How much additional resistance is there when in pedal mode and not using the power assist. We would probably be using a 36v 500 watt front wheel motor connected?
Hi and welcome,
The resistance will vary according to which motor and speed controller you fit.
The least rolling resistance will be from the mini motor as it is fitted with a freewheel device on the internal gears, so you don't have to drive the motor when it is not being used.
The geared mini motor is also much lighter, slightly noisier and slower than than the larger direct drive hubs, and would not allow regenerative braking or reverse to be used, due to the freewheel device inside it.
If you have a lot of hills the geared mini motor might be the better option, especially if you expect to keep up with your wife!
If you ride mainly on flat with only slight hills and you wish to maintain a higher speed, then the 500w direct drive would probably be better.
The other option is to wait for the new
Magic Pie, which is currently in production and will hopefully be available soon.
Alan
