What is the old model you used to make a hybrid bike? Just interested

 

I think its something like Cube Reaction Hybrid HPA Race 29.

Probably a bit of overkill in terms of spec as a commuter as its got stuff like a fairly decent suspension fork, XT derailleur etc. But I got a really good deal on it at the time

.. riders use riser bars? I want to get mine lower.

 

You are indeed in the extreme minority.

Thanks so much for all your thoughts all, really appreciate it.

 

Alongside these comments I did a bit more research. Now choosing between:

• Gazelle Medeo T10 - bosch performance line, 500 battery
  
• Buying a second hand bike and a kit from Woosh.
  

I'm leaning towards the latter, but which bike and which motor is a whole new question... I don't mind spending up to a £2,500 if it's worth it, but sounds like for around £500 for a bike and £1000 for the kit should be plenty?

 

Would something like this be a decent bet? Found a slightly older used model I think for about £400.

 

In terms of the motor, some reading has made me think that a rear hub drive might be preferable to a mid-drive, but I really don't have much idea. It'll mainly be for getting me around London with fairly mild hills, but I like the idea of being able to go on gentle off-road things. I guess I like the idea of the motor not feeling too divorced from peddling, though at the same time do want the option of a decent assist given my long-covid related limitations.

In terms of the motor, some reading has made me think that a rear hub drive might be preferable to a mid-drive, but I really don't have much idea. It'll mainly be for getting me around London with fairly mild hills, but I like the idea of being able to go on gentle off-road things.

Rear hub is probably better for that, simple but effective. Cadence sensor (*) won't be quite so 'natural'; but a decent controller should still give a rewarding assisted pedalling experience. With cadence sensing you can get engine power as long as you can keep the pedals turning without effort pushing them; really helpful when tired and you hit a hill on the way home.

 

(*) You've probably already read that typically hub bikes/kits use cadence sensors and crank drive use torque sensors, but that there are plenty of exceptions both ways round.

Edited July 19, 20223 yr by sjpt

Actually, now I'm reading up on more rear hub motors, and looking at cost of donor bikes etc.. (sadly the Kathmandu one was sold), I'm now leaning heavily to the Gran Camino; the more I learn the better deal it seems. I shouldn't be surprised, given how much praise Woosh get here.

 

Or perhaps toe Faro , though less friendly for off-road it does seem a lot lighter, even with a 17ah battery.

 

I might even get a 2nd 17ah battery given the Cycle2Work budget can allow it...