Optibike does Gadget Show
Richard Papa
I think I should start by thanking Mark for getting us on the Gadget Show. It was him who was approached and we both grabbed the chance with both hands. And another massive thanks to Jim Turner and the Opti crew as they made my bike in just 9 hrs, a quick test and sent a man (Craig the MAN!!!) to the UK with the bike. It’s a miracle we arrived with any bike at all but we did. I still don’t quite know how. So we owe all at Optibike a big thanks for all their hard work. I can tell you it was worth it. Although we won’t really know until we see the show. I think Jim will be proud though. And I will Google Video it for all to see.
So, Craig arrived the day before filming and we stayed at a small but nice local BB in Birmingham near the Airport. To be honest it was in the middle of nowhere but did I care? I planned a hotel close so I could see the bike faster. I told Craig it was because of all his travelling (24hrs) that I booked a hotel near the airport which was 20 miles away from the film set the next day. Oh boy, I just can’t wait sometimes.
Anyway, I arrived at Birmingham international airport to met Craig. As I arrived, my mobile phone rang. It was UK immigration. They said they had Craig and a big black box (I nearly peed me pants) Luckily, it was ok as all they wanted was the address of the hotel he was staying in (Glad he was not shipped off to Guantanamo). In the end, all was fine and Craig soon appeared, walking slowly, but much more importantly, he was pushing a big black box. My black box. I nearly peed me pants again!
The Hotel was 2.5 miles away and by some magic, Birmingham city airport has larger taxi cabs. Larger than a London Taxi i am accustomed too. I quickly indicated to Craig let’s grab a cab! There were plenty around but I just wanted to open me box ASAP. Nothing else mattered. You know how it is (ME ME ME!!!). I really did not think the big black box would fit into the taxi. But sure enough it slipped right in. Again, I nearly peed me pants. All was going to plan with no hiccups. I was sooo excited! What could go wrong now???
10 mins later we were at the hotel. I run in and checked it. The lady was nice but kinda insisted to show us our rooms (forget the rooms I thought! I want me box!!!) So, after a 10 min tour guide, we FINNALLY made it out to the black box. You know, the one with SEX written all over it. Only discreetly. The kind where you can look but not touch. Only I could...now I’m getting confusing. Anyway, we were opening the box! My black beauty, my Queen, my little omelette with mushrooms...
Craig did the honours as I watched on with baited breath. First the wheels came out (No TAGS but they are coming next week) and then the beautiful, wonderful, sleek & sexy frame (and man, the fenders are an objects to be hold!!! ) Such things could not be possible. I don’t think I can express just how visually beautiful the Optibike is. It’s an amazing piece of natural looking design that not only gives a quality appearance (You know it’s special) but it just looks like a piece of art and very pleasing to the eye. Beautifully sculptured comes to mind. Maybe the colour I choose had a lot to do with it as I just loved the look of my M-750. But this was different, totally different. I just hope it would ride as good as she looked.
As Craig was doing the finishing touches setting up the bike. He realized that he forgot to bring the pedals. It’s not his fault as he only had a few hours to leave for his flight and tried his best. But oh poo, we had our first and only hiccup. But don’t let that disappoint you. As I still had a test spin. First impressions were mixed. I could not for the life of me work out the gearing system. After four years riding hub motors and staying in top gear at all times. I had to train one's mind to using the gears again. Especially with no pedals (stop laughing!) but one thing for sure. The front lifts in low gears. Nuff said there.
This thing has some PULLING POWER!!! I mean REAL PULLING POWER. And silky smooth too. The fox suspension and hi end components makes the bike elegantly glide. Smashing humps/bumps are a breeze but until we had some pedals and I worked out how to use gears (I felt like a six year old) I would not know what I had under me. Not one person had this problem. Just me. Life’s a bitch sometimes.
The next day we were up early. Full English breakfast then taxi to the bike shop. Fortunately for us, there was a bike shop on route to the show. And we soon had some pedals on the bike (Yippee!). But no time for a test ride.
The show was being filmed at the very prestigious University of Birmingham. A place where they teach all kinds of Science and also show off the UK’s first Hydrogen Fuel Station (Built on campus) and will be seen on the show. We soon met up with the film crew and there they were, Suzi Perry and Jason Bradbury. I watch these guys on TV every week and cannot believe I am face to face with them. Jason is just the complete gadget enthusiast. He is also very pro eco friendly. Everyone just swamped the bike. Many had test rides even before me. It was hard but a sacrifice that had to be done. I had to wait my turn. The celebrities and professors get to ride my Opti first., oh poo. Try a Google search on Suzy Perry. She even has a fan club. She is also a presenter on MOTO GP. Surely Suzy Perry could not be testing our bike? No way! This MUST be a dream! It must???
As we approached the crew we noticed some e-bikes. Just a few but all home builds. I remember looking at Craig and we both smiled. Everyone looked and stared at the Optibike. It was like rolling a new Austin Martin out the show room. But to be fair, the bike did look stunning. Just stunning. I thought lady in red is a good name for a red Optibike btw.
Jason was the first to really start asking the good questions. I explained the bike just landed in the country and he was testing before me. He was so grateful. Thanked us all for making the effort and went off for a ride. The bike looked beautiful and Jason was screaming “WOW”. Nothing but Smilage that day. Nothing but smilage. I did manage to get a few little rides and will do a full report on today’s ride with Craig. More on this later.
So Jason came back from a 10 min ride and was totally blown away by the Optibike. He said he had never experienced anything like it. “So smooth” he said “So smooth”. We talked all day and in the end I offered a one month test ride. We will meet up soon and get some test riding and reporting done. He’s such an enthusiast and pleasure to talk to. We have been invited on another live event at the Olympia (Same as the cycle Show Larry) for an interview and chat about the Optibike. The show is about Eco Friendly Products and discussions. And few more things like that. The director of the show also (as many did) took a liking to the Optibike. So I offered a test ride once Jason has finished his. Jason said he would also do something on his blog. I look forward to reading that.
Right, back to the bike. As Jason arrived back I remember telling him that perhaps we could race the bikes and if so, what one he thought would win. He told me to follow him. Just behind the film crews van was the front of a cheap looking bike. The kind the thieves would not even bother with. But as I got closer I noticed a bloody great big Rocket and BOOSTER pack on the back! A rocket Scientist had made a rocket bike that ran on rocket fuel (the bastard!) But it did look way cool! Also, there was that Fuel Cell bike that was posted here once. It runs on hydrogen (See Pictures) and a few more e-bikes. Monster (A guy who posts on the Endless Sphere) was there with his 72v Crystalyte bike. Turns out Mark sold him the parts for his bike. And the other e-bikes too had parts Mark. Great to see Team Hybrid working with the community :) there was also a bio-fuel motorbike. 120 miles to the gallon. Or something like that. That was a full production motorbike. Quite nice actually. Jason really enjoyed riding that too.
