The Ultimate Custom E-bike
Probably the best thing about dealing with Ruby’s on your e-bike is that we can build exactly what you want or need. No compromises.
Most of our customers already have a bike they love. Since they are almost always better bikes than any factory e-bike, once converted, they’ll outperform anything out there. The fact that they are usually between $1.5k & $2.5k less really is just a bonus.
Ideal for most commuters and tourists would be to have a butted, round tube frame. These resist harmonic resonance and vibration. They are lively and nimble feeling, yet very strong. With proper geometry, they just don’t need silly gimmicks like heavy, poor handling off road suspension forks or giant saddles.
Obviously, it is going to need a torque sensing mid-drive. It is going to be centered and thus best handling. It really is the only way to take advantage of your gearing. Your battery choice really should be based on how much you need (less is best and two small are better than one large). Weight impacts handling and range per amp hour.
No brake works better than your tires begin to skid. Disks work better in wet weather, if you don’t know how to brake properly. Some modulate better. Disk brakes are heavier and require heavier wheels, frames and forks. Mechanical disk brakes modulate best, but are a maintenance hassle. I have learned to like disk brakes. Hydraulics are so affordable and powerful now, that they are really the way to go if you really want disks (be sure to flush every thee years). I srill prefer dual pivot side pull brakes for simplicity, modulation and a wider range of lighter frames and forks.
Mid-drives must be shifted properly or you can tear up your drive train. If you start in a high gear and high boost, you can destroy the internals on some. Unfortunately, we often forget to down shift coming to a stop. Starting, in a high gear and low boost is a lot of work! Internally geared hubs (IGH) can be shifted at a stop or coasting (some really nice ones can be shifted while pedaling lightly) . You’re never in the wrong gear. They use thicker, tougher chains. They need a great deal less maintenance than a deraileur system and are quieter too. Some have infinate gear ratios and even automatic shifting. Seriously though, I love my internal five and seven speed manually shifted IGH’s just fine.
Regardless of what is your dream bike, now is the time to get it in the works. I have four awaiting parts now. If you want the world’s most powerful legal motor, The Photon, figure six weeks (not a significant improvement for 90% of my customers). Remember, Spring is coming. Order now and be ready for warm weather!