Building A Motorized Bicycle
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Learn About Building A Motorized Bicycle
Are you tired of high gas prices?
Well, the answer may be the Motorized Bicycle.
As far back as 1892 people put motors on bicycles.
With today's 2 stroke and 4 stroke engines you can Expect to get 150 miles per gallon after the initial break in period.
The normal bicycle fuel tank holds 1/2 gallon of gas allowing approx 75 miles per tank full.
Are these engines dependable?
You can expect to get thousands of miles of life out of your engine if you follow a few guidelines:
1. Follow the break in period guidelines - Break in period lasts for the first 4 tanks or 2 gallons of gas.
2. Keep up with routine maintenance on your motorized bike.
3. Don't ride at full throttle often.
4. Use a good quality motorcycle synthetic 2 stroke oil - Mix at a 20:1 ratio or 7oz of oil per 1 gallon of gas.
Decisions you might face.
There are many decisions you will have to make about motorized bicycling.
Do you have a bicycle? If you do, the type of drive that will best suit your current bicycle. Frame mount or rack mount.
Perhaps you do not have a bicycle. You need to decide if you want to buy a completed bicycle/engine combination or purchase a specific style of bicycle and add your own engine to it.
What follows is to help you better understand your options. The advantages and disadvantages of each system and how to get the most enjoyment out of building a motorized bicycle.
Building My Dream Motorized Bicycle
Building my Motorized Bicycle in words and pictures.
I purchased a Micargi Tahiti Bicycle for my dream ride.
You can choose a style that fits your dream.
Here is the Bicycle I chose to begin with.
Micargi Tahiti Stock Beginnings
Add Motor - Engine of Choice
I got my engine from Bob at Blue Collar Bikes. I have been extremely happy with delivery and follow up from Bob and will do business with him again.
The engine kit comes with everything pictured below and everything you need for a quick, easy installation.
Engine of Choice
My Dream as a Finished Product
From the humble beginning using a Micargi Tahiti bicycle and adding the motor from Blue Collar Bikes, I have now created my own "Motorized Bicycle."
I changed a couple of the stock items that came with the micargi... Seat and handle bars
I also added a cantilever front brake to the Bicycle. This model bike does not come with a front brake, if you need to stop quickly a front break is gold.
On the engine I added some paint and replaced the mounting studs with allthread 1/4x20 for a little added strength.
Beyond this I decided not to make any changes or additions to the engine as it comes from the factory. I mainly made this decision to test the dependablity as well as get in a little riding time before the rainy season hits.
This winter I will be taking the bike back down and making changes and some customization to the bikes appearance. For now, I am thrilled with the results.
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Below are three pictures of my project to date
ENGINE CLOSE UP
COMPLETED RIGHT
COMPLETED LEFT
My Motorized Bicycle Review
I have yet to go any place on this bike without people asking me questions and commenting on it. No only the uniqueness of the engine added but the over all look of the bicycle as well.
A half dozen of my friends have also ridden this motorized bicycle and I get the feeling that come spring I will have a good amount of companions zipping around the area with me.
Best information about Motorized Bicycles
- Motored Bikes Forum
- Motorized Bicycles: Pictures, videos, articles, where to buy, technical help, legal issues, repairs, rides and more!
- Bicycle Motor Forum
- Motorized bicycle discussion forum. Our topics cover everything from motorized bicycle engine kits, repairs, building and performance for your motorized bicycle. Motorized Bicycle manuals for performance and modification of gas and electric bicycle motors.
- Installation Instructions Bicycle Engine
- How to install bicycle engine, grubee installation instructions, How to motorize your bicycle, 4-stroke install,
- Free advice on how to fix your bicycle
- If you ride a Bicycle or a Motorized Bicycle, you will find some great maintenance help. This site has been a great help to me on a number of occasions.
1914 Pope Board Track Racer
Board Track Racer Build
Early stages of build on the drawing board
Mean while I have a new project on my drawing board. I want to build a Board Track Racer Style motored bicycle.
Above is a picture of a 1914 pope board track racer and that is the look I am going for. Below there is a picture of a Workman Bicycle that I will be using for the basis of my build.
If you notice the frames are very similar in style
I will need to construct a fuel tank that will fit between the top and bottom cross bars.
I will also need to decide if I want to build another China Girl 2 stroke or go with a 4 stroke Japanese engine this time. There is still plenty of time to decide.
I know that I will not use the sandwich sprocket on this one so the rear hub sprocket is another area that I will be looking into.
That is about where I am at this point and this winter while the rain and snow fall and the wind blows. I can be found sitting by the fire dreaming of my Board Track Racer build
Workman Industrial Bicycle
Message Board and Guest Book
This is your place to share ideas and experiences. We would love to hear from you.
