I'm hearing what you are all saying, and thanks for the responses!
I know a hefty guy such as myself has its downsides... esp when using a little motor to carry me up hills.
I think, even though the state says all motor-assisted bikes are illegal, I still want to persue a 49cc motor since I am actually planning a move in a few months down to PA, and figure its the best option for not requiring a license. (and no... the illegal motor biking status is not my reason for leaving NY... although its not helping my already unfavorable thoughts of the NYS DMV and other official offices)
So basically i'm deciding on the style of motor bike I am going to want to build, and I think it is down to two styles: GEBE or friction drive.
The pluses of the friction drive are:
~~I would have the ability to switch friction rollers rather quickly (a min or two) when climbing hills for more torque and on long flats for more speed
~~Its fairly cheap, and SIMPLE!
The negative:
~~Slippage in wet weather
~~Side mount motor means the bike will be heaver on the left side... prolly not that big of a deal
GEBE system positives:
~~No slippage
~~Balanced motor on the back
~~Reliable system, with less potential for additional ware to the bike and a smooth ride
GEBE system negatives
~~Need to upgrade rear spokes, esp with my size
~~No ability to switch from higher-torque/ higher-speed
Has anyone used both? Which do you prefer? Should the ability to switch roller size appeal to me as much as it seems to? THANKS for the replies!!!
I know a hefty guy such as myself has its downsides... esp when using a little motor to carry me up hills.
I think, even though the state says all motor-assisted bikes are illegal, I still want to persue a 49cc motor since I am actually planning a move in a few months down to PA, and figure its the best option for not requiring a license. (and no... the illegal motor biking status is not my reason for leaving NY... although its not helping my already unfavorable thoughts of the NYS DMV and other official offices)
So basically i'm deciding on the style of motor bike I am going to want to build, and I think it is down to two styles: GEBE or friction drive.
The pluses of the friction drive are:
~~I would have the ability to switch friction rollers rather quickly (a min or two) when climbing hills for more torque and on long flats for more speed
~~Its fairly cheap, and SIMPLE!
The negative:
~~Slippage in wet weather
~~Side mount motor means the bike will be heaver on the left side... prolly not that big of a deal
GEBE system positives:
~~No slippage
~~Balanced motor on the back
~~Reliable system, with less potential for additional ware to the bike and a smooth ride
GEBE system negatives
~~Need to upgrade rear spokes, esp with my size
~~No ability to switch from higher-torque/ higher-speed
Has anyone used both? Which do you prefer? Should the ability to switch roller size appeal to me as much as it seems to? THANKS for the replies!!!