Looking for guidance on the topic of adding electric power to a low price tag tandem bike.
The situation is this:
1.) We have a tandem bike that is simply not used enough. This is due to a balance issue and the ability of my wife to accurately pedal and allow gear changes.
2.) The balance issue is not too bad as long as momentum is present but dicey at lower speeds.
3.) It is my belief that if we add electric drive to the bike it would allow us to use it more often and more comfortably.
4.) Since we live in the outskirts of Denver our terrain is not all that level which presents issues with the torque required and battery power needed.
5.) I strongly suspect that actual pedaling would occur but we would use electric power far more often.
6.) On the strong side, wiring and mechanical work are not an issue as I was an automotive technician specializing in electronics and general repairs.
WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR: Simply this, a few solid recommendations on complete kits that would allow us to add electrical power to the tandem bike we now own. I am leaning more toward the concept of a front hub motor assembly as opposed to a rear motor option. Battery mounting is helped by a relatively clear lower frame member, but a solid recommendation on battery size will be appreciated.
The situation is this:
1.) We have a tandem bike that is simply not used enough. This is due to a balance issue and the ability of my wife to accurately pedal and allow gear changes.
2.) The balance issue is not too bad as long as momentum is present but dicey at lower speeds.
3.) It is my belief that if we add electric drive to the bike it would allow us to use it more often and more comfortably.
4.) Since we live in the outskirts of Denver our terrain is not all that level which presents issues with the torque required and battery power needed.
5.) I strongly suspect that actual pedaling would occur but we would use electric power far more often.
6.) On the strong side, wiring and mechanical work are not an issue as I was an automotive technician specializing in electronics and general repairs.
WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR: Simply this, a few solid recommendations on complete kits that would allow us to add electrical power to the tandem bike we now own. I am leaning more toward the concept of a front hub motor assembly as opposed to a rear motor option. Battery mounting is helped by a relatively clear lower frame member, but a solid recommendation on battery size will be appreciated.