In the last few years, the popularity of electric bikes has dramatically increased thanks to lots of benefits they offer. Electrical bikes are not only more economical than their fuel-powered car and motorcycle counterparts, offer a high level of maneuverability, but are equally environmentally friendly and inexpensive.
What’s more, they are more adaptable compared to the other means of transport. And depending on your physical condition, distance or the type of terrain, you can always easily adjust your electric bike’s drivetrain to allow you to effortlessly climb hills and cover more distance, especially when more moderate physical activity is needed.
An electric bike consists of several sub-parts including a battery, an electric motor, controller, and pedaling sensor. The battery supplies the motor with enough power and the battery gets its electrical energy from the available electrical grid. Modern e-bike motors can be charged while riding downhill. When the sensor detects pedaling, it activates the motor. Consequently, when you stop pedaling or apply the brakes, the motor stops.
Despite their numerous benefits, electric bikes are comparatively highly expensive. And during these hard economic times, few people would want to spend large sums of cash in a new electric bike. And some of us are too connected to their old conventional bicycles to upgrade to an e-bike!
However, thanks to the advent of technology, you can make a seamless transition into the world of electric biking without spending a significant sum of money thanks to e-bike conversion kits. With an electric bike conversion kit at your disposal, you can easily transform your beloved old regular bike into a fully functional electric bike.
With so many electric bike conversion kits to choose from, the prospect of finding the best device that suits your preferences and needs can sometimes prove to be an intimidating and daunting task. You will come across numerous e-bike conversion kits out there on the market, some featuring highly advanced features and other technological functionalities.
As experts in the industry, we are here to make your selection process as easy as possible. Today in this post, we want to provide you with a comprehensive, honest and detailed review of the ten best e-bike conversion kits. What’s more, we’ll wrap things up by giving you an insightful buying guide. So, peruse the article and enhance your knowledge and make a better choice next time you are out to look for a top-notch e-bike conversion kit.
Top 10 Best Electric Bike Conversion Kits
AW Front Wheel E-Bike Motor Kit – The best Front Wheel Electric Bike Conversion Kit
The most straightforward way to transform your regular bike into an electric bike is to swap its front wheel with the one featuring an electric hub motor. The AW front-wheel motor kit is not only a highly versatile device, but also brings on board nearly everything you would need to give your conventional bike the muchneeded electric boost including LED lights, powerful 36V 750W motor, a battery carrying bag, electric controller user manual, and a potent battery.
As a manufacturer of electric bike conversion kits, AW has been doing a fantastic job producing high-end kits that guarantee top-level performance. This one, in particular, is its typical product, boasting premium features tailored toward enhancing your cycling experience. It comes equipped with a robust wheel measuring 24 by 1.95 by 2.5-inches. You also have the option to choose the more vibrant 26-inch wheel that runs on a solid 1,000W motor.
Being a biking fanatic, I’d strongly advise against using an extremely powerful motor on your bike’s front wheel unless you are a pro! Remember, when riding your regular bike, you always apply power to its rear wheel. As such, it would not only look strange, but uncomfortable applying an extreme amount of power to the front wheel for the first time.
Its 40mm tire offers much-needed versatility, allowing you to tackle nearly every type of terrain. It only implies that you can use your new e-bike as a road, mountain, as well as a commuter bike. Its LED display controller enables you to closely monitor whatever is happening on the bike including the speed, mileage, and the battery level.
The AW’s engine operates at 470rpm, providing you with an unrivaled riding experience. The kit also boasts durable handlebars with excellent grips, ensuring your hands remain as comfortable as possible. The pedal assistance system at its disposal ensures you get the most of your cycling, offering moderate exercise for your legs. Of course, you can always switch to electric mode when you feel you can’t continue in the manual mode. And the speed throttle will allow you to ride at the most comfortable speed.
This kit also comes with a carrying bag to help you to easily manage your limited storage space while also keeping your e-bike’s components in a compact place. Nothing is more annoying than wanting to convert your regular bike into an electric beast and finding that some components aren’t available. And it comes with a separate space for keeping more delicate sub-parts such as the throttle that features a display area. The battery capacity is an equally important factor you would want to consider when purchasing an e-bike conversion kit. This unique e-bike conversion kit functions on a variety of battery types such as NiMH, lithium-ion and lead-acid. Regardless of the type you opt for, it will run on a nominal voltage of 17Ah and 48V. Other notable accessories that this kit brings on board include brake pullers, winding pipe, fuse, and battery connection cable. Overall, this is an amazing and performance-oriented kit you would want to have at your disposal.
