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A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11Andrew Sullivan’s generator bicycle uses a stationary bike, a Delco 10SI automotive alternator and a relay-controlled lamp circuit to demonstrate how pedaling can generate electricity. The Make: project is a moderate-difficulty build listed at 40 hours. Sullivan reported that older children could light five bulbs and produce about 250 watts in his demonstration; that result is specific to his setup, not a performance guarantee for other builds.
How the generator bicycle works
Pedaling turns the bicycle’s rear wheel, and a transmission drives the alternator faster than the pedals turn. The alternator produces three-phase AC in its stator and rectifies it to DC. In ordinary automotive use, its regulator controls rotor field current to maintain roughly 13.5–14.5 volts, according to Sullivan’s 2015 project description.
For the demonstration, the circuit monitors voltage and switches lamps on in stages. As pedaling speed and voltage rise, additional lamps become electrical loads. Sullivan explains that connecting every lamp at once would make it difficult to start pedaling.
What Sullivan’s example build includes
- A Delco 10SI automotive alternator, which Sullivan already had.
- A bicycle mounted to a fabricated frame, with a multi-stage chain-and-sprocket transmission to raise alternator speed.
- A voltage-threshold circuit built around an LM324 quad op amp, resistor dividers, NPN transistors and 12-volt relays.
- Four relay-switched 12-volt, 50-watt RV lamps, plus a fifth lamp connected directly.
- A diode across each relay coil, described as protection for the switching transistor against voltage spikes.
The circuit uses a 12-volt reference and approximate switching thresholds of 4, 6, 8 and 10 volts. These details describe Sullivan’s modified demonstration system, not a universal alternator wiring recipe. His build also energizes the rotor field from a battery at startup, then switches the field supply to the generator once it is turning. He reports field excitation draw of about 4 amps—48 watts at 12 volts—and describes modifying the alternator to bypass its internal regulator. Do not assume that procedure applies to a different alternator or circuit.
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#1 Best Overall
- Brand: Beiduoyang
- Auto part position: right
- Special feature: Waterproof
- Compatible with vehicle type: Bicycle
- Light source Type: LED
Choosing a drive system
| Drive approach | What the article describes | Practical implication |
|---|---|---|
| Multi-stage chain drive | The example uses several sprockets to speed up the alternator. Sullivan calculates about 1,433 RPM at a 70 RPM cadence using the stated ratios: (70 rpm) × (40/18) × (48/14) × (43/16). | It requires fabrication and careful chain alignment. Sullivan encountered chain-tension problems and added a tensioner to the center chain; he also felt the gearing was high for younger riders. |
| Tire-to-pulley friction drive | Sullivan proposes driving an alternator pulley with the bicycle’s rear tire. | He presents this as a simpler alternative, but does not provide comparative test results. |
| Wheel-as-pulley friction drive | Another proposal removes the tire and uses the bicycle wheel itself as a pulley. | This is also an unevaluated idea in the project, rather than a tested performance comparison. |
Sullivan also sketches a hand-cranked version. The right choice depends on whether the priority is a chain transmission with adjustable sprocket ratios or a less elaborate friction-drive concept; the source does not establish which produces more electricity or is easier to pedal in practice.
What output can you expect?
Sullivan reports that older children pedaling his demonstration lit five bulbs and produced about 250 watts. He also writes, “Most of the kids can light several of the bulbs, and even the first graders can light one or two.” Treat both as observations from his build, not a prediction for another bicycle, rider or alternator.
Rank #2
- Efficient Energy Generation: Harness the power of motion with our Bicycle Dynamo Generator. Utilizing the principle of cutting magnetic fields to generate electricity, wheel friction drives this generator to provide a steady 5V output - perfect for charging digital devices.
- DualUSB Output: Never run out of charge for your devices with our electric bike charger. With two output USB interfaces, it supports simultaneous charging for two appliances. Plus, its power signal indicator will keep you updated on the remaining power.
- Exceptional Performance: Transform every ride into a power source with our bike light generator. Designed to generate 100-1000mA of electricity with speed range of 5-30km/h, it can be installed on any bicycle with front or rear forks measuring between 15-41MM in diameter.
- Easy Installation Design: Keep your power supply continuous and stylish with our compact bike generator. It is easy to install with included tools, perfect for those looking toDIY. Plus, its compact nature does not add any undue burden to your ride.