Someone from the press started taking scenic photos of the bikes. I hope the photos get some extra coverage. You just never know. Then it was down to filming. Jason wanted to test ride the Optibike but that meant Suzi had to ride the Jet Bike. A quick decisions by the director and it was decided. Jason rides the Jet Bike and Suzi rides the Optibike (No way man! I nearly peed my pants...). i thought to myself “no hard feelings Richard...”.
Filming started but every now and then it poured down with rain. We all ran for shelter and then came out after the rain had finished. This seemed to go on all day with sun and then rain. But it was perfect to test out the products.
First of all they filmed the hydrogen fuel bike at the UK’s first hydrogen fuel station. I should not have laughed when the bike fell over during the first shoot. In fact, I was told be quiet several times. Especially Jason too. He got me into looooads of trouble!
Then it was our bike and Suzi was riding. I honestly, in my wildest (and they can be wild sometimes) dreams, could not have imagined Suzi Perry would ride and commentate on our bike, and on the gadget show, at the same time???? A boys dream come true (OHHHH MAMA). Even some of my friends call me Mr Gadget sometimes. How can this be real? Somebody bite me... (no Larry, that was not a hint for Suzi. Although... Hmmm). I stood back while Craig went into action. I will tell you all about Craig later. He’s a swine really. All the girls LOVED him (How rude!!!) We watched as the sound crew wired a mic up Suzi’s coat (Stop it!!!). I did not realize that she would actually be commentating while riding (I nearly...), anyway, she seemed to ride for around 20 mins. And after the filming suzi carried on riding for a long time while we went to the next film location. I remember thinking how proud Jim would feel if he could see what we could see. It was quite a moment. The good thing is he will. As will you all. And much more. All that day, many people tried the Optibike and everyone had a smile. I think we all done some good.
Next was simply amazing. What I watched was a hero in action. A pure hero. Jason was testing the Jet bike and guess what. On a football field! This thing was amazing (the noise). Jason was fitted out in full leathers possibly fire proof. The bike was placed ready for ignition and we all sat there not knowing what to expect. The moment the thing lit up it sounded like a military jet flying over but right in your face. It was awesome. Jason jumped on and pumped up the pressure. He must have been doing 40mph around this field. It’s hard to appreciate that this guy was on a bike with god knows how much energy being released inches from his Hyde and literally flying. One point he missed a metal fence on the turns by a few feet. I have it all on video. Brave stuff and I thought he was going to fall several times too, a bit twitchy at times. But what shocked me after was when Jason showed me the throttle. It was a joke! How he rode that bike I don’t know. It did not have a conventional throttle. Oh no. That would be too easy and for sissies. This thing had two buttons. One for cycling power up. And one for cycling down. Imagine doing 40 mph, on a £20 bike frame with cheap brakes and a rocket with fuel, just a bit too close to home. And Jason was powering up on the straight (Like us pressing the CC button on our TF’s at 40mph, off road) and then fighting to press the cycle down power button before hitting the wall. All on a none suspension bike on grass. I offered the designer of the bike my twist throttle. So if he reads this then please contact me ASAP. What a project though. The guy actually will sell you a rocket! (See Photos).
Another highlight of the day was Professor Kevin kendall FRC. He came up and asked for a ride. He shot off and was ripping around the canvas. It was a real pleasure to see people’s reactions. I had the same thing happen many times on my TF. It’s the electrickery thing. Highly addictive as you know. Professor Kendall (Professor of Engineering at the School of Chemistry) was very impressed and wanted to know much more about the battery. He would be perfect to find out some cool info as he explores the very exotic chemistries we e-junkies crave. He also was very impressed with the bike. Smilage all round as I said.
So let’s talk about that swine Craig. Did you know he’s going for a world record to do an Iron Man through some valley? I mean, it’s bloody 480 miles long! Why???( Don’t do it man). Instead, take a stroll. A walk in the park, a ride?. So I can only put it down to extreme attention. He’s such a show off! :) (Only joking Craig). You know, there is a nice guy. Craig comes across as being the perfect gentle man. He is polite, well educated and the girls love him. I don’t really see what they see in him though. Just because he is young. It’s soooo not fair!
Craig was perfect and really did all the tech work including explaining how the bike worked. I would have been lost without him so big thanks to you Craig. We will meet again soon my friend! And Jim, your man did good!!! I’m sure Craig will add his report too (Craig, please don’t mention the sheep or the canary! It was an accident).
So, as quickly as it began, it was over. It lasted all day but we had loads of work done on the Optibike. And all the other bikes just added to the excitement. I feel so lucky. And I know it will be a great tool to get the word out. It will be interesting to see show. Around two weeks it airs on Channels Five, Mondays at 20:00 UK.
Now for my first proper first ride report on the Optibike 800Li.
It’s now the following day. Craig went to the West End to see London and we arranged to meet for a ride later. First thing I did before meeting Craig was ride straight to my cafe on the park for me chino and bacon sandwich. It was very interesting. They run out of brown sugar! Would you believe it? Anyway, I come here a lot and many times people ask about my TF bike. All the locals know me. This time (Craig witnessed this too later) they swamped the bike! So many people were interested. It really stands out and is a magnet as our Tracy said.
I now have had several short rides but still not mastered the gears. I was getting frustrated with my self as it’s such a simple thing. But after my quick stop at the cafe. It all seemed to click together. I finally got it and was riding off-road (28mph on the computer). The bike is just so superior. I am not kidding, It glided off-road. Over anything!!! And It has POWER. I mean REAL power. And now for the shocker. I said something was not right and it's true. We could not fly with a Lithium pack on a commercial flight. You have to send it separate and it takes a bit longer, time we did not have. Optibike had 48hrs to get a bike to the UK. Craig solved this problem by getting the engineers to fit an old NiMH pack. They would ship my Li over later. The NiMH pack was 15ah (F Cells) and two years old. The idea was a temp pack that could come on the same flight. So because if this, I have an old NiMH pack which Craig said is around half the power of the newer pack. So this will mean even MORE power later. Oh boy.
