The Bike Power Generator consists of a powder coated steel trainer frame holding a permanent magnet DC generator. Your bicycle (typical adult 27 inch wheel diameter) is mounted securely to this frame and the rear tire is positioned to turn the friction drum that has been custom fit over the generator shaft. The amount of electrical power that can be generated by the Bike Power Generator is determined by the energy available from pedaling the bicycle. The stronger the user, the higher the production of electrical power. We recommend that the tire is smooth rather than nubby. A smooth tire makes for better contact. Also, the tire should be very well inflated for maximum contact and efficiency.
One of the most commonly asked questions is how much power can a cyclist expect to produce with the Bike Power Generator? The average person can expect to produce 150 watts sustainably. To achieve this, the Bike Power Generator has been designed with a generator capable of handling 20A of current. When used to charge a 12 Volt battery, this produces a maximum power output of around 275 Watts or just over a third of one horsepower (One horsepower is equal to 746 Watts). While it is possible to directly power some DC appliances such as water pumps, the Bike Power Generator is primarily designed to charge a deep cycle, 12-Volt battery or to contribute to a 12 Volt battery bank. Most household appliances require alternating current (AC) which requires a DC to AC inverter (see our Portable Power Pack). Certain DC appliances, such as DC lights, can be powered directly, but it is important to observe maximum voltage ratings to avoid damaging these appliances. It is usually necessary to use a voltage regulator or carefully monitor output with a voltmeter or multimeter. NOTE: The output of a permanent magnet DC generator is variable - based on rpm and load.
The diode is built into a small in-line aluminium box and prevents reverse current from traveling back from the battery to the generator. It is also a full wave bridge.
There are several different power packs on the market but they are not designed to be used with our products simply because there is no way to connect the Bike Power Generator without significant modification. The cigarette lighter input on most power packs on the market can usually handle no more that 12A of current and the Bike Power Generator usually charges at around 14A to 16A. The wires could overheat and melt if someone wired the Bike Power Generator into the cigarette lighter input and pushed too much amperage through. Other companies have claimed that it is possible but we maintain that it is ineffective and potentially dangerous. Our Power Pack has been specifically designed and built to be safe and reliable. The end user simply has to connect the Bike Power Generator and the Power Pack together with simple tist lock connectors. There are NO loose wires and no tools required.
