Electric bikes are becoming more and more popular. They offer an efficient way to get around without using fossil fuels or gas.
The popularity of e-bikes has grown rapidly over the last decade. In 2016, the global sales of e-bikes reached nearly $1.5 billion and in 2020 they reached $2.3 billion and they keep climbing higher!
E-bike conversion kits are designed to turn regular bicycles into electric ones. These kits come with batteries, motors, controllers, and other parts needed to convert a bicycle into an electric vehicle.
We have done some research on the best e-bike conversion kits available in the market today. We have also tested each kit for their quality and durability.
The following is our list of top five e-bike conversion kits on the market today.
What Are E-Bikes?
Electric bikes or E-Bikes are powered by electricity instead of gasoline. This means that you can use them as a normal bike when there’s no power source nearby.
You can ride these bikes just like any other bike. However, if you want to charge it up, then you will need to plug it into a wall socket.
When you pedal your bike, the motor inside works to generate electricity. When this happens, the battery stores all of the energy generated.
Then, when you stop pedaling, the stored energy is used to run the motor.
When you start riding again, the motor generates electricity which charges the battery. Once the battery gets full, you can keep pedaling until it runs out of energy.
You can find many different types of electric bikes. Some of them are:
- E-assist Bikes – These bikes have a small motor attached to the front wheel. It helps you go faster while still being able to peddle.
- Hybrid Bikes – These bikes combine both human and electric power. They usually have two wheels at the back and one at the front.
- Pedal Assist Bikes – These bikes have pedals but don’t have a motor. Instead, they have a small motor that assists you when you pedal.
- Motorized Bikes – These bikes have no pedals. Instead, they have an electric motor connected to the rear wheel.
Why Doesn’t Everyone Have An Electric Bike?
We know what you’re thinking – electric bikes seem like a dream, right? So why don’t more people have them if they’re such a great invention?
The main issue is unfortunately the price. Even the budget-friendly electric bikes require an impressive investment.
So, e-bikes aren’t the best option for people with low budgets for their bikes.
However, this doesn’t mean that you have to let go of the dream of riding an e-bike. Here’s where electric bike conversion kits come in.
What Is An Electric Bike Conversion Kit?
An electric bike conversion kit is a set of tools that allows you to transform your regular bicycle into an electric one.
It includes everything you need to make your bike work like a motorcycle. So, you can take an old bike and convert it into a fun new electric bike to wow your peers with.
So, instead of throwing an old bike out, why not repurpose it?
These kits typically include a battery pack, controller, motor, charger, and other accessories.
If you already own a bike, you can purchase an electric bike conversion kit online or from local retailers. Otherwise, you can buy a complete kit online.
Types Of Electric Bike Conversion Kits
There are three types of electric bike conversion kits available in the marketplace today. Each type has its pros and cons. Let’s look at them now.
1. Friction Drive Conversion Kits
Friction drive conversion kits are popular among consumers because they are the simplest form of conversion.
They also provide a smooth ride and easy maintenance. However, where there is simplicity, there is a lack of efficiency.
Roller drive kits consist of a roller pushing against your tire, meaning that when the wheel turns – so does the roller. You don’t need much to make this kit work, but the end results aren’t that great anyway.
2. Electric Bike Wheel Conversion Kits
Electric bike wheel conversion kits are the most efficient way to turn your bike into an electric one.
This means that you get better performance than any other kind of conversion kit. But, these kits are quite expensive.
This kit consists of swapping either the front or back wheel of your bike for an electrified version.
It can take some getting used to, but overall most people enjoy this type of conversion the best. This is the most popular option on the market.
3. Mid-drive Conversion Kits
Finally, we have the mid-drive conversion kits. These are considered the best although not everyone gets along with them.
They offer a combination of both friction drive and electric bike wheel conversions. In fact, some manufacturers even use two motors to power each side of the wheels.
The drawback for these conversion kits is the price. They are the most expensive by far and also take the longest to apply to your bike.
Best Kits For Converting Your Bike Into An Electric Bike
Now that we know what an electric bike conversion kit is, let’s take a look at some of the best ones on the market.
L-Faster 24V36V250W Electric Conversion Kit
This L-Faster electric bike conversion kit comes with a 36V 250W motor and it comes in two different variations – a twist kit and a thumb kit.