So, today I rode 15 miles on the Optibike with lots of power to spare. The optibike is amazing. It’s handling incredible. It’s also sooo light. I can run it up and down my stairs with ease. My TF weighs 80lbs. The Optibike 800li is 55lbs (Just 55lbs!) And it just flies. Off-road it leaves the TF (How rude!) The way it soaks up anything is amazing. I hit some deep mud but did not panic. I was lucky and it went through (Glided through). It has the kind of stability that gave me much more confidence at higher speeds. But soon the TAGS go on. Then some real testing will begin! On the road I was not sure. We did not have a long enough road but I went twice to 28.5mph before I had to brake. I know my TF could do this too on the straight and think I could stick with the Optibike. But not sure yet. The Li should be interesting and change that though. Also I need more time. But more important, the Opti had the edge for me as you can really add SOOOO much pedal power! It does not quite work the same with the TF. If I add the same power to a TF it’s like one mode or even two (I will explain as I learn more) but with the Opti, you can modulate the power and it FEELS good, really bouncy, smoothy, soaky. It really looks and feels like a non powered bike but you can feel sooo much more power through the drive train. It’s something solid and balanced, I can’t explain it yet. Even pedaling is a joy without power. It really is! This is the first true free wheel electric bike I have ever tried. And I have tried Just about everything. This bike is a step forward for sure. But I need to understand the efficiency. The range tests will help me do that. And some hill tests too. I’m thinking about a DB.
The riding position is also amazingly comfortable although I am not sure about the seat. I may put my TF seat on. Another thing I don’t like but honestly getting use to is the gear shift. Because the throttle is on the right, the gears go on the left. And the Opti has 9 gears. This means the gears on the left are backwards to what your mind tells you. If anyone can find me a 9 speed stock gear shift for the left, I would appreciate it. But as I am noticing, it feels fantastic going through the gears. it feels performance. I felt it before on my TF. Only this feels smoother and better. Jim has done an amazing job. And It only really kicked in for me today.
There is a whine from the oil cooled motor but MUCH quieter than I expected. And Craig said it will get even quieter over time. I think the Heinzmann motors are more noisy. In fact they are. That should give you an idea. So I was surprised about that. But you can hear it. TF can’t be beat with regard to silence.
Another thing I want is the twist throttles on all our bikes. Jim will have them in stock soon (The semi twist for safety)
Stealth is an important issue but not one person realized the Opti was electric. Even after we told them many did not see how it could be. With the TF, they asked about the hubs. With the Opti, people ask about the bike. It’s a psychological thing and I am slowly understand why.
Really, I need more time. More time to understand just want I have under me. Also I need to wait for the Li packs to arrive to see the true performance. We will also start on the tech stuff soon. Like 3000w for eight seconds and that.
Big thanks again to Jim, Craig and all who work on this.
Take care all,
Rich
deerfencer1
Craig, and the busy bees at Opti for producing and delivering your
bike in record time--it must have been a huge effort, but well worth
it for all the exposure the bike received at the show. Bravo! We look
forward to more exhaustive reports on the bike once your lipos arrive.
Is the model you got an OB1 or the 800?
Regarding the shifting, I had the same problem as you in my brief test
ride at the Tour de Sol two years ago, and frankly I don't understand
why Opti doesn't simply put the throttle on the left (this is where I
have my Magura mounted on Uma) and the rear shifter on the righthand
side where it really belongs (again, this is the setup I have on my
bike and I find it perfect.) I know I questioned Craig about the
arrangement and seem to recall him defending the placement "because
that's where the throttle is on a motorcycle." (My immediate response
to that argument was, "yeah, but this isn't a motorcycle, it's a
bike"--and I still feel that way.) Not only are you thrown by the
lefthand shifting, but now the twist action is backwards as well
because of the swap, which is a real intuitive doubly whammy IMO. But
this is a very minor bone I'm picking and one I assume could be easily
resolved when ordering an Opti.
My only other suggestion for the next show is to hire a more scantily
clad model to demo the Opti (vs the trenchcoated Suzi Creamcheese
<g>), though I know this might be tough given your rainy clime. You
could even hold a competition for the job and call it Babes on E-
Bikes, or I Get a Charge Out of You. (OK, I'll stop now before the
hook comes out <g>.)
Cheers on a job well done!
Larry
lowco2
and enjoying it; nothing else there. I eagerly await the full Rich
treatment of the bike. Yes, she's a beaut.
Larry, Yes, not only is the Optibike shifter "backward", it's also
"upside down" and the brakes are reverse (moto-style, front on the
right). This just suggests the inherent limitation in the "brief test
ride." These bikes cannot be appreciated in 10 minutes. Takes much
longer, but I think that's true of e-bikes in general. I don't care
what else you've ridden, motorcycles, etc, the e-bike is different.
Now that I've had it 1200+ miles there's no way I'd switch anything.
And in the past day I logged 5 hrs on the road bike Sat and 3 hrs on
the mtb today, each in totally different conditions and totally
different bikes, I just change habits. Tomorrow I'll get on the
Optibike and rather than pulling a trigger (mtb) or moving a brake
lever side-to-side (road -- and who ever read that when it was first
proposed and thought it was a good idea?) I'll simply twist my left
wrist. Three bikes, three days and no issues. I very seriously doubt I
could get on UMA and make the most of her power in 10 min, it would
take me a while, but trust me by the time I got there you'd never see
her again!!! (grinning!). Point is, we don't need everything the same,
we can adapt. If I ever get back in the little diesel VW, I'll have to
recall how to push a clutch to move the thing.
To top it all off, I'm sure when you place your oder for the new OB1,
you can ask them to do as you wish and they'll gladly make that change
for you. And you'll love it.
Cheers, gents, and don't make us wait too long Rich, we might all
pee our respective pants in anticipation of your report!
--John
remf
at Opti for making it happen.
Fever pitch anticipation is how I remember the hours & days before my
Opti arrived. I don't know how I would have dealt with all those
people riding it before me! The sacrifice will be worthwhile. It
sounds like a lot of people watch The Gadget Show and from memory this
is the first international TV coverage of the Optibike. This is what's
needed to make people aware of what a great, long-range commuting
option this bike is. Another show that would be a perfect place to
showcase it is Eco Solutions on CNN. Not sure but I think there are
different editions in the US, Europe & Asia.
Re the shifter & throttle setup...yes, chances are you'll get used to
it very quickly. For me it's as Craig says, intuitive because I've
ridden lots of motorbikes in the past.
More reports, videos & girly photos please!
rem
hayduke
hayduke
> 1875KViewDownload
>
> Bike line up final.JPG
> 1860KViewDownload
Papa Pro
I will find time to write some more later. So here's some more pics,
Rich
Geo Rider
Question,
Is this new Optibike painted pure black?
Love Suzi's and Jason's sincere enthusiasm too! Where's Craig? He's
like me in these, always on the other side of the camera.
Looking forward to the movie.
Congratulations on the new bicycle! Perhaps next year for me. My TF
is too perfect for my purposes right now.
Oh, about the throttle... I love the twist throttle on the right.
Took me all of 5 minutes to get used to. I also like the trigger/
thumb shifter/brake combination on the right side. The only draw back
is I had to mount the shift/brake a little further left than it should
be in order to clear the throttle cable assembly. One small
modification I'm going to make is to put a line across the twist grip
with marks at the off and full positions on the base so I can easily
see how far it's twisted. There's no easy way to see that at a glance
as you could see and feel with the thumb.
