Trystan Casey
Electric bikes are becoming increasingly popular, and for good reason. They can cover most commutes, getting you to your destination faster than a regular bike, while also letting you get some exercise and saving you money on gas. The most affordable option is to convert the bike you already own using an electric bike conversion kit. These kits can add power to your own bike at a fraction of the cost of a full machine. However, converting a classic bike to an electric bike requires some technical know-how and the right tools. You'll need to consider the condition and componentry of your old bike, as well as the various motor and battery options available.
Characteristics and Values of Converting a Classic Bike to Electric Assist
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Electric Bike Conversion Kits | Add a motor to your bike |
| Swytch, Rubbee X, Voliamart, Bafang, TongSheng, Luna Cycle, etc. | |
| Cheaper than buying a new e-bike | |
| Easy to install | |
| Consider the motor and battery options | |
| Consider the range | |
| Consider the weight | |
| Brakes | Upgrade to disc brakes |
| Check compatibility with the electric motor | |
| Wheels | Check for any wobble |
| Check if spinning true | |
| Tools | Allen wrenches |
| Silicone sealant | |
| Electrical/duct tape | |
| JB weld |
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What You'll Learn
Electric bike conversion kits
Conversion kits are a cheaper alternative to buying a new electric bike, and you have the added benefit of being familiar with the bike you are converting. The kits typically include everything you need for the conversion, such as a wheel, LCD dashboard, and small parts. Some kits may not include the battery, so it is important to check before purchasing.
The electric bike conversion process usually involves adding a motor and battery to your existing bicycle. The motor is typically a hub motor, which can be installed in either the front or rear wheel. The motor is brushless and gearless, providing efficient and noiseless running. The battery powers the motor and can be easily swapped out when needed.
When choosing a conversion kit, it is important to consider the quality of the kit. The market is flooded with cheap, low-quality kits that may not be durable or perform as expected. It is worth investing in a quality kit from a reputable brand to ensure a better experience and avoid issues with poor quality control.
There are several reputable brands offering electric bike conversion kits, such as E-BikeKit, Swytch, and Ktaxon. These brands offer kits that are easy to install, with some providing video instructions and worldwide delivery. The kits are customizable and suitable for most bike types, ensuring you can find one that fits your unique needs and expectations.
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Compatibility with bike designs
For example, the TongSheng mid-drive motor offers compatibility with various bike designs and high torque for steep hills and off-road terrain. The Bafang mid-drive system is another option that provides similar benefits but is slightly heavier than the TongSheng motor for the same power output.
Another factor to consider is the type of motor and its interaction with the bike's gearing. "Geared" motors use an internal gear cluster, while "direct-drive" motors use two sets of rare-earth magnets. It is a common misconception that "geared" motors interact with the bike's gearing, but this is not the case. The choice between the two types depends on your riding style and preferences.
Additionally, the size of the chainring can affect the performance of the electric-assist bike. A smaller chainring will allow for quicker acceleration and put less strain on the motor, but it will have a lower top speed. On the other hand, a larger chainring will result in a higher top speed but will require more power from the motor, leading to more heat and battery drain.
When converting a classic bike, it is also essential to consider the condition and componentry of the bike. The electric motor will increase the torque, so using a low-quality or worn drivetrain can result in poor performance, including shifting issues and potential chain problems.
Furthermore, the brakes are an important consideration. The added weight and increased potential speeds of an electric-assist bike will put more stress on the brakes. It is recommended to choose a bike with disc brakes as they will provide better braking performance and be more suitable for handling the additional weight and speed.
Overall, when converting a classic bike to electric assist, it is crucial to consider the compatibility of the conversion kit with the bike's design, the type of motor and chainring size, as well as the condition of the bike's components, especially the brakes and drivetrain.
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Installation and ease of fitting
Electric bike conversion kits are a great way to give your classic bike electric assistance without the price tag of a full e-bike. Installation is generally straightforward, but it is important to consider the compatibility of the kit with your bike, as well as the various motor and battery options available.
Before installing an electric bike conversion kit, it is important to gather all the necessary tools and equipment. This includes basic tools like Allen wrenches and a wrench set, as well as the kit itself, which typically includes the wheel, power pack, pedal sensor, charger, and cables. Some kits may also include a handlebar-mounted battery and an LCD display. It is also important to consider the condition and componentry of your old bike, as the added torque of an electric motor can affect performance, especially if the drivetrain is low-quality or worn.
