Convert mountain bike to electric-powered machines is an exciting and achievable goal that transforms your regular ride into an exhilarating adventure. The conversion process, while detailed, becomes much easier with a reliable companion and the right knowledge. By selecting the right bike and components, you can unlock the potential of electric-assisted biking. Imagine the thrill of cruising through rugged trails with enhanced speed, power, and efficiency, making your outdoor journey more delightful and even professional.
Having a guide to lead you through each step of the procedure ensures everything is done effectively. From installing the necessary parts to understanding how each component contributes to your electric-powered adventure, the process is not just about the technicalities. It’s about embracing a new way of biking that combines both thrill and functionality.
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Understanding Electric Bikes
When you think about transforming your bicycle into an electric-powered marvel, it’s helpful to first understand how electric bikes work. These modern machines combine electricity and cycling, making pedaling much easier, especially on a hill or against a tough headwind. With the rise of e-bikes, riders can cover longer distances at higher speeds without feeling physically drained. From navigating steep trails and off-road slopes to handling urban commuting or recreational outings on cleared roads and paths, these bikes enhance both enjoyment and utility.
Whether tackling rugged mountain terrain with fat tires and low handlebars or opting for a sleek, comfortable commuter bike with upright designs and narrow tires, e-bikes cater to a wide range of needs. They make carrying small stuff simpler, reduce strain on joints and muscles, and allow riders to enjoy the ride without worrying about becoming overheated. Whether for daily errands, work commuting, or exploring expansive off-road trails, electric bikes are transforming the way we ride.
How To Convert Mountain Bike To Electric?
Want to learn about convert mountain bike to electric? You are in the right place! We’ll guide you through everything, from choosing the perfect components to making sure installation is hassle-free.
Follow our comprehensive guide to find the top mountain bike for conversion and seamlessly integrate an electric kit to elevate your ride.
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Selecting The Right Kit
When choosing an electric bike kit, it’s essential to focus on a few important attributes to ensure you get the best product for your purpose. A standard kit usually comprises key elements like a motor, controller, battery, and throttle. Start by deciding the level of power you’ll need based on your usage reason—whether it’s for urban driving, tackling an off-road journey, or climbing a hill.
Additionally, consider your budget since higher-quality kits with complex components may require you to pay more upfront. High-performance options can handle diverse terrains but might include premium attributes that cater to specific preferences. Evaluating the pros and cons of different kits will help you strike the right balance between cost and performance for a smooth, efficient riding experience.
Prepare Your Bike
Before adding the electric components, start by ensuring your bike is in good condition. Thoroughly clean the frame and remove the back wheel along with the gear-changing parts. Next, check the frame’s compatibility to ensure it can securely accommodate the motor and battery. A clean, well-maintained frame will provide a secure fit for all the new parts, ensuring a smooth and reliable conversion process.
Installation Of Motor And Battery Pack
Follow these steps to install the motor and secure the battery pack when converting your bike to an electric bike (e-bike).
- Select a suitable motor, battery pack, and vendor for your conversion project to ensure optimal performance and reliability of your e-bike.
- Begin by removing the bottom bracket to create space for installing the motor. Pay attention to detail for proper alignment and a secure fit.
- Attach the chainring securely to the motor, ensuring efficient power transmission to the bike’s drivetrain for smooth functionality.
- Choose a compatible battery that matches your power and range requirements while considering factors like capacity and weight for optimal balance.
- Securely attach the battery pack to the bike’s frame, ensuring it’s mounted in a balanced position that doesn’t interfere with your riding or handling.
Attach the bracket to the handlebars
To secure the bracket, start by using the strap to keep it attached to the bars and stop it from rotating. If your handlebars are skinnier, the kit usually includes adaptors to ensure a proper fit. Tighten the bracket in place using a couple of screws and carefully clamp it tightly to avoid any movement during the ride.
Attach magnet disc and sensor
Begin by securing the magnet disc, which features a split design, allowing it to clip easily around the inside of the left or non-drive side crank. Once in place, it is held securely with its retention ring. Next, stick the sensor onto the frame, aligning it directly with the magnets. This ensures the sensor accurately detects when the cranks are moving for smooth pedal-assist functionality.
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Plug in the cables
Start by connecting the thickest main cable to the hub, ensuring it is plugged securely. The orange cable attaches to the cadence sensor, which also needs plugging in properly. Use cable ties to keep the lengths tidy and prevent them from flapping or getting caught on the spokes or cranks during the ride. If you’re considering a brake sensor upgrade kit, the blue cables are used for this optional feature, but you can leave them untouched if not needed.
