Why purchase a brand new e-bike when an electric bike conversion kit can transform your existing bike? These kits offer a practical way to add a boost to your cycling routine, providing pedal assistance to help you broaden the range and scope of your riding. For families or individuals looking for a sustainable and greener mode of transport, this suitable option is both cost-effective and fun. I’ve personally seen how these kits can make biking more accessible, whether for casual rides, commuting, or exploring diverse terrains and environments.
The market for e-bikes can be overwhelming, with options that come with a hefty upfront cost. However, the best electric bike conversion kit lets you enjoy the benefits of an e-bike without breaking the bank. It’s a cheaper form of transport, saving you money on soaring fuel and rail fare prices, while also offering a speedier, less sweaty cycle. These kits are particularly beneficial for work commutes or simply enjoying the experience of a smoother ride. Whether you’re weighing your options or already have a bike at home that suits your style, this approach keeps things simple and efficient.
One of the greatest advantages of converting your bike is being able to continue enjoying its unique quality. With an electrically-assisted upgrade, you get to explore new adventures without losing the feel of your original ride. Whether you’re tackling steep hills or covering longer distances, the added boost ensures every journey is as effortless as it is enjoyable. For those seeking the best of both worlds, these kits are a game-changer, offering flexibility and reliability without compromise.
To make your decision-making process easier, our buyer’s guide below highlights important factors to think about when installing an electric conversion kit on your bike. It covers a variety of motor and battery options, all of which we’ve tested extensively in real-world riding conditions to assess their ease of installation and the type of electrical assistance they offer.
Related: Convert Mountain Bike To Electric
best electric bike conversion kit overall
1. Cytronex
Specifications
- The wattage of the kit is 250 watts.
- A battery is included.
- The battery size is 198Wh.
- The motor position is in the front hub.
Reasons to buy
- The design shows thorough attention to detail, ensuring a seamless experience for users.
- A clever battery setup helps maximize power while staying cheaper to deliver and safe for flying.
- The controls are easy to operate during riding, making it convenient for daily use.
- An accompanying app offers basic diagnostics, helping riders monitor performance effortlessly.
- The kit can be installed using Allen keys, making it a straightforward option for most users.
Reasons to avoid
- While the purchase process is thorough and ensures the right configuration is easy to select, the installation can be complicated and may take time to complete.
The Cytronex electric bike conversion kit shines with its well-designed features and remarkable craftsmanship. It’s easy to install using just Allen keys, and its accompanying app provides useful diagnostics. Once installed, it’s incredibly easy to operate, making it the perfect choice for those who prefer hassle-free functionality. During testing on a Brompton T-Line, the kit delivered smooth and intuitive power, proving itself both strong and durable for daily commuting.
While it may seem pricier than other options like a Bafang kit found on Amazon, the UK-based company offers comprehensive customer support, which is worth the investment. Buying direct ensures access to help if something goes wrong, making it a smarter choice in the long run. This thorough purchasing process may feel a bit over-complicated initially, but it leads to a straightforward conversion and a reliable, high-quality experience.
Related: best bikes to build a cafe racer
Best budget option
2. Bafang Front Hub Motor
Specifications
- Wattage options include 250, 500, and 750 watts.
- A battery is included.
- The battery size varies, with an impressive 840Wh tested for longer rides.
- The motor position is in the front hub, providing balance and easy handling.
Reasons to buy
- The kit offers a relatively easy setup, making it simple to install for most riders.
- Once converted, it delivers a powerful and reliable performance.
- High-quality components ensure durability and long-term use.
- Full control of every component is right in your hands, enhancing user experience.
Reasons to avoid
- Cable management can be a significant challenge, requiring extra effort to keep everything neat and functional.
If you’re working with a tighter budget, the Bafang Front Hub Motor kit is a great option compared to pricier choices like Cytronex or Swytch. Designed by a Chinese manufacturer, this electric bike conversion kit simplifies things by avoiding the complexity of a mid-drive setup, making it an easier alternative for beginners. It comes with everything required, offering tons of spec choices to customize your ride. You can select your wheel size, display preference, battery size, and even the battery shape, making it versatile and user-focused.
While the installation process is more complex than options like Cytronex, Swytch, or Rubbee, the extra time investment is worth it. The result is a powerful, high-quality set-up that delivers reliable performance. With the Bafang Front Hub kit, you can achieve a personalized experience without overspending, making it a practical and efficient choice for riders looking for flexibility and value.
