Repurposed Privateer

keith_bontrager · May 9, 2025

The first Bontrager with a license plate.

This may not be the best place to post this, but why not. ;-)

I've been working on a new project. The first victim was a 97 Privateer I was given. I didn't have a plan for it so it is a prototype.

More about it here:

https://medium.com/@keith_bontrager/e-cycle-explainer-4-2-2025-efbf10b1ecc5

I promise no Santa Cruz made Bontrager frames were involved in this heresy. Yet.

slackboy · May 9, 2025

fabulous articlel, love the methodical approach taken, and as a brit, very jealous that ebikes are allowed to travel at more than 15mph!

I've taken a larger photo from that article and added it here

keith_bontrager · May 9, 2025

There are speed limits on e-bikes here too, though they are a little more generous. The converted bike is classified with mopeds here. 4 hp and 30 mph tops.

The Privateer is set up with a 1500W hub and can just get to 30mph on flat ground with no wind, so it’s not too awesome in the hills. That’s not an issue for me on errands in Santa Cruz.

The next version will use a 2000W hub and an electronic speed limit.

Elev12k · May 9, 2025

This is my repurposed Privateer. You did a better job. Thanks for sharing

tangent · May 10, 2025

Elev12k said:
This is my repurposed Privateer. You did a better job. Thanks for sharing

‘Choose light, cheap, strong , pick two’ … Wise words probably applicable to loo roll too?

Lucidone · May 10, 2025

I particularly like the focus on utility, usability and cost. Practical, low impact transport for many seems a forgotten concept (excluding bicycles which don't appeal / suit everyone) in today's style lead, short lifecycle marketplace.

Also with regards to wheels - with less requirement for a large diameter lightweight rear wheel maybe spokes are no longer required?

Be interesting to see the 3kW development - it all looks like fun!

Repurposed Privateer

keith_bontrager

Retro Newbie

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slackboy

keith_bontrager

Retro Newbie

Elev12k

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tangent

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Lucidone

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