Pros
- It has a fantastic motor
- Includes important accessories you need to get started
- Waterproof components
- Relatively affordable
- Great speed
- Simple and quick installation
Cons
- Not recommended for bikes with front absorption shocks
- Not ideal for fat-tire bikes
- Having the motor installed on your front wheel can be challenging
Bafang Electric 8FUN Bike Mid-Drive Conversion Kit – The Best Kit
If you are a serious biker who is willing to dig deep into his pocket, then the Bafang should be your ultimate conversion kit. It does not only come equipped with all necessary mounting accessories but also comes covered by a one year warranty.
To enhance its durability, this kit features waterproof components. This implies that regardless of the weather, you can safely enjoy an uninterrupted cycling experience. Performance-wise, Mid-drive is by far the highest torque/power performing electric conversion kit. The motor easily mounts to any frame that has a bottom bracket with a width of between 68 and 73mm. This implies that if you have a fat-tire bike you would want to convert into an e-bike, this kit may not be the best option. If you didn’t know, fat bikes usually feature a 100mm bottom bracket.
The Bafang runs on a powerful 1000W motor that is capable of achieving a top speed of 28mph. This makes it a reliable commuter bike as it can cover those short distances in relatively shorter duration. It offers nine levels of pedal assist modes to suit your riding preferences. Another incredible feature that the Bafang middrive e-bike conversion kit brings on board is the LCD color display with lots of information and options. You’ll be able to view your current cycling speed, battery level, the available pedal-assist options among other possibilities.
The kit’s crank motor comes already programmed with ten modes. These settings allow the pedal-assist to run, the ability to pedal without consuming the battery energy, or only the engine to run. It is worth to note that the pedal-assist mode is only active while pedaling, implying that it’s possible to run the motor with the throttle only. The mid-drive components of the e-bike battery kit allow your bike shifter and gears to act as transmission.
It is imperative to note that this e-bike kit will replace your regular bike’s chainrings, chain as well as cranks. It means that if your regular bikes feature multiple gears, they will be replaced by Bafang’s single chainring and the gears will only appear on your bike’s cassette. However, bearing in mind that the kit is equipped with pedal assist, this should not result in any significant changes in terms of performance.
When it comes to e-bike bikes, safety is a critical factor you would always want to consider. This kit also comes covered by an online tracking technology that ensures you always know where your e-bike is at all the time. This gives you the much-needed peace of mind knowing that your valuable bike is safe and free from theft.
All the components provided in this kit boast amazing and elegant designs worth your attention. They are also durable enough to last a lifetime. What’s more, they are small enough to reduce any unwanted weight on your new bike. It comes with almost everything you would need to get started, except for a battery, which you can purchase from any nearby store. In summary, this is a great e-bike conversion kit worth every penny!
Pros
- Boasts a lightweight design
- The motor functions efficiently and quietly
- Easy to set up and operate
- Looks amazing
- The color blends with almost any bike
Cons
- It looks a bit expensive compared to other available conversion kits
- It doesn’t include a battery
Electric Kit AW Rear Wheel – A Budget-friendly Option
There is no doubt that AW is one of the producers of the best electric bike conversion kits on the market. Their products are an ideal choice for cycling enthusiasts looking for superb biking power at a reasonable price. This particular kit is its typical product, boasting numerous amazing features typically tailored toward enhancing your e-biking experience.
It runs on a robust and powerful 1000W and 48V motor capable of giving your e-bike the power it needs to push you through the daunting trails. Regardless of its massive power, the 1000W motor in this rear hub operates very quietly. With this impressive kit at your disposal, your new bike will achieve a maximum speed of 48km/hr! This is because the motor rotates at a whopping 470 rpm, making it strong enough to generate sufficient power for your bicycle to cover distances in the shortest time possible. The motor has an incredible efficiency of 80%, making it a top-performer and worthwhile addition to your biking accessories.
The motor works under Hall effect as well as non-Hall effect, to prolong the life of your electric bike. A thumb throttle regulates whether the pedal assist is on or off. Unlike other conversion kits that only consists of one wheel, the AW real wheel kit comes complete with a wheelset. You’ll have a 32mm rim and a 40mm tire. You have numerous gear levels to choose from to customize your full/assist-electric mode.
