DIY Electric Bike - A New Approach

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 it runs out of batteries or you decide to go with pedal power just for fun. This innovative "do it yourself" design doesn't solve all of these problems, but it does take a completely new approach. Instead of forcing buyers to commit to the electric bike design entirely, spending thousands of dollars usually on a second bike, one for off-road/exercise and one purely for longer assisted rides, it allows them to have the best of both worlds by upgrading their existing bike for under $400. Instead of recreating the bike itself, this design adds a small detachable trailer to push the entire bicycle and rider forward.

Enter the Bidwell Pusher. At first glance it looks small and weak but let me assure you, the strength is definitely there and the small size is actually a huge benefit, making it less intrusive to the rider. The trailer design leverages the weight of batteries to gain traction and push the entire bicycle forward; it also doubles as a storage bin to help out with grocery trips! Similar push designs have been successfully used in recent years by professional designers to achieve enhanced efficiency and stability for touring bikes and cars.

By completely removing the batteries from the bicycle frame, where most other electric bikes keep them permanently attached, the center of gravity not upset by the Bidwell Pusher. This gives the bike rider more stability and makes for a safer more comfortable ride. Additionally, the rider can completely remove the pusher within minutes and be back to their original road or mountain bike for human powered use.

The Bidwell Pusher isn't available fully assembled so you'll have to spend a bit of time, but the good news is you won't be spending a lot of cash. The Pusher is assembled using the frame and battery from a standard scooter designed for kids, the Currie Phat Flyer, plus a few extra parts from your local hardware store. All said, it will cost you somewhere around $400 and a few hours of time.

The Bidwell Pusher plan and builders guide cost $35 and you can get them here. The pusher will power users up to 40 miles without pedaling and can reach speeds in excess of 17mph.