Mountain bike + pit bike = Motoped

Remember Project M85? It housed a tiny pit bike motor in a package about the same size as a mountain bike. The idea was to make a dirt bike that was more accessible, kind of bridge between pedaling and buying a KTM. Well, this Motoped achieves something similar, just with pedals that, somewhat ironically, make it road legal. It mounts a 50-150cc Honda motor in what’s essentially a beefed up downhill mountain bike to offer the best of both worlds.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YmIy_hijfYE&feature=player_embedded

Best of both worlds? Well, it is a less-capable dirt bike and a heavier bicycle, but think about real world use cases. With the engine switched off, you can take it down mountain bike trails and, with the engine switched on, you won’t have to pedal back up. The pedals mean the Motoped fits into some state’s moped legislation (in 50cc form) it can also be ridden on the road in some places without registration or insurance, just like a bicycle. Like M85, it also offers cyclists a familiar experience, meaning it’ll be easier for them to learn to ride. The complete package weighs just 115lbs ready-to-ride.

The Motoped is sold as a $1,295 kit, the chassis you see here. You need to add your own Honda or Lifan four-stroke engine and mountain bike components like wheels, brakes and suspension. It does come with a rear wheel hub designed to accommodate the rear sprocket.

Motoped via Death Spray