Before starting

Staying safe

You should be aware of and familiarise yourself with any potential hazards involved in making a bike generator. Ensure you are working in a suitable environment - work indoors on a stable, clear surface, and make sure any trip hazards from trailing cables are cleared away.

When working with power tools - drills, jigsaws, etc - always use them properly to avoid the risk of harm or injury. Make sure the tools are all in good working condition, switch off and disconnect tools when not using them, and wear suitable protective equipment (safety glasses, gloves, etc) and avoid loose clothing or accessories that can get caught in moving parts.

Tools and materials

To complete a bike generator you will need:

TODO Adjust styling

  • a multimeter

  • a crimp tool

  • electrical screwdrivers (phillips and flat head, various sizes)

  • an adjustable spanner or set of spanners

  • allen keys (various sizes)

  • wire cutters and strippers

  • a drill

  • a ruler or tape measure

  • wire rated for 10A free

  • terminal blocks £1

  • a grey powercon socket £3.50

  • a project box £6

  • a 15A step-down buck converter £15

  • a 10A diode £2

  • a bicycle training stand £35

  • a 250W 24V DC electric motor £25

  • M6 bolts, nuts and washers £1

  • plywood or metal plate for mounting motor free?

  • a roller £10

  • a bicycle (ideally with slick tyres) …?

Optional:

  • a charge controller with a “dump load”

  • a capacitor rated for 12V with at least 2 Farads capacitance

  • a 12V lead acid battery

  • an inverter

  • In-line fuses

  • a RCD

  • an earthing system

  • cable with blue & grey powercon plugs

  • blue powercon socket

  • a system enclosure e.g. wood box