Testing and Calibration
Before riding your e-bike, check and adjust the system to ensure all parts are working properly. Switch the system on, test the throttle operation, brakes, and pedal-assist functions to confirm smooth performance. Calibrate the bike by setting speed limits, pedal-assist levels, and acceleration according to your preference and local regulations. Additionally, inspect the electrical connections and wiring carefully to prevent trouble during the ride.
Enjoy Your Ride
After setting up and testing your e-bike, it’s finally ready for an exciting journey. Whether you’re cycling to work, exploring rugged trails, or cruising around town, electrified biking is both convenient and enjoyable. It also helps decrease your carbon footprint, making it a sustainable choice. Always ride securely, follow traffic rules, and show respect to other road users to have a safe and enjoyable time on your electric bike.
Electric bike conversion kits: different types explained
To electrify your existing bike, there are several options available to suit different needs. You can fit a powered wheel at the front or rear, attach a drive unit to the bottom bracket, or even use a motor that works via friction. For a sleek design, some kits conceal the motor inside the seatpost. Whether you ride a hybrid, mountain, road, folder, tourer, or gravel bike, conversion is often possible. With basic tools, a competent home mechanic can easily handle the installation, making it a handy project for an afternoon spare.
Powered ebike wheels
Fitting a powered ebike wheel is one of the most practical options for many people looking to electrify their bike. These wheels are built around a special hub containing a motor, powered by a separate battery. While the installation is simple, one downside is the added rotating mass, which makes it harder to accelerate compared to non-rotating mass. You’ll find a steady stream of front and rear conversion kits on platforms like Amazon and eBay, often priced around £150.
Be cautious with systems controlled by a throttle, also called twist-and-go, as they’re legally classified as electric motorcycles. These require taxation and insurance, unlike regular e-bikes. Always check the laws in your area, and consider using a guide for accurate information.
Rear-mounted friction drive ebike conversion kit
For those nostalgic for the 1980s and 1990s, friction-based systems are making a comeback with modern devices like the Rubbee. This bolt-on electric assistance kit attaches to the rear wheel and uses a rubber flywheel, powered by a motor, to provide a seamless boost to your bike. The base model weighs just 2.8kg and offers a 16km range, which can be extended up to 48km with the top-spec 4kg version.
The Rubbee is designed to work with any wheel diameter between 16in and 29in and features an integrated carrying handle for convenience. It clips onto the seatpost for easy installation and removal, making it a user-friendly option. With prices starting at €579, this system combines practicality and innovation for riders looking for a compact and effective electric conversion.
Concealed ebike conversion kit
A low-key option for converting your bike involves hiding the motor inside the frame, making it almost invisible. The Vivax Assist was a popular device for this purpose, though the company ceased trading after its use in a controversial Belgian cyclocross event. In 2016, pro rider Femke Van den Driessche used the system to gain a significant power boost, securing victory in her home championships before being caught in a subsequent race. This led to a six-year ban, after which she quit racing. While the Vivax Assist is no longer available, we reckon the idea of concealed systems remains intriguing for both innovators and budding cyclists.
Mid-drive ebike conversion kit
A mid-drive ebike conversion kit is a great choice for those seeking a powerful and balanced upgrade. Many commercially available e-bikes come with motors mounted near the bottom bracket, close to the pedals, providing a low center of gravity for improved stability. However, aftermarket conversion kits allow you to achieve similar benefits without buying a ready-made e-bike. Brands like Bafang and TongSheng offer mid-drive units that are easy to install and designed to fit up to 95 per cent of standard frames.
Bafang’s kits, available on Amazon, start at £360 and include tools to remove the bottom bracket and attach the drive to the front down tube. These systems offer compatibility with various frames and configurations. For a more lightweight option, the TongSheng mid-motor systems weigh 30 per cent lighter than Bafang units and include a torque sensor to meet UK regulations for legal e-bike use. Starting at around €350, these kits are affordable but don’t typically include a battery.
For premium performance, the German brand Pendix offers a high-quality mid-drive system priced from €999 to €2,190, with a weight starting at 5.4kg and a 28km range. This kit can replace a BSA bottom bracket and works on folding bikes and regular machines alike.
Folding ebike conversion kit
If you own a folding bike and want to embrace the electric revolution, there are great options available, especially for Brompton bikes. Several e-bike conversion kits exist, featuring a powered hub motor in the front wheel and a battery mounted in a bag for portability.
Swytch and Cytronex are popular brands for these systems, with Swytch offering a clip-on power pack, a bottom bracket torque sensor, and a range of up to 50km. The Swytch Brompton kit costs £999, but discounts of up to 50 percent can occasionally be offered.
For added versatility, Swytch builds wheels for other folders, accommodating various sizes, fork blade widths, and brands like Dahon.
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Why convert your bike to an e-bike?
What types of conversion kit are available?
