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to the Archive indexIn reviewing your web site I noticed you had a recent inquiry (Mr L Langman) for information on the Bike Bug Bicycle Engine. You were correct: Japanese manufacture to the mid-80s. Marketed under three different names: TAS Spitz, AquaBug Bike Bug, Sears Free Spirit. Two-cycle 28cc front fork mounted bicycle engine - 20 mph, 200 mpg.
Sears has one on display in the Sears Tower in Chicago - front door and center entrance.
I have rebuilt six of these engines. They are wonderfully delightful little engines to bike. I remember seeing them advertised in Popular Science magazine at 12 years old - 40 years ago.
The manufacturer does have some parts available - however, not all. I have substituted several parts form hardware stores, lawn mower shops and motorcycle shops. I have also generated some better than original parts. In my rebuilding I have networked with several owners and have collected a very complete library of information on these engines plus first hand knowledge on repair.
I would sincerely appreciate your listing this information so it can be of benefit to other "Spitzers, Bike Buggers and Free Spiriters".
First published, August 2001
Mr Pattle Sir;
I saw your web page with the Bike Bug reference and I hope I can answer the question about it. I have owned a Bike Bug bicycle motor. The Bike Bug that I had was a 15cc 2-stroke job that made the bicycle unstable and was underpowered for the use I needed it for. I got it new in 1980 for US$175.00 - very expensive for those days but it was well made and thought out. It sounded LOUD to me and I ruined the front fender of a perfectly good Phillips 3-speed with rod and stirrup brakes in an effort to set up the Bike Bug. The machine (correctly set up) would only go about 13mph tops on a good day so I took it off because I could pedal faster than that without the engine. I suggest that if anyone wants to motorize a bicycle they use one of the better rear mount engines. I do not recommend the Bike Bug. This does not mean that someone else would not enjoy the use of it, but it is not for me.
Respectfully
L Curry
Albuquerque, New Mexico
23 August 2009