Odd request for help.

[Ed Minas]

I know there were no E bikes before 1933 but I beg you to hang in for a moment and let me explain. I want to build this invalid cart which was built before 1933 but I want to motorize it. I know nothing about E Bikes. Any suggestions or ideas where I could start to gather information would be greatly appreciated. I plan on making it look old, wood rims brass lights.. etc. No one will ever know it has a motor but as I age I can still enjoy antique bikes sort of. Thanks in advance.

 

[Balloonoob]

I would throw a Diesel engine in it.

 

[rusty_apache]

I know there were no E bikes before 1933 but I beg you to hang in for a moment and let me explain. I want to build this invalid cart which was built before 1933 but I want to motorize it. I know nothing about E Bikes. Any suggestions or ideas where I could start to gather information would be greatly appreciated. I plan on making it look old, wood rims brass lights.. etc. No one will ever know it has a motor but as I age I can still enjoy antique bikes sort of. Thanks in advance.

I’m not going to be of much help on the conversion but I thought I would show you my 1870’s invalid carriage.

 

[Ed Minas]

That is beyond cool. Thank you for sharing

 

[pedal4416]

Look into the electric Auto Red Bugs. They were a buckboard like the smith motor wheel cars but used 12v Dodge starter motors. These were 1916-1930's.

 

[Ed Minas]

I have always loved those

 

[oldmtrcyc]

Go to Luna Cycle for your electic kits. You can build up what you need. Motors, batteries, controls. I'm working on a project right now, building up from an old Meade Ranger.

Luna Cycle Fast Electric Bikes

Distributors and builders of life changing electric bikes.

lunacycle.com

 

[oldmtrcyc]

I would put a freewheel sprocket on the rear axle, and drive it with a direct drive electric motor, and lithium battery. Probably $600 tops,. Another source is Bikeberry.com