Neodymics™
Cyclemotor
Instantly add electric propulsion to your bicycle with this self-contained,
powered wheel
NEW – Videos demonstrating our Cyclemotor!
Design Benefits
Simple Installation
Install or remove from most bicycles in seconds, as a matter of routine
Intuitive Controls
Simple power on demand throttle control
Powerful Drivetrain
Maintain high speed up nearly any hill with one Hp direct drive motor
Fun to Ride
Fast and responsive, with low center of mass; hybrid using human and electric
propulsion
Inherently Safe
Drive components supported by shock-mounted wheel, for minimal stress
on bicycle frame
Quiet
Silent, industry standard hub motor
Unique
US and foreign patents pending
A Truly Green Ride
Excellent energetic performance; 25 times more efficient than an automobile
Strong Market Potential
(Click
here for PDF file with details)
The Neodymics Cyclemotor is a complete, integrated drive system. It will
attach to most standard bicycles in seconds.
Toggle clamps instantly secure the Cyclemotor to bicycle fork dropouts.
Quick release mechanism at the bicycle handlebar completes the three-point
attachment system.
Like a touring bicycle with correctly loaded front panniers, proper weight
distribution results in a powered bicycle that handles exceptionally well.
Batteries and hub motor are positioned to lower the center of gravity,
minimize rotational steering inertia and provide optimal balance about
the steering axis.
The continuously variable speed control is actuated by the rider’s thumb.
Prototype also features a dual speed switch and motor for efficient hill
climbing and high speed cruising.
A shock absorption system minimizes stress on rider and bicycle frame.
Three inches of travel enable the rider to safely traverse deep potholes
at high speeds. Suspension design is a durable trailing link with parallelogram
linkage to a single shock absorber.
Shroud covering for streamlined appearance.
Background
The Neodymics™ Cyclemotor is an integrated propulsion system designed
for replacement of the front wheel on any standard bicycle. It contains
batteries, motor, transmission, drive electronics, shock absorber, and
control mechanism. Integrated design means simple installation. The “power
on demand” control mechanism is fitted to the bicycle steering column
on an arm extending down to the drive electronics. Attachment or removal
of the self-contained and self-propelled wheel is then instantly accomplished
without tools using a three point quick release system.
Neodymics patent pending design provides several advantages. The bicycle
center of gravity is moved closer to the pavement for better handling
than other motorized drives. The powertrain is dust shielded and water
resistant. This design does not change the original aesthetics of the
bicycle, and allows for quick removal of wheel for charging, security,
or protection from the elements. The original drive train is not altered,
so that pedal propulsion is always possible.
In evaluating purchase of an electrically powered bicycle, one has a
choice between upgrading an existing bicycle and purchasing a dedicated
powered bicycle. The upgrade will be less expensive, but existing products
take time to install, are inelegant or inefficient, and are not easily
removed. The Neodymics solution retains the cost benefits of not purchasing,
storing, and maintaining an additional vehicle. It can be installed on
the bicycle already owned, or even shared within a family owning several
bikes. Conversion between the assisted propulsion and original bicycle
formats can be routinely accomplished, in less time than it takes to attach
a bicycle to a car rack.
The Neodymics Cyclemotor is designed for persons interested in fast,
quiet, ecologically sound commuting, or the recreational rider seeking
to cheat the wind. Many people would like to ride together, but are mismatched
in ability. Maximum continuous motor power is one horsepower. This is
several times greater than what is normally expended by the average active
cyclist. Powered speed range is 10 to 20 mph. Electric bicycles are becoming
more widely accepted, as the Consumer Product Safety Commission has recently
classified electric bicycles as bicycles, provided that top assisted speeds
do not exceed 20 mph, total propulsive power does not exceed 1 Hp, and
the vehicle includes fully functional pedals.
Prototype Cyclemotor Specifications
Installation Time: 41 Seconds (after initial fitting)
Removal Time: 30 Seconds
Motor Output Power: 1 Hp
Maximum Speed: 28 MPH
Range at 26 MPH: 10 miles
Range at 17 MPH: 20 miles
Battery Rating: 72 Volts, 316 WHr, LiFePO4
Total Assembly Weight: 40 Lb
Includes Dual Speed Hub Motor
Speedometer, Cruise Control, Charge Indicator
Battery Lifetime: Over 2000 Charges
Recharge Time: 1 hour
Suspension Travel: 3 Inches
Wheel Diameter: 16 Inches
Replaced Wheel Size: 26, 27 Inches or 700C
Production Model Cyclemotor Specifications (Preliminary)
Installation Time: 41 Seconds (after initial fitting)
Removal Time: 30 Seconds
Motor Output Power: 1 Hp
Maximum Speed: 20 MPH
Range at 17 MPH: 20 miles
Battery Rating: 48 Volts, 300 WHr, NiMH
Total Assembly Weight: 40 Lb
Suspension Travel: 3 Inches
Wheel Diameter: 16 Inches
Replaced Wheel Size: 26, 27 Inches or 700C
Cyclemotor Availability
A human on a bicycle is the most energy efficient transport means available
to any organism we know of. An electric bicycle is just plain fun. It
is believed that the Neodymics Cyclemotor could positively alter the way
people routinely travel intermediate distances, especially with strategic
marketing alliance with a major bicycle retailer. The purpose of this
web site is to evaluate consumer acceptance of this product before approaching
such a venture. To stay informed and help us move this product to market,
please fill out our survey form.
Videos and Third-Party Reveiws
“Rural Roads takes a trip with the Cyclemotor by Neodymics… it’s
a battery operated electric bike conversion kit by inventor Jeff Radtke,
or a bicycle-to-moped upgrade (BMU™) as described on the Neodymics
website (www.neodymics.com). It’s an intriguing “upgrade” since
the entire kit is self contained, and makes it quick to install and remove.
At first glance it looks odd, but became evident very quickly that it
is very functional. ” – Roger Bindl
Demonstration of Cyclemotor handling and power.
Testing the Cyclemotor on Roger’s bike.
Video Interview with Matt Kelly on Podtech’s “The Nextgear”
at Hybridfest
Radio
Interview with Lee Rayburn on WXXM “The MIC” 92.1 (12MB MP3)
“Neodymics Cyclemotor kicks ass!” – Lee Rayburn
Newspaper
article about early generation Neodymics Cyclemotor
“Nonetheless, I too was blown away by its versatility and the smoothness
of the ride it provided. In fact, even when the motor’s turned off and
you resort to pedal power – as with a regular bike – you hardly notice
the 40-pound integrated propulsion system because of its low center of
gravity.” – Rob Zaleski