Search results
Check out our installation video for the eBikeling conversion kit, designed to make transforming your bike into an electric powerhouse a breeze. In this step-by-step tutorial, we'll guide...
- 6 min
- 7K
- eBikeling
Jul 12, 2024 · Transform your bike into an e-bike without breaking the bank using a Best Ebike Conversion Kit. These systems offer an affordable way to add electric power to your existing bicycle. We've...
- 8 min
- 2075
- Ride Revolt
Here are all the pros and cons of the different types, how they work and what it’s like to cycle an electric bike. Jump to: Types explained; Guide to kit parts; Riding a converted bike; Types of electric bike kit. There are three main types of conversion kit: Wheel conversion - the motor is in the wheel hub and helps turn it. The motor can be ...
- Overview
- Types of conversion kit
- Things to bear in mind
- Get daily insight, inspiration and deals in your inbox
News
By Rob Clymo
published 23 April 2022
Power up your regular bike with a conversion kit
(Image credit: Swytch)
If you’re thinking about buying an electric bike then there’s no end of choice. From budget models that come with a basic specification and little in the way of frills, through to high-end two-wheelers with all the trimmings.
There’s the powered wheel route, which switches out a front or rear wheel for one with a motor in it, usually in the hub. Alternatively, in some cases it's possible to add a drive unit or motor to the bottom of the frame.
A variation on that theme is to mount a motor over the rear wheel to propel the bike and yourself along. You can even get kits that mount inside the frame for a more inconspicuous though expensive option.
For a relatively painless transition, Swytch is a good place to start. This is an e-bike conversion kit that its creators say will fit any bike, and there's a special version for Brompton folding bikes, which makes it a favourite option for commuters. Whether you own a hybrid or conventional-style cycle, a folding number, a road bike or MTB, all bases are seemingly covered. You can even convert a trike.
Swytch is a combination of a replacement front wheel with hub-mounted motor and a removable power pack. There’s even a pedal sensor that delivers a dynamic level of assistance based on the level of cadence. The design is compatible with both rim and disc brakes, will get you up to the legal speed limit of 15mph UK / 20mph US and offers up to 50km of range. The only thing is that stock levels seem to fluctuate although pre-order from the fresh products they’re expecting and get 50% off.
There are others though. In fact, you’ll find many variations on the theme from a wide variety of unknown brands online, with prices that start from about $130 / £100 / AU$180.
Don't make the mistake of turning your bike into a twist-and-go model though as there are kits that let you do this, but you subsequently enter into a world where tax and insurance comes into the equation in many territories. If you’re new to the world of e-bike conversions, it's best keep it simple.
Remember too though that all of these options for turning a conventional bicycle into an e-bike will add weight. Batteries are heavy, as are motors, so by adding extra kit to a bike that wasn’t designed that way will change its characteristics.
You’ll probably get a bike that handles differently, depending on where the accessories have been added. In fact, the range and speed of all these options is a little bit academic. The main consideration is to be on a bike that feels safe to ride.
The only trouble with that is you’ll need to carry out the conversion in order to check. Which really rather brings us full circle, because with an off-the-shelf e-bike that’s been designed and built to be just that, you know exactly what you’re getting. A decent bike shop will also let you try it out first, which is one of the possible downsides of buying online. There’s quite a lot to consider and it’s not just about saving cash.
Ultimately, converting a standard bicycle into an electric one can be done, but it’s not without hurdles. The price might be the most off-putting aspect as some of the kits we’ve looked at negate the point of doing it yourself. If you don't mind a bit of tinkering and aren’t fazed by a weekend of fettling then an e-bike conversion kit could make sense. But if you fancy a fuss-free e-bike experience then you might be better off heading straight for the best e-bikes you can buy right now.
Get the hottest deals available in your inbox plus news, reviews, opinion, analysis and more from the TechRadar team.
Contact me with news and offers from other Future brandsReceive email from us on behalf of our trusted partners or sponsors
Oct 19, 2019 · In this Electric bike conversion kit guide, I will examine the different ways you can add electric assistance to your bicycle. Thinking about converting your bike to electric, but don't know where to start?
Jul 13, 2020 · Electric bikes can cost thousands of pounds, but there is a way to change a regular bike to an e-bike with a conversion kit.
People also ask
Can you convert a regular bike to an e-bike?
Which e-bike conversion kit should I buy?
How does a bike conversion kit work?
How do you add electric assist to a bicycle?
How do you convert a conventional bike to an electric bike?
Can you convert a folding bike to an e-bike?
When it comes to e-bike conversion kits, the market offers a diverse array of options, each catering to different preferences, needs, and budgets. Here, we’ll delve into the various kit options available, ensuring that you can make an informed decision that aligns with your riding style and goals.