Best,
Joe
Richard Papa
I agree the gear shift needs more thinking but will wait a while longer to
see how it goes. The bike is just perfect though and I still keep staring
at it. Work is a drag and I can't find riding time :(
About the specs. All our bikes are 800Li specs. We upgraded after a little
thinking. I want the best so will offer what I am riding.
One very interesting claim by Optibike is the 50 miles on eco mode. Don't
know when I will confirm this but I will give it a go. But only when I get
me Li.
Thanks for all the interest. My inbox is full :)
Cheers,
Rich
thesaxman
new batts with your build, Rich.
Beautiful reporting. Keep it comin'.
Keith
Richard Papa
25miles on my TF. The fact you are doing it on your 600 (NiMH) is very
interesting and another indication of what to expect. I look forward to
some range tests.
Cheers,
Rich
Richard Papa
Yes, it's black. Painted by the same company who paint the Harley. It also
has gold and silver specs in the paint. It's really nice and so glad I
chose this color.
Cheers,
Rich
-----Original Message-----
From: Tidal...@googlegroups.com [mailto:Tidal...@googlegroups.com] On
Behalf Of Geo Rider
Sent: 28 April 2008 17:26
To: TidalForce Forum
Subject: [TF] Re: Optibike does Gadget Show
deerfencer1
movie and strikes me about as serious as an outrageous frat house
prank--good for a spectator giggle and gawk (see Evel Knieval) but
what, really, is the point (besides cheap thrills)?
In the end I think I can encapsulate it in two words: Speed porn!
LH
> 1875KViewDownload
Geo Rider
Gold and silver specs - I thought I saw a metallic glimmer in one of
the photos but wasn't sure if it was the raindrops. That's really why
I asked. Very nice! Bet it looks really good in person.
50 miles on the built in battery! I could commute all the way from my
home in CT to my job in NYC! It's over 30 miles each way (I just
checked because it's a tempting thought). By car the route would take
2 hours or more (no highway riding). I could recharge at work. I
might need to brush up on my self defense and carry a weapon. That
would save me about $4,000 annually on the railroad commute ($3250
railroad and parking plus $750 gas, etc for the car).
Just found this "True Cost Of Ownership" car calculator:
http://www.edmunds.com/apps/cto/CTOintroController
A new (2008) Prius costs 54 cents per mile averaged out for the first
5 years where I live. I'm wondering off topic so I'll repost this
link in the other thread about cost of riding an ebike vs car.
BTW I often see interesting cars, often exotic, on the streets in my
town. Somebody's already using a SMART car to commute to the
railroad.
Anyway - the Optibike is looking sweet!
Best,
Joe
Geo Rider
Geo Rider
Geo Rider
http://gadgetshow.five.tv/jsp/5gsmain.jsp?lnk=401&featureid=692&show=s8e1§ion=Features
deerfencer1
cart would be beer-powered via twin kegs rather than water. Fun stuff!
LH
> http://gadgetshow.five.tv/jsp/5gsmain.jsp?lnk=401&featureid=692&show=...
OptOut
Upgrade suggestion:
Needs a straw for the driver.
-----Original Message-----
From: deerfencer1 <deerf...@aol.com>
Date: Monday, Apr 28, 2008 4:08 pm
Subject: [TF] Re: Optibike does Gadget Show
Richard Papa
Just goes to show how cool this program is :)
Anyway, I just got back from an Opti ride and what can I say. It's wet in
London but that did not bother my new honey. She performed effortlessly.
And FINALLY I have mastered the gears. They are pretty cool actually. It
just takes a while to get use to for a non gear head like myself.
Today I was throwing the bike around and it's handling and comfort is the
biggest eye opener for me. I have my own set riding routes and can judge
the differences from my TF. I been hitting the speed bumps at near 30mph and
the bike gently glides over. No twitch at all! The Optibike is MUCH better
although I hate to admit it. I am convinced that this is indeed the best
e-bike ever created. Still cannot believe I have one.
Craig insists I will get 35mph when I get my new pack. That should be
interesting. But I can just about get 30mph with this NiMH pack I am using
with heavy pedaling.
So more to come. My main point was I have mastered the gearing. And that
has in turn enabled me to start exploring.
More ride reports to come later in the week. Shame I am only semi retired :(
work sucks!
Cheers,
Rich
-----Original Message-----
From: Tidal...@googlegroups.com [mailto:Tidal...@googlegroups.com] On
Behalf Of Geo Rider
Sent: 28 April 2008 20:50
To: TidalForce Forum
Subject: [TF] Re: Optibike does Gadget Show
lowco2
Great to hear, my friend. Yes, the handling is something. This is
what I've experienced too, the ability to take the hits from some
really bad roads, bumps and the reality of the modern world is what
separates this bike. Jim and the whole crew created a really superior
machine. Same things Jamie has been saying -- and he puts it through
some really punishing runs. Eagerly awaiting more news....
--John
> ction=Features- Hide quoted text -
>
> - Show quoted text -
Richard Papa
And now one interesting fact about the Optibike and the Gadget Show. You
will NOT believe this!
That is my helmet on Suzi Perry's head! ;9)
How cool!
Rich
-----Original Message-----
From: Tidal...@googlegroups.com [mailto:Tidal...@googlegroups.com] On
Behalf Of lowco2
Sent: 29 April 2008 15:30
To: TidalForce Forum
Subject: [TF] Re: Optibike does Gadget Show
lowco2
Richard Papa
-----Original Message-----
From: Tidal...@googlegroups.com [mailto:Tidal...@googlegroups.com] On
Behalf Of lowco2
Sent: 29 April 2008 15:48
To: TidalForce Forum
Subject: [TF] Re: Optibike does Gadget Show
Bike_on
Enjoying the reports. So, your black beauty, it is a 600T bike and
you have an 800Li on order?
I was curious about the 30mph max with heavy pedalling. What are your
sprocket sizes? It is the 8 speed metarange, 11-34T, with a 46T
chainring? If so, peddalling at 90rpm, you will cruise at 29.1 mph.
90rpm is a good workout cadence, and not casual peddalling. It is
also allows more human power output than a lower cadence.
The new 800Li will have a 48T chainring, and the 9 speed cassette,
11-34. That gives you an extra 1.5mph at 90rpm. Then add the assist
for 800W and I can see a 35mph cruising speed. Sweet.
Keep us going..
Dan
> ction=Features- Hide quoted text -
Richard Papa
I have the 800t but an old knackered NiMH pack. We already realized the
power is down by around 40% as the pack is near dead. Charging for 24hrs
resulted in a semi charged pack so I don't have the full power available
yet. But that is not a problem. I get my LiPo next week.
