PEDALGENERATOR
How much power can the pedal generator provide?
The pedal generator will have a rated output of around 250 W.
How can performance be controlled?
The pedal power required by the pedal generator is selected using an interface that has yet to be defined. We will compare buttons, rotary potentiometers and an optional app control when selecting the series start. In principle, control via the user’s heart rate should also be possible at a later stage. However, we would like to make further developments in this direction in close cooperation with the users and then deliberately disclose the interface.
Will pedaling with the pedal generator be significantly quieter than with the chain drive?
In contrast to the chain drive of the TWIKE 3, the pedal generator and its gearbox in the TWIKE 5 can be spatially well contained and also relatively well encapsulated (structure-borne noise, airborne noise). For this reason alone, the pedal drive of the generator system will be much quieter. The volume will be much lower and the right sound is still being fine-tuned.
Will the TWIKE 5 have a chain or a standard belt?
There is no standard belt in the required length. The required belt would be a custom-made product. The only reason for this would be the possibly slightly lower weight. However, this is only a few grams. The significantly higher costs speak against this. We would not grease the chain as it runs in the protected area. Since the chain does not see any excessive loads (generator drive, therefore the torque is limited), neither elongation, durability nor maintenance will have a negative effect. With a high-quality chain, the noise is probably even lower than the air displacement of a belt. The permanent load on the bearings is also negative with a belt (the belt not only requires freedom of play, but also a certain pre-tension). As much as the exposed belt makes sense on a conventional bike, a slim and high-quality chain makes sense on a protected generator.
How much power can be gained with the pedal generator if it is operated when stationary?
It is also possible to pedal and charge the battery when stationary, both in the red phase and in the garage. The rated power of the system is 250W both when stationary and when driving.
Will there be an ergometer function?
The function of the pedal generator is similar to that of an ergometer, but the energy generated can also be used for riding. The sports program can therefore be used both while riding and when stationary.
PEDALS
Why does a TWIKE have pedals?
Advantages
– Fitness training for pilots
– Greater attention in traffic due to physical activity
– Healthy sitting (lumbar support, even support for both legs)
– Lower seating position allows better aerodynamics of the vehicle (smaller frontal area)
– Shorter braking distance (no repositioning of the acceleration leg)
– Generated energy can increase range (up to 10%, depending on driving style)
Disadvantages
– Keine
Will there be a TWIKE 5 version without pedals?
The passenger side should not have a pedal generator as standard. This is due to weight, cost and user reasons (some users mainly ride alone when pedaling). However, the pedal generator can be optionally added on the passenger side. The driver’s side already has the pedal generator as standard. However, the same applies as before: you don’t have to pedal, and even if you don’t pedal, the even support against the pedals makes sitting very ergonomic and downright healthy.
Do the pedals only have the function of an exercise bike or do they make a relevant contribution to locomotion?
The pedals allow ergonomic support and therefore back-friendly sitting, but also faster reaction in the event of emergency braking (pedaling backwards regulates the hydraulic brake system with the pedal pressure). When pedaling forwards, you can do simple circuit training as well as increase your range depending on your preference and riding style. As the electric efficiency of the TWIKE 5 will be higher, the possible contribution to increasing the range will also remain in a relevant range of around 10%. However, the biggest advantage will certainly be the fitness-enhancing training effect.
Is it possible to pedal the TWIKE 5 with size 46 shoes without hitting the windshield?
Yes, without any problems, you can still pedal even if you are over size 50.
Do the pedals still make sense at >50km/h?
Yes, the pedals definitely make sense. At speeds higher than around 45 km/h, the TWIKE 5 can be moved even more efficiently than the TWIKE 3. In contrast to the previous purely mechanical chain system, a sensitively adjustable generator in the TWIKE 5 generates electricity when pedalling. The heart rate display enables optimum cardiovascular training while at the same time extending the TWIKE’s range.
OTHER
Are wearing a skirt and pedaling mutually exclusive?
No, because the distance between the pedals will actually remain the same compared to the TWIKE 3 and may even decrease. However, the slightly lower pedal axle and shorter length of the cranks will have a positive effect for riders who like to rock.
Is the optional pedal unit for the passenger easily removable?
The pedal generator on the passenger side can also be removed by the customer (e.g. for more storage space)
How much does the optional pedal unit weigh?
The pedal generator on the passenger side will weigh around 10 kg.
Will the energy generated by the driver and passenger with the pedals be visible anywhere in watts?
The performance achieved will be visualized. This display and the combination with your own fitness data will certainly be subject to permanent change, if only because the fitness apps are regularly improving.
Is the new electric generator system as efficient as the previous mechanical pedal system?
Yes, the electric generator system will even allow a higher degree of efficiency than the previous purely mechanical system. The reason for this is that the efficiency of electric drive systems has improved significantly over the last 20 years compared to purely mechanical power transmissions (bearings, chains, shafts, freewheels, gears, tensioners, etc.).