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sam
Jan 12, 2012 @ 4:36 pm | delete
- my advice dont get hinesse i like the black panther muffler better make ps i put the engine on my bike ols vframe it was to much problem with parts god luck
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Speedo
Jan 1, 2012 @ 8:46 am | delete
- Yes! Build one! Or you can buy it too. The best is the Levo motors brand. They make folding bikes too. Motorized folding bikes. The best idea.
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SquidooPower
Dec 16, 2011 @ 1:40 am | delete
- So weird, I was just thinking about this last week. I live ona boat so was looking at a folding bike and was wondering if I could motorise it.
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Grandfather
Dec 9, 2011 @ 9:40 am | delete
- It should be the carb. Try to open and close the mixer pin, but I think, You should clean the fuel filters. Or You made wrong petrol-oil mix. There are lots of guides on the net about the maintenence. Read them. This engines are quiet strong. Does not broken easily.
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jassutho
Nov 29, 2011 @ 9:20 pm | delete
- ive had mine for 2 months tops, then i was halfway to work when it started back firing then the engine just cut out, it turns over ok then just dies like the fuels not getting through, i replaced the spark plug with an ever reliable honda but it still wont work??? any ideas??
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agent009
Nov 26, 2011 @ 5:35 pm | delete
- I knew that people put engines on their bikes but I always associated those with motorcycles. Sounds like a great solution over a scooter!
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ArtByLinda Nov 4, 2011 @ 11:45 pm | delete
- This is pretty interesting, I wouldn't have thought of putting an engine on my bike...only because I use it for exercise and recreation but my goodness the gas you could save, the places you could go, with just a little motor! Great and Green idea. Blessed!
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80cc
Oct 17, 2011 @ 3:50 pm | delete
- Yeah. Levo motors souch a Funky stuff....
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Premium
Oct 11, 2011 @ 3:46 pm | delete
- Hey. Mine is from the UK. Levo motors gas bike. Some of you have the same. F**kin cool man. Everyone have to try it. Old school... Also it have a cluch system too.
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alokagga
Sep 27, 2011 @ 1:46 am | delete
- Hi I found a good motorized cycle on a cycling social site www.familyofriders.com . that was really a good bike to build and all spares were also categorized
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alokagga
Sep 27, 2011 @ 1:45 am | delete
- Hi I found a good motorized cycle on a cycling social site www.famliyofriders.com . that was really a good bike to build and all spares were also categorised
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COUNTRYLUTHIER
Sep 25, 2011 @ 3:14 am | delete
- Outstanding lens. My trouble is it gonna be gas or electric. Great lens and most interesting. Thanks for sharing!
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PositiveChristian
Sep 12, 2011 @ 1:17 pm | delete
- Fascinating subject, useful information.
This lens is worthy of a Squid Angel blessing. So you now have one.
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Manergo
Sep 12, 2011 @ 5:45 am | delete
- Hey guys. I bought one. Levo motors. This is amazing machine. So cool. Incradible. I love it so much.
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Actiongames
Sep 7, 2011 @ 10:49 pm | delete
- So much kooler than a scooter.
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Poll: do you prefer
Comparing 2 stroke and 4 Stroke Bicycle Engines
Do you prefer the 2 stroke engines or 4 stroke on your bikes and why do you prefer them?
Here is your opportunity to make your voice, your opinion and your experience heard.
Do You Prefer 2 stroke or 4 stroke engines?
Fetching blurbs now... please stand by2 stroke
Ultima113 says:
2-strokes: power,weight; only 3 moving parts per cylinder.
RA
Posted November 23, 2011
Levente says:
Yeah. 2 stroke are more light weight. Small but powerfull. I know this is noisy and smoky, but for me the power and the weight are the first points. For exsample the Levo motors gas bikes, or the european Trabant car.
Posted July 26, 2011
harold says:
two strokes the only so much more power for the size
Posted May 22, 2011
Xman says:
I like 2-stroke engine because they are the best bang for the buck and less expensive. Also there is a company that offers custom decals from flames to dragons to go on both the gas tank and motor for a real customized look! http://www.gtmdecals.com
Posted May 18, 2010
Don206 says:
2 stroke is faster and more lightweight. i have one, lets ride,
Posted March 03, 2010
issac says:
i got a 20cc engine and i up graded it so it is 40cc and tomarro im putting it on my bike i want it ti go atleast 40mph
Posted May 09, 2009
cosmo says:
with at least 8 to 1 compression 32 to 36cc
Posted December 20, 2008
Jeaniemae says:
I'm not sure what I would choose between the two, but interesting lens.
Posted November 30, 2008
Jemma says:
2 Stroke every time. For power from a small engine, tunability and reliability you cant beat a two stroke. Mine is a belt drive and makes 34mph top speed from a 32cc piped engine.
Posted September 17, 2008
Jemma says:
For the application - ie power from limited space and cc's and simplicity of maintainence (with a good quality engine) 2-strokes win hands down. You wont find a 30cc 4-stroke engine putting out up to 4hp! And you can put a tuned pipe on for even more power.