There are various conversion kits available to suit different bikes and riding styles. Wheel-based systems use a hub motor that replaces your existing wheel with a motorized and compatible alternative. These kits can provide power to either the front or rear wheel and are ideal for straightforward installations. For those looking for something different, systems like Rubbee drive your tire by pushing against it, though tire wear might become an issue over time.
Another option is powering the e-bike through the cranks or the bottom bracket, offering a more balanced ride. The e-bike’s battery can be bolted onto the frame, attached to the handlebars, or even fitted as a battery pack on a rear rack.
How much does it cost to convert a bike to an e-bike?
Prices for a conversion kit can vary based on the type of kit and the size of the battery. On average, you can expect to pay a total of between £500 and £800 for a kit from a reputable brand, though there may be outliers at either end of the price range. It’s important to consider your budget and the features you need before making a choice.
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Is converting an electric bike worth it?
Deciding whether to go for an electric conversion kit depends on several factors. First, your bike must be a suitable candidate in decent condition to justify the effort and expense. If your bike needs major repairs or isn’t roadworthy, the cost of conversion might not be much cheaper than buying a complete electric bike. You should also be confident you can fit the motor and other components yourself; otherwise, paying for professional help can quickly eat into your savings.
Additionally, an electric bike conversion may impact handling, especially with a heavy motor or battery mounted in places the bike wasn’t designed to carry weight. Drivetrain components might not be beefed up enough to handle the extra power and could wear or break under strain. Issues like torque steer, messy cabling, or unsightly sensors can also arise. A complete electric bike from a reputable brand may be a better option since it’s fully engineered for seamless performance, giving you a polished product from the start.
Can you convert any bike into an electric bike?
Not all bikes are suitable for an electric conversion, but many designs are made to work with a variety of types. Some kits are engineered specifically for folding bikes or bikes with narrower tyres, such as road bikes. A Rubbee kit is mountable on most bikes, though tyre wear and wet-weather grip could become an issue, especially with the motor’s drive wheel pressing against the tyre.
Certain specific setups, like those requiring a unique bottom bracket configuration or an unusual wheel size, may not fit all bikes. This could limit options, so checking compatibility with your planned solution is key. By choosing the right kit, you can avoid potential problems and ensure your conversion meets your needs effectively. Always plan carefully before buying a kit to guarantee a smooth upgrade.
Are electric bike conversion kits any good?
E-bike conversion kits are an excellent choice for those looking to transform their bike without spending a lot. While you won’t get the best motors or seamlessly integrated batteries, these kits are much cheaper than purchasing a brand-new e-bike. They deliver similar benefits, making them ideal for commuting, utility cycling, or giving you a boost to tackle hills, ride the flat, or carry heavy loads. They are also great for leisure cycling, allowing you to manage your effort level while significantly extending your riding range.
For those with more specialist utility needs, a cargo e-bike might offer better capacity, but it comes at a much higher cost. Similarly, if you’re aesthetic conscious, modern e-road bikes closely resemble non-powered options, though they are more expensive. In contrast, a conversion kit gives you the flexibility to flatten steep climbs and lug extra weight without breaking the bank, making it a versatile solution.
Do e-bike conversion kits affect the bike's warranty or legal status?
If you’re buying a brand-new bike, installing an e-bike conversion kit may void the original manufacturer’s warranty since it involves modifying components. However, there’s a good chance you’ll be fine as long as you remove the kit and restore the bike to its factory condition before returning it. Conversion kits are typically easy to uninstall, making this process straightforward.
On the legal status side, it depends on your local legislation. For example, in the UK, you can ride an electric bike if you are 14 or older and the motor meets the maximum power and speed requirements. It’s always a good idea to spend time researching the laws in your area before purchasing a conversion kit to ensure compliance.
Are electric bike conversion kits legal?
When converting your bike with an electric conversion kit, it’s essential to ensure it’s legal where you live. Rules for these kits can differ based on location. In most places, the motor must be limited to a maximum of 250 watts of continuous power output, and the bike can only be used on private land if it exceeds this limit. You’ll need to be pedalling for the motor to work, and any throttle should only operate at low speeds. Assistance must cut off when the speed exceeds 25kph. Some regions also have a minimum age to ride an electric bike, such as 14 in the UK.
In the US, the laws allow for higher power outputs and speeds, while Australia has variants depending on the state. Before purchasing, it’s worth checking the local regulations to confirm that your electric bike conversion kit is compliant. Adhering to these precise rules ensures a safer and legal riding experience.
The Bottom Line
If you’re ready to upgrade your mountain bike, follow these simple steps: choose the right kit, prep your bike, install the motor and battery, and connect everything securely before giving it a test. With electric kits, you can enjoy faster and more powerful rides, whether for daily commuting or adventurous trail riding. The transformation into electric biking is within reach, offering a thrilling experience that takes your rides to the next level.
