Umair Gaines
Electric bikes are becoming increasingly popular among cyclists. They can increase the distances possible with commuter bikes and replace a car for running errands around town. E-bikes are not cheap, but an e-bike conversion kit can add the electric boost to an 'analogue' bike without the price tag of a full e-bike. There are a number of ways to electrify your existing bike, such as fitting a powered wheel, attaching a drive unit to the bottom bracket, or fitting a motor above the rear wheel and driving it via friction. There are a growing number of e-bike conversion kits on the market, such as the Swytch kit, which is super simple: just swap out your front wheel, wire up the controller and battery, and you're off. The TongSheng kit is another option, which positions the motor at the centre of the bike, so it will fit a wide range of designs.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cost | Between £500 and £800 for a reputable brand, but there are cheaper options available. |
| Compatibility | Conversion kits are available for most bikes, including mountain, road, hybrid, and folding bikes. Specific kits are available for Brompton bikes. |
| Installation | Can be installed by a competent home mechanic. |
| Motor location | Front wheel, rear wheel, bottom bracket, crank, or seat post. |
| Motor type | Hub-based, mid-drive, or friction drive. |
| Battery location | Handlebar-mounted, frame-mounted, or carried in a bag. |
| Battery weight | Between 2 and 2.6 kg. |
| Battery capacity | Between 700g and 1000W. |
| Display | Bar-mounted or handlebar-mounted LED display. |
| Sensors | Cadence sensor, torque sensor, or speed sensor. |
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What You'll Learn
Conversion kits for front or rear wheel power
Conversion kits are a great way to convert your push bike to electric without the price tag of a full e-bike. They are available in a variety of specifications and price ranges.
Wheel-based systems usually have a hub motor and require the replacement of your existing wheel with a compatible motorised one. The Swytch Kit, for example, is a simple conversion kit that requires you to swap out your front wheel, wire up the controller and battery, and you're ready to go. The battery is compact and can be easily removed from the bike to be carried with you. The TongSheng kit is another option that positions the motor at the centre of the bike, allowing it to fit a wide range of designs. It is lightweight and provides high torque and power output, but you will need to purchase the battery separately.
If you're looking for an inexpensive rear wheel conversion option, the Voilamart kit is a good choice, although you will need to source a battery separately and it may require additional waterproofing for wet weather riding. The Bafang Front Hub kit is another option that offers a wide range of specifications and customisation options, including wheel size, display preference, battery size, and shape. However, the installation process for this kit is more complex and time-consuming than some other options.
For those seeking an off-road, high-powered conversion kit, the TongSheng mid-drive kit provides powerful performance while maintaining the original pedalling enjoyment. The ToSeven mid-drive motor is another new addition to the market, offering 500W or 750W/1000W power options for an easy conversion to an e-bike.
It is important to consider factors such as wheel diameter, width, axle standard, and brake type when choosing a conversion kit to ensure compatibility with your bike. Prices for conversion kits can vary depending on the type and battery size, typically ranging from £500 to £800 for a reputable brand.
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Crank-driven systems
One of the key advantages of crank-driven systems is that they provide a natural riding experience. The weight distribution of the crank motor e-bike is similar to that of a traditional bike, with the weight centred in the middle of the machine. Additionally, crank motors put the power exactly where you would when you pedal, allowing for a smooth and efficient performance. The motors usually work in tandem with your gears, and the torque sensor provides feedback to the computer and then into the motor, making them ideal for hilly journeys. With a few thumb clicks, you can adjust the settings to tell the system how much effort it should put in, and it will match your cycling effort.
However, there are also some drawbacks to crank-driven systems. One of the main limitations is that they are limited by the strength of the chain and the sprocket. Most systems use standard bike chains and sprockets, which were not designed for motorized use, so the power output is typically kept low, usually around 250 W. Additionally, if one component of the system fails, such as the motor, controller, or torque sensor, the entire unit often needs to be replaced, which can be expensive.
When considering a crank-driven system, it is important to weigh the pros and cons according to your specific needs and budget. Crank-driven systems tend to be more expensive, and the power output may be lower than that of hub motors. However, they offer a natural riding experience, efficient performance, and are generally easier to convert to an e-bike.
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Mid-mounted motor kits
Mid-drive motor kits are considered the most natural-feeling electric bike conversion kits, delivering a natural ride feel. The weight of the motor sits low in the frame, and the power is applied to the crank, which provides a more natural power delivery sensation. The best mid-drive kits are considered to be those with a mid-mounted motor paired with a torque sensor. This torque-based system adds a percentage of power to your pedalling, amplifying the power you put in. For example, the TongSheng system has a max torque of 80Nm, which will add between 36 and 300 per cent to your pedalling power.