The LED display at its disposal will show you the available battery level, time, speed as well as gears and mileage. Though the power of this kit’s motor is ideal for off-road use, your bike will perform best when used on relatively smoother terrains. The motor is equipped with advanced AW Pedal Assist System technology to help make your riding experience hitch-free, full of joy and unforgettable.
Apart from the recommended battery, this e-bike conversion kit includes everything needed to give your regular that extra boost including a controller, speed throttle, LED display, grips for the handlebar as well as the necessary tools required to set up the bike and get on the trails.
Pros
- It comes with a complete set including a 40mm tire and a 33mm rim
- Has pedal assistance mode which is great for those seeking to engage in a moderate workout
- The LED display at its disposal allows you to monitor battery level, mileage, time, gears as well as speed.
- Arguably the most budget-friendly e-bike conversion kit
- It offers easy and straightforward installation
- 80% Efficiency
Cons
- It doesn’t come with the recommended battery
- The user manual is somehow difficult to understand
- A tube puncture may occur during the installation proces
8FUN Bafang BBS03 Latest Model Mid-Drive E-Bike Conversion Kit
In mid-drive e-bike conversion kits, the motor is integrated with cranks and bottom bracket and this puts the motor at the central part of the bike. One major advantage of mid-drive kits is that they help ensure that the weight of the motor is evenly distributed. And perhaps this is the primary reason why mid-drive motors are popular among seasoned biking fanatics, especially off-road riders who need a perfectly balanced bike to tackle those tough terrains.
This is among the most powerful mid-drive e-bike conversion kits currently ruling the market. Bafang has been in the biking industry for quite some time now and has made a name for themselves as one of the best manufacturers of e-bike conversion kits. The Bafang BBS03 mid-drive is a fantastic piece of equipment beautifully crafted tailored toward solving your biking needs. It is a highly versatile kit that will fit on bikes with bottom brackets of 68mm, 100mm, and 120mm.
In terms of performance, it is up there with top performers. It boasts a central decent 1000W 48V motor with an integrated controller, a thumb throttle and a PAS sensor. The kit is not only easy to install but comes equipped with all the necessary mounting tools. With the available tools, you can safely remove the crankset as well as the center shaft and thereafter install this mid-drive motor.
This kit offers two riding modes; pedal bicycle and electric bikes. If you are a physically active individual and you would want to take part in the moderate workout, the pedal bicycle model will suit your needs. On the other hand, if you want faster traffic, the electric bike mode will take care of you. Simply put, this kit is a wonderful choice for those who want faster travel as well as cycling enthusiasts.
An important point to note is that for the BBSHD 48V 1000W 68mm and 120mm motor with the 48V battery, there will be a scenario regarding the battery power where the LCD shows it’s not full even though the battery is full. If you will be concerned about this, then it is highly recommended that you buy the alternative 52V battery.
Overall, this is an impressive kit every serious mountain biker out there should seriously consider. If you want to go with power, then it is arguably the most powerful mid-drive electric bike conversion kits. Other notable extras that it has includes a pair of the brake lever, magnets and speed sensor, aluminum chain wheel, and six different LCDs.
Pros
- Incredible speed
- Extremely versatile and fits bikes with 68mm, 100mm, 120mm bottom brackets
- Brings onboard numerous accessories
- Powerful brushless motor
- Robust and durable
Cons
- It lacks a battery
- Quite expensive
Front Voilamart Wheel E-bike Conversion Kit
Voilamart is a global Chinese firm that sells everything from beauty products to domestic appliances and affordable electric bike conversion kits. However, just because they are budget-friendly doesn’t entirely imply that they aren’t any good!
The Voilamart front 1000W electric conversion kit represents great value for money and rightly finds its way in this list. This kit not only guarantees easy installation but has all the essential features you would want from a high-end kit. It has a solid and powerful motor rated 1000W 48V, which is down-rated to 750W to make it road legal in the United States. It is sturdy enough to take you through some of the toughest terrains with relative ease. The motor is also equipped with a brushless hub that effectively eliminates both unnecessary noise and friction, allowing you to have an amazing cycling experience.
Like the other typical Voilamart e-bike conversion kits, this unique kit also lacks a battery. Regardless, it uses an 11.4 lithium-ion AH battery which slightly more powerful than the standard 10 AH model found in most electric bike conversion kits. If you are tech-savvy, then you already know that lithium batteries are always revered for their impressive efficiency and super lightweight design. This kit also has a battery carrying bag to help store and transport the battery with minimal fuss.