Related: Best Mountain Biking Glasses
Best for easy installation
3. Rubbee X
Specifications
- Wattage of 250 watts provides sufficient power for most riders.
- A battery is included, making the kit ready for installation.
- The battery size options are 94Wh, 186Wh, and 272Wh, which have been tested for different needs.
- The motor position on the rear tire ensures balanced and efficient performance.
Reasons to buy
- Features regenerative braking, adding efficiency and extending battery life during rides.
- Equipped with a wireless cadence sensor, ensuring smooth and responsive pedal assistance.
- Incredibly simple to set up and easy to remove, making it convenient for everyday use.
Reasons to avoid
- The motor can produce noticeable noise on the tire, especially when riding in the rain, which might reduce the overall riding experience.
The Rubbee X offers one of the most simple install options, taking convenience a step further than many kits. We were impressed with how easy it was to attach the mount to the bike’s seat post and then click the unit into place. With this design, there’s no need to change the wheel like with the Swytch system, as the motor sits on the rear tyre and a roller pushes it from above. This kit features a wireless cadence sensor, which adjusts based on your pedalling cadence, making it a cadence-based system rather than relying on torque.
It has a sleek 250-watt motor paired with a single battery, offering up to 10 miles of range in its basic configuration. For those needing more, you can add another battery to double the range, or opt for the three-battery model that provides extra range and 100 watts of additional power. The Rubbee X also comes with a handy phone app to switch between assistance modes, allowing riders to fine-tune their experience for different conditions.
Related: 14 Best dirt bike trails in Oklahoma
Blend in - it just looks like a normal bike
4. Swytch
Specifications
- The wattage of 250 watts.
- A battery is included.
- Battery sizes of 90Wh and 180Wh are available.
- The motor position is in the front hub, offering balanced handling and easier installation.
Reasons to buy
- The battery is tiny, making the kit lightweight and compact.
- Provides a pleasant ride with smooth assistance.
- Easy to move the kit to a different bike frame, adding versatility.
- The kit is inexpensive, making it a great option if you’re patient during the ordering process.
Reasons to avoid
- The ordering process can feel convoluted, requiring extra time and patience.
- The kit has a short range, which may not suit long-distance riders.
The Swytch system makes it incredibly simple to convert your bike to electric by letting you swap the front wheel for one equipped with a front hub motor. It’s an approach that balances simplicity with efficiency, offering more than just a motor and battery. During our time testing and reviewing, it was evident that the team behind Swytch has carefully considered the whole system in its design, ensuring everything works seamlessly together.
One standout feature is the battery, which mounts to the handlebars for easy access and usability. This useful detail means you can disconnect it effortlessly for storage, preventing it from being stolen when parked or lightening the load if you need to carry the bike up a flight of stairs. The 2022 Switch system we reviewed features a sleek LCD display mounted on the handlebars, offering a smoother and more intuitive experience than previous button controls on the battery.
Additionally, the kit comes with a cadence sensor that easily attaches to your bike, allowing for smooth pedal-assist functionality. It’s a well-thought-out system that not only looks great but also feels intuitive and reliable during rides.
Easy and plentiful configuration
5. Bafang Mid-Drive Motor Kit and Battery
Specifications
- Wattage of 500 watts.
- A battery is included.
- Battery size varies, providing flexibility to match your range requirements.
- The motor position at the crank ensures efficient power transfer and better balance.
Reasons to buy
- Offers US-specific support, ensuring reliable customer service for local users.
- Comes with lots of kit options, allowing flexibility to customize according to your needs.
- Manufactured by one of the most experienced conversion kit manufacturers, ensuring quality and reliability.
Reasons to avoid
- The instructions could be more detailed, making installation challenging for some users.
- Compatible with 68-73mm bottom bracket shells only, limiting its use on certain bike frames.
Founded in 2003, Bafang has become one of the most prominent and recognized names in the electric bike motor industry worldwide. In 2014, it set up a US arm to provide better support for the US market, making it a trusted choice for riders. Bafang’s reputation for reliability is evident in its widespread use by many leading component manufacturers. If you want to source your own electric bike components, you’ll find this mid-drive motor conversion kit to be an excellent option.
This kit includes everything you need to get started, provided your bike has a bottom bracket size between 68mm and 73mm. You can customize key features like the front chainring size, battery size, and the display that works best for you. If you’re unsure about drive options or whether a mid-drive motor suits your needs, check out our FAQs for a detailed breakdown of possibilities to choose from.
