The allure of high-speed electric bikes is undeniable, especially for those seeking thrilling commutes or pushing the boundaries of e-bike performance. The prospect of cruising at 60 mph on an electric bicycle captures the imagination of many enthusiasts. However, achieving and maintaining such speeds is not as simple as adding a powerful motor and a large battery. Before you aim for a 60 Mph Electric Bike, it’s crucial to understand the significant engineering challenges, safety implications, and component demands that come into play at these velocities. Let’s delve into the critical factors to consider if you’re contemplating building or owning a high-speed e-bike capable of reaching 60 mph.
Reaching 60 mph and beyond on an electric bike places immense stress on components that are typically designed for much lower speeds. Regular bicycle parts, even those on standard e-bikes, are often not engineered to consistently withstand the forces generated at such high velocities. Pushing a conventional e-bike to 50 mph is already venturing into risky territory, potentially leading to frequent component failures and safety hazards. Attempting to surpass 60 mph without careful consideration and robust upgrades can quickly escalate these risks.
Power requirements for a 60 mph electric bike are substantial. To illustrate, increasing your speed from 60 mph to 70 mph demands approximately 36% more power. This power increase isn’t linear; it escalates significantly with higher speeds due to aerodynamic drag and other resistive forces. Calculations indicate that maintaining 60 mph might require around 6800W at the wheel, translating to a considerable electrical power draw from your battery. For a 40km high-speed section at 70 mph, the energy demand could soar to around 4.65kWh, even with an 80% motor efficiency. This translates to a very large, heavy, and expensive battery pack, potentially pushing the limits of practicality for a bicycle-style build.
When selecting components for a 60 mph electric bike, the wheels and tires are paramount. For rims, consider robust double-walled 65mm fatbike rims like Origin8 DAT-PRO-65. These offer a good balance of strength without being excessively wide, which could limit tire choices. Avoid wider rims as they may restrict compatibility with standard MTB and city bike tires. Be prepared for frequent tire replacements, as high speeds and the associated stresses will accelerate wear. For spokes, 13-14ga butted spokes are recommended to handle the increased loads from hub motors and high-speed riding.
The frame and suspension also require careful attention. A triple clamp style fork is highly advisable for enhanced stability and control at 60 mph. Shortening the travel on a long-travel fork can increase its stiffness and strength, making it more suitable for high-speed applications while retaining a somewhat bicycle-like appearance. For rear suspension, a suspension seatpost like a Thudbuster can provide comfort and control at high speeds, allowing the use of a stronger and often more affordable hardtail frame, which maintains the visual characteristics of a bicycle.
Ultimately, while building a 60 mph electric bike is technically feasible, it comes with significant challenges and compromises. It’s crucial to honestly assess whether electrifying a road-legal motorcycle might be a more practical, safer, and potentially even more cost-effective solution. Carrying substantial battery weight (over 5kWh) and a heavy hub motor (around 20 pounds) on a bicycle frame, even one reinforced for high speeds, fundamentally alters the nature of the bicycle. The weight and performance characteristics will deviate significantly from the inherent virtues of a traditional bicycle. Before embarking on such a project, carefully weigh the pros and cons, prioritize safety, and consider if a different platform might better suit your high-speed aspirations.
