Sunday, 29 December 2013

EP Bikes centre mounted Coaxial motor a new and smart design



EP bikes have a unique design that has impressed us in many ways.
There is no wonder why smart people such as David Suzuki chose to ride one. With a centre mounted coaxial motor integrated into a beautifully crafted bicycle it has been a hit with our customers and staff.
This is a a solid manufacturer of e bikes that actually listens to their dealers and customers when considering future design improvements and their commitment to making an affordable quality product shows in the value you get when you purchase one.
As relatively new dealers of this product line we were very impressed with the support that they show existing customers who purchased their bikes. 

Now back to the design side of things... 
The bikes themselves are brilliantly thought out as well, such as the step through model, the Banff, can accommodate any size of rider due to a low seat post mount and overall frame length shorter than most full sized step through designs.
Another reason we love the design is the plug and play feature for every component of these bikes. Something should get damaged or malfunction then simply unplug it at the source and pop in a new one. This sure beats working on other bikes that we have to fish out a spaghetti patch of wiring through the frame and solder connections. 
If you currently own a rear hub motor bike you will notice an immense amount of hill climbing torque that these bikes can pump out.  For a rider who wants a great pedal assist bike this is it. 
For a rider that is, as what we call "a throttle rider" which is someone that uses the the throttle more than pedalling then a rear hub is probably going to be your preference. That being said you won't know until you come down and make the call for yourself. Overall EP bikes are leading the benchmark for good design and support of their products.



Monday, 2 September 2013

Motorino and Greenwit Technologies’ are setting a new standard for power and pedal assist with their CCT drive system.

THE MOTORINO CCT DRIVING SYSTEM
Introduced in 2008 after two years of intensive research and development and now standard on all MOTORINO™ XP-series scooters, the MOTORINO™ CCT™ (Continuous Current Transmission) drive system makes our 500W electric scooters competitive with the torque and hill-climbing ability of 50CC gasoline motor scooters.  The CCT™ system can outperform any regular brushless or geared motor of up to 50% higher rated consumption and offers over 60% more starting torque than a conventional 500W BLDC (“Brush-Less DC”, as three-phase AC motor with DC-AC inverter-controller systems are most commonly referred to) motor and controller system.
One would expect this extra torque production to require a higher input wattage, but as you will read, this is not the case with the CCT™ system; the higher torque is achieved by more efficiently using the same amount of power. The added performance-via-efficiency is especially welcome since more than 500W total continuous power would disqualify a scooter from the “power-assisted bicycle” legal class.
 
The major innovation of the CCT™ system is that the controller tailors its power output according to the loading it can sense from the motor and the rider’s selection of drive mode. The method of doing so is complex but in short it is accomplished by modifying the wave-shapes of the AC power fed to the three windings of the specially constructed MOTORINO™ CCT™ motor.
In a conventional BLDC system, the rise and fall of power pulses is sinusoidal. (Pic.1) When an incline, increased speed, or wind resistance put more load on the motor the power consumption increases sharply and the motor efficiency drops, usually drastically, to as low as 20% as it approaches stall speed.  This loss of efficiency is because power is being turned into heat instead of torque for much of the sine-wave cycle. In addition to being wasteful, this excess current can overheat controllers and motors, even to the point of demagnetizing the motors’ rare-earth magnets. These high peak-current conditions can also shorten battery life.
The CCT™ controller employs PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) to shape the output waveforms in unique ways. It creates asymmetrical waves of varying “duty cycle” to continuously and perfectly match the motor’s demands. By dynamically modulating the width, peak, and rise of the power waveform, it can provide just the right amount of power at the right time. Especially, the CCT™ system reduces detrimental induction interference around the zero-crossing point.(Pic2) Reduced back-EMF interference and sharper, well timed power peaks save up to 58% of total energy, which depending on riding conditions can be used to boost the torque, increase the speed or simply save it for greater range. This more efficient power delivery naturally reduces losses through heat generation.
In addition to clever pulse width modulation in the controller, the MOTORINO™ CCT™ motor makes better use of that power because of the special winding configuration and larger stator core. When driven by the CCT™ controller, the stator’s magnetic flux density reaches much higher levels compared to a standard BLDC motor. This higher magnetic flux, reacting against more powerful neodymium magnets that are wider and thicker than those found in conventional motors, results is increased torque for a given amount of power input, more current collected during regenerative braking, and less susceptibility to demagnetization under extreme conditions.

