I finished the Bella EV conversion in August and have been putting it through a series of shakedown rides to tighten up loose things and make sure everything performs as expected. The results of the conversion have exceeded my expectations.
It accelerates quickly and I’ve gone 50 mph, with an estimated top speed of 68 mph (110 km/h). The range seems better than I expected- on my 8.3 mile test loop with an average speed of 31 mph I’ve calculated the range to be 92 miles per charge. My next test will be a 20 mile loop with an average speed of 37 mph, where I’m predicting the range will be reduced to about 75 miles. In both cases that is more than adequate for what I need. Even on a rally I’m not sure I’d take a 75 mile trip.
Here’s a list of the major changes and additions I made to the bike (in addition to the electric drive):
- Front and Rear Disk Brakes
- Turn Signals
- Reverse Gear
- USB Ports on Handlebar
- Keyless Start (uses a fob like a car)
- Dual Rear-View Mirrors
The handlebar setup is different than a stock R203, since I needed more space for controls and disk brake reservoirs. Here’s how I set up the controls compared to a stock R203:
Here’s my setup:
What’s Next?
I’m still working through various small items, none of which have to do with the electric drive. The rebuilt front shock has an annoying squeak, and the front end seems spongy and light to me (I’m used to riding Heinkels). I also find the centerstand hard to put down while I’m on the bike, and I don’t completely trust the sidestand.
I’m installing a GPS speedometer, but I’m going to try my hand at programming the appearance of the gauge to mimic the traditional appearance using a program called LVGL and installing an ESP32 embedded system controller with a 2.1” TFT screen.
The replacement handlebars from MMM will not accept the chrome clamshell; theS straight part of the bar is too short. So I machined an aluminum screen mount that I will use to attach another flat screen display to provide real-time readouts of volts, amps, motor temperature, and percent of battery remaining. Both the speedometer and this flat screen will be winter projects.
Would I Suggest an EV Conversion to Other Bella Owners?
If you have the skills to attempt this type of work (and patience) it is worth it to make a conversion. The bike performs similarly to a modern Vespa GTS with the added benefit of a low seating position and the ability to easily put your feet flat on the ground. It is silent until about 40mph, and doesn’t belch two stroke exhaust. It is much cleaner to work on than a standard Bella; “adjustments” are made on your smartphone app rather than with a screwdriver. The bike weighs less than a stock R203, has excellent range, and can be recharged quickly (like over a long lunch if you are out on a tour) if you have the right power source and plug.
I’ve attached a few more pictures so you can see the entire bike:
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at shawn@techdesignworks.com.