Some observations. I wanted to see if any drag was noticeable and did a few
cruse tests @ 20mph. I can sustain this for a few mins with not much
effort. I don't understand this as I can just about do this on a non assist
bike. So something special is going on for sure. Possibly the high spec
parts kicking in.
We put the Optibike E on hold for now (600t with 800w motor) as I did not
think it fair I ride an 800 and sell a 600 spec. I really want people to
ride what I am riding and experience the same. The bike is sooo expensive
but when you work out that a quarter of the price (for us in the UK) is pure
taxes and shipping cost, it really makes it a bargain (IMO). So 800t's for
the British!
So I have a 48t ring and all the same specs (bar the pack for now) as the
USA Optibike 800t.
Maybe I should take my helmet off now.... three days is a long time. Maybe
a record?
Cheers Dan,
Rich
-----Original Message-----
From: Tidal...@googlegroups.com [mailto:Tidal...@googlegroups.com] On
Behalf Of Bike_on
Sent: 29 April 2008 15:56
To: TidalForce Forum
Subject: [TF] Re: Optibike does Gadget Show
Geo Rider
You might be able to pay for your Optibike if you put that now famous
helmet on ebay. And hey - how about your already famously infamous
new bike!
You dawg!
Joe
deerfencer1
Sounds very sweet, especially the suspension and handling.
OTOH how's the noise factor? You briefly mentioned it but perhaps can
comment in more detail as I'm sure many here want to know the real
scoop and it's been two years since I've ridden one. Several
spectators commented on the noise of Craig's Opti at the Tour de Sol
as he was circling the parking lot there during the citizen's race in
2006, but I'm assuming Jim & company have tamed it a bit with this
latest generation motor. How much quieter is it than a Heinzmann? How
does it compare sound-wise to the BMC geared motors that Doug sells?
(I'm assuming you've heard one of these--wasn't Mark testing these a
while ago?)
I don't mean to pick on this point but bring it up as a major
difference between the TFs and the Optis so that anyone considering an
Opti and coming from a TF is aware of that difference up front. Riders
like John of both bikes don't seemed fazed by the difference at all,
and even claim to like the sound of the Opti motor after a while, but
for many (myself included) the silence of our bikes is indeed golden
(great for sneaking up on wildlife) and perhaps THE distinguishing
feature of our Tidalforces.
Of course in the end I'm still a tad jealous (especially about Suzi
sitting on your horn), but as nice as the 800 sounds, I'd personally
have a hard time justifying the cost difference (at least to my wife
<g>) between my SX and the Opti right now, especially given the type
of casual riding I do, i.e. strictly for fun and exercise on generally
smooth blacktop over quiet country roads.
But if money wasn't a factor, I'd certainly jump all over the 800
since even the best roads have rough patches and the full suspension
would open up much more potential riding ground. I also like the fact
that it's a completely integrated design (absent an aux pack at least)
that I'm assuming is much more race bike-like than anything else on
the market right now. And if I were a serious commuter like John or
Keith, that factor alone would lessen the guilt about spending the
premium on a solid, dependable, great handling and cushy e-ride.
You've given some hints, but what's it looking like for a retail price
on these bikes in the UK once you factor in taxes, duty, and shipping?
I'm guessing $11-12K USD range? Will you be able to hold that price
across the channel? I'm assuming the market at that price point will
be very limited and elite, but agree with you that the value is
ultimately there, and have always maintained that Optis will be
coveted by the lucky few who can shell out that kind of dough for the
very best, state-of-the-art, integrated e-bike.
It will be very interesting to see how they sell both in Britain and
across the channel in Germany, France, Holland, and Belgium, which I
know is an area that is seeing very brisk sale increases in e-bikes
and pedelecs lately. And the price of oil certainly is working in your
favor there as well. Europeans in general also seem decidedly more
environmentally active than most Americans, and of course the roads
are smaller and the parking tighter, all of which give you a leg up
there.
Best of luck with the line--if anyone can sell these beauties across
the pond it's our Papa, and I'm betting with you in the UK and
mainland Europe beating Jim's own sales numbers in the US market
within two years.
Very happy for both you and Opti: Big cyber high-five across the
waters!
Regards,
Larry
P.S. It wasn't THAT long ago when I first posted a link on the old MSN
TF board to this very interesting and obscure e-bike company based in
Colorado-- do you remember? I do. Jim & company have come a long way
since, and I'm tickled their bikes will be promoted vigorously
overseas now. They couldn't have found a better spokesman!
Geo Rider
Rail Road in NY) just installed neat little individual, secure, fully
enclosed parking garages for bicycles. If my train station had these,
from all the fantastic reviews we've had in this forum for Optibikes,
I could very realistically invest in an Optibike and commute on it
year round. I might even be able to eliminate one of my cars
completely. My biggest reservation is parking an Optibike in public
all day, every day. I don't like doing it with my TF either, but my
TF isn't anywhere near as beautiful and tempting to as many people.
I'm just sharing some thoughts out loud here.
Best,
Joe
Cliff
>
> A friend of mine just told me his train station (on the Long Island
> Rail Road in NY) just installed neat little individual, secure, fully
> enclosed parking garages for bicycles.
Japanese Bicycle Parking:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wE4fvwTBtno
Cliff
deerfencer1
a $6-8000 bike chained up at a train station. Not sure if there are
any realistic solutions to this kind of very real world problem other
than the old NYC trick of making the bike look like a total beater.
(sigh)
Larry
Richard Papa
I know your riding habits and I will try and arrange for you to try one. I
don't think you would believe how good it is. Imagine 55lbs and the same
range you are getting. All at full speed and all Rolls Royce smooth!
Soacking up anything and everything. Completely as one with you ride. Of
course I need more time but that is the impression I am getting. It's just
a lot more easy!
The noise is a deeper whine than the Heinzmann and the BMC. They both have
a higher pitched sound which causes the human ear to react. The Opitibike
is probably just as loud only it's deeper. And NOTHING can touch the TF for
noise factor. No one can hear a thing on the Tidalforce. But you can just
about on an Opti. A Heinzmann you can hear a mile away. The BMC too. I
think the oil cooled motorized system is the key hear. I think that make
the drive so smooth too. The entire bottom motorized bracket is emerged in
oil. The good news is we will not burn it! Promise!!!
But let me try and explain what I thought today. I was riding all over but
only for around 30 mins. But I was also testing the gears and then the
resistance during no power. Here's the impression I got.
The TF is like an automatic. And even though I had mastered the bike. I
had no idea how heavy it was. Larry's bike will be different as he does not
have a front hub. I tried that but did not like a rear heavy bike so
preffer a front hub. I also still LOVE my TF. So, the TF is like an
automatic NasCar. Powerful and will get you there. And the Optibike is like
a manual Ferrari. And I am not copying the Optibike Marketing strategy!
