How to choose an e-bike conversion kit
Conversion kits are used to turn a conventional bicycle into an electrically assisted bicycle. If you own a suitable, sound bicycle, you can consider converting it into an electric bicycle. A conversion may cost less than a new bicycle, but compare the total cost of the kit, battery and installation and choose carefully.
Checks before choosing a conversion kit
Before choosing or buying a conversion kit for your bicycle, check the following:
- Make sure the kit fits your bicycle: kits need space. For a mid-drive kit, measure the bottom bracket; for a hub-motor kit, check the wheel, axle and dropout dimensions and mounting requirements.
- Check that the bicycle can carry the kit’s components, particularly the motor and battery, and that its frame and brakes are suitable.
- Choose suitable quality components: motor, battery, pedal sensor, display, cables, screws and all required accessories must be of suitable quality.
Choosing the motor location
When you decide to convert a bicycle into an electrically assisted bicycle, consider where the motor will be installed.
A hub-motor kit may use a front or rear wheel; other kits use a mid-drive motor.
- Front hub: check fork compatibility, axle attachment and the kit manufacturer’s requirements. Front placement does not set a universal power limit.
A front-wheel motor kit is not necessarily below 500 W: power depends on the motor and the complete configuration.
- Rear hub: check the frame, axle, drivetrain and brakes. Torque and range depend on the motor, controller, battery and riding conditions; rear placement alone guarantees neither.
A rear-wheel motor kit is not necessarily above 500 W. For public-road use in France, check the complete bicycle’s category and conformity, including the 250 W continuous rated-power and 25 km/h assistance limits for a pedelec.
Ask a qualified bicycle mechanic to help you choose a conversion kit suited to your bicycle and intended use.