2-stage contactorbatteries without covergear driveInstrumentationNameplateOverviewWiring and recharge transformerright side view
OwnerEd Thorpe
Owner's Other EVs1998 Honda EVplus
2000 Corbin Sparrow
2001 Xootr eX3
1993 Kewet EL-JET3
1998 Ford Ranger EV
LocationAlameda, California US map
Email email image
Vehicle1973 Auranthetic
Honda trail minibike converted by a Los Angeles company in the 1970s and sold as a new electric motorcycle.
MotorKDB Permanent Magnet DC
24v motor
Drivetraindirect drive, #35 chain driven, fixed gear. 9:52 ratio.
Controller 2 stage contactor controller (original)
Provides two-speed levels - 10-15 mph off of 12v and up to 30 mph off of 24v.
Batteries2, 12.00 Volt, Lead-Acid, Flooded
System Voltage24 Volts
Chargerunknown
Transformer, taking 110vac input and outputting for 24v pack.
HeaterThe sun.
DC/DC Converter
Unknown, but generating power for headlights and brake lights.
InstrumentationSpeedometer & Horizontal scale 12v meter only.
Top Speed30 MPH (48 KPH)
Fine for local travel, either in the bicycle lane or edge of residential street.
AccelerationFairly quick launch when in high-mode.
Range10 Miles (16 Kilometers)
Best range if in high-mode, but voltage meter very inaccurate. Limps when power is drained to far.
EV Miles
Start:550 Miles (884 Kilometers)
Current:635 Miles (1,021 Kilometers)
Total:85 Miles (136 Kilometers)
 
    As of 7/30/2006
Seating Capacity1 adult standard, put up to 3 (1 adult, 2 children) for fun.
Curb Weight0
Heavy enough to have broken off the ball-ends of the brake levers from tipping over on its side.
Tires10" hub minibike tires
Conversion Timeas-built
Conversion CostDonated after many years in storage, with two flat tires & dead battery pack.
Additional FeaturesSimple 2-stage contractors make it simple to use & maintain. Throttling down to first stage acts as plug-braking to slow down.

Replaced original tires with modern motorcycle tires. Replaced damaged rear light with Honda rear light. Added turn signals.

Soon to upgrade to a Curtis controller for better performance and range.
Fun to drive for local

code by jerry