Has any one tried to build a kit using 1200 w motor or above ?

There are bad ideas, then there are bad APPROACHES. The real issue is if you'll do that 1.6hp motot justice. Keep in mind it will outperform twice the rated horsepower in a gas engine. Think 110cc. Compare the Hanebrink All Terrain Electric Bike with the 650 watt Razor MX650 Dirt Bike. If the Razor is more powerful, why is the Hanebrink the more sturdy?

I don't know to say that you get your $5k worth with the Hanebrink, but I'd sure pay more than the $500 that the MX650 would cost. But then I got my MX650 for I think $150 and fixed it.

The only reason I could think of for a Dahon to have a big motor is to carry heavier batteries. Assuming you're talking about the folding bike, I have an eCycle about that size with a 250 watt motor that claims 25 mile range, I don't think I'd want to sit on it that long, but if I wanted to go twice as far I'd just put on twice the batteries, sticking with the same motor. I don't think I'd want it to perform better with a bigger motor, either, it's not such a stable platform. ($100 fixer.) I feel safer on the Razor at speed.

I think that Hanebrink platform could handle the 1,200 watts. If you want to build something big and solid like that, go ahead. If you're thinking of using some WalMart mountain bike for the wheels, etc., then there's reasons not to. You want a platform that's physically able to survive what that motor can do for you. If the bike doesn't survive, you might not either. The beach cruiser wheels are stronger, but it's hard to say that they are strong enough.

Oh, hey, this is also giving you ideas on how to build it, eh? Unless you want to stick with the Dahon. Then I'd say go with something like the Razor 350 watt motor for $39, with the $25 controller. Other parts you might find useful are also on the site. MX350 parts - Razor USA

Meanwhile, I'm waiting as hard as I can for someone to be selling their broken Hanebrink. . . .

Hi,

Here's a folding build with way more power than (probably about 5kw):
http://endless-sphere.com/forums/viewtopic.php?f=28&t=12267

Uses this motor:
http://www.astroflight.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=9&products_id=123

4,000 to 6,000 watts

Here's an earlier Dahon build by the same man:
http://endless-sphere.com/forums/viewtopic.php?f=28&t=8035

I'm actually quite happy with the performance of the Cyclone setup, which runs off a 16s6p 48V/13.8Ah a123-based pack. The Cyclone motor, which has a kV around 70, drives the front crank, which allows use of a Nexus 3-speed hub in the rear. The only fault I find in this configuration is that they use a ridiculously small #40 (1/2") 6T motor sprocket, so it is noisy as hell. Apparently they also use a cheap freewheel in the crank, although it still appears to working okay for me. Eventually, this can be replaced with a higher quality unit, like the White Industries ENO model, but I'm not going to worry about it until I need to. Anyway, with a 55A controller limit, this setup peaks out at about 2600W, but because of the gearing benefit of going through the 3-speed hub, this combo actually outperforms the 24s4p 72V 5303-based setup with a 4110-modded controller set to about 65A. (4.7kw)

Hi Casey,

I checked out that link for astroflights motors but saw nothing.

Are they still in business ?

casey f

The link works for me.

Try their home page and then click Industrial Motors, in the categories box/list:
http://www.astroflight.com/

Also RC Motors:
Good ones have really good power to weight ratios but require reduction.

Controllers (esc's) have some issues.

A 3120 is cheaper if 2kw-3kw is enough power for you.

Browse here for a lot more information:
http://endless-sphere.com/forums/viewforum.php?f=28