Just saw this chain-driven generator on Deal Extreme:
http://dx.com/p/me-0378-1000mah-bicycle-generator-charger-for-cell-phone-black-229105
That got me to wondering why we haven't seen more chain-driven generators. Obviously, they wouldn't generate electricity when the rider is coasting, but that might not be a problem with a battery or capacitor to smooth things out. They wouldn't have the slippage problems of tire-driven generators. Are there drawbacks? Inefficiency? Drag?
http://dx.com/p/me-0378-1000mah-bicycle-generator-charger-for-cell-phone-black-229105
That got me to wondering why we haven't seen more chain-driven generators. Obviously, they wouldn't generate electricity when the rider is coasting, but that might not be a problem with a battery or capacitor to smooth things out. They wouldn't have the slippage problems of tire-driven generators. Are there drawbacks? Inefficiency? Drag?