Dwarfhopper

This is the second motorized bike project and the first with an ICE.  Engine is a 2 cycle Chinese import.  

My initial considerations were a motor to make hill easy and to generally move me along faster.  Not really concerned about the "exercise" factor -- I am looking for a cheap way of getting around.  Cargo carrying, comfort (upright seating position) and lights for riding after dark (when necessary) were also desired.

Photos below were taken end of November 2007.  Bike will be going into the shop for a complete rework.  The pictures however reflect how it looked when I was riding it summer of '07.  This configuration gave a crusing speed of 18 mph, 80 plus mpg, reasonable comfort and adequate cargo carrying capasity.

Issues that need to be addressed include:

1. Increasing the front wheel rake to give a bit better stability when starting from a stop (I hope).
2. Different seat (had an old 30"s whizzer bike seat but had to pull it off to repair it).
3. 26" wheel (alloy) in rear to allow for studded snow tires (26" being more readily available).
4. Change in handlebar length/angle for more comfort.
5. Different placement and type of gear shifters.
6. Perhaps a completely different type of gearing -- single, 3 or 5 speed?

Thumbnailed photos