There are several mid-drive motor kits on the market. The TongSheng kit is lightweight, with high torque and power output, and will fit a wide range of bike designs. The ToSeven mid-drive motor is another option, with a 500W or 750W/1000W motor. The Bafang Mid Drive Motor Kit is another example, which works with bikes that have a bottom bracket sized between 68 and 73mm. From there, you can choose the front chainring size, battery size, and display. The BBS02 Mid-drive Motor Kit is another option, as well as the TSDZ2B OSF Mid-drive Motor Kit.
The main downside of mid-drive kits is the pricing and packaging, as well as the complexity of setting them up yourself. The different standards make it challenging to figure out exactly what you need. However, they are considered to be the ultimate for high torque and high efficiency, and they can be a good choice for those seeking a powerful bike on a budget.
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Fitting a powered wheel
There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a powered wheel. Firstly, consider the wheel diameter, width, and axle standard of the hub, as well as the type of brakes you have. Secondly, the weight distribution of your bike will be affected by the added rotating mass of the motor, which can make it feel harder to accelerate. If you're concerned about this, consider a mid-drive motor option instead. Finally, the battery for your powered wheel can be mounted on the handlebars or frame, or attached to a rear rack, so choose a setup that works for you.
There are several electric bike conversion kits available that include a powered wheel. The Swytch kit, for example, is a popular option that can fit 99% of bikes. It includes a front wheel with a hub-based motor, a crank-mounted cadence sensor, and a battery charger. The battery is compact and can be easily removed and carried with you. The TongSheng kit is another option that positions the motor at the centre of the bike, making it compatible with a wide range of designs. However, you'll need to buy the battery separately. If you're on a budget, the Voilamart kit offers an inexpensive rear wheel conversion, but again, you'll need to source the battery yourself.
When choosing an electric bike conversion kit, it's important to consider your budget, needs, and how much you plan to use the converted bike. If you're unsure about your level of commitment, it's wise to start with a cheaper kit and upgrade later if needed. It's also crucial to familiarize yourself with the laws regarding e-bikes in your region, as some systems may be classified as electric motorcycles and require taxation and insurance.
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Cost of conversion
The cost of converting a push bike to an electric bike varies depending on the type of conversion kit and the size of the battery. Conversion kits are a fraction of the cost of a full e-bike machine, but they are not cheap. The cost of a conversion kit can range from $1000 to $1800, and you may also need to pay for labour costs for a mechanic to install the kit, which can be around $200. Some conversion kits don't include a battery, which will need to be purchased separately, and these can be large and heavy.
The Swytch e-bike conversion kit is highly reviewed and includes everything you need to turn your bike electric. The battery is compact and can be removed easily to carry with you, and the kit is lightweight. The TongSheng kit is another option, which provides high power and torque while maintaining the original pedalling experience. However, the battery needs to be purchased separately. The Voilamart kit is an inexpensive rear-wheel conversion option, but again, the battery is not included.
It's important to consider the risks involved with conversion kits. Regular bikes are not designed to handle the weight and speed of an e-bike, and there have been incidents of fires and explosions caused by conversion kits. The cost of repairing a converted e-bike is also much higher than a regular bike.
If you are unsure about how much you will use the converted bike, it is recommended to opt for a cheaper kit and upgrade later if needed.
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Frequently asked questions
An electric bike conversion kit allows you to convert your existing push bike into an electric bike. It includes a motor to drive you along and a battery to power it.
Prices vary depending on the type of conversion kit and the size of the battery. You can expect to pay between £500 and £800 for a kit from a reputable brand. However, there are cheaper and more expensive options available.
Some popular electric bike conversion kits include the Swytch Kit, the TongSheng Kit, the Voilamart Kit, the Rubbee Kit, and the ToSeven mid-drive motor kit.
You can buy electric bike conversion kits online from websites like Amazon, as well as from specific brands like Swytch and Cytronex.
When choosing an electric bike conversion kit, consider the type of bike you have, your budget, and your needs. For wheel-based systems, you will need to replace your existing wheel with a compatible motorized one, so consider the wheel's diameter, width, and axle standard. Crank-driven systems typically require an alloy frame and a bottom bracket width of between 68 and 73mm.
