5 Best E-Bike Conversion Kit 2023
E-bike conversion kits are becoming increasingly popular for those looking to enhance their cycling experience but are unable to justify the expense of purchasing a new e-bike.
With a quality electric bike conversion kit, you can turn your regular bike or even your old bike that’s been gathering dust and cobwebs into an electric bicycle, that has a motor and a battery that will provide additional assistance when pedaling.
The ease of converting your current bike into an e-bike makes it easier and more convenient to get out, use your bike and ride regularly, encouraging you to keep fit and live a healthy life.
Additionally, the benefits of upgrading include an increase in overall performance due to the extra power provided by the motor, improved efficiency when climbing hills or overcoming long distances, perhaps in the future this might include some cycle touring?
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What Is An E-Bike Conversion Kit?
An electric bike conversion kit is a set of components that can be used to convert a traditional bicycle or mountain bike into an e-bike . These e-bike conversion kits are usually comprised of a motor, battery, control system, and other parts that work together to provide electric power to the bike.
Batteries are not included in the kit of some manufacturers products but there maybe an option to add one, if not, then this needs to be purchased separately.
The motor is usually placed in the hub of the front or rear wheel, or installed in place of your bottom bracket, chain ring and cranks and is powered by the battery, which is typically mounted on the frame of the bike.
The control system, which is usually a handlebar-mounted display or a thumb throttle, allows the rider to control the level of electric assistance. With a conversion kit for your bike, riders can still pedal the bike, but the electric motor will provide additional power to make the ride easier, especially on hills or against headwinds.
Why Convert Your Bike?
Electric bikes, or e-bikes, have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their many benefits. One way to experience these benefits is by converting your bike into an ebike.
Here are some reasons why you might consider converting your bike to an e-bike:
- Cost-effective: E-bikes can be expensive, but conversion kits are often a more affordable option. By converting your existing bike, you can save money while still enjoying the benefits of an e-bike.
- Convenience: A converted bike can motivate you more to get out and cycle, especially if you live in a hilly area or commute long distances. The electric motor can assist you when needed, making it easier to tackle steep hills or headwinds.
- Increase Cycling distance: An e-bike conversion kit can increase the distance that you are able to cycle, allowing you to go further and explore new areas without worrying too much about getting tired.
- Improved health: Cycling is a great way to get exercise and improve your health, but it can be hard to maintain a consistent routine. An electric bicycle conversion can make cycling more accessible and enjoyable, encouraging you to ride more often.
- Environmental friendly: E-bikes are a more environmentally friendly mode of transportation than cars, and converting your bike to an e-bike can help reduce reliance on your car if there is the motivation to ride your bike.
- Fun: E-bikes are just more enjoyable and fun to ride, they can bring a new level of excitement and adventure to your cycling.
When considering a conversion of your bike to an e-bike, it is important to research thoroughly and choose a good quality conversion kit that will fit your bike. There maybe restrictions in your country regarding the speed e-bikes can travel in your country so if you are unsure or concerned it might help to get some advice from your local cycle shop if you are unsure about any aspect of the installation.
Can A Mountain Bike Be Upgraded To Electric?
Yes, it is possible to convert it using an e-bike conversion kit. Many of the best electric bike conversion kits are designed to work with a variety of bike types and the process is similar to converting any other type of bike.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that fitting an e-bike conversion kit on a mountain bike can be a bit different from installing on a road bike as mountain bikes frames and suspension systems differ.
It is also important to ensure that the kit you choose is compatible with your bike’s frame and that it can support the rigors of off-road riding.
As already previously stated, it is always recommended to seek professional help from a specialised cycle shop if you are unsure about any aspect of the installation or if you don’t have the technical skills to install it properly.
How To Choose The Best E-Bike Kit For Your Bike?
Battery
You will need a battery as it is a crucial component in any e-bike conversion. It stores the energy that powers the electric motor and will move the bike when you engage the motor.
Most e-bike conversion kits come with a lithium-ion rechargeable battery that is lightweight and has a high energy density. However, some kits do not come with the battery, so you need to check component parts first before choosing.
The battery is typically mounted on the frame of the bike and is connected to the control system and the motor.
The capacity of the battery is measured in amp hours (Ah) and will determine how far you can ride on a single charge.
The typical mileage range can vary depending on several factors such as the battery’s capacity, the weight of the rider, the terrain, and the level of electric assistance used, but it typically ranges from 20-40 miles on a single charge.
Charging time can vary depending on several factors, including the capacity of the battery and the type of charger used. In general, it typically takes between 2 to 4 hours to fully charge a lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 10-15 Ah using a standard charger. However, some faster chargers can reduce charging time to around 1 hour.