And if you are craving about speed, this kit from Voilamart has got you covered. It can attain a top speed of 28 MPH thanks to the motor’s incredible rotation power of 470RPH. However, it is imperative to note that the speed is equally restricted to 24mph by default to make it a road-legal pedal bike conversion kit. What’s more, the motor boasts an efficiency of 80%. What’s even more encouraging about this kit is that it not only comes covered by a one year warranty but a free component replacement as well as a 100% money-back guarantee. Such is the level of authenticity of this kit.
The kit also comes with highly effective brake levers that cut off the power supply to the motor as needed for enhanced safety. The pedal-assist system allows you to ride comfortably and tackle even some of the most demanding trails. Though it doesn’t have an LED display, the twist throttle display equally does a good job showing the rider battery level.
Perhaps one major complaint about this kit is that being a front-wheel-drive kit, it feels very uncomfortable riding, especially when you apply full torque. From personal experience, you’ll feel as if you are being pulled forward by a huge force. Though it can be a fantastic experience for more experienced riders like me, most amateur cyclists may not like it! Otherwise, this is a top-notch e-bike conversion kit that is also relatively affordable. It is also a complete package that comes with nearly every essential item including a controller, front-wheel, motor, harness, disc holes elastic rope, handlebar grips, thumb speed throttle, and brake levers. You only need to purchase a separate battery and charger and you are ready to go!
Pros
- Quite affordable yet comes feature-packed
- Great riding speed
- Compatible with a broad range of battery types
- The motor runs quietly
- Sturdy front wheel design
Cons
- You will have to purchase the battery separately
- It does lack the essential LCD
Murtisol E-Bike Electric Motor 26’’ Rear/Front Wheel 36V 500W/ 48V 1000W Motor Conversion Kit
If all you want is unrivaled performance coupled with a nice dose of durability and speed, then this amazing e-bike conversion kit should be your ultimate choice. It is not only one of the best budget-friendly options, but arguably the most versatile kits you can ever find. The Murtisol rear/front-wheel e-bike conversion kit guarantees a maximum velocity of 27 mph courtesy of its potent brushless 500W 36V hub motor. As such riding speed, you have got to make sure you hang on onto your headgear because your bike will go incredibly fast.
The Murtisol is a safe product built to current international safety standards. Besides, it has excellent brake levers that cut off the power supply to the motor to initiate an instant stop as needed. What’s more, the twist throttle at its disposal has a power cut-off button as well as a battery level display. If you want to travel super-fast while at the same time reducing your carbon footprint, the Murtisol is the way to go.
The size of the rear wheel is the same as the front wheel. This kit is suitable for a regular bike that features a front fork dimension of 3.9’’ and rear fork of 5.3 inches. The combination of pedal bike and motorized bike settings makes it perfectly suited to long-distance riding. The double power technology ensures that while riding on the electric mode, you can equally pedal to go even faster! In general, this is a fantastic piece of equipment ideal for those looking for an affordable yet performance-oriented electric bicycle conversion kit.
Pros
- Equipped with a potent 500W brushless, gearless hub motor
- Easy to set up and get started using
- Great value for money
- The twist throttle allows you to effectively cut off the power supply to the motor
- Twist throttle display shows battery level
- Made from aluminum alloys and rare-earth magnets for optimal power
- Compared to other brands in the same category, it looks somewhat more affordable
Cons
- It does lack either an LED or LCD to show essential operation features
- Some users have reported not receiving a gear set
TSDZ2 TONGSHENG Electric Bike Conversion Kit
In the last few years, the Chinese-based Tongsheng has been producing plug and play mid-drive e-bike conversion kits that have captured the attention of most biking aficionados. Though not as popular as either the Bafang or AW mid-drive electric bike conversion kits, Tongsheng kits have gained lots of popularity thanks to their overall quality and performance.
I have personally used these kits, installing this particular one on my full-suspension mountain bike. The installation process is strikingly similar to the Bafang mid-drive, and the kit will seamlessly fit any standard threaded bottom bracket that is between 68mm and 73mm wide and has an internal diameter of approximately 33.5mm. If you are seeking for a nice and straightforward DIY conversion, this kit is a decent option.