When you hit the throttle on the Optibike, you need to change the gears.
But you can also leave full throttle on and change the gears (one at a time)
without loosing power. It's a very smooth and exciting transaction. And as
you get use to using gears, you start to understand why the system is so
efficient. Every component is working in harmony. Everything is totally
balanced and the power is coming from the chain. In the smoothest way
possible. It reminds me of my TZR Yamaha racing bike (20 years ago). I was
watching the F1 bikes on TV and they had the 125cc championship too. After
the race, the commentator (Murry Walker) said that the winning bike was
being sold in the UK as of Monday. So Monday I went down and got one. Mine
was restricted to 12bhp but I managed to get a Japanese power valve fitted
and a racing pipe and it then had 72bhp. Just as the guys on TV had :) The
Optibike reminded me of flying through the gears. Finding the power and
spinning out of the curves. It's purely a performance thing for me. For
others I am sure it means something else. But honestly Larry, you MUST try
one and not just for a day. At least a week. A week where you can confirm
all our findings. I will talk to Craig.
Suzi sat on my saddle too. How much do you wana offer me?
Pricing is 5k plus VAT. We have to charge 14% Duty on the cost price just
for bring the bike into the UK. Then charge our poor customers 17.5% VAT on
the retail price (17.5% of 5k). It's a complete joke. But one thing we
have done is get on the government cycle to work scheme. I have not worked
out how much but UK citizens can get up to something like £1000 back plus
the VAT from their employer. It's for lowering your carbon emissions and a
government incentive to cycle to work. So the net price is around £5750 UK
Pounds including taxes and delivery. Or 4k on the cycle scheme (Something
like that). I think around a quarter of that is claimable and if you can
buy though a company in the UK, they can claim back a lot of the tax. It's
just another hurdle for anyone in the bike business.
Yeah way cool you found Opti Larry. So I guess I owe you a big thank you. I
remember thinking it looked nothing special. But now I know better.
Take care and let's arrange you a ride. I would like to do it for our Joe
too,
Rich
Btw, Did anyone see the new security hole on the frame? It's under the rear
suspension
Geo Rider
at least a quickie test ride.
Suzi on Richard's saddle? Ohh the ambiguity.
Best,
Joe
>
> read more »
Richard Papa
Rich
-----Original Message-----
From: Tidal...@googlegroups.com [mailto:Tidal...@googlegroups.com] On
Richard Papa
But it's the RANGE that also seems impossible so I can't Wait to test that.
Imagine having 50 mile range to boot? All in a really light bike! Also, the
20 mins of power restriction feature. This is 20 mins emergency power where
the system will limit the power to alert the rider the pack is near empty.
This is sooo needed with Lithium as the cut-off should show no near warning.
So I am really looking forward to tying out these features.
There is so much more to learn about this bike I am only just starting to
unlock it's secrets. But I highly recommend people get a test ride if
possible. And try the 800!
Ask any questions you wish and I will try and find out,
Rich
-----Original Message-----
From: Tidal...@googlegroups.com [mailto:Tidal...@googlegroups.com] On
Behalf Of Geo Rider
Sent: 29 April 2008 21:01
To: TidalForce Forum
Subject: [TF] Re: Optibike does Gadget Show
Richard Papa
Btw Larry, our pricing will cost anyone in Europe the same price they would
pay Optibike to ship. Same tax as per country.
We are the European distributor so worked hard to keep the pricing the same.
It's still a joke though! But we sold seven of the 20 so far so not bad for
near zero advertising.
Cheers,
Rich
deerfencer1
Thanks for all that helpful and detailed input--exactly what we need
on this forum as it truly gives at least a descriptive taste of the
Opti and how it differs from our TFs. Nicely done.
Very encouraging that customers can recoup a nice sum from the UK govt
for riding these bikes to work--we have nothing even remotely
resembling this type of credit in the States as far as I know, which
just goes to show how Europe is leading here politically in
encouraging this type of transportation.
Very commendable.
On a separate but connected note, Bush was on TV today basically
saying the U.S. is screwed big-time by our dependence on oil and
there's nothing he can do about it. This utter lack of leadership and
innovative thinking in regards to energy independence and creative
alternatives is absolutely emblematic of this administration. What
else would you expect from career oilmen like Bush and Cheney?
Too depressing to think how many years/decades these fools have set us
back on the journey away from oil and coal. In seven plus years we've
been asked to sacrifice nothing--nada--as citizens in weaning
ourselves off these sources of power while our bravest fight and die
on a fool's errand overseas
that was most likely tied to securing a strategic spot close to big
oil reserves.
Unfortunately even this has been botched as production in Iraq is well
below projections due to the instability there. There will be hell to
pay if the next administration doesn't seize the environmental
initiative here in a very big way.
Sorry to go off on a political rant here, but things appear to be
getting quickly desperate on a world-wide scale as far as the supply
and demand scenario of peak oil. Anyone who's been paying attention
lately can see we're all between a rock and a hard place here with
many deteriorating oil fields and/or production problems around the
globe. There was a very good front page piece on this theme in the NY
Times today; I'll see if I can't post a link in a separate folder.
Basically there are big problems in the oil fields of Mexico, Russia,
Saudi Arabia, and several other formerly productive countries--either
tapped out reserves, collapsing fields, or major (government caused)
production problems.
Also, sufficient equipment needed to harvest the stuff from the earth
is just not there in sufficient number due to lack of proper
investments by the major internationals like Exxon/Mobil and the like.
Deep-sea drilling rigs are commanding unprecedented leasing rates as a
result--would you believe $600,000 a day for the bigger rigs? It takes
three years to build these beasts and there are not nearly enough to
satisfy demand.
IMO wee can't have those deep lithium batteries soon enough, and even
NYC cabs are all going over to hybrids very soon.
Best,
Larry
>
> read more »
deerfencer1
delighted if it ever came to pass. Also, congrats on already selling
seven bikes--that's impressive!
LH
remf
sign of how popular they'll be. The outright power of the bike always
seemed to me to be an obstacle to selling it en masse it in certain
countries with ludicrous e-bike power restrictions ie: 200 watts.
Obviously not!
rem
Tracy Talley
I heard about as much of that speech yesterday as I could take when he
started going off on congress for not allowing him to screw up the Alaska
wilderness by drilling for more oil which he claims would fix everything.
Where in the world did this bumbling fool come from?
The only thing good about this whole last 8 years of ineptness is that it is
getting us very close to the tipping point where electric transportation is
really looking good now.
The timing for this election couldn't be better because this is an
unprecedented opportunity to make the candidates take a stand on their plans
for getting us off of oil and if we do our share in supporting the
organizations who are holding their feet to the fire on this issue, we will
be rewarded.
