Question about new 20" wheel motor and controller

[morphix]

Hi all,

I've asked this question before but couldn't get a definitive answer so I'm hoping this time someone will be able to advise me..

I'm looking to buy a 20" (rear) wheel 36V/250W motor for a new conversion I'm doing... rather than use a new controller, I'd prefer to just buy the wheel with motor fitted and use my existing controller, because it has a nice LCD console with it and some neat features.

I've contacted the supplier of the kit in Austria (rftec) and he's charging 389 euros for just the wheel+motor which seems expensive to me when you consider BMS Battery do Bafang motors (by themselves not in a wheel) for $80, and complete kits with the motor in a wheel for $170. Even allowing for VAT and shipping, still works out a fair bit cheaper.

If I can just buy a wheel+motor, then I can simply switch my kit between my 26" and 20" bikes as I've designed it so it's all in the handlebar bag with connectors.

Anyway, my question is, if I bought a motor or kit from BMS Battery, will it work with my existing controller from rftec? The controller does have settings on the LCD and lets you set wheel size and 20" is there... but I'm just not sure whether other motors will be compatible.... what do you guys think?

Paul

P.S. Hope everyone is enjoying the lovely weather as we finally get our summer started! I'm stuck indoors until I can sort out my 20" conversion as osteoarthritis in my knee prevents me carrying my 26" bike up and down the stairs that's why I'm retiring it for the time being and opting for a much lighter 20".....I'm keen to get started on it quickly!

 

[eddieo]

what about just sorting a motor and get it built into a wheel here. SJS are pretty good at it, and at least you will know it will be a good strong build with decent materials

 

[morphix]

Sounds like a good plan Eddie, thanks for the suggestion. I have no idea how much it would cost to get a wheel spoked up with the motor, any idea? It's surely got to be a saving though on the 389 euro for the pre-spoked motor or 400+ euro for getting a whole new kit, from Austria.

I asked the vendor I got the kit from if other motors would work with his controller, because I know BMS Battery sells the very similar motors (if not the same) and even had plans to stock the very same kit parts I have, the LCD etc.. but the vendor said no, other motors won't work with the controller (well he would wouldn't he!)... I'm reluctant to risk trying it, but I suppose I could just buy one and see if it works, maybe BMS Battery can advise me more impartially on a suitable motor!

Side note/update.. when I mentioned to the vendor about BMS he suddenly changed his tune and said he has a chinese office and could do a cheaper motor by itself..surprise surprise.

 

[eddieo]

Just call them...from memory my 26 inch wheel was approx £110 but that was a few years ago.....