THE CCT GEARS
As previously stated, the power saved by the CCT™ system can be put to use in three different ways: high torque (T), high speed (S), and economy mode or high range (R).  The rider can select one of the three corresponding “electronic gears” at any time and without releasing the throttle by means of a switch below the right hand grip. 
 
 
 
 
 
When a steep incline slows the bike, the rider can select the high torque gear.  This setting broadens the pulses; energizing the stator for longer periods to lessen the RPM drop between steps.  The controller continuously monitors motor load and RPM to determine the maximum achievable speed, and modulates the pulses accordingly.  Note that this does not increase the overall power drawn by the motor; it remains continuous (hence continuous current transmission) - whereas a conventional motor will always try to reach its maximum speed by drawing more power. In high torque mode the CCT™ power train can deliver enough torque to move a total weight of 330Lb up a 24% incline!

On flat ground and shallow inclines the rider will want to use the high-speed gear.  In this setting the processor narrows the pulse curve, increasing its peak.  This higher peak increases the motive power allowing the bike to reach higher speeds - again without increasing the current consumption as we are simply using power saved by the delayed rise.   The high speed gear allows a bike and rider of a combined 450lbs to summit a hill up to 11% gradient without any perceptible loss of speed.  If the high speed gear is used on steeper hills the rider may feel more pull initially, but the speed will drop off more quickly than it would in high torque mode.

Maximum range is achieved by using the economy mode whenever possible.  The CCT™ system still modulates the waveforms according to motor loading, but does not apply the saved power in the vertical (higher peaks) or horizontal (broader pulses) directions.  It simply decreases the overall load on the battery.  The power peaks are just as high as they would be on a conventional BLDC, with the same motive power, but we end up with power savings up to 50% depending on motor load.  There will be a drop in speed and torque compared to the other two gears, however, the economy mode is best used on flat ground when maximum range is the priority. Riding in economy mode can extend range up to 20km.

REGENERATIVE BRAKING
While almost all BLDC motor systems can do some regenerative braking, the larger magnets and unique windings of the CCT™ drive system make the energy recovery process much more effective.  The stopping power is so great that in careful riding the mechanical brakes are made almost redundant, only really being necessary as the motor RPM approaches zero.  This not only extends the scooters’ range by returning more energy to the battery, but greatly reduces wear on brake pads and rotors.

CONCLUSIONS
Greenwit Technologies’ CCT™ controller and motor comprise a completely unique system. All components (stator winding and laminated electromagnets, larger rotor permanent magnets, controller logic and commutation table, and robust connecting wires) were designed in Canada and are not found on any other brand of e-scooter.  The vastly improved torque and efficiency are compelling benefits, but perhaps the most impressive aspect of the system is its reliability; completely solid state with no brushes or other mechanical contacts in the motor, the spinning rotor/wheel rim and the sealed ball bearings are the only moving parts.  The motor and controller are well-sealed against the elements and will likely never require servicing in normal use.

BEWARE OF IMITATORS
Perhaps imitation really is the sincerest form of flattery…. We have noticed that many competitors have started offering “gear switches”, seemingly in an attempt to mimic our highly-successful CCT™ drive system. In our testing, however, we’ve found that these so-called “gears” simply set different levels of maximum current and do not modify the waveforms to the motor. Any increases in torque come at the expense of higher input power (and possibly legality), depleting the batteries faster while likely increasing the risk of overheating their typically-undersized motors and controllers.

The CCT™ drive system is ONLY available on the MOTORINO™ XP-series scooter models and a high-power version is also featured on the GTx LS motorcycle.

Sunday, 2 June 2013

Electric Bicycle Review 2013

No matter who is writing reviews on electric bicycles or creating blogs to push their products we have learned that what is right for some is not right for everyone.
Most public reviews and forums are tainted by the all mighty advertising dollar!

