Otis Singleton
Converting a 29er bike to electric is a rewarding process that allows you to continue using your favourite bike while enjoying the benefits of electric power. There are many electric conversion kits available, such as the popular Swytch Kit, which includes everything you need to convert your bike to electric, including a wheel, power pack, pedal sensor, charger, and cables. The installation process is simple and can be done by anyone with basic bike skills and some free time. However, it's important to consider the challenges, such as finding a suitable battery fitment and capacity and ensuring your bike can handle the weight and speed of the electric motor.
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What You'll Learn
Conversion kits
One popular option for a conversion kit is the Dillinger Off-Road kit, which has been praised for its performance and ease of use as a daily commuter. This kit can be installed on a variety of bikes, including the Giant Talon 3.
If you're looking for a powerful setup, a 1500W rear hub motor is recommended for off-road riding and tackling hills. However, keep in mind that this option may require creative battery placement to achieve your desired range and top speed without overloading your bike.
For those seeking a more lightweight and efficient solution, the BBSHD mid-drive system is an option. While it requires more maintenance and consumables, it rewards riders with good shifting techniques, keeping the motor running efficiently.
Another factor to consider is the controller. Some motors and batteries come with built-in controllers, saving space and weight on your setup. Additionally, for off-road use, a thumb throttle may be preferable to a wrist throttle as it offers better control when navigating roots and rough terrain.
Lastly, when choosing a conversion kit, pay attention to the speed and cog setup. Ensure that the kit you choose is compatible with your bike's cog setup and that it can achieve your desired speed.
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Battery and power
The battery and power setup of your electric bike conversion will depend on several factors, including the type of drive system, your desired speed and range, and the terrain you'll be riding on.
If you're looking for a high-power setup with ample off-road capabilities, you'll likely need a larger battery and a more powerful motor. For example, if you live in an area with lots of hills, you may require a bigger motor to handle the power without overheating and a larger battery to provide sufficient range.
There are two main types of drive systems for electric bike conversions: hub drives and mid drives. Hub drives are typically easier to maintain, while mid drives offer a more natural ride feel and are better suited for mountain biking as they provide gearing. If you opt for a hub drive system, you may need to be creative with mounting batteries to achieve your desired performance without overloading the bike.
When choosing a battery, consider its size, weight, and placement on the bike. The internal frame triangle of your 29er may limit the maximum height of the battery. You can opt for a "bottle battery", which can be mounted in the water bottle attachment under the down tube, but this will be more exposed to the elements. Alternatively, you can explore motors and batteries with built-in controllers to save space.
Some popular options for batteries include the Swytch Kit, which offers a compact and lightweight battery that can be easily attached to or removed from the handlebars. The Skarper motor/battery unit is another option that attaches to the left chainstay of a disc brake bike and can provide up to 50km of range in Eco mode.
If you're looking for a powerful setup, the Bafang Front Hub Motor kit allows you to choose the battery size and shape, although it may be a more complex installation process. The TongSheng kit is also worth considering for its lightweight yet high-torque design, although you'll need to purchase the battery separately.
For off-road use, a thumb throttle may be preferable to a wrist throttle as it's easier to manage while riding on uneven terrain.
Overall, when it comes to battery and power, you'll need to carefully consider your specific needs and the trade-offs between speed, range, and hill-climbing capability, especially when deciding between a hub drive and a mid-drive system.
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Drivetrain
Firstly, it's worth noting that converting a 29er to electric will increase the stress on the drivetrain due to the additional weight and power of the motor. This means that regular maintenance and potential upgrades will be necessary to ensure the bike's safe and reliable operation. Keeping the chain clean and well-lubricated is crucial, as the increased torque from the motor puts extra stress on the drivetrain. It is recommended to inspect the chain monthly and replace it when necessary to prevent damage to the sprockets.
When considering a drivetrain conversion, you have options like the 1x drivetrain conversion, which involves removing the front derailleur and shifting to a single chainring setup. This simplifies the drivetrain and reduces weight, which can be beneficial for electric conversions to manage the added weight of the motor and battery.
If you're planning to use a suspension fork, upgrading your drivetrain is recommended for optimal performance and compatibility. This will enable you to tackle steeper climbs more effectively, and you can benefit from a dropper seat post for varied terrain.
