MOAB

I bought this Merlin road racing frame used. The bicycle was built around it by Red River Cyclery in Alexandria, LA. The engine is a custom K1260 top end modified with a Smolik head built by MFL Bikes out of Port Orange, FL.

It's going to take me a while to build this, but I will update this thread when I make progress!

 

[robe]

I have spread steel frames before by using a threaded rod and some nuts. I had good luck with it, but I have no desire to try that on my titanium frame.

That's what I did on my steel frame, worked like a charm. I forgot you had a titanium frame.

 

[Sidewinder Jerry]

asmask:
I have spread steel frames before by using a threaded rod and some nuts. I had good luck with it, but I have no desire to try that on my titanium frame.

Hey there! From my experience, most of the builds I've assisted with have needed some frame modifications. That's why many of us recommend considering a high-end pedal-only bike with a titanium frame—it can be a great choice! For a motorized build, a steel frame might be the way to go, as it allows for easier modifications when needed. Happy building!

 

[asmask]

asmask:
I have spread steel frames before by using a threaded rod and some nuts. I had good luck with it, but I have no desire to try that on my titanium frame.

Hey there! From my experience, most of the builds I've assisted with have needed some frame modifications. That's why many of us recommend considering a high-end pedal-only bike with a titanium frame—it can be a great choice! For a motorized build, a steel frame might be the way to go, as it allows for easier modifications when needed. Happy building!

Jerry, I have already built several bikes like that. I want to build this psycho build on a titanium frame, on a bicycle I am already very agile on no less.

 

[Sidewinder Jerry]

Appasmask:
Jerry, I have already built several bikes like that. I want to build this psycho build on a titanium frame, on a bicycle I am already very agile on no less.

The only thing being pointed out is frame modifications are almost always needed to motorize. It's becoming apparent mods will be necessary in order to do the build. Once you do them the titanium frame will have no more value than a department store steel frame. I'm sure others and myself are seeing frame modifications being required in order to do the build.

 

[cloakedvillain]

That only really leaves a jackshaft as a solution but I don't see room for one.

 

[robe]

I've never tried to bend titanium but according to Google it can be done if you heat it up first.

 

[Sidewinder Jerry]

I've never tried to bend titanium but according to Google it can be done if you heat it up first.

Right now that frame can bring a $1000+. Once you bend the frame it'll be no more valuable than a department-store frame. In the past there have been builders on both forums who had deep financial pockets to do builds. Maybe this is the case with this build????

 

[cloakedvillain]

He likes the frame, he wants to use it. Friction drive with a high strung 2 stroke looks like the only viable solution. Putting the china doll on a rear rack with a jack shaft gets heavy and bulky very fast.

These guys sell high performance engines with the 54 and 78mm clutches. The CY460 is 4 hp before an expansion pipe.

DDM Racing/Dave’s Discount Motors

1000's of 1/5th scale HPI, Losi, RCMK, Kraken Vetka, stock and upgrade parts. Axial R/C rock crawler stock and upgrade parts! Go-Ped Scooter Parts. Zenoah & CY Engines.

www.ddmracing.com

I have a staton friction drive kit, and a honda clone. My only complaint with the kit is that it is over built stock. It has plenty potential for weight saving without sacrificing strength, or use as a mount for panniers. Lots of material to play around with.

There is also the directrunner / dr1l. Super interesting friction drive. It uses a conical roller on a splined shaft. It slides laterally and can change gear ratio. .67 to 1.34 size roller.

The old model hasa 54mm clutch, the new one uses a 78mm clutch.
Old model: https://www.ebay.com/itm/2951983866...jmq7wgurws&var=&widget_ver=artemis&media=COPY

New model: https://www.ebay.com/itm/1339887117...jmq7wgurws&var=&widget_ver=artemis&media=COPY

 

[asmask]

I will not modify the frame to make this build. I have solved the chain clearance issues with the small sprocket. I think the motor should have the low-end torque needed to push through on 25T. If not, I have more tricks in the bag. Hopefully I can test it in the next two weeks.