I just completed a project for a quick & light E-bike without a bulky tell-tale battery.
It also uses a gates carbon belt drive system linking a 1000 watt Bafang mid-drive motor to a Shimano Alfine 8 speed internally geared hub. This bike is very smooth and has acceleration similar to a motorcycle.
The frame used is a Bunitz, a New York based company that folded during the pandemic. It has an interesting flowing style and is fabricated from aluminum alloy. The fork is carbon fiber.
The rear wheel uses alloy rims and Shimano Alfine disc hub with 36 spokes. The front wheel uses a Shutter Precision Dynamo to operate headlight and tailight. Avid mechanical BB7 brake calipers supply ample stopping power to both wheels.
The display is a tiny color unit which blends into the drop bars. I used a very small 52 volt battery pack. This can be hidden in a medium sized saddle bag.
The battery only has a range of 20-25 miles on a charge but that is all that is needed for most commutes.
This is especially true on an island only 14 miles long. The end result is a unique looking “Rat Rod” style bicycle with a fast powerful motor. This bike has no throttle installed and is activated by cadence pedal strokes. You just get on and start riding.
The ride is very natural and smooth. The low gearing of the Alfine 8 speed coupled with 1000 watts of power and 160Nm of torque translates into a hill climbing beast. Top speed on the flats averages 40mph.
If you’re looking for a quality E-bike with loads of style, you can own this for $3,720