S
SirJakesus
Guest
Soldering the connections on fully insulated tab connectors be mighty difficult
Soldering the connections on fully insulated tab connectors be mighty difficult
I used stock aluminum 1/8 x 3/4 in I think and some rivets to construct the rack. It took an afternoon to make but if I were to make another one it would take me a fraction of the time. The only tools I needed were Bench Vise, bench grinder, dremmel tool, drill. And I could have probably done without the dremmel tool.
All you have to do is just measure the sections and use the bench vise to hold the aluminum as you bend it into right angles. The hook on the bottom was probably the most difficult part to bend into shape but overall it wasn't too hard. I did it with only homebrew trial and error metalworking knowledge.
If you were going to do saddle bags that would be 100X easier than what I made.
I am building a motorized bicycle as defined under MN law (less than 50cc, <2HP, <30mph). The language of the law about lighting equipment is a little unclear to me.
I want to know if I need a working brake light or lights AT ALL if I'm driving during the day.
(Excerpt from https://www.revisor.leg.state.mn.us/bin/getpub.php?type=s&num=169.223)
169.223 MOTORIZED BICYCLE.
(2) a motorized bicycle equipped with a headlight and taillight meeting the requirements of
lighting for motorcycles may be operated during nighttime hours;
After June 1, 1987, a
new motorized bicycle sold or offered for sale in Minnesota must be equipped with a headlight.
(Excerpt from: https://www.revisor.leg.state.mn.us/rules/?id=7410.5200)
7410.5200 MOTORCYCLE AND MOTORIZED BICYCLE EQUIPMENT SAFETY STANDARDS. (Note, this is a "rule" not a statute??)
Subp. 2.
Motorized bicycle.
A.Motorized bicycles and three-wheeled motorcycles are tested on the street and must meet the equipment requirements of Minnesota Statutes, section 169.223.
B.Equipment necessary for the motorized bicycle to legally operate on the street includes a headlight, taillight, brake light, horn, mirror, and muffler.
How does the day/night rule match up with "B." directly above?
I'm thankful for this great community!
Bob,
I finished my project! I ended up registering my motorized bike ("moped" in MN) at the DMV. You have to bring pictures of the bike from all sides, and fill out a form explaining how it came into existence, since it doesn't have a receipt of sale. Costs about $20 for the plate and the tabs and the office fees.
Bring receipts from any kits and parts you've purchased also - I had to leave and come back with these. Along these lines, I also foolishly admitted that I had not yet paid sales tax on my purchase, so they tacked it on at the time of registration. If you have a nebulous Paypal receipt or something from an online motor kit purchase, just say that the tax was paid, as I'm sure they wouldn't be able to know otherwise. Or be a good citizen and fork over the extra $50 or so.
I ended up putting a standalone headlight and taillight. Also wired in a horn and a brakelight with a small 12v battery clamped to the frame. (Axman in St. Louis Park, MN right now has EXACTLY the same brake levers with internal switches as electricscooterparts.com and they're only $2 instead of $10!!!) Turn signals are not required, but I built some of those out a car hazard light "thermal flasher" from Napa (also about $2).
Finally, I tried to get insurance through Geico, but they won't insure a homemade moped. Progressive got me the required liability insurance for $6/month.
I just smile at police officers when I go by, knowing that I have all my bases covered. I'm proud of my bike and have put about 75 miles on it so far. I'll be starting a new thread soon with some pics. Happy motoring!
-hardy101
Hi Hardy101,Bob,
Yes, you'll need a headlight, brakelight, tail light, mirror and horn. I went to the DMV in Richfield, but it was a standard registration form that any local office should have. Good luck with the project!
Hi Hardy101,
Thanks for the clarification on the info. I went to the Elk River DMV office and got the forms to fill out, although I was somewhat concerned when the woman working there told me that I would need the bike inspected and that it must meet the federal standards??. Just wondering are you using a HT motor? I did not receive anything from the distributor with any "federal standards documentation".
Also, I don't remember you stating that you had it inspected. This was my concern, that different offices either don't know the required information to needed to register and they are making folks get inspections when they might not be needed.
How long ago was your successful registration? Just wondering if things have changed for the state requirements.
On a good note, was out in my neighborhood riding my bike, and had a Sheriff pass me without a problem, but still concerned about other deputies that might think otherwise.
Thanks,
Bob R/rjr003