The electric bicycle. On the one hand, it can be an efficient, fun, and affordable means of transportation. On the other, it can be dangerous, a bit awkward, and extremely heavy if you use pedal power, just for fun or because the battery is dead.
The new do-it-yourself (DIY) design doesn’t necessarily deal with all these problems, but it does take an innovative approach. Instead of forcing buyers to commit 100% to an electric bike design (usually as a very expensive second bike so you can keep your traditional one) this DIY one combines the best of both worlds. It lets you upgrade any existing bike for under $500 and the upgrade is completely detachable, so you can easily go back to peddle power at any time. It is also more stable, maneuverable and better at hauling a load than many competing designs.
Enter the Bidwell Pusher. At first glance, it appears to be on the small side and even looks a little weak, but let me assure you the strength is there and the small size is actually a huge benefit, making it less intrusive to the rider. In fact, the innovative trailer design leverages battery weight to gain traction and push the entire bicycle and rider forward. The unit itself also doubles as a storage bin to help out with groceries and other small loads. Similar push designs have been used successfully in recent years by professional designers to achieve enhanced efficiency and stability for touring bikes and even cars like the Solar Taxi.
With the batteries completely removed from the bicycle frame, where most other electric bikes have them permanently attached, the rider’s center of gravity is not upset by the Bidwell Pusher. This provides more stability and makes for a safer, more comfortable ride. In addition, the rider can remove the pusher completely within minutes and easily go back to human-powered usage.
The Bidwell Pusher isn’t available fully assembled, so you’ll have to spend a bit of time following instructions to build it. The good news is — you won’t be spending a lot of cash! The Pusher is assembled using the frame and battery of a standard scooter designed for kids called the Currie Phat Flyer. A few extra parts from your local hardware store and a battery are required, but that’s about it. All told, it will cost you around $500 and a few hours of your time.
The Bidwell Pusher plan and builder’s guide cost $35-$50. The pusher has a range of up to 40 miles without pedaling and can reach speeds in excess of 17 mph, according to its own documentation.
Update! The inventor of the Bidwell Pusher has licensed his design to a retired Hewlett Packard engineer who, with his business partner, has now formed a new company called Ridekick that will sell fully-assembled bicycle pushers for around $600. This is great news and will satisfy the demand from cyclists who can’t weld on their own or are too busy to build something from scratch. The Ridekick will be lockable and feature the same benefits as the Bidwell Pusher, with added styling and the finished look of a retail product. Check out the images below!
