HOPOIL-AMPS's blog

Just a couple of corrections I needed to add:
The controller I bought is (not Kelly) Curtis PMC model 1204-412SU RATED at 48volts, 300 amps.
I think this is a good match with the GE brushed, motor.

AND I'd forgotten that this version of the KZ400 (1978) had a 6 speed gearbox. I just bought two new sprockets for the final drive; reduced the rear from 45 teeth to 43 so I'm thinking I can get up to highway speeds well enough.

Would still like to hear from anyone who can offer a suggestion for the gear ratio I might try at the DC motor - crankshaft.
-Jeff

December 1, 2008
Now that it's really winter here in Syracuse,NY and I am forced to put the Triumph Bonneville to bed for the season; it's now time to revisit the electric conversion.

Since the first post I now own a GE 7hp DC motor that I bought on ebay, and a Kelly controller.

My idea now is to strip the 'top-end' from the Kawasaki KZ400 motor and mount the DC motor so that it will turn the crankshaft. I've seen one or two others make similar conversions and this will provide the benefits of the 5 gears in the gearbox. The GE motor weighs about 20 lbs. I'd guess, and this idea seems like a pretty secure way to mount it into the existing frame by also using the original motor's mounting bolts.

Stop me right now if you know something I don't about using a stripped down cycle engine and transmission. I don't think there are lubrication problems.

Feb 8, 2008
I've started a project that I hope will have me commuting to work, when spring arrives, on an electrified motorcycle. I've owned a couple motorcycles and now ride a Triumph Bonneville 750cc. The Bonnie is a great bike, but I'd like something 'greener'.

I began by buying a Kawasaki 400 from someone here in Syracuse.
It has a disc brake up front and a moderately heavy frame which I think will accept the weight of the batteries. I've removed all of the ICE parts and gas tank hoping to sell bits and pieces. so far I've recouped 90% of my purchase cost.

I have not bought any parts of the conversion yet, just been doing lots of research here and other places on the WWW.

My plan is this, so far: MARS Electric motor (mounted under the seat - above the swingarm), a Sevcon controller, belt drive and separate LED lighting powered by something like the new DeWalt LiFePo 32v pack. I think I'll try a 48 volt system
(maybe 70 Amp hours per battery) and see how it goes. No solid thoughts yet on the BMS/charging portion or the gauges.

For now, all I have for pictures are the donor bike on the trailer &
then stripped of all Kawasaki motor and in the workshop.