Okay, so, I have been trying to compare the various versions of Retro or Classic styled scooters (mopeds) out there. I need one that does hills (I live in Seattle), and can handle about a 230-260 pound load (me + backpack, laptop, etc). Here is a list of the models I have found. Can anyone fill in the data holes for me?
Name Watts voltage Ahr chemistry max speed range weight load brakes price
EVT-168 1500 48 ? ? 30 25-35 280 ? ? 2899
E-Moto Retro 1500 48 20 Silicon 28* 25 253 ? disc/drum 2295
E-Moto Classic 2000 48 20 Silicon 28* 40 308 ? disc/disc 3095
e-Cruiser 2200 2200 60 40 sil or lith* 42 20-40 240 400 disc/drum 3299
Vista 3000W 3000 ? 40-60 lithium 45 25-35 ? 350 disc 3800
R-30 3000 60 ? lead 45 30 ? ? disc 2750
Zapino 3000 60 38-40 lead/lithium* 30 30-65* 297 280 disc/disc 3495
I tend towards higher wattage and lithium batteries, but I welcome: A) More data, and B)Experienced insights from members here.
Cripes, formatting looked fine in 'preview'. I guess I have to practice my html skills...
Comparing Larger Retro/Classic-styled Mopeds/Scooters
a) Need more data (to fill holes)
b) Need insights from experienced members. I already tend towards LiFePO4, and higher wattage.
Hi boyelectric - this is great info. No extra data for you but...
The Vista 3000W would probably be my pick out of the bunch - not sure how much that Zapino with LiFe costs. IMO, LiFe is easily worth a $500 premium on price compared with lead or silicon (a lead derivative). I'd also stay away from 48V bikes unless you plan to modify them and add extra batteries yourself. I'd expect the Vista with LiFe to be somewhere around the 200lb mark.
As far as the wattage of the motor goes - it's not a very good indicator of performance because it is the motor's rated power not the peak power output. A motor's rated power is the power it can be run at 24/7 without overheating. Larger wattage motors will more likely have better torque characteristics - so more watts is good. However, for peak power output you need to know how much amperage the controller will put out to the back wheel. Then multiply that number by the voltage of the pack to get an approximation of peak power (it's only approx. because it doesn't take into account various inefficiencies in the system). Sometimes the specs will list "80A at 100km/h" or something similar. If the speed listed is close to (or the same as) the top speed then the amperage is likely the controller cut off point. So, for an XM-3500Li with 60V and a 80A cutoff gives a peak power of 4.8kW.
BTW, I think X-Treme is coming out with a retro looking model - if they do then I expect it will be the best value for money. Me? Biased? Never! Really I do think X-Treme have the best value at present (when balancing all the variables).
Finally, Please can you let me have a web address for the Vista 3000W?
Hope this helps.
John H. Founder of Current Motor Company - opinions on this site belong to me; not to my employer
Remember: " 'lectric for local. diesel for distance" - JTH, Amp Bros || "No Gas.
So, where did you hear that X-Treme is making a retro model? I might be interested in a retro version of the 3500. I think it was http://www.falconev.com who has the Vista 3000W.
I have my sources ;-)
Don't hold your breath though - these things always take longer than anticipated.
John H. Founder of Current Motor Company - opinions on this site belong to me; not to my employer
Remember: " 'lectric for local. diesel for distance" - JTH, Amp Bros || "No Gas.