Building An Electric Bmx Bike: A Step-By-Step Guide

Building an electric BMX bike from scratch is a challenging but rewarding project. It requires some knowledge of bike assembly, experience with tools, and confidence in your abilities. The first step is to choose the right frame and fork for your bike, which will depend on the type of BMX you plan to build. You'll also need to consider the clearance of your bike frame to ensure you can mount the battery and motor securely. The next steps involve replacing your existing wheel with a motorized one from a conversion kit, and installing the throttle system and batteries.

Choosing the right frame

When building an electric BMX bike from scratch, choosing the right frame is crucial. The frame is the foundation of your bike, and it will determine its durability and performance. Here are some factors to consider when selecting the right frame:

Firstly, consider the type of BMX you plan to build. Different riding styles require different frame geometries. For example, if you're building a racing BMX, you'll want a lightweight frame with a steeper head tube angle for quick handling. On the other hand, a freestyle BMX frame should have a lower bottom bracket and a shorter wheelbase for improved manoeuvrability.

Secondly, ensure the frame has enough clearance to mount the battery and motor securely. Electric bikes require a larger frame size to accommodate the battery and motor, so choose a frame that provides ample space for these components. You may also need to consider the placement of the battery and motor, as this can affect the bike's centre of gravity and handling characteristics.

Thirdly, invest in a good quality frame. A high-quality frame will not only last longer but also provide a better riding experience. Look for frames made from durable materials such as aluminium or steel, and consider the welding quality and overall construction. A well-built frame will ensure a smoother ride and improve the bike's handling capabilities.

Additionally, consider the size of the frame in relation to your body proportions. A frame that is too small or too large can affect your riding posture and comfort. Make sure the frame size corresponds to your height and leg length, ensuring a comfortable riding position. This is crucial for both your enjoyment of the bike and your safety.

Finally, don't forget to consider the aesthetics of the frame. While performance and functionality are essential, you also want a bike that looks good and reflects your personal style. Choose a frame colour and design that appeals to you and consider adding custom touches, such as decals or paint jobs, to make your bike truly unique.

Installing a conversion kit

If you're installing a hub motor, start by replacing your existing wheel with the motorized one from the kit. Tighten the axle nuts securely to ensure stability and align the wheel properly to prevent wear and tear on the drivetrain. The conversion kit and batteries need a secure home, so install a holding case or bracket to keep them in place.

Next, remove all the old handles and clips from your bike. Replace them with the throttle system included in your conversion kit. Test the throttle to ensure it responds smoothly and snaps back when released. Your conversion kit should also include a bag to incorporate the batteries. Plug the driver into the correct port on the battery and secure the wiring with zip ties or cable wraps. Use the side pockets for neat cable management and ensure all connections are tight and secure to avoid electrical issues.

When choosing a battery, consider the Wina 10Ah LiFe cells. These can be connected in series using copper plates for connections, and "main" and "balance" cables with connectors. You can also make a wooden enclosure with some metal plates and screws to mount the battery on the bike under the seat.

Replacing the wheel

To build an electric BMX bike from scratch, you'll need to start with the foundation of every bike: the overall construction, which includes the frame and fork. If you want your bike to last a long time, invest in a good quality frame.

Once you've chosen your frame, you can start thinking about the wheel. If you're using a hub motor, you'll need to replace your existing wheel with the motorized one from the kit. Make sure you tighten the axle nuts securely to ensure stability and align the wheel properly to prevent wear and tear on the drivetrain.

You'll also need to consider where to mount the conversion kit and batteries. They need a secure home, such as a holding case or bracket. Make sure your bike frame has enough clearance to mount them securely. You can buy a conversion kit that has the drive train at the front wheel of the bike.

When it comes to batteries, you have a few options. You can choose Wina 10Ah LiFe cells and connect them in series, or you can use the bag that comes with your conversion kit. This bag has two side pockets with wired holes, which are perfect for neat cable management.

Remember to take your time and pay attention to each step. With a little bit of knowledge about bike assembly, experience, and confidence, you can build your own electric BMX bike from scratch.

Connecting the battery

When it comes to connecting the battery, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure your bike frame has enough clearance to mount the battery and motor securely. You can buy a conversion kit that has the drive train at the front wheel of the bike, which will help with this. The conversion kit and batteries need a secure home, such as a holding case or bracket.

The main function of the bag that comes with your conversion kit is to incorporate the batteries. It will have two side pockets with wired holes. Plug the driver into the correct port on the battery and secure the wiring with zip ties or cable wraps. Use the side pockets for neat cable management.

If you're using a hub motor, replace your existing wheel with the motorized one from the kit. Tighten the axle nuts securely and align the wheel properly to prevent wear and tear on the drivetrain.

When choosing a battery, consider the Wina 10Ah LiFe cells. You can connect 12 of them in series (43V fully charged) and use copper plates for connections. Make "main" and "balance" cables with connectors. You can also make a wooden enclosure with metal plates and screws to mount the battery on the bike under the seat.

Cable management

When building an electric BMX bike from scratch, cable management is an important consideration. The cables and wires that power the motor and connect the various components need to be neatly organised and secured to ensure the bike functions properly and looks tidy.

One key aspect of cable management is ensuring that all connections are tight and secure. This helps to avoid electrical issues and ensures the bike's performance is reliable. It is recommended to use zip ties or cable wraps to secure wiring and prevent loose connections.

The conversion kit, which includes the motor and batteries, needs to be securely mounted on the bike. This can be done using a holding case or bracket. The cables connecting the conversion kit to the rest of the bike should be neatly routed and bundled to avoid a tangled mess.

To achieve neat cable management, you can use a variety of tools and techniques. One option is to use cable management sleeves, which are available in materials like velcro or nylon. These sleeves help to bundle and organise cables, keeping them together and out of the way. Another option is to use spiral cable wraps, which can accommodate a range of cable diameters and keep them organised and protected.

Additionally, it is important to consider the type of connectors and soldering required for the cables. For example, you may need to solder together certain cables inside the controller, such as the power cables or brake cables, to ensure a secure connection.

Frequently asked questions