We have learned that customers tend to come in to the store all filled up with research and are fully decided on what brand and model that they have decided to buy. We at Go Time ensure that our customers take a variety of products out on test rides before making their purchase.

Much to their surprise and ours they land up connecting with a brand and model that they would of never have chosen and make the purchase on an electric bicycle that they would of never considered.

The first rule of thumb is don't believe all the hype out there as most of it has been created by teams of marketing consultants. I know because I used to be one. Now I enjoy telling people the real deal with out any sell job. Quite simple approach of informing the customer and let them make the choice.

So where's the review for 2013? Come on down and find out first hand instead of buying into all of the hype. You will know when it is the right electric bicycle for you when you ride it and it will sing true.

We will know too when you have that special smile on your face like a little kid riding their new bike for the first time. Customers try and hide it but it shows up like a fireworks display to anyone watching you. That actually has been the best part about being an owner in this business. Whether the customer be 8 or 80 years old it is a great felling to see that smile and know that this person will derive great pleasure riding it.

Monday, 20 May 2013

Beat The Traffic Jam with Pedal Power

How many times have you been stuck in a traffic jam and watched cyclists whip on by the entire lineup with the rider displaying a smirky look on their face.  When that cyclist is riding an electric assisted vehicle they will be whipping by at a faster pace, doing it with ease and the smirk is a downright gleam. This is one of the many benefits of choosing a sustainable and affordable mode of transportation.

With rising fuel, insurance and maintenance costs of operating a vehicle today and the fact that the already congested areas Victoria BC will be more backed up with the temporary bridge closures, we have seen a major influx of scooter commuters and e bicyclist emerging throughout the city.

One of our customers wanted to cycle to work for those reasons along with his goal of losing weight and maintain a healthier lifestyle. With his old trusted mountain bike he made it to work but after a long day he just couldn't make the ride home. He needed the pedal assist of an ebicycle to assist him until he could build up the strength and endurance necessary to make the daily 35 km round trip daily commute. As most people today he was on a tight budget so the fuel, maintenance and insurance that was spent on his pickup truck easily justified the purchase of his ebicycle.

Within several weeks he met his weight loss goal and has quantified his savings but he said the biggest reward is the the positive way he starts out his day enjoying the ride and nature along the way. "It's alot better than the road rage I would feel each morning on my daily drive to work and even my co-workers have mentioned how I am more positive to be around."

When asked if he still needs an ebicycle he replied; " You bet I just get to work faster now and thanks to the pedal assist not all sweaty like I did when I used a conventional bicycle."


Go Time Supports Bike To Work Week with Prize!

We are proud to support the Bike To Work Week Victoria by providing an I-GO Electric Full Suspension Mountain Bike worth $2299 as a prize for one of the winning teams.
We will be at the various events to show our support.

This beautiful Bright yellow Titan is going to be someone's new winning prize....
 


Direct Drive Motor in the crankcase No More Hub Motor!

We have been selling alot of I-Go Electric Bicycles since we became Vancouver Island's Exclusive dealer in early 2013.


The design of the motor being located in the crankcase makes total sense and performs amazingly! Unlike the traditional hub motor you won't have to worry if you get a flat tire or need derailleur adjustments because it is like any other bicycle that way. I-GO Direct-Drive in the crankcase produces more torque than other electric bikes.

The I-GO Direct-Drive system is located in the center of the bikes balance, in the crank. Since the system drives the chain and not the wheel like on other ebikes, the power transfer from the chosen derailleurs speed, provides seamless hill climbing power to the rear wheel. In simple terms, the I-GO motor drive system powers the bikes the same way a human powers a bike, by the chain. So the derailleur effects the power of the bike the same way a conventional bike is powered. The principal advantage of Direct-Drive stems from the motor/worm drive combination, which delivers more power and demands less battery power.




This is the Titan which is the full suspension Mountain Bike.

 This is the Cruz which is a large cruising bike that glides like the wind!
This is the Urban, it is our top seller as it is a unisex bike that is light and has top quality components including disc brakes and rock shocks.
This is the tour, a traditional design that is ready to take the long trips.
 