I had a display of my e-bikes at the local Earth/Arbor day celebration last
Saturday and virtually every single person that attended stopped by to talk
about e-transportation in general and to pick up information.
There also were several home made electric cars there and they were also a
big hit.
I DVR'd the Nova program last week on Cars of The Future and had a showing
of it Sunday for a family gathering and I think my gang is finally catching
on.
Very gratifying but if it wasn't for the $4.00 a gallon gas around here, I
still don't think they would be paying attention.
So thanks Bush administration.
The greed you and your buddies in big oil have shown will now point this
country in the right direction for our energy needs.
Tracy
Rich,
Best,
Larry
--
No virus found in this incoming message.
Checked by AVG.
Version: 7.5.524 / Virus Database: 269.23.6/1402 - Release Date: 4/28/2008
1:29 PM
No virus found in this incoming message.
Checked by AVG.
Version: 7.5.524 / Virus Database: 269.23.6/1402 - Release Date: 4/28/2008
1:29 PM
OptOut
Tracy,
Good to hear about the popularity of your electric bikes at the show.
I also enjoyed watching the rebroadcast of the Nova Future Car show last week with my wife. She found it interesting too, which surprised me a little. Gas is quickly heading toward $5 a gallon here now that the $4 psychological barrier is broken. As you said these high prices are at least starting to create more interest in conservation. Total gas consumption is on a strong downward trend for the first time in 17 years. I am seeing more adults riding bicycles for commuting and local errands than ever before in my life and I think it's a sustainable and growing movement..
Rich,
Thanks for that Optibike ride offer. If Opti could send me an old "beater bike" that looks like trash I would probably buy it. Wouldn't it be a funny stealth? I like the concept of an ugly exterior conceiling an amazingly powerful machine inside. I've known some skinny looking people with the same amazing hidden power. It's a Zen thing.
OTOH I bet I could sell a lot of beautiful Optibikes locally.
Larry,
If we get an Optibike to test I'll take lots of photos and videos of you on it. Maybe we should get our own "Suzi" to model it? Also I'll race you on my TF.
Best,
Joe
Richard Papa
I'm sure we can arrange something.
Talking about racing. I just met up with our Dave M who has my old M-750.
His bike is out of action so I am loaning him my SeX. So no SeX for Papa
for a while :(
Anyway, I'll let him give his opinion but we just raced on the road and I
left him! He was riding my X and I on the Opibike with only 500w. zero to
30mph gave me around 4-5 seconds lead :) what more can one say?
Soon I will have the full 800w and then I will rule the United kingdom :)
Dave also tried out the Opti so it will be interesting to hear what he has
to say.
Cheers,
Rich
-----Original Message-----
From: Tidal...@googlegroups.com [mailto:Tidal...@googlegroups.com] On
Behalf Of OptOut
Sent: 30 April 2008 14:19
To: Tidal...@googlegroups.com
Subject: [TF] Re: Optibike does Gadget Show
Bike_on
How does the Opti compare to TF off-the-line, ie getting up to speed?
I remember John giving some feedback at one time, but would like to
hear your input.
Thanks,
Dan
Richard Papa
I left the TF today. Completely left it. I'll let Dave tell in his own
words on what he thought as we need second opinions.
But please remember I am giving full pedal power to achieve this. Power
alone I think the TF would win. But did not try that. My new pack should
change things considerably as I only have 60% available power. Also, try to
remember that this bike is the 2008 motor. A completely different kettle
compared to the 600.
Also, I have mastered the gears and do not want to change them! I know this
sounds silly but I quite like the arrangement. It's another physiological
effect I am slowly understanding.
Cheers,
Rich
-----Original Message-----
From: Tidal...@googlegroups.com [mailto:Tidal...@googlegroups.com] On
Behalf Of Bike_on
Sent: 30 April 2008 14:57
To: TidalForce Forum
Subject: [TF] Re: Optibike does Gadget Show
Dave Macdougall
All will be reviled when I get back from a kids Football Match.
Cheers
DaveM
-----Original Message-----
From: Tidal...@googlegroups.com [mailto:Tidal...@googlegroups.com] On
Behalf Of OptOut
Sent: 30 April 2008 14:19
To: Tidal...@googlegroups.com
Subject: [TF] Re: Optibike does Gadget Show
Geo Rider
Those automated bicycle parking garages are nice. They'd be popular
in some NYC locations. There are typically only half a dozen bikes or
less parked at my train station. (I know a local secluded place where
people are so trusting and crime so rare many bikes are left unlocked,
but I'm not going to say where.)
As Rich said "One day..."
I'll settle for a bike rack in a car garage for now.
Best,
Joe
Geo Rider
over them :-) (Larry's original Optibike find/post and MY race
idea). You guys just won't let us have any fun ourselves? LOL. But
let's remember, Larry was THE ORIGINAL leader of our new Optibike
croud, riding the Optibike at the Tour De Sol way back in 2006! As I
recall Craig's and Larry's Optibike VS TidalForce race was somewhat
undecided. Back then Larry was left with an underpowered feeling
riding the Opti compared to his TF. And Larry felt the deck was
stacked against him on the tightly curved race course which favored
the decidedly more nimble Optibike. I can't remember if Larry removed
his front hub battery yet, but he had his new dual rear 20+ lbs of
LiPo on his rear.
Since Larry's reports the Optibike has continuously evolved into a
finely tuned electronically driven instrument of pleasure.
I want to see results from a top condition NiMH hub like mine without
the extra weight of B packs against the Optibike. I'd also like to
see a dual LiPo set up without the hub VS the Optibike. And finally
I'd also like a no pedaling race for comparison.
This topic needs and deserves its own new thread. (like Optibike VS
TidalForce)
Love you guys. Keep the info flowing!
Best,
Joe
On Apr 30, 10:43 am, "Dave Macdougall" <dave.macdoug...@ntlworld.com>
wrote:
Dave Macdougall
As you know I meet up with Richard today. First off it wasn't really a race.
I could tell you the TF was set up for Richard not me. The tyres could have
been harder. But Oh boy. We set of from Richards place went round the corner
And of he went. I tried I really tried to catch him but I couldn't. I know
he was pulling away from me but the noise was not that loud and it wasn't
offensive (not sure what I mean by that)
After a bit it was my turn. The Opti of course is set up for Richard not me.
I do like the saddle really high.
It was beautiful. I have been using my none assist bike for my work
commutes. The Opti is just like a Standard bike in the way you go through
the gears. It handles just like a conventional bike. Only so much quicker.
It really is power assisted bike.
After the ride we stopped for a coffee and pannini. I stood looking at the
Opti. I don't do beauty, I do function. I would always always put function
first. I've seen all the pictures of the Opti and yea it's ok. But in the
flesh it really is a thing of beauty.
