Wiktor Wise
Electric bikes are a rapidly growing segment of the bicycling industry, with an estimated 12 million electric bikes expected to be sold in the US between 2020 and 2030. Converting a traditional bike to an electric bike is a cheaper alternative to buying a new electric bike, and can be done with an electric bike conversion kit. These kits add an electric boost to an analogue bike, and can be used on most bikes, including Trek bikes.
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What You'll Learn
Conversion kits
Electric bike conversion kits are a great way to convert your Trek bike to electric without breaking the bank. Conversion kits are available for all bike types, including mountain, road, hybrid, and commuter bikes. They typically include a motor, controller, display, throttle, and all the necessary parts for DIY installation. You can also choose a battery that suits your preference.
There are two main types of motors available for conversion kits: hub motors and mid-drive motors. Hub motors are typically located in the front or rear wheel and are easier to install, while mid-drive motors assist in turning the cranks and transferring power to the rear wheel via the chain. Mid-drive motors are said to provide higher performance and torque, offer a lower center of gravity, and work more efficiently with the bike's gears, resulting in longer mileage range.
When choosing a conversion kit, it is important to consider the voltage and wattage that best suits your needs. Kits typically range from 36V to 48V and 500W to 3000W. The cost of conversion kits can vary, with prices starting as low as $339.99 and going up to a few hundred dollars, depending on the specifications.
It is worth noting that some users have successfully converted Trek bikes to electric using conversion kits. For example, one user converted a Trek 830 in 2015 with a 500W 36V rear-geared hub kit and a 36V battery, resulting in a reliable e-bike. Another user converted an entry-level Trek MTB with a pre-laced front hub motor, while someone else converted a Trek Dual Sport with a mid-drive kit and a rear rack battery.
Before purchasing a conversion kit, it is important to carefully assess the suitability and potential fitment of your donor bicycle, especially when it comes to battery placement and motor compatibility.
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Battery and motor options
There are several battery and motor options available for those looking to convert their Trek bike to electric. The type of motor and battery you choose will depend on your specific needs and preferences, as well as the compatibility with your Trek bike model. Here are some options to consider:
Mid-Drive Motors
Mid-drive motors are installed at the bottom bracket of the bike and transfer power to the rear wheel via the chain. Advocates of mid-drive motors claim they offer higher performance and torque than hub-drive motors, provide a lower centre of gravity, and work more efficiently with the bike's gears. This increased efficiency results in a longer mileage range. Additionally, mid-drive motors make changing a flat tire easier, whereas with a hub motor, it can be more complicated or even impossible to do on the road. Examples of mid-drive motors include the Bafang BBS02 750W mid-drive kit and the Bafang Front Hub Motor kit, which offers a range of spec choices, including wheel size and display preferences.
Hub Motors
Hub motors are installed directly into the wheel, either front or rear, and can be powerful and high-quality. Grin Tech, for example, offers a 9C motor rated 36V and 750W, which can perform well within temperature limits at 48V. Ebikeling also offers a 500W 36V rear geared hub motor.
Batteries
When it comes to batteries, there are several options to consider. Swytch offers a range of power packs, including the AIR and GO power packs, which can be easily strapped to your frame and provide a significant boost in battery capacity and range. The GO power pack, for instance, can provide up to 378Wh of battery capacity and a range of 45-60 miles. Additionally, the AIR power pack is the smallest and lightest e-bike battery in the world, making it easy to attach and remove with its quick-release mount.
When choosing a battery, it is important to consider the fit, especially for triangle batteries, as highlighted by one user who had to mount their battery on the top tube due to a small frame. It is also worth noting that some batteries may need to be stored indoors during winter to maintain longevity.
Overall, the electric bike conversion kit market offers a dynamic range of options, with well-established brands like Bafang and Swytch providing comprehensive kits to cater to different needs and budgets.
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Compatibility and safety
Compatibility:
When converting a Trek bike to electric, it is important to ensure that the electric components are compatible with the bike's existing system. This includes considering the type of motor, battery, and display. Some Trek bikes may have specific requirements or limitations that need to be addressed during the conversion process. For example, when converting a Trek 520 touring bike, the drop bars posed a challenge as the mounting brackets on the control unit and throttle were designed for flat handlebars.
Additionally, the type of motor and its placement are important compatibility considerations. Mid-drive motors, which assist in turning the cranks and transferring power to the rear wheel via the chain, are popular choices for Trek conversions. These motors are said to offer higher performance, torque, and efficiency compared to hub-drive motors. However, it is important to ensure that the frame can accommodate the motor and battery, as some Trek bikes may have smaller frames that require creative battery placement.
Safety:
Safety is a crucial aspect of converting a Trek bike to electric. It is important to ensure that the electrical components are properly installed and secured to avoid accidents. Waterproofing the electrical connections, for example, can help prevent short circuits and potential electrical hazards. Additionally, it is important to consider the braking system, especially if using a throttle. In some cases, the electric braking system may need to be disabled or adjusted to work with the existing brake levers.
