Zapino Li-Ion Conversion: First Ride
Posted by Max Dunn Mon, 02 Aug 2010 23:08:00 GMT
Putting in lithium-ion batteries in my Zapino scooter was a big investment and I am still a little nervous about how well they will work and how long they will last. But I just went for my first ride on my newly converted Zapino and came back with a big smile on my face after covering 18 miles!
I had planned on just riding to the library and back which would have been about 6 miles, but it felt so good after I got there that I decide to ride down to Los Gatos along the long stretch of Hwy 9. The entire trip, the acceleration remained peppy as the voltage on the batteries never sagged below 60 volts. I could also feel the difference that the 80 lb lighter weight made in acceleration and handling. I passed one radar speed sign and it said I was doing 37 MPH. The whole way the voltage of each battery pack remained very similar, which was a good sign.
I am estimating that with the new lithium batteries and lighter weight, I should be able to get about 40 miles out of my newly converted Zapino. Next up, a longer trip to test this range!
A friend commented that in the picture I am wearing a bicycle helmet. I wanted to let everyone know that I now have a full motorcycle helmet and also an armored motorcycle jacket. My philosophy is that sooner or later, I will end up skidding on the pavement and I should be protected when I do!