How fast will the bicycle or scooter go?
All of the Electric Bikes we carry can are capable of about 20 mph on power alone, in compliance with the new federal law (dependent on your weight/terrain, temperature, etc.). Scooters go 12 to 18 mph. However, down hills, Currie and Lashout will you can go as fast as any bicycle because they freewheel ‚ one of cycling's joys.
How far will I go on a charge?
With nominal pedaling, they will travel 12-25 miles on flat terrain. Your weight, the type of terrain, and the amount you pedal are the big factors here. An experienced rider, pedaling, powering, coasting, can maximize the range into the 30+ mile range. The scooters 10 to 15 miles.
Is the Electric Assist produced by friction?
ABSOLUTELY NOT! Lashout and Currie use a chain driven Direct-Drive Unit. They freewheel without any additional drag so they ride just like "normal" bicycles.
How do they handle the hills?
The Lashout and Tidalforce have enough torque to take the most hills. Worst case scenario; you'll have to pedal some!
Is the motor always on?
The motor is controlled by a thumb throttle mounted on the right side of the handlebars. With your battery on, the motor is available at anytime during your ride by depressing the throttle with your thumb. The throttle has a variable speed control, meaning the further down you press the throttle the more power you receive from the motor. Power and pedaling are totally seamless.
Does the battery have a "memory" like my cellular phone?
No! Unlike the Nickel Cadmium batteries found in many computers and cellular phones, the bike or scooter batteries may be partially recharged at any time. The "Smart Charger" recharges the two 12 volt sealed lead acid batteries without over-charging them. You can leave the charger plugged in whenever the bicycle is not in use.
How long to recharge the battery pack?
The battery can be completely recharged in 4-8 hours using the standard battery charger. The optional quick charger can recharge the battery in approximately 2-3 hours.
How long will the batteries last?
All models will reserve the bottom 20% of the battery to prolong life. Without this system, a completely drained battery would only give about 100 recharges. By using 80% of the battery capacity, it increases the number of recharges to 300-400 cycles. And, if you use half of the available charge, you can get up to 700-800 cycles. As you can see, the battery life is dependent on how often you use it and how deeply you discharge it. Riding 10 miles with normal pedaling 4 to 5 times per week would allow about 2 years of battery life. The batteries in the case are replaceable, just like a flashlight.
Is there a more advanced battery?
As of this time there is not. However, it is in the works (approximately 1 year away), and when it becomes available, it will fit right on your bike, leaving your current battery as a spare.
If I buy one over the net, how long will it take to assemble?
Your bike comes 90% assembled. The only parts not on the bike are those needed to fit it in the box. There is a 1, 2, 3 color diagram for final assembly. The bike is pre-tuned. Its very easy to set up! For a novice, the bike takes about 30-45 minutes to finish and get on the road. You may wish yours to take the bike to a bike shop for an inspection and brush-up after you have put it together. Top off battery first thing when you get it, so it will be ready to ride.
What is the maintenance?
Normal bicycle maintenance is required. The bicycle, battery, motor, and drive system can be washed off and wiped dry while the system is turned off. The electronic controller is sealed inside the motor. Chain adjustment and lubrication is just like that on a normal bicycle.
Can the motor overheat?
The motor has a built in heat sensor that automatically shuts down the system before any damage occurs, should the system overheat. When it cools down, the system will restart.
Does the bike or scooter recharge while pedaling or going downhill?
Most of the bikes do not (The Tidalforce and Motorboard have nominal regen). Recharging the batteries while riding can overcharge and destroy them. Instead, they allow the rear wheel to spin freely while riding faster than the motor. No drag, just power.
How much does it weigh?
Approximately 30 lbs. are added to the bicycle. The weight of a bicycle primarily matters when climbing a hill or when first starting from a stop. Of course, that's when the power helps your pedaling the most. You may remove the 19 lb battery to ride as a regular bike if you like.
What is the frame made of?
High tensile steel with a Cro-Moly seat tube. Again, weight is not a significant factor for an electric bicycle. The power is there to help you ride. Scooters are also high tensile steel.
Can I ride the Lashout/Currie/Tidalforce off-road?
Yes, while they primarily designed for use on paved streets and bicycle paths, they are suitable for rough, unpaved, or graveled terrain. The system is not recommended for use on extreme terrain.
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