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Unleash the power of your pedals with a twist of innovation. Electric bike kits have taken the world by storm, transforming traditional bicycles into eco-friendly, speed demons. Whether you’re an urban commuter craving a faster ride or an outdoor enthusiast seeking an adrenaline rush, electric bike kits provide the perfect solution. In this blog post, we will delve into the world of electric bike conversion kits, exploring their benefits, different types, and the step-by-step process of installation.
Ebike conversion kits come in all shapes and sizes, but there are a few basic types that everyone should know about when considering buying an e-bike for commuting or exercise purposes. If you’re interested in purchasing an electric bike conversion kit, but don’t know where to start, we will provide all the information that you need.
Ebike conversion kits are great because they can be used on bikes of all sizes. Each type of ebike conversion kit has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to understand what each one is before buying.
In this guide, we’ll look at different types of kits and explain how they work. You’ll also learn about the benefits and disadvantages of each type of kit. Once we’ve covered the basics, we’ll explore some specific kit types like front motor kits, mid-drive kits, rear motor kits and more.
Installation is a big question for potential owners. Finally, we’ll take a deeper look at prices so that you can make sure you get what’s right for your budget!
Which types of bike will an ebike conversion kit fit?
Conversion kits for e-bikes are available in a variety of styles and sizes, allowing them to be fitted to most bike types. So, whether you have a road bike, commuting bike, mountain bike, or shopping bicycle, there is an e-bike conversion kit that will work for you.
Benefits of Electric Bike Conversion Kits:
2.1 Cost-effective Option:
One of the main advantages of electric bike conversion kits is their cost-effectiveness. Instead of investing in a whole new electric bike, these kits provide an affordable solution. You can save money by utilizing your trusted bike frame and components while enjoying the benefits of an electrified ride.
2.2 Customization:
Electric bike conversion kits offer a wide range of choices, allowing you to customize your ride to your preferences. You can select the motor type, battery capacity, and other components based on your needs. This customization enables you to create a personalized electric biking experience.
2.3 Sustainability:
By converting your existing bike into an electric one, you contribute to a sustainable mode of transportation. Electric bikes reduce carbon emissions, promote cleaner air quality, and help combat climate change. It’s a win-win situation for both you and the environment.
Types of Electric Bike Conversion Kits:
At its most basic, an ebike conversion kit will have a battery, controller and motor. The battery is what powers your electric bike while the controller regulates this power. The motor then takes this energy and uses it to turn your pedals for you!
Battery
When it comes to batteries, there are two main types of batteries – lead-acid and lithium-ion. Lead-acid batteries are the traditional option and are commonly used in cars. They have a higher energy density than lithium batteries which means they can store more power for their size. However, they are also heavier and can be more expensive.
Lithium eBike Battery
By contrast, lithium-ion batteries have a lower energy density than lead-acid but they are lighter and generally cheaper. Their energy density is higher than lead-acid batteries so they can be smaller. Their size and weight make lithium batteries the best choice for purchasing an e-bike conversion kit with battery.
The distance you will be able to cycle on a single charge is determined by the power of your battery. E-bikes have typically been manufactured with large battery capacities and this is reflected in their price. The most powerful electric bike conversion kit, for instance, retails at above £1000 and that’s without a battery. Often the preserve of experienced mountain bikers, e-bikes have been designed to meet their need for excess power from both their battery and their motor.
Today, as riding electric bicycles becomes more mainstream and commuters take to riding e-bikes, battery size is being reflected in smaller batteries for commuting and leisure.
With the transition away from functional battery packs to more aesthetically appealing bottle batteries, the shape of the battery is also a consideration. The more modern and best ebike conversion kits have bottle-shaped batteries helping conceal your investment from opportunists.
Controllers
The controller is an important part of your e-bike conversion kit. It essentially controls the power that goes to your motor and determines your top speed. A controller is usually included with your e-bike conversion kit so you don’t have to worry about purchasing it separately.
Whilst manufactured e-bikes have concealed the controller within the design of the e-bike, conversion kits have had to find other solutions. These stretch a spectrum of solutions from the most basic box and wires to the more user-friendly integrated intelligent controllers.
Motors
ebike conversion kits spread across three main types:
the rear wheel motor
the mid-drive motor
the front wheel motor
The rear wheel motor is the most popular and simplest type of conversion kit. The motor sits on the back wheel and drives it directly. This type of kit is easy to install and maintain, making it a popular choice for those who are new to electric bikes.
A mid-drive motor is mounted in the middle of the bike between the pedals and the rear wheel. This type of conversion kit is more powerful than a rear motor and gives the rider more torque (power) to help with hills and acceleration. The downside of retrofitting a mid-drive motor is that it can be more complicated to install and may require some modifications to your bike. So this is where the front wheel motor kit comes into its own.
The front-wheel motor is the easiest to install of the ebike conversion kits available. It sits on the front wheel and drives it directly. This type of kit is great for those who want a lot of power and speed as it gives you more torque than a rear or mid-drive motor. The front-wheel motorised wheel mounts on the front forks and drives the bike directly. However, it is worth noting that a front-wheel motor kit can be less efficient than other types of kits as it takes more power to spin the larger wheel.
Installation Process:
Converting your bike into an electric one requires some technical know-how. Here’s a general outline of the installation process:
4.1 Gather the Necessary Tools:
Before beginning the installation, gather the tools you’ll need, such as wrenches, screwdrivers, and cable cutters.
4.2 Remove the Old Wheel:
If you’re using a wheel-based conversion kit, start by removing the old wheel from your bike.
4.3 Install the New Wheel/Motor:
Install the new wheel or motor into the bike frame, ensuring that it aligns properly with the brakes and gears.
4.4 Connect the Components:
Connect the motor, battery, controller, and other components according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Double-check the wiring connections for safety.
4.5 Test and Adjust:
After installation, test the electric system to ensure that all components are functioning correctly. Make any necessary adjustments to the brake alignment or gear shifting.
Prices of ebike conversion kits
One thing to consider when purchasing an ebike conversion kit is whether the battery and motor are included in the price. Some suppliers do not include these parts in the price, so you will need to add this cost into your overall budget.
It is also worth noting that a lot of ebike conversion kits are designed for specific bike models, so it may be worth doing some research before purchasing to ensure the kit fits with your existing frame and battery size requirements.
Prices for ebike conversion kits vary depending on the type of kit that you choose. Rear-wheel motor kits with lots of component parts are typically the cheapest, while easy to install front-wheel motor kits are the most expensive.
Parts included in an electric bicycle conversion kit also vary depending on the supplier. However, most kits will include a battery, a motor, a controller and the necessary wiring. Some kits will also include other parts such as brakes or even pedals too!
Electric bike conversion kits open up a world of possibilities for cyclists who want to add electric power to their existing bikes. They offer an affordable, customizable, and sustainable solution for an electrifying riding experience. Whether you’re commuting to work or exploring scenic routes, converting your bike into an electric one can elevate your cycling adventures to new heights. So why wait? Start exploring the world of electric bike conversion kits today!