Why wouldn't this work..?
Discussion
Watchman said:
There's no torque arm or battery so I don't believe it's a working prototype.
You've not actually watched the video, have you? The battery is built into the casing, and will "last for 1,000 charges" and I imagine the seat/chain stays will function as the torque arm. I think it's a brilliant idea, as it will be easily and quickly swappable between bikes, and even appears to be compatible with a bike with dérailleur gears as an electric bike for commuting, then simply swap for the 'normal' wheel for leisure/training rides at the weekend.The only major drawback I can see is the number of fatties who'll end up with Strava KOMs with this electrical 'assistance'
yellowjack said:
You've not actually watched the video, have you? The battery is built into the casing, and will "last for 1,000 charges" and I imagine the seat/chain stays will function as the torque arm. I think it's a brilliant idea, as it will be easily and quickly swappable between bikes, and even appears to be compatible with a bike with dérailleur gears as an electric bike for commuting, then simply swap for the 'normal' wheel for leisure/training rides at the weekend.
The only major drawback I can see is the number of fatties who'll end up with Strava KOMs with this electrical 'assistance'
Yup, my EB does not have a torque arm - the axle is machined with flats on either side which provides sufficient support. The only major drawback I can see is the number of fatties who'll end up with Strava KOMs with this electrical 'assistance'
Laurel Green said:
Yup, my EB does not have a torque arm - the axle is machined with flats on either side which provides sufficient support.
I watched the first bit then Virgin had a wobbly and I gave up. I did wonder if the battery could be in the hub but I admit I'm surprised you can put enough torque through the dop-outs by simply using flat axles.Mr Will said:
Battery in hub - because rotating mass is a great idea. 
Seriously though, once you've got it rolling the flywheel effect should be enough to get you up most hills!
Quite..!! It does look as though they are trying to find a solution to a problem few have considered. I would imagine more people would be interested in an e-bike conversion for a permanent change rather than an occasional one, as per the video. In which case, having it so easily-swappable would be less important that price and performance.Seriously though, once you've got it rolling the flywheel effect should be enough to get you up most hills!
Who said the battery part rotated? Logically you'd put the electronics, batteries etc in the part that was locked to the frame, and have the outer part spin round it - effectively build the electric motor as a ring around the outside.
Personally I reckon the whole rotating vs static mass argument is overblown on bikes anyway
Personally I reckon the whole rotating vs static mass argument is overblown on bikes anyway
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