The kit comes with everything you need to convert your old bike into an e-bike. Below is a list of all of the items that the kit includes:
- 1x 250W brush motor (with freewheel sprocket)
- 1x Chain
- 1x Customized sprocket & components
- 1x Motor controller (with fuse wire)
- 1x Mounting plate + bolts
- 1x Throttle handle (with battery indicator & key switch)
- ​Some connectors
This kit does not come with a battery or a battery charger, so bear in mind that you will have to purchase one of these for yourself.
Alternatively, you can use the motor with a freewheel. This is where you pedal without the help from a motor, the motor will not rotate and therefore resistance will be reduced.
The reviews for this kit are very positive with many people saying that this kit turned their old bike into a great new ride.
It is incredibly easy to convert your old bike and won’t take up too much of your time, and you don’t need to enlist help from a professional to use it.
This kit is designed to give you a helpful assist when riding your bike, so you will need to put some work into powering the bike while riding.
Overall, this is an excellent electric bike kit for anyone looking to get more out of their current manual bike – and all of that for a 10th of the cost!
Pros
- Includes everything you need to turn your bike into an electronic bike.
- Glowing reviews from past users.
- Offers an extra push for the rider.
- Good price.
Cons
- A few users claimed that the parts weren’t as durable as they could’ve been.
Voilamart Electric Bicycle Wheel Kit
If you’re looking for something cheap but still want to enjoy the benefits of an electric bike, then VoilaMart has got you covered.
Their wheel kit is perfect for those who want to try out an electric bike but aren’t sure if they want to spend thousands of dollars on one.
The brushless and gearless motor is 1000 watts and therefore extremely powerful for an e-bike.
You can reach up to 28 MPH, but are restricted to 24 MPH to remain in line with the laws surrounding electric bikes. We’ll take a look at these later in the article!
This kit comes with everything that you need to convert your bike into an e-bike including the front wheel, controller bag, motor controller, crank sensor, cable ties, twist throttle, manual, and more.
Again, there is no battery included within this conversion kit.
An added safety feature is what caught our eye with this kit, as you can cut the power to the motor immediately if you need to by using the brake lever.
This ensures that you have full control of the bike while riding it. Many users state that this has given them a new love for cycling.
Pros
- Maximum load capacity of 330 to 440 lbs.
- Includes everything that you need to create your own e-bike.
- Safety feature within the brake lever.
Cons
- On the more expensive side.
- Some users have an issue with the wheel not freely spinning while coasting.
AW Electric Bicycle Motor Kit
The AW electric bicycle motor kit is the most popular electric bike kit available today due to its low price point (compared to that of an electric bike) and ease of installation.
The AW electric bicycle motor kit includes everything that you need to transform your existing bike into an electric bike, including the motor, charger, battery connection cables, and a PAS sensor.
The AW electric bicycle kit offers a maximum motor rotating speed of 480 RPM with an efficiency of 80%.
The LCD allows you to see the status of the battery power, speed, time, gears, and how many miles you have traveled. This is a great feature that gives your bike a high technology feel.
The two modes of controlling the bike allow you to use the motor either under Hall or without the Hall effect, which allows you to enjoy your bike for many years to come.
This prolongs the life of your e-bike so that you won’t need to maintain it or purchase a new one anytime soon.
This bike converter kit doesn’t come with a battery, like the others on the list, so you will need to choose one from the market and purchase it separately.
The recommended battery is a 48V/30A, as this will work the best alongside the motor.
Pros
- LCD shows you everything you need to know while riding.
- Two modes for the controller to help prolong the lifespan of your bike.
- Maximum weight capacity of 220 pounds.
Cons
- Some users had issues with subpar customer service.
EBIKELING Waterproof E-Bike Conversion Kit
The EBIKEKING waterproof e-bike conversion kit is the top rated e-bike kit on Amazon because of its ease of installation and superior quality.
It’s made out of durable plastic, metal and rubber materials, making it very easy to install. It also features a water resistant design that makes it perfect for rainy days.
The EBIKELING waterproof e-bikes kit includes everything that you’ll need to transform your bike into an electric bike including the front wheel, motor, LCD display, pedal assist sensor, brake lever kit, and more.