Best for bike shop support
6. Pendix eDrive 300
Specifications
- Wattage of 250 watts, delivering efficient power for smooth rides.
- A battery is included, ensuring the kit is ready to install and use.
- The battery size is 330Wh, offering a decent range for various biking needs.
- The motor position at the crank provides better balance and improved torque sensing.
Reasons to buy
- Fits most bikes with a threaded bottom bracket, offering wide compatibility.
- Features torque-sensing pedal assist, ensuring a smooth and responsive riding experience.
- Comes dealer installed, guaranteeing professional setup and reducing user effort.
Reasons to avoid
- You are not allowed to fit it yourself, as it requires professional installation.
- The dealer installation may come at an additional cost, adding to the overall expense.
The Pendix system is an excellent option if you like the idea of a mid-drive system with torque-sensing pedal assist. While such systems offer smooth and responsive power, the challenge lies in the complexity of installation. For some, removing and replacing a bottom bracket may seem straightforward, but for others, it can be an intimidating prospect. This is where the Pendix system shines, as it is supported by a dealer network that handles sales, support, and installation professionally.
Though this service comes with an extra cost, the benefit is significant. You can feel comfortable knowing that the kit is correctly installed and ready to ride without any worries.
Best for natural ride feel
7. TongSheng Mid-Drive Kit with Battery
Specifications
- Wattage of 500 watts, offering powerful performance for diverse riding needs.
- A battery is included, making the kit ready to install and use immediately.
- Battery size varies, allowing flexibility to meet different range requirements.
- The motor position at the crank ensures balanced weight distribution and smooth torque delivery.
Reasons to buy
- Features torque sensor-based pedal assist, ensuring precise and responsive power delivery.
- Provides natural-feeling acceleration, offering a smooth and intuitive riding experience.
Reasons to avoid
- The instructions aren’t great, which might make installation confusing for some users.
For a natural-feeling electric bike conversion kit, the TongSheng system stands out with its mid-mounted motor and torque sensor. This combination offers the very best pedaling experience, as the torque-based system adjusts power output to match your effort. Unlike the cadence-based system found in options like the Rubbee X, this setup adds a percentage of the power you generate. The Max torque of 80Nm enhances your pedaling power, providing between 36 per cent and 300 per cent additional support, depending on the chosen assist level.
Think of it as an amplifier for your efforts. When you pedal harder, you naturally go faster, much like on a normal bike, but with significant help from the motor. This means your muscles get extra support, allowing you to go further with less effort.
Related: Essential Mountain Bike Accessories
Types of e-bike conversion kits
Friction drive conversion
A friction drive e-bike conversion uses a roller that pushes against the tire to power the wheel. As the roller turns, the wheel turns, making it a simple strategy that works well for basic setups. While it’s not the most efficient option, it requires little involvement to get started, making it accessible for beginners. The Rubbee X is a great example of a friction drive conversion kit system, offering straightforward functionality for those seeking simplicity.
Mid-drive conversion
The best electric bikes often feature a mid-drive system because it provides a natural ride feel. This configuration keeps weight low within the frame and channels power through the crank, allowing for a smooth and natural power delivery experience. While mid-drive conversion kits deliver exceptional performance, the downside is the pricing and packaging, and it can be complex to set up on your own. Figuring out the right standards for your bike can also be challenging. However, options like the Bafang Mid Drive Motor Kit make this style of conversion worth considering for its balance and efficiency.
Electric bike wheel conversion
An electric bike wheel conversion involves swapping a front or rear wheel for one with a hub-mounted motor, creating a great balance between ease and functionality. The installation process is straightforward, and the way the battery is mounted often ensures balanced weight distribution. While a front-wheel motor might feel heavy and affect the handling of the bike, it’s a practical alternative if a mid-drive system seems overwhelming. For such setups, options like Cytronex and Swytch provide easy installation with reliable performance.
Related: Best Bike Paths Near Me?
How to choose the best electric bike conversion kit for you
When fitting an electric bike conversion kit to your bike, start by thinking about your personal requirements and doing thorough research. This guide is here to help with key details. Check the laws for e-bikes in your region and decide on a conversion kit that matches your range and journey needs. If you live in a hilly city, you might need a kit with more top-end power. Ensure the system is compatible with the bike you plan to fit it on. If installation feels overwhelming, get a quote from a reputable bike shop for professional installation.
Do all electric bike conversion kits come with a battery?
