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Rivian's TM-B electric bike

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246 points hasheddan | 1 comments | | HN request time: 0.314s | source
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ChuckMcM ◴[] No.45676493[source]
I tend to agree with comments that point out that 'modern' e-bikes are really electric motor cycles or the original "MoPed" from the 60's. And they have the same appeal, relatively cheap to operate, fit in between regulatory categories, don't require a garage to store, Etc. E-scooters aren't much better (just worse kinematics). That said, I never thought the Segway was ever going to be more than a 'niche' product whereas I had already lived in a city[1] with thousands of mopeds. To the extent they are embraced by urban planners with reduced parking mandates and their own roadways I think they are a net win for cities, when they terrorize pedestrians on sidewalks, not so much.

[1] Brussels.

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conradev ◴[] No.45678519[source]
The one thing about e-bikes that I don't get is: why the chain?

https://www.voromotors.com/products/emove-roadrunner-v3-seat...

This thing has 500W hub motors, no expensive derailleur, no chain to maintain, just tires and brakes. The hub motors have internal gearing. I love mine for getting around LA.

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scotty79 ◴[] No.45679867[source]
I think the chain makes sense you want to let the rider pedal. If you don't, hub motors are the obvious way to go.
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actionfromafar ◴[] No.45679967[source]
"The rider pedals a generator, which replenishes the battery, "

The chain is probably to keep unsprung weight low. Hub motors are not the best for comfort.

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scotty79 ◴[] No.45680267[source]
Why is that? Do you want sprung mass to be heavier or unsprung mass lighter?

I see how lower unsprung mass could be easier on the tyres but I have no idea how it could impact a rider who's isolated by full suspension.

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1. actionfromafar ◴[] No.45681629[source]
Sort of both, lower unsprung mass means the wheel moves more easily up and down without the rest of the vehicle doing the same.