Turn an exercise bike into an energy bike

Step 2 Turn a groove on the flywheel

The flywheel needs a groove to receive a drive belt. Some models have a wide shallow groove, others have a narrow, deep groove. The easy way to do this is clamp a carbide-tipped square shank cutting tool in a pair of vise grips and hold it securely against a base with the tip against the fly wheel.

Have someone pedal the exercise bike while you gradually turn the metal groove to the desired width and depth. This can take a little while, especially if your human motor is out of shape. Take your time and take light cuts.

An approximate width and depth as shown in the second picture will work adequately. Test fit your belt periodically to ensure you are getting an appropriate fit.

I like to use a link belt available from numerous sources, one of them being Woodcraft.comWoodcraft.com. It's easy to add or remove links to get just the length you want.