The short answer is not always. When browsing online for a kit, ensure the one you select has a battery included, as many kits don’t come with one. Some options might tempt you with an unbelievable price, but you should double-check to see if a battery is part of the package. If needed, you can get the battery separately, but make sure its voltage and output are compatible with the motor. Also, verify that the charger is compatible, as charger incompatibility is a common cause of fires in electric bikes.
What is the range of an e-bike conversion?
The range of best electric bike conversion kit depends on factors like battery size and motor power, which are key to understanding performance. According to a simple calculation, a 100Wh (Watt-Hour) battery can sustain a motor running at 100 watts for one hour. For example, if your e-bike conversion kit has a 250-watt motor and a 500Wh battery, it would provide around two hours of full power. However, converting this into a distance or range can be confusing, as various conditions like terrain and riding style affect power consumption.
When riding uphill, the bike uses more power but moves slower, while riding downhill requires less energy and covers more ground. Factors like your location, terrain, and whether you use full power sparingly or everywhere can drastically change the range. Additionally, cold weather impacts batteries, making them perform worse and drain faster in winter compared to summer. Typically, a 200Wh battery combined with a 250W motor provides an estimated range of 25-30km over varied terrain with variable power consumption.
For those seeking longer trips, long-range electric bike conversion kits offer batteries with a larger capacity, extending the range up to three times more. That said, such batteries are large, and heavy and come with a significantly higher price tag. It’s essential to weigh your needs against the kit’s features to make an informed decision.
How fast do electric bikes go?
Electric bikes and electric bike conversion kits are designed to assist pedaling, not entirely replace it. The measurement of power in these systems is in wattage, and a higher wattage motor can achieve faster speeds. However, the speed is often restricted due to country-specific regulations. For example, in the UK, an e-bike can legally provide assistance up to 25kph (15.5mph). Beyond this speed, the bike can go faster, but without motor assistance. Any bike exceeding these limits would not qualify under the electrically assisted pedal cycles (EAPC) criteria and would be considered a moped or motorcycle, requiring it to be licensed and taxed. Similar rules apply in the EU, with slight variations.
In the United States, regulations vary by state, but some e-bike classes allow for more powerful motors compared to Europe. Individual states have their own legal frameworks, which can affect the permissible speed and motor wattage. Before choosing a kit, it’s essential to check the laws in your country to ensure compliance.
Which bike is best for electric conversion?
Before choosing to install an electric bike conversion kit, evaluate the condition and componentry of your old bike. An electric motor significantly increases torque, which can strain a low-quality or worn drivetrain, leading to poor performance, such as shifting issues, or the chain skipping or even snapping. Ensuring your bike’s drivetrain is in good shape is essential to handle the extra power smoothly and safely.
Another critical factor is the brakes. Adding the extra weight of a conversion kit and achieving potentially higher speeds puts more stress on the braking system. To curtail momentum effectively, we recommend using a bike equipped with disc brakes, as they provide far better braking performance compared to traditional brake systems.
I haven't heard of a lot of these brands, are they safe to use?
In the world of electric bikes, there’s been a recent boom, with many new brands popping up globally. While Europe and the US are catching up with this growing trend, you may come across many unfamiliar brand names when exploring electric bike conversion kits. Consumers often shy away from a new brand out of caution, which is a reasonable strategy, but in the electric bike world, it’s important to remain open. Limiting yourself to well-known names might result in fewer options, even though some new companies may have a solid history.
That said, don’t rush in or go forward blindly. Always conduct thorough research, be careful with your money, and consider reading reviews. A brand you’ve never heard of might be a well-established name from a different part of the world.
Is converting my bike to an electric bike worth it?
There are many reasons to install an electric bike conversion kit, but whether it’s worth it depends on your circumstances. For some kits, once the installation is complete, it can be an arduous task to remove. If you want the ability to switch between a normal bike and a powered one, consider a system that can be folded out of the way, like the Rubbee X. Alternatively, buying a second bike might offer greater convenience.
The state of your current bike also matters. If you don’t already own one, the cost of buying a bike, along with the kit and fitting it, might not be worth the time, effort, and money. However, if your bike is in reasonable repair, the value for money becomes more practical. Additionally, converting your bike can make it more motivating and enjoyable to use, helping you ditch the car for shorter trips or daily commutes.
For a monetary perspective, calculate your car usage costs per day or mile, including fuel, parking, and running costs. Then, estimate how many days or miles you’ll use the bike after the conversion. This can help you determine how long it will take for the reduction in car running costs to allow the conversion kit to pay for itself.
Should I just buy an electric bike instead?