I think as assist bikes evolve they will take different paths; it may be we
will own more than one bike, that they will have different jobs.
Before Richard gets the bike back I would like to race again. Personally I
want assisted bike not a moped, the bike that gets most power from me and it
combined is the one I would choose.
I only spent a short time on the Opti and I have been used to my ordinary
for the last month. The first thing I noticed using my ordinary bike was how
difficult the gears were. I had never had a problem using them in the past,
its just the TF has a different riding style.
I suppose today can be best summed up by the fact I have always wanted an X
I have the use of one whilst my bike is being fixed.
I got on the train to go home and felt almost disappointed.
Tomorrow though is another day. Two fully charged packs run in parallel.
Tyres rock hard.
Joe ive tried to change this to a new thread by changing the title.
Could have started afresh but really need the Outlook spell check.
Can you move it please if it doesn't change?
Just incase this doesn't read the way I'm thinking I do just have to say a
big thanks to Richard I really am not disappointed just trying to tell it as
I found it today.
Cheers to all
Richard Papa
Oh poo,
Rich
Richard Papa
one.
Dave, if we change the title of a message. All the messages title gets
changed for the previous thread.
Sorry mate,
Dave Macdougall
Joe Help!
OptOut
Help!
Dave et al (but not Uncle Al),
stop replying to this thread and start a new one.
Best,
Joe (mobile repairing threads from somewhere in the bowels of NYC)
-----Original Message-----
From: "Richard Papa" <papa...@btconnect.com>
Date: Wednesday, Apr 30, 2008 3:41 pm
Subject: [TF] Optibike does Gadget Show
To: <Tidal...@googlegroups.com>Reply-To: Tidal...@googlegroups.com
Can you all please follow this thread and I will re-post Dave's on a new
one.
Dave, if we change the title of a message. All the messages title gets
changed for the previous thread.
Sorry mate,
Rich
Richard Papa
Sorry mate but it's best to wait 24hrs and then start a new thread. This
will enable those who may reply to your original post.
Oh poo,
Rich
Btw, I'm up for a race any day!
-----Original Message-----
From: Tidal...@googlegroups.com [mailto:Tidal...@googlegroups.com] On
OptOut
You can start a new thread from an email program by creating a NEW message and filling in the subject with the new thread's title. Send the message to the email address: tidalforce at googlegroups dot com (i spelled that out, you reformat it properly).
I copied Daves big message and sent it to start a new thread that you can safely reply to.
My phone's faster than yours Rich!
Poor Dave,
Oh poo,
Rich
Sorry mate,
Rich
Oh poo,
Rich
To: Tidalforce@googlegroups.c
Richard Papa
You have the fastest phone in the West!
Cheers,
Rich
-----Original Message-----
From: Tidal...@googlegroups.com [mailto:Tidal...@googlegroups.com] On
Behalf Of OptOut
Sent: 30 April 2008 21:41
To: Tidal...@googlegroups.com
Subject: [TF] Re: Optibike does Gadget Show
Richard Papa
for this show :( But I hope we get this type of exposure...
http://gadgetshow.five.tv/jsp/5gsmain.jsp?lnk=400
Watch the preview of yesterdays show (No Opti yet). But I sure hope we get
a similar feature. I did not think you could use a mobile during a flight
anyway? Way cool though. It should be on uTube soon.
Cheers,
Rich
Richard Papa
Just for 24hrs, I will leave these high res images Craig took at the filming
on these pages. Then tomorrow I will delete them.
Cheers,
Rich
Btw, there are around 300mb of high RES Opti imagery...
http://groups.google.com/group/GoogleForce/files
Papa Pro
http://video.google.co.uk/videoplay?docid=-7513473204138601722&hl=en-GB
Cheers,
Rich
Richard Papa
So sorry as I have been sooo busy. Can't wait to tell what I have been up
to :) Soon maybe some Matra news but not just yet :(
So, here is the video of the Suzi on the Opti
http://www.optibike.co.uk/optibike800Li/gadgetshow.htm (30 seconds)
And here is the full feature of bikes including the FASTEST electric bike in
the world. 0 to 60 on ONE SECOND!!! I wonder what batteries they are using?
Hmmm...
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-7318853641582804032&hl=en (5 mins)
Take care all and a big thanks for all the great content lately,
Rich
Geo Rider
Your site's video is so much clearer. Interestingly this is the first
time I've seen some video that gives some idea of what the Optibike
sounds like. On google's video it sounds louder than on yours. I'd
like to HEAR more.
Keep up the good work :-)
The sheep are watching.
Joe
deerfencer1
Good show! Thanks for posting, and congrats to you and Mark and the
crew at Opti for getting sweet Suzi in the saddle in record time <g>!
Twas truly a gang--uh, group--effort.
Seriously, nice work!
Best,
Larry
P.S. When's that lithium pack landing for your Opti?
OptOut
I feel like Beavis.
-----Original Message-----
From: deerfencer1 <deerf...@aol.com>
Date: Wednesday, Jun 11, 2008 10:34 am
Subject: [TF] Re: Optibike does Gadget Show
Richard Papa
So sorry I have not been contributing of late. I have not even had time to
read around 250 messages from the group. But I will soon!
Thanks for the big-up. It was hard work and cost me a small fortune. But
the 30 seconds have been worth it. Mark tells me the phone is still ringing
so it's all good. If this order of 20 units go well, we will order another
100. That should get some attention.
Anyway, Optibike had a few teething problems due to moving premises. So our
bikes are only shipping now and the packs will be sea freighted in the next
few days. So it's July for us unfortunately. But we are all in this
together so "what-ever" is my attitude. And Optibike just kindly amended
our contract to begin once our stock arrives. Way cool of them.
Cheers,
Rich
Btw, UK e-bike LAWS change this September. I will post something when I
have time.
-----Original Message-----
From: Tidal...@googlegroups.com [mailto:Tidal...@googlegroups.com] On
Behalf Of deerfencer1
Sent: 11 June 2008 15:35
To: TidalForce Forum
Subject: [TF] Re: Optibike does Gadget Show
deerfencer1
Glad to hear you're busy and thriving. My fencing business is slow for
this time of year due to the ongoing economic meltdown here in the
States. Looks like the stock market's rolling over once more and a lot
of our customers fortunes are tied to it in one way or another, so bad
for me :(
Great news on the big interest in the Opti--you're in the perfect spot
here market-wise IMO. Personally I think you should exploit the
upcoming Naked Ride in London by hiring a sexy nude model and putting
her on your Opti for the event with Team Hybrid's phone number tatooed
on her backside. Let me know if you want any help screening candidates
<g>.
Cheers,
Larry