My MB is 32cc piped 2 stroke and will make a top speed of 34mph
Posted September 17, 2008
DMedley says:
It really depends on your needs and your skills. I began with a 2 stroke engine for simplicity, learning and it fit the style of ride I wanted to create. So for the mechanically inclined beginner, I believe the 2 stroke is the best.
Posted August 03, 2008
4 stroke
sam says:
4 stoke is better dont need to mix oil and gas
Posted January 12, 2012
heehaw says:
i prefer 4 strokes for they do not consume 2T oil and it is less noise polution.
Posted April 25, 2011
jake hollett says:
4 STROKE! I DONT FEEL LIKE TIGHTENING A RATTLED OFF BOLT EVERY 2 MINS... 4'S ARE QUIET LASTFOREVER AND YOU DONT HAVE TO MESS AROUND WITH MIXING GAS AND OIL! JUST MY 2 CENTS
Posted April 23, 2011
Wheels J.R. says:
4strokes rule 4me. 2strokes sound lik bumble bbees on attack.
Posted October 12, 2010
zbikenut says:
The four stroke is a much more durable and gas efficient engine usually.
Bicycle Hangar of Missoula
Posted August 24, 2010
zbikenut says:
Four stroke are heavier but will last longer and will need less maintenance.
Posted August 24, 2010
dogs542 says:
decals don't make em run better or longer
Posted May 18, 2010
dogs542 says:
decales don't make em run faster or longer!
Posted May 18, 2010
dogs542 says:
I built a 4-stroke 49cc Hua sung with the 4g belt drive on a schwinn point-beach cruiser frame is sweet and with 4 tanks it runs greaty down the road.
Posted May 18, 2010
Joshua says:
4 stroke,although I find horsepower to be less You can modify the engine to have more power.And the torque Is better than a 2 stroke.I always have 2 strokes tear up and be a major headache.I am now going with a four stroke because they are more reliable,Get better mileage,longer lifespan.(30,000 minimum)And better built.Not to mention 2 strokes will be banned from the united states after 2010 and very polluting.I don't mind maintenance Issues.But,When you have to rebuild or replace a 2 stroke every 500 to 1000 miles It becomes a hassle and has cost me one job already.
Posted April 11, 2010
Batman says:
4 stroke is my choice, I find them easier to maintain and start
Posted January 23, 2010
AndrewTwidwell says:
4 stroke engines are so much more efficient and a whole lot better for air quality.
Posted July 22, 2009
rex09 says:
ive got a 1994 xr250r and a 1987rm125 i would rather the big xr
Posted May 21, 2009
rex09 says:
to much work on 2stroke id rather 4
Posted May 21, 2009
terry says:
whizzer motor is best.
Posted January 28, 2009
jimmy says:
i prefer 4 stroke cause thats all ive ever had but im sure 2 stroke are just as good
Posted December 16, 2008
Bill says:
Hua Sheng 49cc
Posted August 18, 2008
Useful Video's about Motorized Bicycles
Completed Motorized Bicycle from Spooky Tooth
CafePress Presents
Here is where you can wear you love on your chest.
Unlimited Hobby Potential
Building Custom cars, restoring cars, building or restoring Motorcycles has become an extremely expensive hobby. Enter the Motorized Bicycle.
If you just want to build a simple vehicle using a bicycle you currently own - your good to go.
If you like to do light customization - your good to go.
If you love to build from the ground up and do full customizations - you are good to go.
There are no limits to what you can do with a bicycle frame and motor combination.
For Your Viewing Enjoyment
Grab Some Popcorn - Sit back and Relax - Watch the Wheels Spin
Articles of Interest about Motorized Bicyle
Here are some great articles about Motorized Bicycles. I hope you enjoy them as much as I do.
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Bicycle Tutor
If you ride them - They will break
Fetching RSS feed... please stand byQuick Search Index
- Building My Dream Motorized Bicycle
- Micargi Tahiti Stock Beginnings
- Add Motor - Engine of Choice
- Engine of Choice
- My Dream as a Finished Product
- ENGINE CLOSE UP
- COMPLETED RIGHT
- COMPLETED LEFT
- My Motorized Bicycle Review
- Best information about Motorized Bicycles
- 1914 Pope Board Track Racer
- Board Track Racer Build
- Workman Industrial Bicycle
- Message Board and Guest Book
- Poll: do you prefer
- Useful Video's about Motorized Bicycles
- Completed Motorized Bicycle from Spooky Tooth
- CafePress Presents
- Unlimited Hobby Potential
- For Your Viewing Enjoyment
- Articles of Interest about Motorized Bicyle
- Bicycle Tutor
- Creative Commons
Creative Commons
Motorized Bicycles by DMedley is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.
by DMedley
I was born in the mountains of Oregon in the middle of the 20th century. As a young man living in a world that had little of the physical distractions... more »
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