When deciding between converting your current bike or buying a new electric bike, think about your options. If you have an old bike sitting in the shed that hasn’t been touched for years, it might seem like a perfect candidate for a conversion. However, it could be worth more as a sale, with the money going toward an electric bike already built by someone else. Often, end-use design and build considerations in a factory-built bike come with added advantages like better integration and lower costs.
A quality electric bike conversion kit can sometimes cost nearly the same as a complete electric bike. When a company starts with a clean slate to design a bike, they can keep costs low while achieving better integration. Carefully think about why you’re considering converting your bike. While it can make sense in some cases, the market may offer ready-made solutions that are more efficient and better suited to your needs.
Are electric bike conversion kits legal?
Electric bike conversion kits themselves are completely legal, and you can safely fit one to your bike without any issues. However, the legality depends on how and where you plan to use your newly powered electric bike. The rules can vary depending on which part of the world you are based in and the type of kit you choose. In the US, for example, e-bikes are divided into different classes based on their power, speed limitations, and whether they include a throttle. Each class follows its own set of rules. In contrast, the UK and EU classify anything with a speed limiter of over 25km/h as a moped, while those up to 25km/h (15.5mph) are considered a bicycle.
Before you make a purchase, it’s essential to understand the local laws that govern electric bikes in your area. Our guide to e-bike classes can help you determine the best legal electric bike conversion kit for your needs. For instance, in the UK and EU, the motor must have a continuously rated power output of no more than 250 watts. On the other hand, in the US, more powerful electric bike motors are permitted, and the speed limits for assistance are higher. Additionally, throttle control is allowed in the US, whereas in the UK and EU, the system must be pedal actuated.
The best way to ensure compliance is to carefully read the specifications of your chosen kit and check if it matches the regulations in your region. By doing so, you can confidently enjoy your best electric bike conversion kit without any legal concerns.
Which are the fastest electric bike conversion kits to install?
When looking for the fastest electric bike conversion kit, the simplest options are often the quickest to set up. Friction-drive kits, like the Rubbee X, are great examples. These kits work by placing a roller against the rear tire, allowing the motor to propel the bike. Installing such a kit is straightforward—you only need to mount the device onto the seat post and ensure the roller is properly placed against the tire.
For more complex systems, the process involves removing drivetrain components, wheels, and adding wiring. While not impossible, these installations require some tools, patience, and familiarity with your bike. A kit that includes a replacement wheel is often easier and faster to install than those that fit into the bottom bracket. With a wheel-based system, you can simply swap the old wheel for a new one, making the process relatively straightforward.
Once the replacement wheel is fitted, the remaining steps include bolting the battery to the bike’s frame, connecting the cabling, and attaching any control units or sensors included in the kit. W
How much does an electric bike conversion kit cost?
Prices for an electric bike conversion kit can vary a lot, depending on the type of kit you choose. Basic kits can be found for as little as £250 ($350), while high-end, high-spec options can cost £750 ($900) or more.
An e-bike conversion kit adds value to your bike and is often easy to install and remove. This versatility makes it ideal for riders who want to alternate between power and traditional cycling. However, it’s worth considering insuring your e-bike conversion kit, just in case of theft or damage.
Will a bike shop fit my electric bike conversion kit?
It’s understandable that fitting an electric bike conversion kit yourself can feel like an arduous task. You might not have the tools, know-how, or confidence, or perhaps you lack the time to invest in such a project. Thankfully, many bike shops are happy to handle the installation for you, ensuring it’s done correctly and safely. Some kits, such as Pendix, are sold exclusively in physical stores, with installation included in the package.
For online purchases like the Bafang kit, local bike shops usually charge for installation time, which increases the total cost of the conversion. However, professional installation ensures that the kit is installed properly, providing peace of mind.
Some bike shops or workshops may refuse to fit the kit if they feel the bike is unsuitable or unsafe to modify. If you plan to use your local shop, it’s a good idea to consult with them before purchasing the kit. They’ll assess the job and let you know if they are happy to proceed with the installation.
How do we test the best electric bike conversion kits?
Our buying guides are built on countless hours of experience with products in the real world, ensuring every ebike conversion kit is compared thoroughly. With these kits, there’s an additional need to consider installation challenges.
If a conversion kit is too tough to install, it might increase the cost if professional help is required. That’s why we carefully evaluate the fitting process, spending time to understand how long it takes and how intuitive the setup feels on a bike.
Once installed, we focus on real-world testing to assess the range, ease of use, and durability of the product.
Related: What to Wear Bike Ride