The hub motor is already attached to the wheel so that you don’t have to waste time installing this.
Bear in mind that the tyre and battery are not included and therefore you will have to purchase these separately.
You might be able to take the tyre off of your current wheel if it is in good condition, though, so make sure you check whether this is a viable option for you beforehand.
The pedal assist function allows you to be in control of your bike at all times, but with a helping hand. This should make your cycling more enjoyable and easier on your muscles.
You’ll receive a 1-year warranty on the hub motor as well as a 3-month warranty on all other parts of the conversion kit.
Moreover, the manufacturer offers round the clock help should you have any questions or need help.
Alomejor 36V/48V 250W/350W Kit E-Bike Conversion
If you’re looking for a simple and affordable way to convert your bike into an electric vehicle, then Alomejor’s 36V/48V kit may just be what you’re after.
With its sleek and stylish appearance, this kit comes with a powerful 350W motor and a 36V or 48V battery pack.
It has been designed to fit most standard bicycles and has a maximum load capacity of 330lbs (150kg). It can handle up to 50km per charge and has a range of 40km.
It comes with everything that you would need to get started with your conversion project, including a charger, battery, LED light, lock, tools, etc.
The kit is compatible with both single speed and double speed bikes.
This kit is ideal for those who want to try their hands at converting their own bicycle into an electric vehicle.
Bear in mind, however, that it does not include a battery, which means that you will need to buy one separately.
Pros
- Simple and inexpensive.
- Easy to assemble.
- Comes with a charger, LED light, tools, and much more.
Cons
- Not suitable for heavy loads.
- Doesn’t come with a battery.
Electric Bike Conversion Kit FAQs
Before buying an electric bike conversion kit, there are some things that you must consider first.
These factors will determine how long it takes for you to complete your conversion project and how much money you will spend doing it.
Here we’re going to be answering the top FAQs to help you determine which of the conversion kits is the best for you.
Do Electric Bike Conversion Kits All Come With Batteries?
No, they don’t. Not all kits come with batteries as this would increase their costs. However, as you will need a battery, you will need to source one for yourself.
Make sure that you read the ad to ensure that your kit comes with a battery or not. Once you have a definitive answer, you can either look for a battery or not.
While not all kits will come with a battery, they will all come with the hardware to attach the battery to the conversion kit. So, make sure that you’re purchasing the right kind of battery for the kit’s needs.
How Reliable Is The Brand?
When shopping around for an electric bike conversion kit online, you will find many different brands available. Some of these brands are very reputable while others aren’t so great.
When choosing a brand, make sure that you do your research and check out reviews from previous customers before making your purchase.
This will give you a good idea about whether the company is reliable or not.
Having said that, just because you have not heard of the brand before, doesn’t mean that they are not trusted and reliable.
When just getting into the electric biking world, there will be plenty of brands that you have never heard of. The longer you’re in the market, though, the more you will familiarize yourself with them.
Many people tend to back away when they don’t recognize the brand name of something they want to buy.
While this is a smart way of thinking in some respects, there is not always a justified reason for this – especially in the electric bike market.
There are often not many choices and therefore you will have to go with a name that you’ve never heard before.
This is why it is so important to do your research when it comes to electric bike conversion kits.
While the name might be unfamiliar to you, the brand could have a great background with lots of happy customers.
Of course, though, it could also go the other way. So, diligence is key here. Read reviews, look through the company’s website, and make an informed decision.
Is It Worth Using An Electric Bike Conversion Kit On An Old Bike?
Yes! If you have an old bike, then using an electric bike conversion kit on it makes sense. You get rid of the old tires and replace them with new and shiny electrified versions.
It will help you ride easier and enjoy your bike more. In addition, you’ll also save time by not having to ride to work every day.
If you already own a bike, then converting it to an electric bike conversion kit rather than throwing it away is a no brainer.
It won’t cost as much to do this than to get a completely new bike, and you’ll be able to use it for years to come. Just remember to keep it well maintained.
There are many reasons to choose to install an electric bike kit, but there are also some considerations to think of as well.
For starters, electric bike conversion kits can be a pain to remove once you have them installed.
They usually require tools like screwdrivers and pliers to take them off. So, if you’re installing one then you should fitbit to a bike that you know you’re going to want to keep for a long time.
