Gas Buster

HARLINGEN - It may look like a typical bicycle, but the engine sitting on the frame makes all the difference.

As the rider begins to pedal and releases the clutch, its 40-cubic-centimeter engine starts to growl and the bike can accelerate up to 30 miles per hour - and save a biker from spending lots of money on gasoline.

As gas prices rise across the country, motorists are looking for a new means of transportation. While some pursue carpooling or public transportation and walking, others have turned to bikes.

While a motorcycle may seem an obvious choice for some, Harlingen resident J.D. Smith uses his motorized bicycle.

Nearly a year ago while living in Corpus Christi, a friend introduced Smith to motorized bikes. A contractor for about 35 years, Smith thought building and selling the bikes would be a good way to earn extra cash.

Currently, Smith is a student at Texas State Technical College where he's taking government classes.

Smith said he was most attracted to the gas mileage of the bicycle.

"I like the 120 miles per gallon," he said. "And the low maintenance."

The bike's gas tank takes two gallons of gasoline that can last "a couple of weeks," Smith said.

In his motor-assisted bicycle, Smith has traveled through Harlingen to Combes, Rio Hondo and San Benito.

"Everywhere I go, people are honking and waving," Smith said. "People pull up beside me and want to pull over to find out where to buy one."

Smith assembles the bikes himself, buying 26-inch Kulana MoonDog Beach Cruiser bicycles and the gas motor engine kits separately.

The kits cost $280. Smith said he assembles and sells the bike for $549.

Unlike motorcycles, motor-assisted bicycles don't need special licenses, said Tila Mange, a Texas Department of Public Safety spokeswoman in Austin.

"They do have to adhere to traffic laws," Mange said of motor bike riders.

These bikers must stop at stop signs and signal when turning.

Although there isn't a statewide helmet law for bicycles, Mange advises riders to wear protective gear.

"It's certainly safer," she said.

Also unlike motorcycles, the bike doesn't use a battery or key.

Smith said the bike can reach speeds up to 30 miles per hour, but cautions that riders shouldn't go over 20 mph.

"Because of potholes and railroad tracks," he said.

In towns like South Padre Island where destinations are only minutes away, Smith expects motor-assisted bikes to sell well.

"I get about 12 calls a day about bikes," he said. "When they're ready to buy, there's no more questions."
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FYI
For more information about Texas Moon Dog motor bikes, contact J.D. Smith at 956-281-2288.