If you’re considering purchasing an electric bike there’s a wide range of options. From low-cost models with basic specifications and a lack of extras, all the way to premium two-wheelers that come with all the bells and whistles.
Models such as that budget Ampler Curt are able to serve the purpose but e-bikes that are top-quality like those like the Cowboy 4 and Specialized Turbo Vado 4.0 are dream bikes. However, they’re pricey and aren’t suitable for those with a only a small budget.
Thus, many of us are forced to towards budget-friendly options. Although cheaper e-bikes such as those mentioned above can do the trick an alternative is to turn your existing bicycle into an electric bike. The need for affordable e-bike solutions has led to a wide range of kits to convert bikes into electric that are being designed by creative firms who’ve identified a profitable market.
All over the country there are a lot of abandoned bikes in garages, sheds, hallways , and spare bedrooms. It is being motivated to bring them back to life wherever it is possible. In fact the UK has recently announced the Fix your Bike Voucher Scheme which could net you an PS50 voucher to cover the cost of making your old bike roadworthy.
But, underneath the appealing headline, the process that goes into obtaining the money-off deal could mean not making it your own. Therefore, why not go all-in and convert your bike to electric. Making your pedal-powered bike into an electric bike may not be simple or affordable however it’s doable. Making a traditional bike an electric model is possible by a variety of methods depending on the type of bike you’re looking to deal with and your budget.
Kits for conversion of various types
There’s a route known as powered wheel that swaps either a rear or front wheel to one that has motors generally within the hub. Additionally, in certain cases, it’s possible to install an electric motor or drive unit to the lower part or the bottom of the frame.
An alternative to this is to place a motor to the rear wheel, allowing it to push the bike as well as yourself. You can also purchase units that are mounted within the frame to provide an unobtrusive, but costly option.
If you want to make a fairly easy change, Swytch is a good way to begin. It’s an electric bike conversion kit with battery that, according to its creators, can fit on any bike and there’s also a specific version that’s specifically designed for Brompton folding bikes that makes it an ideal choice for commuters. No matter if you have an e-bike that is hybrid or conventional or a folding model or a road bike MTB, you’re almost covered. You can also transform trikes.
Swytch is an additional front wheel, a the hub-mounted motor as well as an auxiliary power pack. It even has a pedal-sensor which provides a dynamic level of support based on the cadence level. It’s compatible with disc and rim brakes. It will take you to the speed limit for legal use of 15mph UK or 20mph US and provides an up-to-50km travel. It’s only a matter of time before the stock levels fluctuate even though you can pre-order new products that they’re anticipating and receive 50 percent off.
There are many others, too. In actuality, you’ll find numerous variations of the theme from a variety of undiscovered brands on the internet Prices start from around $130/PS100 (AU$180).
Avoid the mistake of changing your bike into an e-bike that can be twisted and moved, as there are kits that allow users do just that, however you’ll be in an environment where tax and insurance are part of the issue in a variety of countries. If you’re just beginning to learn about the world of E-bike conversions, you should stick to the basics.
Cytronex (opens in a new Tab) is another excellent model that works with a variety of cycle types however, it’s essential to verify that whether its C1 system works with the model you have. The wheel conversion kits from Cytronex come with around 25 miles of range , but the cost is just under $1000 If you’re looking for a cheap solution, this could be a concern.
This is the importance of deciding between converting your current bike , or selling it (if you think it’s worth it) and then deciding to purchase the most affordable e-bikes starting at less than the price of a grand.
But, not all is all is lost since Conv-e (opens in a new tab) and Cyclotricity (opens in a new tab) are two brands worth looking into for those who want to save money on cycling with e-bikes. For instance, Conv-e includes an integrated hub and battery kit for around $950/PS750/AU$1,300. Additionally, Cyclotricity has a similar option that allows you to convert for approximately $570 or PS450 or AU$800.
A different tack could be a different option. Rubbee (opens in a new tab) offers a few alternatives that make use of an electric motor that is mounted on your saddle to drive the rear wheel forward. It’s not the most conventional, however it comes with batteries that are modular which offer various levels of range. Rubbee is proud of its simple installation and user-friendly design starting with a base model priced at EUR499 (about $570 or PS450 or $800 in AU dollars).).
The appropriately called ONwheel (opens in a new tab) is a different take to the friction wheel concept as well as retrofit kits that work using the same principles. ONwheel can be adjusted to use more power in places where it is permitted however having the flexibility comes with moving northwards. Kits start at EUR749 (about $860 or PS670 $AU$1,200).
Another option to consider, if you’re interested in an afternoon of tinkering on an old bike is to consider an Mid-Drive conversion kit.
Bafang (opens in a new Tab) is a brand that’s been around for quite a long time, and it offers a range of options to convert your bicycle into an electric bike that has a motor attached on the bottom bracket on which the pedals are placed. It is recommended to spend at the very least PS350 (about $440 or $630 in Australia)) for this type of kit There are many alternatives to the concept available on the internet. TongSheng (opens in a new tab) For instance, has similar kits available for $380/PS300/AU$540.
If you’re interested but are looking for a top-quality example that you can trust, then the Pendix eDrive (opens in new tab) range is a good choice however, it’s expensive at more than EUR1,000 (about $1,100, PS900, or 1,600 AU$). The bottom bracket motor kits are certainly capable however their small size implies that they are also susceptible to being damaged, and could be costly to repair should they do get soaked because of their dangerous place.
Things to keep in mind
Keep in mind that these choices for turning a standard bicycle into an e-bike are going to make it heavier. Batteries weigh a lot and motors are also and so adding additional equipment to a bicycle not designed for this purpose can alter its performance.
It is likely that you will get a bicycle that is different in handling, based on the place where the components are placed. The variety and speed of the options are a slightly academic. The primary consideration is to ride the bike that is safe to ride.
The only issue with this is that you’ll need to convert to be able to verify. It’s a way to bring us to the full circle. Because buying an off-the-shelf bike which has been built and designed to function as a bicycle it is clear what you’re receiving. A good bike shop can allow you to test it first before buying this is one of the potential drawbacks purchasing on the internet. There’s a lot to think about, and it’s more than just conserving money.
In the end, turning a conventional bicycle to an electric version is possible but there are difficulties. Cost could be the biggest obstacle since some of the options we’ve reviewed make it difficult to do the job yourself. If you’re willing to do doing a little tinkering, and don’t mind the time it takes to tinker, the e-bike converter kit may be the right choice for you. However, if you’re looking for an easy-to-use e-bike experience, then it’s probably best choosing the most efficient electric bikes available now.
