How to Build an Electric Motorcycle

Electric motorcycles are becoming more common as the economy sinks and uncertainty about the status of gas prices grows. These bikes are saving people a lot of money on fuel, as well as providing some fun road trips and rides. Building your own electric motorcycle can be a bit challenging, but with a little basic knowledge about tools and the right parts and equipment, you'll have your new electric bike tearing up the streets in no time.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Old motorcycle Torque wrench 8 Batteries Paint Main contactor Battery charger

1. Purchase an old bike to tear down and rebuild into your electric motorcycle. There are a number of places you can look to find a decent bike at a decent price. You may want to first try your local junkyard or the Internet.

2. Strip the bike down and remove all the combustible engine parts. Since you are building an electric motorcycle, you will not need a gas tank or other engine pieces from a combustible engine. Figure out where to install the new parts on your bike frame.

3. Connect the motorcycle's new motor to the drive shaft. Simply turn the motor sideways and place the drive sprocket over the top of the motor shaft.

4. Place four batteries in the place where your motorcycle's mufflers used to be. Check hardware stores or car dealerships for a good price on batteries. Install the batteries using Uni Strut channels.

5. Place the remaining four batteries on aluminum slats above the motorcycle motor. This is a great place to store your batteries as they will be easy to reach for recharging and your bike frame should still conceal them.

6. Connect the DC/DC converter and throttle to your batteries. The DC/DC converter will power your lights and other electronics, while the throttle will control your speed.

7. Install the on-board charger on the side of your bike. This charger will allow you to charge your bike on the go, such as when you're at work or visiting friends and family.

8. Install the main contactor. This is essentially a throw switch that controls the flow of power from the battery to the controller. Wire the main contactor to the key switch so that whenever you turn the key, the bike starts.

9. Give your bike a decent paint job and perhaps even a coat of gloss to give it some shine.

Resources

• Gomi Style Electric Motorcycle

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on 3/27/2009 Nice