The battery’s life is also an important factor to consider when buying a kit, most batteries last for around 500 cycles or more, but that also depends on the quality of the battery and how you use and maintain it
Power
The power output that can be expected can vary depending on several factors, such as the type of motor, the capacity of the battery, and the level of electric assistance used.
The power of the motor is measured in watts (W) and can range from 250W to 1000W or more, though you should check your local laws as anything over 750W in the US is classed as a motor vehicle, in the UK it is over 250W and gives a top speed of over 15.5 mph. A higher wattage motor will provide more power and allow the bike to reach higher speeds.
Most kits tend to come with a control system that allows the rider to adjust the level of electric assistance. The higher the level of assistance, the more power the motor will provide.
Drive Type and Installation
There are several types of electric bike conversion kits available, including:
- Front-wheel e-bike kits: The motor is mounted in the hub of the front wheel.
- Rear wheel kits: The motor is mounted in the hub of rear wheel.
- Mid-drive kits: With the mid-drive conversion kit, the motor is mounted in the middle of the bike, replacing the existing bottom bracket, cranks and chain ring. A mid-drive kit lowers and centres the bike’s centre of gravity making the ride feel more stable and controlled.
- Friction drive conversion: The motor is mounted on the frame and presses against the tyre to provide propulsion.
Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages. Front-wheel and rear-wheel kits are the easiest to install, but can affect the handling of the bike. Mid-drive kits offer the most natural feel while riding, but are more complex to install.
Friction-drive kits are less expensive than other options, but they can wear out the tyre quickly.
Are Electric Bike Conversion Kits Difficult To Install?
The difficulty of installing an electric bike conversion kit can vary depending on the type of kit and the experience of the person installing it. Some kits, such as front-wheel or rear-wheel kits, are relatively easy to install and can be done by someone with basic cycle mechanic skills.
These front or rear wheel kits typically involve replacing the existing wheel with the electric motor wheel and connecting the battery, control system, and other components.
Other types of kits, such as mid-drive, can be more complex to install and may require more advanced mechanical skills and specialized tools, such as a crank extractor. These kits involve more significant changes to the bike, such as modifying the bottom bracket or the rear wheel, and may require more extensive wiring and control systems.
In general, it is advisable to read the instructions carefully and if you are unsure about any aspect of the installation, it is best to seek the help of a professional in a bike shop or someone with more experience.
Should I Get A Conversion Kit Or Buy A New E-Bike?
When it comes to adding electric power assistance to your bike, you have two options, you can either purchase an electric bike conversion kit and make your bike electric or you can purchase a new electric bike. Both options have their pros and cons, and the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
Pros of purchasing an e-bike conversion kit:
- Cost: Conversion kits are a cost effective option to buying a new electric bike.
- Customization: You can upgrade a bike you already own and instead of it gathering dust, can be upgraded to electric.
- Installation: With some basic cycle mechanical skills and tools, anyone can convert their regular bike. Plenty of You tube videos that can help.
- Flexibility: You can choose the kit that best suit your needs and budget.
Cons of purchasing an e-bike conversion kit:
- Installation: Installing a conversion kit can be time consuming.
- Compatibility: Not all bikes are compatible with all kits, so you may need to make modifications to your bike.
- Warranty: Conversion kits may not come with a warranty and any components that fail will need to be replaced.
- Performance: Conversion kits may not perform as well as purpose-built e-bikes, and their range or battery life may be shorter.
- Reliability: Conversion kits can be less reliable than e-bikes because they were not designed to work together as a system.
It’s important to consider all these points before making a decision. It’s also important to note that some e-bike conversion kits are of higher quality and can perform as well as some e-bikes, but this is not the case with all conversion kits.
You get what you pay for.
What Are The Best E-Bike Conversion Kits?
When it comes to finding the best e-bike conversion kit, you need to consider your budget, the type of bike you want to convert, and the features offered. An e-bike conversion kit is a great way to upgrade your existing bike into an electric one without having to buy an entirely new e-bike.
The following products details will help you determine which, of the many available options, is best for you and your requirements.
#1 BAFANG BBS01B 36V 250W Mid Drive Motor Kit
The Bafang BBS01B 250W is a mid drive electric bike motor conversion kit designed for a 36v battery, and in the UK is road legal as limited speed is 15mph, for other countries you will need to check your regulations.
The mid-drive motor design with its pedal assist and throttle, provides a natural and efficient ride, and the 250W power output is suitable for most everyday commuting and leisure needs.
This is an ideal upgrade for Road and Mountain bikes, but not recommended for a carbon frame, and is an easy install, comes with a crank extractor but you will need to get yourself a bottom bracket remover.
This kit does not come with a battery, but there is the option to add one, the kit also comes with replacement brake levers designed to cut the power to the motor when you apply.
This mid drive is designed to fit bikes with a bottom bracket of between 67mm and 73mm.
