Nehmo posted "And forget about using lead-acid batteries." in my Voltage Questions thread.
I am VERY close to ordering five 12volt-18amp batteries that are sealed lead acid.
Do they suck? Is there a big difference? This is my first bike project so I truly have no idea.
Thanks again for the help.
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Sealed lead acid bad?
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Posted 7 months ago # : | | -
There's definitely a big difference between SLA and LiFePo4. SLA batteries are very heavy, which makes your bike harder to pedal and puts additional strain on the battery / motor / bike. SLA also doesn't last very long (maybe 300-400 charge cycles -- or 1 to 2 years for most people). Plus, SLA isn't as efficient. Unlike Li-Ion, it will gradually die torwards the end of a charge cycle. So you'll get full power for about half your ride, then it will slowly get weaker and weaker as you progress.
LiFePo4 batteries (or other Li-Ion batteries), on the other hand, are about 1/3 the weight and will last 3-4 times longer life-wise. So your 27lb 36V SLA battery will become 8-9lbs. And instead of lasting only 300-400 charges, it will last well over 1000 charges. Plus, LiFePo4 has a more equalized discharge rate, meaning you'll get full power throughout most of the charge cycle. Instead of the battery dying slowly partially through your ride, it will operate at full power and then drop off suddenly torwards the end.
Even though LiFePo4 batteries cost more (upfront), in the long run they end up costing about the same, since you'll replace the SLA batteries several times. You can find several different examples of LiFePo4 (and SLA) batteries here:
http://www.eco-wheelz.com/catalog/ebike-batteries-c-3_10_42.php
* 36V/10AH is the most common used with conversion kits.eCo Wheelz - Electric Bikes & Scooters
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Posted 7 months ago # : | |
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