- Wide Charging Range: Our Bicycle Dynamo Light Generator is not just energy-efficient but also ecofriendly. It guarantees never to power off, ideal for charging cell phones, cycling lights, sports cameras, smartwatches, and even doubles up as mobile power.
The project cites a 63-amp, 756-watt rating for the Delco 10SI at a nominal 12 volts. That is the alternator’s stated rating and simple voltage-times-current arithmetic, not a measurement of the bicycle’s output. The article does not establish system efficiency, nor how much power a rider must supply at the pedals to produce the reported 250 watts.
Time, difficulty and historical cost
Make: lists the project as moderate difficulty and 40 hours. The page displays dates of December 18, 2012 and October 14, 2015; its prices are historical, not current buying guidance.
Rank #3
- Large Front Headling and Small Rear Taillight
- 6 Volt 3 Watt Generator
- Constant Bright Mode
- Reliable and Durable Design
| Figure in Sullivan’s article | What it represents |
|---|---|
| $185 | Historical parts-list total for the project. |
| $80 | Sullivan’s reported cash outlay, reduced by having an alternator, scrap steel and many electronic parts already. |
| $50 | His estimate of what the project might cost with additional reuse or salvage. |
| $67 / $30 / $50 | Historical alternator figures: a remanufactured unit in the parts list, a possible used unit, and a salvage-yard estimate, respectively. |
These amounts depend on Sullivan’s parts, reuse and local availability at the time. They do not indicate current prices or inventory; verify present ratings, compatibility and cost before sourcing components.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Is this the right project for you?
This build is best understood as an educational demonstration of generation, electrical loading and the effort involved in producing useful output. It is not a documented efficiency test or a ready-made plan for a particular off-grid application. If you build from the Make: article, treat its alternator wiring, field-excitation method and regulator modification as setup-specific details, and confirm that your own components and circuit are compatible.
Rank #4
- 500W PEAK DUAL-GENERATOR POWER – Two independent DC generators driven by the bicycle’s rear tire provide up to 500W peak output. Typical adult output is approximately 100–200W, depending on rider effort and conditions.
- BUILT-IN 110V AC HOUSE POWER – Integrated modified sine wave inverter provides two 110V AC outlets, USB-A charging up to 18W, and USB-C charging up to 36W for compatible lights, chargers, laptops, monitors, radios, and other low-power devices.
- ADJUSTABLE REGULATED & UNREGULATED DC OUTPUT – Select between High Voltage mode up to 0–80V DC / 15A and Low Voltage mode up to 0–40V DC / 20A. Built-in voltage regulation and power meter provide adjustable output with real-time volts, watts, and amps.
- STEM, EMERGENCY & PORTABLE POWER APPLICATIONS – Designed for classrooms, museums, science exhibits, sustainability demonstrations, events, emergency preparedness, and compatible portable power stations. Includes XT90 connectivity for compatible systems such as the Bluetti AC200.
- COMPLETE BICYCLE GENERATOR SETUP – Designed for compatible bicycles with 26–27 inch tires. Includes the Bigfoot PPG-500 generator unit, heavy-duty bike stand, elevation block, height-adjustment/support rods, rear axle hardware, and secure mounting bolt for a stable setup.
Read Andrew Sullivan’s original project, including its diagrams and build details: Build a Generator Bicycle with Inexpensive Materials.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Battery-Free Power Source: This bicycle light set includes a friction-powered headlight and taillight that operate without batteries providing reliable illumination for nighttime cycling without the need for replacements
- All-Inclusive Installation Kit: Comes complete with pre-fitted wires a grinding machine and an iron clip enabling quick and easy mounting on most bicycles without the need for additional tools or complicated setup
- Compact and Lightweight Design: With dimensions of approximately 3.74 by 2.55 by 2.55 inches and a weight of 0.65 pounds this mountain bike lamp offers portability and ease of use without sacrificing lighting performance
- Enhanced Night Visibility: Both the headlight and taillight emit bright clear light to increase rider visibility during night rides improving safety in low-light conditions and supporting safer cycling experiences
- Customer Support and Warranty Service: Homoyoyo provides attentive after- service to ensure customer satisfaction with this bike lights set offering assistance and support for any usage or installation concerns
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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