I live in the USA and if I want to get rid of my car I would need to be able to cover 70 miles round trip with moderate exercise in a reasonable amount of time. I think if I could cruise at 35MPH (56 KMH) that would be enough to make the switch.
It may be stupid, but I’d like to try to avoid an electric motorcycle - those need insurance, registration fees, real parking spaces, and a special license. Also, I enjoy getting some activity while riding. FWIW I’m not worried about legality, but I do plan to stay off bike paths/sidewalks to avoid endangering pedestrians and other cyclists.
My idea so far is to start with a gravel bike frame for aerodynamics, efficiency, and sturdiness in case of a pothole or rogue curb. From there I’m thinking about a 1500w hub motor, dual batteries, higher gears, bigger brakes, and permanent lights for visibility. Also a good helmet of course, crashing at that speed can be pretty bad.
Has anyone done something like this and had it go well/poorly? Anything I’m clearly missing in my plan? Also feel free to tell me if I’m an idiot, but I already know that bit.
Yeah we need e-mopeds. In my state under 50cc doesn’t need a reg or license to ride on roads. Some of the spicier 49ccs can do 45-50mph. Electric equivalents would be nice, but I’m worried they will be difficult to fit weight and space wise on a bike frame. A used Puch or Moped frame would be better maybe.
I also live in a rural sidewalk-less town and am thinking of building something similar, but I haven’t done any work on power requirements or range yet. Let us know how it works out.