E-bikes provide an easy, eco-friendly means of travel around town for those unable to ride normally, while simultaneously reducing emissions and road damage more than other forms of transportation do.
However, purchasing one may be costly. Instead of spending all that time and money converting an old bike yourself into an electric bicycle, try this innovative solution instead: convert your old bicycle yourself.
Start with a Bolt-On Kit
With conversion kits that attach directly onto existing bikes, it’s possible to convert any ride into an electric bicycle in just hours. Each kit includes motor, battery and controls you need for operation.
With some mechanical and electrical knowledge, a conversion kit can transform nearly any bicycle into an Electric Bike. All you’ll need is an old bicycle and a motor from Amazon or another online retailer.
When selecting an electric bike battery, look for one with a high watt-hour rating. This measurement indicates how long its charge can hold without needing to be recharged – something especially essential for commuters and daily riders who rely on their e-bike for transportation needs.
Choose a Bike
Before purchasing an e-bike, it’s essential to carefully consider your distance plans and riding style, along with height/weight issues as well as any relevant laws or regulations in your region regarding these bikes.
There are various styles of electric bikes on the market today, from Class 1 models to those featuring throttle controls. Each bike’s classification determines its top speed and whether or not it utilizes pedal assist technology.
E-bikes feature various other features, such as an LCD display that shows battery usage and other information during your ride, support racks for cargo carrying, and can use multiple batteries at the same time – this feature can come in particularly handy for commuters.
Start with the Frame
As part of the conversion process to electric cycling, selecting a strong frame is paramount. An insufficiently strong framework could break or bend under pressure from an e-bike drivetrain and cause irreparable damage.
At this point, it’s time to find an appropriate spot for mounting the motor. Be sure it does not interfere with gears or tires during riding and does not rub against anything such as wires during its journey.
Finally, you must connect the batteries and motor driver. This should be relatively straightforward; just ensure you use heavy gauge wire. Simply connect each battery in series from positive to negative before scooptimes plugging it all in to the motor driver.
Start with the Motor
To quickly propel an ebike, a high-voltage motor that can manage torque is essential. Be sure to inspect wattage (how much power the motor delivers) and amp-hours in terms of performance to get an idea of your outcome.
Most e-bikes feature hub motors attached to either the front or rear wheel hubs, providing lighter and more discreet performance than mid-drive motors while adding some additional pep to your ride.
Your electric bicycle will also require a battery. E-bike batteries typically range between 24 to 52 volts and offer different amperage ratings; their wattage can help determine its power output; choosing one with higher acceleration will require charging it more frequently, however.
Finish with the Battery
Most e-bikes feature an integrated battery to create an attractive aesthetic and deter thieves. A lock is often provided as part of their standard package to prevent thieves from taking away or forcing off with it by force.
E-bike motors, batteries and control equipment add considerable weight and power to bicycles, placing additional stress on frames, brakes and drivetrains. Therefore, it is crucial that converted bikes be tuned properly for maximum efficiency and safety, adhering to maintenance recommendations and following proper tuning guidelines.
Trek recommends charging mid-drive e-bike batteries between 40 to 80%; Bosch, the company that makes most components for these e-bikes, advises against completely draining it. Battery capacity in terms of watt hours also matters – the larger your capacity, the longer it can go before needing charging again.
