Steve Best
Well-Known Member
If you are smarter than average, go 2 stroke. The Grubee 66cc motor is easier to install, 10 lbs lighter and only a little more work to keep alive. What ever the design you pick, this assures it will be 10 lbs lighter and at least 50% more power, and $175 cheaper.
Single speed is simpler and I'd recommend it. Far less complication for the build and for driving it. It is more durable as well. With your stated goals - not looking for speed, just want a trail bike without the heavy pedaling - go for a 56 tooth sprocket mounted with a rag joint on a cheap hard tailed mountain bike with 2" to 2.5" tires. Look the Kijiji ads over well and you can build this bike for less than $300 with a brand new motor.
This bike will do 40-50kph top speed, roll any paved or gravel hill and handle sand if you are rolling at least 10 kph or so. You can build this bike in an afternoon. It will be easy to start (some mid drives can be hard) and easy to maintain. All parts are readily available and cheap. It will also be light enough to lift over a fence. You can upgrade things as you need to as there is no welding or frame modifications. Lightweight, it will roll over sand and trails well. The 56 tooth sprocket gives a power advantage to hills, sand and rough trails, while still giving a decent top speed.
Try it, you'll like it.
Single speed is simpler and I'd recommend it. Far less complication for the build and for driving it. It is more durable as well. With your stated goals - not looking for speed, just want a trail bike without the heavy pedaling - go for a 56 tooth sprocket mounted with a rag joint on a cheap hard tailed mountain bike with 2" to 2.5" tires. Look the Kijiji ads over well and you can build this bike for less than $300 with a brand new motor.
This bike will do 40-50kph top speed, roll any paved or gravel hill and handle sand if you are rolling at least 10 kph or so. You can build this bike in an afternoon. It will be easy to start (some mid drives can be hard) and easy to maintain. All parts are readily available and cheap. It will also be light enough to lift over a fence. You can upgrade things as you need to as there is no welding or frame modifications. Lightweight, it will roll over sand and trails well. The 56 tooth sprocket gives a power advantage to hills, sand and rough trails, while still giving a decent top speed.
Try it, you'll like it.