> > Any comments or advice will sure be welcome.
> >
> > Jerry
> >
>

Hi Jerry,

I'm also a new member, but I have experience with some different
models of ebikes and can take a shot at answering your question.

> I want good rideability with or without power

If this is really a factor, then I wonder if you've looked at the
Giant Lite, which offers the best rideability without power.  The
Suede E doesn't share this quality because it's a front wheel drive
bike, and a pound in a wheel is like ten pounds on the frame.  That
said, even the Lite is tough to pedal uphill without power, but you
live on the flats, so that's not a big issue perhaps.

> I'm a new member and I'm in the market for a new Ebike that is "back
> and arthritis" friendly.

I'm not a doctor, but I share your back concerns, and the Suede and
the Lite are both great bike for that condition because you can adjust
the handlebars so that you're sitting comfortably upright -- maybe not
as beneficial as an recumbant, but it's quite nice on the back.

Both the Lite and the Suede have a NiNH battery, but the Suede is
slightly more powerful at 36v compared to the lite's 24v system.

The Suede E also has a nifty cruise control feature where you get the
engine up to a certain level (by pedaling), twist the throttle, and
then can stop pedalling.  The downside is that a lot of the weight and
power of the bike goes to supporting this feature -- it's 9 lbs
heavier than the lite (5 lbs in the bike, 4lbs in the battery)

The Suede E battery is about $100 more than the Lite's.  These
batteries generally last years without any problem.

The other thing is the Lite is known to be an exceptionally reliable
bike, with close to 100% owner satisfaction, something the Suede E
can't claim.

Check out this web page on the electric vehicles nw for comparison
http://electricvehiclesnw.com/main/ebike-comp.htm

You can also call the shop in Seattle to talk to Eric about these and
other bikes.  This is the shop where I bought my bike and I can't
recommend them highly enough.  You can buy a bike over the phone and
they will ship it, if you don't live in Seattle.  ph: 206/547-4621
ph: 800/940-6548

Good luck, and keep us posted about your bike hunt.

Good Luck!

Sarah



--- In ebikes@yahoogroups.com, "jerry talley" <hgtalley@...> wrote:
>
> Hello,
  I believe a crank forward model, sometimes
> called a foot forward or semi-recumbent fits in this category. Even
> better if it has a back support.I'm throwing out these phrases like I
> know what I'm talking about but I really don't know for sure.
>
> I'm retired and will use this bike for exercise w/o power and fun with
> power. I want good rideability with or without power, and I am
> concerned with battery life and replacement cost.I live in the flats
> and will rarely encounter hills.
>
> I've looked at Giant Suede E which appears to be well made.It costs
> $1000 and has an NiMH battery which I understand from another user
> group costs $500 to replace.I don't know how long it will last.
>
> I've also looked at models which I would add an electrical motor like
> the Elektra Comfort models and Day 6.
>
> Any comments or advice will sure be welcome.
>
> Jerry
>

Hello,
I'm a new member and I'm in the market for a new Ebike that is "back
and arthritis" friendly. I believe a crank forward model, sometimes
called a foot forward or semi-recumbent fits in this category. Even
better if it has a back support.I'm throwing out these phrases like I
know what I'm talking about but I really don't know for sure.

I'm retired and will use this bike for exercise w/o power and fun with
power. I want good rideability with or without power, and I am
concerned with battery life and replacement cost.I live in the flats
and will rarely encounter hills.

I've looked at Giant Suede E which appears to be well made.It costs
$1000 and has an NiMH battery which I understand from another user
group costs $500 to replace.I don't know how long it will last.

I've also looked at models which I would add an electrical motor like
the Elektra Comfort models and Day 6.

Any comments or advice will sure be welcome.

Jerry

Hi all,

I'm a new member of the list as well.  I'm (probably, 90% sure) going
to be getting a BionX (http://www.bionx.ca/en/main/default/31.shtml& )
kit for my mountain bike.

I just got back from test-driving the various options (Wilderness
Energy, new Currie, BionX) and I'm quite excited.

My plan is to use the assist motor to make my long (30+KM) commute to
work possible at my current fitness level.

Cheers,
Grant



--- In ebikes@yahoogroups.com, "Leigh M" <leighmo@...> wrote:
>
> Hi, all.  I'm in upstate New York. I do not have an e-bike yet, but
would
> like to buy one.  I want a folder. I live on an upper floor in a small
> apartment in a building without a elevator, and it's extremely
difficult to
> get a bike up and down the stairs.  I'm leaning toward the Dahon,
but with
> so many new models coming out, I've been waiting to see if anything
better
> comes along...
>
> Leigh
>

I just picked up my new Ezee QuandoII bike from my bike shop yesterday.
So far (two trips aroud town) it climbs the steepest hill with just a
bit of effort from me and is comfortable to ride. I intend to replace
our second car with the bike. Using it for errands around town and
pleasure rides. I hope to also load it in my small plane and explore
elsewhere.

If you'd like, introduce yourselves and let us know what you know about
ebikes or would lie to find out.

Linda