Transform Your Pedal Bike: Electric Revolution

There are several ways to turn a pedal bike into an electric bike, including using a mid-drive motor, a front-wheel motor, or a rear-wheel motor. The process typically involves choosing a mounting location for the motor and battery, detaching the pedals and crankset, mounting the motor, and connecting the motor cable to the controller. It is important to follow the instructions provided with the electric bike conversion kit and to choose a clean, well-lit area with ample space to work on the bike.

Choosing a mounting location for the battery

When choosing a mounting location for the battery, it's important to select a spot that is secure and doesn't interfere with pedalling or other components. Some possible locations include water bottle cage mounts or a rear rack. Use the provided mounting hardware to securely fasten the battery to the frame, following the instructions provided with your electric bike conversion kit.

The battery will need to be connected to the controller, so keep this in mind when choosing a location. The controller should be placed in a spot that is protected from the elements, such as under the downtube or behind the seat post. Use zip ties or cable ties to secure it in place.

Consider the weight distribution of your bike when choosing a location for the battery. Placing the battery low and centred on the bike will help to keep the centre of gravity low, improving the handling and stability of the bike.

If you're using a mid-drive motor, which uses the existing drivetrain to augment your pedalling with electric power, you'll need to consider the placement of the motor as well. The size of the chainring will determine how much torque you get, so keep this in mind when deciding on a location for the battery. A smaller chainring will allow for quicker acceleration and less strain on the motor, but will result in a lower top speed.

Take your time when choosing a mounting location for the battery, as this will impact the performance and handling of your electric bike. Refer to the instructions provided with your conversion kit, and make sure you have all the necessary tools and materials before beginning the installation process.

Using the right tools to detach the pedals and crankset

To turn a pedal bike into an electric bike, you will need to detach the pedals and crankset. This will require the right tools, including a set of wrenches. The specific tools required may vary depending on your chosen kit and bike model, so it is important to refer to the kit's manual for detailed instructions.

Before beginning any work, ensure you have chosen a clean, well-lit area with ample space to work on your bike. This will make the process safer and more efficient.

To detach the pedals and crankset, follow the instructions in your bike's manual. If you do not have access to the manual, you can find general instructions online or consult a bike mechanic. It is important to use the appropriate wrench sizes to avoid damaging your bike.

Once the pedals and crankset have been detached, you can begin the process of installing the electric motor. This will involve mounting the motor to the bike frame and connecting the necessary cables. Again, refer to your kit's manual for specific instructions on how to install the motor and connect the cables.

Converting a pedal bike into an electric bike can be a complex process, so it is important to take your time and follow the instructions carefully. With the right tools and guidance, you can successfully transform your bike and enjoy the benefits of electric power.

Mounting the motor

If you are using a mid-drive motor, such as the BBS02, it will utilise your bike's existing drivetrain by spinning the front chainring directly. This will then drive the chain and rear gears, resulting in the rear wheel spinning and propelling you forward. To mount this type of motor, you will need to detach the pedals and crankset, following the instructions in your bike's manual.

Another option is to use a front-wheel motor. To install this type of motor, you will need to disassemble the front wheel of your bike, remove the existing tire and tube, and then lace the new motor-integrated rim with the existing spokes. Ensure that the motor cable is facing downwards to minimise the risk of water damage.

Once you have chosen and installed your motor, you will need to connect it to the controller, following the instructions provided with your kit. The controller should be mounted in a secure location on the frame, protected from the elements. Use zip ties or cable ties to keep it in place.

It is important to choose a mounting location that does not interfere with pedalling or other components, such as the water bottle cage mounts or rear rack. Refer to your kit's manual for detailed instructions specific to your motor and bike combination.

Installing the motor wheel

For a front-wheel motor, you will need to disassemble the front wheel of your bike and remove the existing tire and tube. You will then need to lace the new motor-integrated rim with the existing spokes. Once the motor wheel is installed, connect the motor cable to the controller, ensuring that the cable faces downward to minimise the risk of water damage.

Mid-drive motors, on the other hand, use the existing drivetrain to augment your pedalling with electric power. They achieve this by spinning the front chainring, which then drives the chain and rear gears, propelling you forward. The size of the chainring determines the torque (rotation power) you get from a specific RPM (rotation rate). A smaller chainring will allow for quicker acceleration and less strain on the motor but will result in a lower top speed.

When installing the motor, ensure that all components are facing the right direction and use bolts and retaining pieces to secure it in place. You may also want to use Loctite on the threads for added security. Once the motor is mounted, place the chain on the chainring and test the pedals.

It is important to refer to the specific instructions provided with your electric bike conversion kit, as the process may vary slightly depending on the kit and bike model you are working with.

Connecting the battery to the controller

To connect the battery to the controller, you must first choose a mounting location on the bike frame that is secure and doesn't interfere with pedalling or other components. Water bottle cage mounts or a rear rack are good options. Use the provided mounting hardware to securely fasten the battery to the frame.

Next, follow the kit instructions to connect the battery to the controller. Ensure the motor cable is facing down to minimise the risk of water damage. Choose a location on the frame to securely mount the controller, protecting it from the elements. Under the downtube or behind the seatpost are good options. Use zip ties or cable ties to secure the controller in place.

If you are using a mid-drive motor, it will use the existing drivetrain and augment your bike pedalling with electric power. These motors spin the front chainring directly, which then drives the chain and rear gears, spinning the rear wheel and moving you forward. The size of the chainring determines the torque (rotation power) you get from a specific RPM (rotation rate). A smaller chainring will allow for quicker acceleration from a stop and will put less strain on the motor, but will result in a lower top speed.

If you are using a front-wheel motor, you will need to disassemble the front wheel, remove the existing tire and tube, and lace the new motor-integrated rim with the existing spokes. Install the motor wheel and connect the motor cable to the controller, ensuring the cable faces down to minimise water damage.

Frequently asked questions