The first step in the installation process is to remove the pedals and cranks from the bike. Next, the motor is attached to the bottom bracket using screws. The controller is then connected to the motor and secured with zip ties. After that, the battery is mounted onto the frame using brackets and connected to the controller. Finally, the battery and controller are connected through their corresponding ports.
Some kits may have slightly different installation processes. For example, the Swytch eBike Conversion Kit includes a GO power pack that can be strapped anywhere on the frame and plugged in with a single cable. The Voliamart rear wheel kit is also worth considering, as it delivers plenty of power, but it requires mechanical competence for installation. Additionally, the Rubbee X e-bike conversion kit offers a slick-looking 250-watt motor with a single battery, and the option to add additional batteries to increase the range.
Overall, installing an electric bike conversion kit can be a straightforward process with the right tools and instructions. It is important to consider the compatibility of the kit with your bike, as well as the various motor and battery options available, to ensure a smooth installation and optimal performance.
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Motor and battery options
When choosing a motor, you have several options, including front hub motors, mid-drive motors, and rear hub motors. Front hub motors are generally the easiest to install, while mid-drive motors may require more effort. The Bafang mid-drive system and the TongSheng mid-drive motor are popular options, with the latter being slightly lighter for comparable power. If you're looking for an easy installation, consider the Swytch e-bike conversion kit, which includes a front hub motor.
Battery options can vary in terms of voltage and output, and it's crucial to ensure compatibility with your motor. A standard battery voltage is 36 or 48 volts, and the wattage typically ranges from 300 to 600 watts. The battery range is also essential to consider, as it determines how far you can travel on a single charge. For example, a 100Wh (Watt-Hour) battery will last for one hour when the motor outputs 100 watts of power.
In addition to the motor and battery, you may want to consider other factors such as the type of brakes, the dimensions of your forks, the width of the rear stays, and wheel sizes. Upgrading to disc brakes is recommended to handle the increased weight and speed of an electric bike effectively.
Converting a classic bike to electric assist provides an opportunity to blend vintage style with modern functionality, offering a unique riding experience with reduced emissions and maintenance.
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Maintenance and repairs
Maintenance tasks for an electric bike are quite similar to those for a regular bike. However, an electric bike is heavier, stronger, and more complex, so there are a few additional maintenance considerations.
Firstly, it is important to keep your bike clean. Dirt and mud increase wear on components and can form a paste with water and grease, decreasing efficiency and quickly wearing through parts. It is also important to keep the drivetrain well-lubricated and the tires properly inflated. Check regularly for loose bolts, spokes, and broken parts. Keep the battery partially charged and store it in a cool, dry place. If you plan on storing your e-bike for an extended period, it is recommended to partially charge the battery (around 50%) and inflate the tires to slightly higher pressure than usual to minimize stress on the battery and tires.
It is also important to regularly check and repair or replace the chain. A chain wear indicator tool can help alert you when it's time to replace the chain before the rest of the drivetrain suffers from too much wear. If your e-bike has a belt drive system, then there is no need to clean and oil it; simply keep an eye on the belt wear and replace it according to the manufacturer's schedule.
Additionally, the brakes on your e-bike should be regularly checked and adjusted. Before each ride, look for obvious issues like loose parts or excessive rotor and pad wear. Between rides, perform a more thorough brake inspection. If you're not comfortable performing maintenance beyond the examination phase, have your bike shop inspect and perform any necessary repairs.
For complex repairs or troubleshooting electrical issues, the expertise of a qualified e-bike mechanic is invaluable. It is recommended to consult a qualified mechanic for annual check-ups or complex repairs. Some indicators that your e-bike battery may be nearing the end of its lifespan include reduced range, slow charging, and erratic power delivery. If you experience any of these signs, it is wise to have your battery checked by a qualified mechanic.
It is also important to note that hub-drive motors are more complex, requiring knowledge of how to disconnect and reconnect all the electric connections involved.
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Frequently asked questions
Converting a classic bike to electric assist can make your bike commutes faster and less sweaty, and can also save you money on gas. It can also increase the distances possible with commuter bikes and replace a car for running errands around town.
There are many electric bike conversion kits available, including the Swytch eBike Conversion Kit, the Voliamart rear wheel kit, and the Luna Cycle DIY kit. When choosing a kit, consider the range of the battery, the ease of installation, and the compatibility of the kit with your bike.
It is important to consider the condition and componentry of your old bike. Adding an electric motor will increase the torque, so using a low-quality or worn drivetrain can result in poor performance. You should also consider upgrading to disc brakes, as the extra weight and speed of an electric bike will put more stress on the brakes. Additionally, check if your wheels are spinning true, as any wobble will be magnified when you add power to the electric motor.
