An electric bike, also known as an e-bike, is a bicycle powered by an electric motor. The motor can be activated by pedaling or using a throttle. Electric bikes assist riders by making it easier to pedal and travel at a higher speed. They are becoming increasingly popular because they offer a convenient and eco-friendly way to travel.
Converting your existing bike to an e-bike is a cost-effective way to enjoy the benefits of electric assistance. Learn how to convert bike to electric and turn your bike into an electric bike easily. Instead of buying a new electric bike, you can convert your existing bike by adding an electric motor and battery, turning your bike into an ebike. This would save you money and allow you to keep using a bike you are familiar with.
Additionally, converting your existing bike to an e-bike allows you to customize your bike to suit your specific needs, and turn any bike into an ebike that matches your preferences. You can choose the type of electric motor, battery, and controller that best suits your riding style and budget.
For clarity relating to how to convert a bike to eBike, this article will guide you through the procedures involved.
Determine your skill level and the tools available.
Determining your skill level would help you decide whether or not to outsource your bike conversion. To assess your skill level, you can start by evaluating your knowledge of bike mechanics. Also, consider the repairs and maintenance tasks you feel comfortable with and the tools you can use. Afterward, take inventory of the tools and parts you have available. If you do not have the necessary tools or parts, decide whether you would make a purchase or borrow.
Choose a conversion kit.
Before choosing a conversion kit, you must pay attention to certain essentials on how to convert your bike to electric. These factors could range from bike compatibility to personal preferences and the amount of speed you would love. We have compiled a list of factors you should consider when choosing a conversion kit. You can catch up with them below.
1. Check for a Compatible Conversion Kit
Every day, different brands and companies are manufacturing new conversion kits. While some come with all the parts you need to create your diy ebike, others require you to purchase other components like the battery. For the sake of cost-effectiveness, it is best for you to get a kit that has all the components you need. Additionally, watch out for the warranty and ensure that the company warranty covers major components like the battery and motor.
2. Check if your bike is suitable to convert bike to electric
Not all bikes are suitable for conversion. Often, old bikes are unsuitable for installing conversion kits because they are weak and might get damaged by the weight of the electric motor. As a result, you should use a new bike. Additionally, pay attention to the bike's frame. In most cases, steel bicycle frames are preferred because of their strength. Also, consider the wheel of your bike if you are using a hub motor. Also, ensure that the brakes of your bicycle are sensitive enough to put your bike to a halt when needed.
3. Choose Battery/Power Pack
Before choosing a battery, it is important to consider your terrain and proposed cycling duration. The reason is not far-fetched. The motor of an ebike is powered by a battery. Hence, if you get a battery, you need to be sure it can supply the power needed for your bike to run smoothly.
Gather necessary tools and components.
When converting a bike to an eBike, certain materials and tools are needed to get it done. These tools will make the DIY installation process easy and fast. Here are some of the materials and tools you will need for the installation process:
- An eBike conversion kit including an electric motor, controller, and speed limitations hub
- An eBike charger pack and a charger
- Zip ties
- Installation plier and wrench
- Silicone sealants (optional)
- Throttle and display unit
- Duct tape
- Pedal assist sensor
- Battery storage box
- Luggage lock
- Cadence sensor or Torque sensor (optional)
- Power drill
- Socket set
- Bike Lock (optional)
Install the electric components to turn my bike into an ebike
Before installing your conversion kit, ensure to read the attached manufacturer guide. Some manufacturers sometimes include a video in the pack or on their website. Ensure to watch those videos to have a grasp on how to get it done. Installing the conversion kit is very easy and can be done yourself. On a general note, here are some of the best practices for installing an ebike kit:
1. Remove the Rear Wheel and Replace the Wheel
Before the installation of the kit to turn your bike into an ebike, remove the wheel. To do this, lose the brake cable and the wheel-quick release lever.
Replace one of the wheels with a motor hub-connected wheel based on the kit. However, in the case of the mid-drive system kit, you will need to remove the bike's bottom bracket to perform the installation process.
2. Transfer the tire from the Old Wheel to the New One
If the tires from the old wheel are still in good condition, you can transfer them to the new one. To remove it, empty the air on it to make it easy to install and insert it into the new one with air pressure.
3. Install the New Wheel to the bike
After installing the tire, install the new wheel to the bike. Mount the gear cassette as you install the rear wheel.
4. Install the Battery and Other Components
Mount the battery on the bike in a closed, waterproof lockable battery box. Also, install the sprocket, controller, brake lever, throttle, friction pad, headlight, brake light, and every other necessary component.
5. Complete Cable Connections
Ensure proper connection of the wires connected to the battery, headlight, brake light, and sprocket. Tighten up the connections. Ensure that the cables are protected to avoid hazards or accidents.
6. Test it
After installing and completing the cable connections, test whether your bike works like an eBike. Test it by doing a power cycle.
NOTE:
You should check the wires connecting the brake, switches, and motor to ensure the rightful connection. Use cable ties to secure the wires. Ensure that the voltage of the battery and charger matches the motor's voltage.
With the materials and instructions above, you are set for the conversion kit to convert your bike to eBike. If you are looking for an easy-to-install motor kit, consider the EBIKELING Waterproof eBike Conversion kit.
Test the Electric Bike
It is important to test the electric bike after installing the electric components. This will help you ascertain that the bike is safe and functioning properly:·Check the battery level and ensure that it is fully charged.
- Check all the connections and ensure that they are tight and secure.
- Test the motor by turning it on and off, ensuring it functions properly.
- Test the brakes to ensure that they are working properly.
- Test the lights, if any, to ensure they are working properly.
- Test the bike's overall performance by taking it for a test ride. Pay attention to the bike's power, speed, and overall handling.
- If any issues are found, adjust the settings and components as necessary.
- It's also recommended to test the bike while carrying a load similar to what you plan to carry regularly and on the terrain you'll be riding on.
- Test the bike in different riding modes and assist levels, if it has different modes, and check if it works fine in all modes.
- Finally, it is important to test the bike's range and ensure it can travel the distance you expect it to.
Testing your bike after installing the kit helps ensure it is safe and properly functioning. If any issue or technical glitch arises during the test, ensure that it is addressed before using the bike.
Conclusion
Converting your existing bike to an e-bike can be a fun and rewarding project. It can also be a cost-effective way to enjoy the benefits of electric assistance. However, it is important to thoroughly research and plan the conversion before beginning. Make sure to determine your skill level, the tools and parts available, and the type of riding you will do when planning how to turn a bike into an ebike.
It's also important to test the bike thoroughly after installation to ensure it is safe and functioning properly after you turn bike into ebike. Planning and properly executing the conversion allows you to enjoy a new and exciting way to ride your bike, as you convert pedal assist to throttle or turn your bike into an electric bike.