Additionally, when choosing a conversion kit, consider the type of drive system. Mid-drive motor kits, like Bafang's, interact directly with the bike's drivetrain and offer the advantage of utilising all your gears. However, they do experience more drivetrain wear compared to rear hub motors.
Finally, when it comes to battery maintenance, it's important to store your battery at around 40-80% charge when not in use for extended periods, and keep it away from extreme temperatures to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
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Tyre pressure and width
Rider weight plays a significant role in determining tyre pressure. Heavier riders may require higher tyre pressure to support the additional load and prevent tyre roll-off or rim damage. For example, a rider weighing around 110kg might use 28 PSI in their front tyre and up to 45 PSI in the rear. On the other hand, a lighter rider of around 60-70kg could use tyre pressures of 28 PSI in the front and 36 PSI in the rear.
Terrain and riding style also influence tyre pressure. For off-road riding on forest trails, tyre pressures between 26 and 28 PSI are recommended. Lower pressures can provide better traction and a smoother ride, but they may increase the risk of tyre roll-off or rim damage. For on-road riding, higher tyre pressures are generally preferred to reduce rolling resistance and improve efficiency. Tyre pressures of around 70-80 PSI are often suitable for road riding.
Tyre width is another important consideration. Wider rims, such as those measuring 35mm or more, can accommodate lower tyre pressures due to their increased volume. For example, a rider with 26mm wide rims might need a minimum of 30 PSI in the front tyre and 35 PSI in the rear to avoid tyre roll-off or rim damage. However, with wider rims, lower pressures may be used without the same risk.
It's worth noting that tyre pressure preferences can vary among riders, and personal comfort is a key factor. Some riders prefer slightly lower tyre pressures for a softer ride, while others opt for higher pressures to reduce the risk of punctures or to improve rolling efficiency. It may take some experimentation to find the ideal tyre pressure for your converted electric 29er, depending on your unique combination of weight, riding style, terrain, and tyre width.
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Weight distribution
The two main motor options for 29-inch bikes are hub motors and mid-drive motors. Hub motors are the most common choice, with front and rear configurations available. Front hub motors are typically easier to install but may compromise handling on rough terrain. Rear hub motors provide better traction and a more natural riding experience, making them popular for commuting. However, the addition of a motor and battery to the rear of the bike can place more stress on the rear fork, requiring reinforcement for high-speed terrain riding.
Mid-drive motors, on the other hand, offer superior weight distribution and climbing ability. They are mounted at the bike's bottom bracket, leveraging the existing gearing system for more efficient power delivery on varied terrain.
When selecting a motor, it is important to consider the power rating. For legal compliance on roads, a 250W conversion kit is sufficient. However, higher power options are available for off-road use, with popular choices including 1500W rear hub motors for ample off-road power and top speed.
The battery pack is another crucial component, typically ranging from 36V to 52V. For 29-inch wheels, it is essential to select a battery that balances weight distribution while providing sufficient range to avoid overloading the bicycle with excessive weight.
Converting a 29er to electric offers improved terrain handling, obstacle clearance, and stability on rough trails. The larger wheel size provides excellent momentum and rolling efficiency, which is further enhanced by electric assistance. This blend of comfort and performance makes it a worthwhile investment, especially for those looking to reduce conversion costs compared to purchasing a new e-bike.
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Frequently asked questions
Some of the challenges of converting a 29er to electric include:
- The small internal frame triangle, which limits the size of the battery.
- The weight distribution of the bike changes due to the motor and battery, affecting its performance.
- The power usage increases and can cause the motor to overheat.
- The cost of conversion kits.
Here are some tips for converting a 29er to electric:
- Consider the type of terrain you'll be riding on and choose a conversion kit with appropriate power and speed capabilities.
- Look for a conversion kit that suits your bike's specifications, such as the number of speeds and available space for mounting the controller and battery.
- Opt for a thumb throttle if you plan to ride off-road, as it's easier to manage than a wrist throttle.
- Choose a conversion kit with a larger battery to increase your range.
There are several electric conversion kits available for 29ers, including:
- Swytch Kit: This kit includes everything you need for the conversion and is known for its lightweight design and easy installation.
- Ktaxon Electric Bike Conversion Kit: A 48V 1000W kit with a front/rear wheel e-bike conversion option, PAS, LCD display, and gearless hub motor.
- Dillinger Off-Road Kit: Recommended by a user on Reddit for their daily commute.
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