Another thing to consider is how your current bike is looking and performing. Using a bike that you already own to convert into an electric bike is much cheaper than purchasing an electric bike on its own.
However, if your bike is on its last legs and isn’t going to last much longer, then you might be wasting money using a conversion kit that you’re only going to be able to use for a few months before buying a new electric bike.
Aside from all of this, the main thing that you should consider when wondering whether you should buy a conversion kit is how much use you’re going to get out of it.
Many people love electric bikes much more than standard bikes as they are more enjoyable and easier to ride.
If a conversion kit is going to allow you to opt for your bike rather than your car, then we think that it is well worth the money.
Take into consideration how much you spend on fuel a week, as well as parking and car maintenance.
Then you can work out how much money you’d be saving per day by using your electric bike conversion kit over your car!
If you find that the conversion kit will pay for itself within a few months, then it’s worth the initial investment.
Should You Buy A New Electric Bike Instead Of A Conversion Kit?
Of course, if you don’t mind spending a bit extra, then getting a new electric bike would probably be better.
The reason being that you’ll be able to get a model that suits your needs perfectly. There’s nothing worse than buying something that doesn’t suit you but you have to keep using it because it was too expensive.
When you buy a new electric bike, you’ll be able to customize it however you want. This means that you’ll be able to change the color scheme, add lights or even swap in different tires.
You’ll also be able to choose between a folding design or a non-folding design.
Bear in mind that new electric bikes will cost much more than electric bike conversion kits.
So, if you’re trying to save money and have an old bike that you don’t use anymore, using your old bike might be the best way to go.
However, you could also sell it and use the money towards a new electric bike.
Some people prefer to keep their standard bike separate from their electric bike so that they can use either depending on how they’re feeling.
Overall, it really depends on you and your preference as to whether you decide to use an electric bike or a conversion kit.
Consider the costs, the quality of your own bike, and the return on investment that you’d be getting with both options.
What Are The Legalities Of Electric Bikes?
Electric bicycles are legal in most countries around the world. They are regulated under the same laws as regular bicycles.
In some places, such as Australia, they are considered motor vehicles and require registration.
In other places, such as the UK, they are not considered motor vehicles and do not need registration. As long as you follow the rules set down by the local government, there shouldn’t be any problems.
The US has different classes of separate types of electric bikes depending on the power and speed of the model. Each state will have their own laws on e-bikes, so make sure that you read up on your own area’s laws.
Most states will agree that an electric bike should not exceed a maximum speed of 28 MPH and that they should be ridden on roads only.
However, some states say that these bikes cannot be ridden on roads and that should only be allowed on private property.
As with anything, make sure that you check the limitations and laws for your state when it comes to electric bikes and conversion kits.
How Much Will The Conversion Kit Cost?
Every manufacturer has a different price for their electric bike conversion kits.
Some companies offer them at a very low price while others charge higher prices. It all depends on what kind of features they include within the kit.
If you’re looking to convert your bike into an electric bike, the average price will be between $350 and $900.
However, you can get some cheaper than this, and you can also find high-spec versions for more money.
The price of your conversion kit will depend on what you’re looking for and what you’re hoping to get out of your electric bike.
How To Fit An Electric Bike Conversion Kit?
When it comes to fitting an electric bike conversion kit onto your bicycle, it’s pretty simple.
However, there is not one single method of fitting a conversion kit, so we can’t walk you through it now. Instead you will have to consult your instruction manual that came with your kit.
If you are unsure about fitting the conversion kit yourself, you might be able to take it into your local bike shop and ask them to fit it for you. Bear in mind that this might come with a charge.
When using an electric bike kit, it’s always wise to opt for a reliable brand that has a good customer service rating so that you can converse with a professional if you are in need of help during the installation process and beyond.
Summary
An electric bike conversion kit is a great way to turn your existing bicycle into an electric vehicle. If you want to save money, then you can buy an off-the-shelf electric bike kit from a reputable company.
Alternatively, you can purchase a custom electric bike kit which will cost you more but give you much better quality. Either way, you’ll be getting a top-quality product that will last you many years.
We hope that you’ve enjoyed our article and that it has made the decision of getting an electric bike conversion kit a little easier! Now get out there and enjoy your new and improved bike.