It is a top-notch device and it is much smoother and blends seamlessly into your normal cycling experience, but still offering a great boost. The TSDZ2 e-bike conversion kit boasts an extremely lightweight design. It is arguably one of the smallest conversion kits currently available on the market. This can be a deal-breaker to some cyclists who want a relatively smaller kit with more power out of its drive units. It is imperative to note that this is a torque-sensitive kit and this implies that it detects how much force you’ve applied on the pedals so that it delivers more power the harder you pedal. Consequently, when you reduce pressure on your pedals the motor will slow down. You have four gear levels to use according to your riding needs.
It doesn’t have lever brakes because you don’t need them! You only need to pedal more slowly to turn off the motor. It’s more intuitive. The TSDZ2 can attain a maximum speed of 45km/hr to allow you to reach your destination as fast as possible. It comes with a hand throttle that you can use to enhance speed, especially if you don’t fancy engaging the pedals. The Tongsheng TSDZ2 also brings on board a huge VLCD5 display with a USB port to power smartphones or GPS. You can closely monitor the battery level, speed among other features.
Another point to note about this e-bike conversion kit is that wheel size is not an issue! Whether you have a beach cruiser, normal regular bike or a fat-tire bike, there are aftermarket fittings that can allow you to fit this fantastic e-bike conversion kit into your current bike. However, this kit doesn’t include a battery and you will have to purchase it from a reputable online store. I would highly recommend using a 52V battery because it will potentially add around 8% to both the range and speed of your bike. One of the benefits of using this electric bike conversion kit is that it is designed to use a PAS mode, implying that only pedaling will apply more power from the motor. If you didn’t know, this is the greatest method to ensure you get to cover lots of miles from your battery pack. Regardless of the type of battery, you are using, this kit will always ensure you get the most out of it.
Some of the notable items that the Tongsheng kit comes with include a 42T front chainring, 750W mid-drive motor, and LCD. Options include 52V controller, different displays as well as fat bike fittings.
Pros
- Very safe because the output of the electric power is synchronized with the pedaling force
- No need to install an electric bake lever
- Boasts a minimalist and lightweight design
- Zero Start Technology for improved performance
- Equipped with a built-in sensor
- It has the smallest 750-watt motor on the market
Cons
- Some people may not like the fact that it ships from China
- The package doesn’t include a battery
Ebikeling E-Bike 1200W Conversion Kit
Located in Schaumburg, Illinois, Ebikeling produces an array of highly affordable electric bike conversion kits. What’s more, they offer a three-month warranty on the controller and motor and a one-year warranty on the other remaining components. The 1200W Ebikeling is a wheel-type e-bike conversion kit that not only boasts superior build quality but offers easy installation as well. What’s more, it comes equipped with all the essential tools and accessories so users won’t have to spend extra cash on additional equipment. Regarding installation, you only need to transfer the old tire for the most part. This is because the motor hub is already connected to the aluminum rim. You can easily mount the remaining components using simple tools.
Featuring top-of-the-line specifications that guarantee top-level performance, this kit is arguably the most Ebikeling conversion e-bike kit. Its drivetrain consists of a 1200W motor that is powered by a potent 48V battery that comes with a 30 amp-rated controller. This e-bike conversion kit includes all necessary installation components including a controller, motor, wheel, torque arm, cable ties, LED display, brake levers, and throttle pedal assist sensor. However, tire and battery aren’t included.
If you are not comfortable with the LED display, you can always upgrade to the LCD display that shows you the battery percentage, total and single trip distance, speed, wattage, PAS levels, potential error codes for easier troubleshooting as well as a headlight switch. Thanks to its effective Pedal Assist Sensor, you can ride without throttle response. And if you will be going for a lengthy trip, you can choose to pedal accordingly and avoid those uncomfortable wrist positions experienced when on PAS mode. And if durability is your major concern, this kit has got you covered. The kit features a double-walled aluminum rim for enhanced functionality and durability.
Pros
- The LCD display shows all the essential information for a highly convenient ride
- Very durable
- Compatible with disc brakes
- Easy installation
- It comes covered by a three-month warranty on controller and motor
- Incredible power for uphill climbs
Cons
- The LCD panel can occasionally get extremely hot! However, the manufacturer states that it should not be an issue.
- The motor, controller, as well as the LCD panel, are all water-resistant but the connectors aren’t.
