Is a generator hard on tires?

Dr. Tankenstein · Mar 2, 2010

Thinking of rigging up a generator to run my lights. I'm running 24x3 Kenda Krazes, the sidewalls are huge, but they look thin. Will a generator tear them up?
Anyone got experience with this setup or run a generator?

Cheers!
Dr. T

StephenH · Mar 3, 2010

From what I remember from long long ago is that a generator will definitely scar the tires, won't necessarily wear them out on the side, though. Keep in mind that those kinds of generators are more nearly universal in Europe, where lights are required on a new bike the way we require reflectors.

What I recall about my generator light was that it was adequate to spot potholes before I rode into them, and that was about it. But that was enough.

B607 · Mar 3, 2010

I think the little headlight powered by a generator is more to let someone see you coming than it is for you to see down the road. Gary

Pinche · Mar 3, 2010

You could always get a solar powered headlight. lol. I was thinking though...you know how they have those LED flashlights that are powered by shaking it or watches powered from the movement of your arm? Why not for a headlight for you bike powered the same way? You could also get a dyno hub?

Dr. Tankenstein · Mar 4, 2010

I don't recall ever seeing a bicycle headlight that uses the Faraday principle of linear induction! :mrgreen: :mrgreen:
I'd love to convert a 12V motorcycle light to an LED unit that runs on batteries.
Since I got laid off from my job yesterday (3rd time in 3 years), I guess I've got some extra time. :roll: :roll:
anyone have a link to a thread or site that has a 'How-To' on a conversion?

Cheers!
Dr. T