#2 BAFANG 48V 500W Front Hub Motor
This BAFANG kit, includes a 500w motor, a throttle and a maximum speed limiter of around 25mph, which in many countries, UK specifically, because it is not limited to 15mph, classifies an upgrade as a moped and therefore license and insurance are applicable. US is more complicated.
With that disclaimer out of the way, this front hub motor kit gives a powerful boost when installed on a road or mountain bike and allows the bike to pick up speed quickly.
Kit comes with a wheel and components, including a 48V 17.5 Ah 840Wh battery and a rear rack to attach to the bike, so ideally you will need pannier rack eyelets to bolt the rack onto. The wheel is compatible with both disc and rim block brakes.
Install is fairly straight forward but you need to have a crank extractor to remove the crank to install the power assist sensor and also need a T25 tool if you have disc brakes. Cabling can be a bit fiddly
Estimated range is 60-100km (30-60 miles) which is quite generous.
#3 YOSE POWER 26” / 27.5” / 28”(700C) Rear Wheel Motor 250w/350W
Disclaimer again, this Yose kit includes a 350w motor, though there is a 250W version, a throttle and a maximum speed limiter of around 25mph, which in many countries, UK specifically, because it is not limited to 15mph, classifies an upgrade as a moped and therefore license and insurance are applicable. US is more complicated.
This product is perfect for everyday use, whether commuting or leisure and because of the performance and durability can be used off road on uneven terrain.
Kit comes with all the necessary components, including a 26V 350W battery, and tools to enable you to install within an estimated hour, it is perfect for all types of bikes, Road, Mountain, Hybrid etc.
Range is approx 30 miles on maximum power, 50 miles using lower levels of power, this is on one battery charge.
Sorry US based customers, looks like you will have to import this from either the UK or Germany, details in the check price button €
#4 BAFANG BBS02B 48V 750W Mid Drive Kit with Battery Optional
Disclaimer again, this Bafang kit includes a 750W motor, a throttle and a maximum speed limiter of around 25mph, which in many countries, UK specifically, because it is not limited to 15mph, classifies an upgrade as a moped and therefore license and insurance are applicable. US is more complicated.
This Mid drive kit is compatible with mountain bike, road bike etc. This kit is designed to fit a standard 68-73mm (length) and 34-36mm (internal diameter) bottom bracket.
Battery is optional, so free to use one supplied by Bafang, you need to select accordingly, or source your own. However the battery Bafang offers has excellent power output aka performance and excellent range, which is subjective depending on various factors such as weight, terrain, speed etc.
Kit comes with all you need to install this conversion kit in approx 1.5 hours.
#5 EBIKELING Waterproof Ebike Conversion Kit 48V 1200W 26″ Front or Rear Wheel Direct Drive
Disclaimer again, this Ebikeling kit includes a 1200W motor, a throttle and a maximum speed limiter of around 33mph, which in many countries, UK specifically, because it is not limited to 15mph, classifies an upgrade as a moped and therefore license and insurance are applicable. US is more complicated.
Comes in Front or Rear, 36v or 48v battery, 500W to 1500W options, so some powerful kit for a Mountain bike with a 36″ wheels. With a 1200W motor output and performance I think are self explanatory.
This kit is specifically for a 26″ wheel off road mountain bike, Ebikeling do do other options for other wheels i.e. 700c road bike.
This kit is special because it is classed as waterproof, unlike other kits, so it is more reliable in rain and snow conditions.
#6 Voilamart Electric Bicycle Wheel Kit 26″ Front Wheel 48V 1000W
Disclaimer again, this Voilamart kit includes a 1000w motor, though there is a 500W version.
However it is restricted to 250W and 15mph in the UK specifically.
US is more complicated. This model is restricted to 750W and 24 mph.
Currently Unavailable, so will review and replace accordingly if need be.
Conclusion
If you are looking to upgrade your bike to electric, there are many types of e-bike conversion kits on the market right now and choosing the best one and the right one to upgrade your bike can be very time consuming and confusing decision making process.
I think you need to reflect on why you want to upgrade your bike, is it beneficial to you, will it enhance your cycling experience, get you motivated to get back on the bike? Do you need a 1000W kit when a 250W kit will do what you need it to do and also will it fit your budget? Also, do you want a mid drive motor, which might feel a bit more stable over a front or rear wheel hub motor?
Do you have the patience to install the kit, anyone with a some knowledge of bicycle mechanics will be able to install and there are plenty of YouTube videos out there to help you.
With the price of e-bikes coming down, some of these conversion kits are at the bottom end of the e-bike market price range so you might want to wait for prices to reduce further or look for an e-bike bargain now.
But what if you decide to go for the e-bike option, what will happen to your beloved road or mountain bike? Will you just leave it to rust or gather dust in the shed/garage/balcony etc.
Can you live with that?
Have a good think before making a decision.
