April 13, 2015

            We finally got the chance to ride it today. It has taken us much longer than we originally anticipated, but the result was worth it. Turning the throttle I was gently taken on the journey of a lifetime up and down the street of Auto Repairs by Patrick. This was sadly not the only thing that Campbell and I did today though. We had to complete some final touches to our now completed electric bike.

            Campbell and I arrived at Patrick’s ready to finish our first project. Even though it feels like it should have been done a week ago, there have been so many small additions we have had to make that just build up. This time it was the Pedal Assist System. In order to put this on we had to take off the pedal and remove the axel, a much lengthier job than we expected. Campbell and I definitely needed help so we rushed over to Atlanta Cycling to ask some questions. We were finally able to get the PAS on, but immediately regretted it when we realized its function. When peddling the bike while the power is on, the PAS system will kick in once you get the bike going by peddling. Essentially, right when begin to burn calories the power takes over so you are forced to be lazy. I believe it is unnecessary. The man at Atlanta Cycling also mentioned that the PAS will wear out the axel and decrease the bikes lifespan. Patrick and I both disagree with this assessment and find it hard to believe that this plastic piece will tear up the metal axel.

            The rest of the day Campbell and I touched up the bike, tapping wires together and tip tying them to the bike. We also had to tighten the battery box for it was too close to the tire and would move when we hit a bump, sometime knocking into the tire. We hen began the gas powered pike and quickly realized that our bike does work. We were installing the sprocket when we discovered that the axel on the wheel is about an inch and a half to large. Campbell and I had our moment for a panic attack and are now on search for a new bike.  We have run into a lot of bumps during this project, but have been able to get through all of them. Hopefully this will not hold us back. I can say that I am truly enjoying this project. Completing the electric bike was extremely exciting and helped me remind myself why I enjoy this. I am looking forward to a great day tomorrow.