recumpence
1 GW
McKitterick said:Matt, that is such crazy-gorgeous-wild engineering and design - kudos to you! Looks great and like it'll be a blast to ride.
I have a question for a problem I just had with mine that maybe you've already figured out. Seems like you're running power from the motors through your reduction setup directly to the left-rear gear, while retaining a derailleur setup on the right side for pedaling under your own power. I've just installed the 6000-watt kit from Tangent on a traditional downhill bike. On its maiden voyage, when I reached half-throttle, the motor ripped the chain right off the gears, nearly taking my leg off: https://endless-sphere.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=84683
I'm thinking of swapping over to a belt drive, but your comment that you've never dropped a chain makes me reconsider. With a single-side drivetrain like mine, do you recommend sticking with a chain (but going with the thicker one you use and maybe special gears?)? Have you tried belt drives and compared for high-power applications like this?
Thanks!
Chris
Derailer systems have a finite power limit before the chain skips. That is why run left side drive. For high power, left side single ratio drive is the way to go.
I am not a fan of belts for high torque, low RPM use. Chains are stronger for a given width (generally speaking). Belts are best for high RPM, low torque applications such as the motor to jackshaft.
Matt