Batteries. Basic question...

[allen-uk]

Hello.

This is probably an 'entry-level' question about batteries.

I have just test-ridden a Wispa (with 36V 14Ah battery, and hand throttle).

The Kalkhoffs seem to come with a 24V 10Ah battery as standard, without the option of paying more for a bigger one.

I am going to give whatever battery I eventually get a bashing, no question. One leg, old and unfit, means that I shall either be twisting the throttle (if I have one) or definitely running on max. power (if I don't have a throttle to twist).

I am test-riding a Kalkhoff at the weekend, so will be able to get a feel for the difference in motor types.

But am I getting hung up on this battery spec. business? Should I be ignoring the numbers, or (given my personal circumstances) is it going to matter as much as I fear?

Allen.
(Stats: 5'10", 18st., one plastic leg, 60s, not given to athletics).

 

[flecc]

Ignore the numbers Allen. The Kalkhoff's Panasonic system drives through the gears so can make good use of a lower powered motor in all circumstances.

The hub motored bikes are effectively in one motor gear all the time, so in some circumstances will not be running at their optimum, meaning they have to be more powerful to overcome that. More powerful means more current needed of course, hence the battery difference.

In fact the Wisper's greater power comes from the voltage aspect in this case, it's extra 4 Ah giving longer range, though rider strength makes such a large difference that's it's impossible to be definitive. Both bikes can reach 50 to 60 miles with the right rider, but in average use the Kalkhoff is likely to give about 30/35 miles, the Wisper 40/45 miles due to that extra Ah capacity.
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[allen-uk]

Thanks Flecc, that's v.useful.

How bike-specific are batteries? Are you stuck with Kalkhoff batteries on Kalkhoff bikes, or can you buy different (bigger) batteries of other makes and use them instead?

Allen.

 

[flecc]

They are specific to each bike, but those using the Panasonic system like the Kalkhoff can be bought from any of the many suppliers of the 18 e-bike makes using that unit.

That gives a choice of prices, though 50cycles in the UK have usually had about the best price outside of Japan.
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