From the category archives:

Electric Bikes

Build Your Own High-Performance Hybrid Electric Bike

June 2, 2007

We recently featured the high-performance electric Optibike, which was mentioned in a New York Times article. Well, apparently you can build a equivalent electric bike for much less (for around $1,600). See the video for more details, and see notes on the bike’s design after the fold.

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Electric Motorcycles

May 24, 2007

There’s increasing interest in electric motorcycles these days. Just like other electric vehicles, electric motorcycles don’t generate any emissions and are quiet. They and can go 30 miles on 5 cents worth of electricity. You may have seen the electric motorcycle featured in Popular Mechanics recently. Not long ago, the electric Killacycle set a world [...]

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Schwinn’s New Range of Electric Bikes

May 16, 2007

Schwinn will be releasing a new series of electric bikes this summer, with the motors and batteries seamlessly integrated their overall design. The bikes will come with a lithium polymer battery that Schwinn says is the lightest and most durable on the market. One charge will last approximately 60 miles. The bikes also charge faster [...]

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Turn Your Bike Into A Powerful Commuting Vehicle: StokeMonkey

May 12, 2007

Here at MetaEfficient, we’re always looking for an excuse to ride a bike, rather than drive a car. It’s just more fun, and you get the added benefit of exercise. But what if you want to take your bike to work or to get groceries? Most bikes in the U.S. are built for recreation in [...]

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Electric Bikes For Commuters

May 8, 2007

The New York Times recently featured an article about people using electric bikes for commuting to work. They recommend spending about $2000 for a good electric bike. You’ll get a range of 20-50 miles with these bikes, and this can obviously be extended with pedal power. Some notable electric bikes shops are Electric Bikes Northwest [...]

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Aerorider: A Sporty Electric Trike

April 21, 2007

From Amsterdam comes this sleek and aerodynamic electric trike. The Aerorider is a fully enclosed (and ventilated) semi-recumbent trike that comes an electric-assist drive. It has a 28 mph cruise speed, and the ability to overcome hills without breaking into a sweat. The single bucket seat supports your entire body placing you in a position [...]

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0 to 60 MPH in Under 1.5 Seconds, Electric KillaCycle Sets New World Speed Record

April 5, 2007

The KillaCycle, the world’s electric motorcycle, and the official world record holder in the ¼ mile drag, broke the world record again using its lithium-ion batteries. The official record for any electric vehicle worldwide in the ¼ mile is set now at an elapsed time of 8.16 seconds. Weighing just over 165 pounds, the A123Systems [...]

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VentureOne: Three-Wheel Plug-In Hybrid Gets 100MPG

February 2, 2007

The VentureOne is another three-wheeling electric vehicle that has been given a green light to go into production. The vehicle seats two and is capable of 100 miles per hour while maintaining its 100 miles per gallon fuel efficiency going from 0 – 60 in a respectable 6 seconds. It can also tilt almost 45º [...]

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Hot Electric Scooters

October 25, 2005

What are the hottest electric scooters out there? Today, one of the most popular models currently is the eGO-2 Cycle which combines the best features of a bike and an electric scooter. The eGO can be used as a bicycle but has all the equipment of a scooter, including headlights, turn signals, brakes and throttle. [...]

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The “iO-X 750″ Electric Bicycle

September 8, 2005

The iO-X is a cruiser-style electric bike. It uses the power and torque of the WaveCrest adaptive motor, which harnesses regenerative braking power. It has two power modes. In economy mode, it runs at a 20 mph speed limit and full regenerative capabilities. A quick switch to X TURBO provides speeds of up to 25 [...]

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The Emissions Neutral Vehicle (ENV)

April 24, 2005

These bikes were designed by the British team Intelligent Energy. The ENV bike is fully-functional and is based around their Core Fuel Cell from the ground up. The Core, which is completely detachable from the bike, is a compact fuel cell, capable of powering anything from a motorboat to a small domestic property.

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Our Choice for an E-Bike: TidalForce M-750

August 13, 2004

The TidalForce E-Bike is a powerful motor-assisted mountain bike. Originally developed for the U.S. Airforce, the bike has rugged body and folds down to 18″ x 42″ x 36″ (with the front wheel removed).

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The LashOut Bike (600 watt)

July 28, 2004

Top speed: 18 mph (23 mph for 24V model)
Range: 12 miles
Notes from Manufacturer:
Attractive and well-built, the Lash Out is a new full
suspension scooter that provides an ultra smooth ride. An all aluminum
chassis with impeccable attention to detail is covered by a brushed aluminum
deck with slip resistant grip tape.
Ample standing room and ground clearance. [...]

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EV Global Folding Mini E-Bike (36V)

July 28, 2004

 
Top speed: 18 mph
Range: 20 miles
Notes from Manufacturer:
Fold it and load it easily into the
back of your car, minivan, RV, boat, plane or public transportation. You
can even store your ebike folding mini in your closet.
Features include:

Compact design folds to 32" L x 14" w X 31" H. Very
easy to fold while sitting on [...]

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Skeeter BetterBike Model 20

July 28, 2004

Top Speed: 20 mph
Range: 20-30 miles
Price: $2,795
Purchase from: ElectricBetterbikes.com

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Electric Tricycles

July 28, 2004

The IZIP Tricruiser Adult Electric Tricycle is one of the best electric tricycles available today for it’s price. It has a classic adult tricycle shape with a comfy saddle and a large rear basket. It has a “Twist and Go” throttle, and a top speed up to 18 mph (29 kph) with a 30-35 miles [...]

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Evaders: High Performance Electric Bikes

July 28, 2004

It is good to see these kinds of electric bikes available in the U.S.
at a reasonable price ($999 for the model above). The noise level is
less than 55
decibels, which is about as loud as falling rain. These
bikes are street legal and can go up to 45 miles per charge. Thanks
to Eric for the tip.
Specs:
Motor: [...]

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