New Torker T300

by: Bob Bryant on May 5th, 2012, posted in: Bike Builds, Bikes For Sale, Electric

The Torker T-300 is a simple 3-speed commuter bike with a Sturmey Archer hub, coaster rear brake & sidepull front brake. It comes outfitted with a rear rack & fenders included. We’ll be adding an electric motor hub to soon.

Ridekick Trailer Arrives

by: Bob Bryant on March 9th, 2012, posted in: Bikes For Sale, Electric, Tech

We have just become a dealer for Ridekick electric trailers. The 43-pound trailer houses the electric motor, charger and batteries. The electric motor in the trailer drives the trailer wheel via chain, which pushes the bike. The batteries can be charged onboard or easily removed for recharging (takes 4-6 hours). I can carry my laptop case, a book or two and my lunch or perhaps a bag or two of groceries inside the lockable trailer.

The range is reported to be 12-15 miles. My commute is just shy of 8 miles round trip and my experience thus far suggest I can make it, but I top off the charge at the shop for demo use. The hills around PT really suck up the charge faster as compared to flat terrain and I’m not a lightweight. The batteries are basic, affordable and user-friendly lead-acid. Lighter,  longer range and pricier Lithium Ion batteries are coming soon.

I’m impressed with the design, assembly, and ease of everything so far. I set up a new comfort bike to be my demo tow bike (KHS Town & Country) and it seems ideal. I chose a longer, less hilly route home — though there is still nearly a very long climb. The biggest problem I had was having to shift into my large chainring too often (faster cruising speed). The handling of the trailer is really very good with no negative traits from the pusher trailer.

Stop by and see the new Ridekick today. We’ll shoot a Ridekick video soon.
Update 3/10/12: The trailer did great in the rain this morning – but need a full rear fender on the  KHS T&C (currently has a QR fender). I took a more direct route, and tried to conserve power – made it to and from work in 6/10 of a charge. Also rode in coffee shop pal, David’s, Zenn eCar. He gave me a lesson on how to take care of ebike & eCar batteries.
It occurred to me yesterday while riding home that I’m no longer using my small chainring up front. The Ridekick has me using my mid-range gears on the climbs and large chainring up front on the flats.