AW 26’’ by 1.75’’ Rear Wheel Electric Bike LCD Display Motor Conversion Kit
Here is another decent e-bike conversion kit worth your attention and hard-earned cash. It not only comes as a complete wheelset equipped with a reinforced 32mm rim and 40mm tire but equally packs a sturdy buildquality. It only features premium grade quality materials for unrivaled durability and top-notch service.
It boasts a 48V 1000W brushless motor that is integrated with the motor controller and pedal-assist crank sensor to take your riding experience to a whole new level. The inclusion of a tire and a rim ensures you take the shortest time possible installing this fantastic kit on your regular bike.
The motor at its disposal rotates at 470 rpm, a factor that makes it strong enough to generate power sufficient to propel your bike within the shortest time possible. And with a maximum speed of 48km/hr, your new bike will be able to reach your destination on time. The motor controller comes in dual mode; hall and no hall effect modes. If you didn’t know, in a single-mode controller, the motor usually functions under hall-effect mode but not under the non-hall effect. One disadvantage of this is that if the hall components inside the motor malfunction, the motor will stop to function. But with this advanced e-bike kit, it will automatically switch to non-hall effect mode to ensure you continue with your journey.
One major mechanical issue common with some e-bike conversion kit brands is friction which is usually brought about by gears and chains. As an ardent biker, this can be a disappointing experience and you will need to occasionally lubricate the moving parts. However, with this rear kit at your disposal, there are friction incidences because there are no moving components. This kit also takes your overall safety into consideration and comes with two handlebar grips and brake pullers. Whereas the handlebar grips enhance your riding comfort, the brake pullers ensure an instant stop when need be.
Though the battery isn’t included, the AW 1000W is an incredible device with astounding features. As for battery recommendation, you can purchase electrokinetic cell battery (NiMH, Li, or Lead-acid battery) with a nominal voltage of 48V and nominal capacity not less than 17Ah. However, for enhanced endurance and speed, you may use the 52V lithium polymer battery
Pros
- Very powerful motor
- Highly affordable yet offers amazing performance
- Boasts 80% motor efficiency
- Tackles incline pretty well
- Disc-brake compatible
- Easy to install
Cons
- No battery included
- It doesn’t include disc brakes even though it is disc-brake compatible
BAFANG MID-DRIVE BBS02B Conversion Kit 750W 48V E-bike Motor
If you are willing to spend your hard-earned cash on a decent mid-drive e-bike conversion kit, then this gorgeous machine from BAFANG should be a great option. It has a solid and robust 750W motor that functions very quietly. While the LCD display facilitates its operation and boasts your riding confidence, the one-year warranty boosts your peace of mind.
The BBS02B mid-drive e-bike conversion kit offers you arguably the easiest way to transform your regular bike into a fully functional electric bike. It is an extremely versatile model, that can seamlessly fit both mountain and road bikes with a bottom bracket of 68-73mm. Bearing in mind that it can attain a maximum speed of 35mph, this kit can be a great choice for cargo and road use. And this is perhaps the first conversion kit that features an LCD with Bluetooth connectivity functionality for hitch-free handling.
It has two riding modes including the Pedal Assist System and E-bike mode which you use interchangeably depending on your cycling needs. It comes equipped with all the necessary tools and equipment needed for easy installation. What’s more, the company will provide you with an installation video to follow if you are having any difficulty. The unit comes covered with a one-year warranty on components. Some of the accessories that this kit brings on board include chainring wheel, crank, LCD display, magnets, speed sensor, 1T4 cable, headlight, and nuts. However, the battery and the charger are not included.
Pros
- Reliable braking system
- One-year warranty
- Durable and powerful
- One-year warranty
- Excellent braking system
- Efficient and quiet operation
Cons
- It doesn’t work with hydraulic braking systems
- You need to buy the battery and charger separately
Electric bike conversion kit Buying Guide
Now that you have an idea of the type of electric bike conversion kit you would like to purchase, we now want to provide you with practical tips on how to select the best item. There are potentially endless brands and models of e-bike conversion kits out there on the market. This only means that the prospect of finding a great kit that suits your preference can sometimes prove to be a daunting task. To ease your burden, below are the factors to take into account before purchasing an e-bike conversion kit.
What type is best for me?
