Key Takeaways:
- Electric bike conversion kits generally cost half as much as dedicated eBikes.
- These kits are relatively easy to install, though the process will vary depending on the kit and the bike.
- Conversion kits tend to be fully customizable and modular, so finding replacement parts is simplified.
Modern electric bikes can be an expensive initial investment. Luckily, consumers have a cheaper option in the form of DIY conversion kits.
Convert a Standard Bike Into an Electric Bicycle
The eBike market is flooded with DIY conversion kits, which work to transform a standard bicycle into an eBike. These kits typically include everything you need to complete the process, including a hub, a motor, a battery, and a variety of gears.
Benefits of Conversion Kits
Conversion kits offer a number of key advantages over both dedicated electric bikes and standard old-school bicycles.
Save Some Cash
On average, DIY conversion kits cost about half as much as a dedicated electric bike. This is due to the fact that the kit has no need for a bike frame, pedals, handlebars, and related pieces of equipment. In other words, you already have the bike, you just need the motor and the battery. As a warning, not all kits work with all traditional bicycles, so be sure to read the fine print and do some research before making a purchase.
Tip: On average, DIY conversion kits cost about half as much as a dedicated electric bike
Warning: As a warning, not all kits work with all traditional bicycles, so be sure to read the fine print and do some research before making a purchase
Extreme Customization Options
One key benefit that DIY conversion kits have over dedicated eBikes is the customization options available. These kits can be mixed and matched to help consumers find the perfect solution to their eBike needs. For instance, you can splurge on a more powerful battery or a motor. Some kits also come with additional features, such as throttle mechanisms and Bluetooth receivers. It should go without saying that upping the overall quality level of your conversion kit will cost you extra money.
Tip: One key benefit that DIY conversion kits have over dedicated eBikes is the customization options available
Warning: It should go without saying that upping the overall quality level of your conversion kit will cost you extra money
Easy Repairs and Replacements
Due to the piecemeal nature of these conversion kits, they can be extremely easy to repair and find replacement parts. This is not always the case with dedicated electric bikes. The manufacturer of the kit should be able to supply you with any and all replacement parts that you may need. Additionally, having installed the kit already, you will be familiar with the repair and replacement process.
Tip: Due to the piecemeal nature of these conversion kits, they can be extremely easy to repair and find replacement parts
Modular Design Philosophy
These kits are made to be modular, meaning you can remove parts at ease. How can this come in handy? Many kits allow for the battery packs to be easily removed, so you can bring them inside for a recharge, which means you won’t have to haul the whole bike near a power outlet.
STAT:
Adding a heavy motor to the front or the rear wheel without carefully considering the overall balance is likely to result in an e-bike that is difficult to ride and maneuver. (Source)
Sources:
https://rosap.ntl.bts.gov/view/dot/37442
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electric_bicycle
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_electric_bicycle_brands_and_manufacturers
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electric_vehicle_conversion
*https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pbRTHiyMoQ4