Another safety consideration is the battery. Trek e-bikes use batteries from Tier 1 manufacturers, ensuring high-quality and safe operation. When converting a Trek bike, it is important to source a battery from a reputable manufacturer that meets safety standards. Proper battery management and monitoring systems, such as the Battery Management System (BMS) found in Trek e-bikes, can help ensure safe and efficient battery operation.
Furthermore, it is important to follow local regulations and guidelines regarding electric bikes. For example, in the United States, there are government safety regulations that prohibit air travel with the large batteries typically found on e-bikes. Properly securing your e-bike with a good lock and parking it in a well-lit area can also enhance its safety and reduce the risk of theft.
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Installation
The first step in installing an electric bike conversion kit is to select the type of kit you want. The two main types of kits available are mid-drive and hub motors. Mid-drive motors assist in turning the cranks and transferring power to the rear wheel via the chain. Hub motors, on the other hand, are housed inside the hub of a wheel and can be installed in the front or rear, with rear installation being more common for more powerful motors.
If you opt for a mid-drive kit, such as the popular ones by Bafang, you'll be replacing the crankset, and these kits usually have a single chain ring. They work with the bike's existing gears and can offer excellent performance and torque. However, they may wear out the drivetrain faster.
If you choose a hub motor kit, you'll be replacing the bike's rear wheel. An example of this type of kit is the Golden Motor Magic Pie v5 hub motor, which includes a throttle and new brakes that cut power to the motor while braking.
Once you've selected your kit, the next step is to install it. This typically involves removing the rear wheel by loosening the rear brake cable and the wheel's quick-release lever. You'll then need to hold down the rear derailleur while lifting the wheel to remove it. With the wheel off, use a freewheel remover tool and a 1" socket to remove the freewheel. If you plan to reuse your existing tube and tire, deflate the tire and use tire levers to remove it.
After transferring the tube and tire to the new wheel, install the freewheel onto the new hub, ensuring you use any included spacers to prevent binding. If your kit includes a display, mount it to the centre of the handlebars. Install the included throttle and e-brake on the left handlebar, along with any controls for the display. On the right handlebar, install the cruise control switch, the remaining e-brake, and the shifter.
There will be several wires that need to be run along the frame of the bike, so take your time and secure them with zip ties. Loop the wire to the battery around the seat tube to avoid cutting it. Connect it directly to the battery mount, which should install easily in the holes for a water bottle holder.
Finally, make any necessary adjustments to the motor's settings, such as max speed, acceleration, and regenerative braking.
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Maintenance and recycling
Maintenance
Maintenance for an electric Trek bike is generally the same as for any other bicycle. However, there are some additional considerations to keep in mind. Firstly, the battery should be treated with care and stored at room temperature, as extreme temperatures can cause degradation. It is also important to keep the battery charged to its full capacity and store it at around 60% charge when not in use. Regular chain cleaning and lubrication are necessary, and it is important to check the brake pads, brake fluid, and brake cables regularly. Additionally, the weight of electric bikes means that it is ideal to store them at ground level, and a safe rack is required to support the extra weight.
When it comes to cleaning, Trek electric bikes can be washed, and their e-systems are designed to withstand rainfall. However, removing the battery can make the bike easier to lift and clean. It is recommended to refer to official Trek resources for guidance on how to store, transport, and clean your Trek electric bike.
Recycling
The recycling process for Trek electric bike batteries involves returning them to a local Trek retailer or store, which serves as an official e-bike battery recycling centre. This process incurs a $15 battery recycling fee when purchasing a new Trek e-bike or e-bike battery. This fee ensures that old batteries are responsibly recycled, preventing them from ending up in landfills, which can cause harm to the environment.
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Frequently asked questions
Electric bikes break down barriers to riding like hills, hot weather, and fitness. They are also incredibly fun. You can ride farther, carry more, and explore the possibilities that come with a little extra power.
There are several good electric bike conversion kits available in the market. Some popular ones are the Swytch kit, TongSheng kit, and Voilamart kit. The Swytch kit is super simple to install, while the TongSheng kit is lightweight and high-torque. The Voilamart kit is an inexpensive rear-wheel conversion option, although you'll need to source the battery separately.
When choosing an electric bike conversion kit, consider your budget and how much you plan to use the converted bike. If you're unsure about your commitment, opt for a cheaper kit and upgrade later if needed. Also, ensure the battery voltage and output match the motor, and that your charger is compatible.
The range of an electric bike varies widely, typically between 20 and 100 miles on a single charge. The range depends on various factors, including the rider's weight, terrain, and assist level. You can use tools like Bosch's range finder or the Trek Central App to get more accurate range estimates.
Here are some tips based on other users' experiences:
- Consider your needs and budget when choosing a conversion kit.
- Ensure the battery and motor are compatible, and the charger is suitable.
- Consider the wheel diameter, width, axle standard, and brake type when choosing a hub motor kit.
- For a mid-drive motor, you'll need an alloy frame and a bottom bracket width of 68-73mm.
- Install fenders to protect yourself from mud and rain.
- Consider a suspension seat post for a stiff frame.