In general, there are four types of e-bike conversion devices including:
Electric bike wheels
They are arguably the most popular among biking fanatics thanks to their affordability, efficiency, and ease of installation. You only need to remove one of your regular bike’s two wheels, either rear or front, and simply replace it with the unique hub featuring the battery, electric motor, and transmission. For front-wheel kits, you would want to ensure that the battery is mounted separately because it ensures the kit’s overall weight gets distributed evenly across your bike. You don’t want to exert all the weight in your front wheel because it would make steering heavy and difficult. Another point to note is that front hub motors are relatively easy to install because you don’t need to worry about swapping over gear freewheels or cassettes. On the other hand, rear-wheel motors are great for off-road cycling because they offer a decent amount of traction. They are also somewhat cheaper and powerful. However, they are relatively heavier and this extra weight makes them difficult to fit onto regular bikes with disc brakes.
Mid-drive conversion kits
This is the latest model and generally mimics the design of most complete industry-grade electric bikes. They are arguably the most expensive and more efficient as well because they produce more torque compared to other e-bike kits. In this system, the motor is usually fitted to the bottom bracket whereas the battery gets installed on the bike’s frame. This results in the overall bike weight being kept low, a factor that dramatically enhances your riding experience. However, one major concern with these kits is that they can be prone to damage especially when riding on tough trails. What’s more, their installation process can get tricky for the inexperienced, mainly because the bike’s bottom bracket must be eliminated for easy fitting. When properly installed, mid-drive systems will ultimately transform your regular bike into a super electric bicycle.
Friction-drive e-bike kits
This type of kit can be described as old school’. Just as the name implies, it propels the rear wheel forward through the friction between the tire and a roller. I’d strongly advise you against purchasing such kits because they are not only outdated but the weight distribution, as well as the ride feel, are very poor.
Concealed
Though fairly more expensive, this type of kit is ideal for bikers who may prefer other road users to know that they are using electric bicycles. The battery as well as the motor are fitted inside your bike’s saddle frame and drives the bottom bracket. They usually feature a 200W motor coupled with long-lasting and efficient batteries.
How much are you willing to spend?
Though these accessories are generally affordable, there exist significant variations among e-bike kits. Prices may range between $200 and $2000. Obviously, the higher the price, the more effective the kit is. You should not fall for cheap prices. Instead, invest in a kit that will give you value for your money. Look for a set that is performance-oriented, durable, reliable and efficient.
How powerful are the motor and the battery?
The motor dictates how powerful the electric bike kit is. The greater the rating, the better. In this regard, a 750W motor will provide much more speed and power as opposed to a 200W rated motor. Other than the wattage, the other factor to consider is the rpm motor rating. The greater the rating the more efficient the kit.
The type of the battery is another critical feature you would want to take into account because it determines the level of the distance you can cover. Most kits usually run on 36V or 48V lithium-ion batteries, which is sufficient to cover a considerable range. If long rides and speed are your main points, any of these batteries have got you covered. It is also imperative to note that most converter kits don’t come equipped with batteries.
Does the kit offer easy installation?
You want a kit that is easy to install, use and dismantle. No one would like to purchase a device that is complex tough to handle. This rule remains the same even for e-bike converter kits.
Extra features to keep a close eye on:
Dual or single mode of operation?
You would want to know whether the kit features a throttle, pedalassist or both. With a throttle, you only need to twist it to get enough power for propulsion. This means that you won’t engage your legs. On the other hand, with a pedal-assist kit, you will have to pedal to engage the motor. A great kit should offer both options for enhanced convenience.
Controller display
For a smooth riding experience, you need a display that shows vital information such as battery level, power output, mileage, and power output. This will allow you to plan well ahead of time to make sure you reach your destination before your battery dies!
Brake levers
You need a converter kit equipped with brake levers to cut power accordingly for enhanced safety.
Bottom line
There are significant savings associated with converting your regular bike into a decent electric kit. If you currently have an old Trek regular mountain bike, perhaps you’ll only need around $400 to transform it into a mountain-climbing beast thanks to the affordable electric converter kits. This presents a massive saving, especially if you consider the cost of buying a brand new factory-built electric bike.
However, with numerous kits to choose from, finding the best electric bike conversion kit may present a challenge to even some of the most biking experts. This is why we did this research on your behalf, selected the best kits available to help ease the pressure off you! What’s more, we went the extra mile to ensure you know what you are getting by giving you effective selection tips and make the most informed decision. We strongly believe you are now on course to finding that perfect e-bike converter kit.