Hub Motor on Electric Bicycles and Scooters whats the buzz?

What exactly is a Hub motor? When you are talking about a Hub motor for electric bicycles and electric scooters it is referring to an electric motor mounted in the center of the wheel? Some will call them direct drive hub motors or rear hub motors but basically they are usually located in the rear wheel which propels the bicycle or scooter from the hub of of wheel.

You will notice one wire leading through into the axle of the hub motor which we have seen alot repair scooters coming in with this wire damaged therefore requiring the motor to be repaired or replaced entirely. We always recommend to our customers to take care and be aware of that wire's protection.

Another point is that somewhere down the line you will encounter a flat tire just like any other bicycle. The difference is with a rear hub motor, a simple tire change becomes a complex repair job and requires the proper tools to perform correctly. If the incorrect tools are used you may damage the rim and continue to pop brand new tubes or even worse damage the main motor wire whilst mounting and dismounting the tire requiring the motor to be repaired or replaced.

Don't let these few negative points about hub motors dissuade you to the fact that they are the most common form of electric vehicle propulsion in the world and have great power and life.
We make these posts to enable our customers' to make informed decisions.


Sunday, 28 April 2013

Electric scooters a Non Pedaller or a Pedaller?

What do we mean by a Non Pedaller or a Pedaller?
A non Pedaller is old school technology and is what we deem as.... an electric scooter that has pedals on for legal purposes only because if you are forced to pedal these then you are in for a big surprise as it is difficult to pedal because of the location of the pedals, weight of the scooter and the mechanism design. It is difficult to make the scooter move more than thirty feet without getting exhausted from pedalling these heavy scooters without the electronic pedal assistance. If you try pedalling this type of scooter you will soon find out what we are talking about.

A Pedaller is a new technology in electric scooters which incorporates pedal assist with regenerative power and gives you superman like power with barely any physical exertion. With this advancement of scooter design you will not run out of battery power as long as you are willing to pedal a bit along the way. The pedals on these types of scooters are located in a position that suits most riders.

FAQ... What distance can you go on a single charge?

What distance can you go on a single charge?



Regardless whether it is a scooter or bicycle, the claimed distance on a single charge by the manufacturers is like claimed fuel mileage on other vehicles which we know is total best case scenario.
The claimed distance is usually based on a 100lb rider on flat level ground and probably with a significant wind to the rider's back for the best results.

So for most manufacturers we recommend to cut the claimed distance in half as we have hills a plenty here in beautiful Victoria BC and our average rider weight is more than the 100lb range.

Now keep in mind these claimed distances are based on no pedaling whatsoever. When you purchase a electric bike or scooter that has pedal assist then you don have to worry or not if you are going to make it the distance that you need to travel.

Go Time Buzz on Electric Bikes and Scooters


Welcome to the first of many posts on our blog that is dedicated to informing and educating people on Electric Bikes and Scooters here in Victoria, BC Canada.

Thinking of purchasing an electric scooter or electric bicycle? Hopefully these posts will help you cut through all of the misinformation out there and assist you in making an informed purchasing decision.

There is a lot of information out there and it can be daunting to those people considering electric scooters or bikes as an affordable and sustainable form of transportation. The information out there is skewed by the manufacturers and marketing strategies they concoct.

We at Team Go Time believe in telling it like it is (the actual truth) to our customers as that is how we want to be treated when we are the customer at other establishments and in general as decent human beings.
We trust that happy customers will spread the word that we truly do want to please our customers.

F.A.Q #1
Electric scooter or electric bicycle?
I'm looking at purchasing an electric scooter or electric bicycle and I am not sure what would be best for me. What are factors to consider?

This is a personal choice but we have found that people who have been using their bicycle but are looking for some assistance up hills and on the way home from a hard days work are usually best suited for an electric bicycle.


People that haven't touched their bicycle for a long while or don't own one at all usually tend to be suited for an electric scooter. Electric scooters have a super comfy seat, require minimal maintenance and are great for A to B commuters and people that "just want to get there".