Wheel Size

[TheKid]

The tire on the 24" wheel that's on the LWB tadpole is a 2.25. From rim to tread, it measures just shy of 2", and the total diameter is 25 1/2". The 26" wheel that will replace it has a 1.5 tire, rim to tread is 1 3/8", total diameter is 25 3/4". I find it interesting that based on wheel size, there should be no significant difference in speed on the high end, and no significant extra effort needed for hills on the low end. The 24" tire is inflated to 120 PSI, but has a dual rail tread. The 26" tire is inflated to 100 PSI, and is basically a slick. It's a Kenda Kwest with treads similar to the Hookworms, but the rubber is smooth.
I'm going to try the 26" wheel tomorrow to see if there's any real world difference, and whether the 12 lb. hub motor will have any hindrance when not in use. Here are the tires:

http://i192.photobucket.com/albums/z66/edpol_photos/Hub%20Motor/22134Small.jpg

http://i192.photobucket.com/albums/z66/edpol_photos/Hub%20Motor/imgWrapperSmall.jpg

[TheKid]

There's a noticeable difference when using the hub motor, but it feels more like drag than the extra weight. The wheel doesn't spin as freely as the regular hub. It's still pretty easy to pedal, but going uphill even in the lowest gear (24t ring, 34t cog) with the wind from behind requires a bit more exertion. Naturally, once the motor is wired it won't be a factor.