How do I decide on the voltage / current / horsepower ratings for a DC permanent magnet motor that will work as a pedal power bike generator?
When looking over fractional horse power DC permanent magnet (PM) motors, one will notice that there are many flavors of them. Voltages ratings vary from 12V to 180Volts DC. Current ratings also vary quite a bit. Here are some key points to consider when trying to select the best voltage / current / horsepower ratings for the DC PM to be used on your DIY pedal power bicycle generator. OPERATING VOLTAGE You must decide what the desired output voltage from your bike generator should be. Let’s assume you are going to have it run in the region of 12Volts DC. You may ask why size the bike generator for 12 Volts DC? Because 12 Volts DC is common in the United States for powering TV, Computer, Laptop, LCD, through an inverter. 12 Volts DC is also in the range of where you will be able to charge a lead acid AGM Deep cycle battery for an alternative energy power backup system for your home. MAX POWER OUTPUT LEVEL, NOMINAL POWER OUTPUT LEVEL The next parameter to determine is the desired maximum
