When it comes to electric bikes, there are two main options: buying a new electric bike or converting your current bike into an electric one with a conversion kit.
Electric bike conversion kits are becoming more and more popular as people look to save money and get around on eco-friendly transportation, which often costs less than buying a new electric bike directly but maybe a little tired of yourself.
All in all, both have their pros and cons, and the best option for you will depend on your specific needs and situation. In this blog post, we will compare these two options and help you decide which is the better choice for you!
Keep on reading to find advice and tips on choosing to convert electric bikes or buy a new one through each one of these channels:
-
Introduction to the process of electric bike conversion
-
Advantages of converting your favorite used bike to an electric bike
-
What you should consider when DIY your own electric bike through electric bike conversion kits
-
Pros of buying a new electric bike
-
Cons of buying a new electric bike
-
Advice on which option is suitable for you
Introduction to the process of electric bike conversion
Converting a regular bike into an electric bike is not as complicated as it may seem at first. In fact, with the help of an electric bike conversion kit, you can easily do it yourself in just a few hours!
An electric bike conversion kit typically includes everything you need to convert your regular bike into an electric one, including:
-A motor (either hub-mounted or mid-drive)
-A battery (usually lithium-ion)
-A throttle (or pedal assist sensor)
-Wiring and other hardware needed for installation
You will also need some tools for the installation process, but most people already have these around the house. If not, they are easy enough to find or borrow.
The next step you need to do is to choose the right electric bike conversion kit for your needs. There are many different types and brands on the market, so doing some research beforehand is always a good idea.
Once you have everything you need, the actual installation process is relatively straightforward and can usually be done in just a few hours.
Advantages of converting your favorite used bike to an electric bike
DIYing your own electric bike has a few advantages over buying a new one.
Saving money
One of the main advantages of converting your regular bike into an electric one is that it can save you a lot of money. Electric bikes are not cheap, so if you can avoid buying one outright, it will definitely save you some money in the long run.
Customization
Another advantage of converting your own bike is that you can choose exactly which parts and components you want to use and you are able to convert any type of bike into an electric one, which gives you more flexibility in terms of choosing the right bike for you.
That is, you can customize your conversion to better suit your needs.
Comfortability
Finally, you can use your existing bike, which may be more comfortable or have sentimental value and it can be a fun and rewarding project to undertake yourself!
Environment-friendly
An electric bike conversion is also more environmentally friendly than buying a new electric bike because you are reusing an existing bike frame and components. This means that there is less waste and fewer resources used in the manufacturing process.
Freedom
Last but not least, electric bikes give you the freedom to go further and faster than you ever could on a regular bike. You can easily travel long distances without getting tired and they are great for commuting or exploring new areas.
What you should consider when DIY your own electric bike through electric bike conversion kits
Now that we’ve gone over some of the advantages of converting your regular bike into an electric one, let’s take a look at some things you should consider before undertaking this project.
Condition of your used bike
First and foremost, you need to make sure that your existing bike is in good condition and that it is suitable for conversion. This means that it should be made of sturdy materials such as steel or aluminum and have good brakes, tires, and other components.
Choosing the right electric bike conversion kits
Also, it is important to make sure that the electric bike conversion kit you choose is compatible with your existing bike. Not all kits will work with all bikes, so it is important to check this before purchasing anything.
How to choose the right e-bike conversion kits?
The next thing you need to consider is what kind of range and power you need from your electric bike. This will help you determine the size and type of motor and battery you need.
Do you want a hub-mounted or mid-drive motor?
Hub-mounted motors are typically easier to install but mid-drive motors tend to be more powerful.
What kind of battery do you want?
Lithium-ion batteries are the most popular choice because they are lightweight and have a long lifespan, but they can be more expensive than other types of batteries.
You also need to decide how much power you need from your motor. If you just want a little bit of help when pedaling, then a 250w motor will suffice. However, if you want to be able to zip around town without pedaling at all, then you will need a motor that is at least 500w.
Basic skills and knowledge about e-bike conversion
You need to have some basic mechanical skills and knowledge in order to successfully install the kit on your own. If you are not confident in your abilities, it may be worth asking a friend or family member for help or taking your bike to a professional mechanic.
Budget
Finally, you need to consider what kind of budget you have for this project. Electric bike conversion kits can range in price from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand, so it is important to set a budget before starting your search.
Pros of buying a new electric bike
Now that we have looked at the advantages of converting your own bike, let’s take a look at the pros of buying a new electric bike.
Fewer worries
The main advantage of buying a new electric bike is that you don’t have to worry about compatibility issues or whether you have the necessary skills and knowledge to undertake the project yourself. Everything will be taken care of for you and all you need to do is choose the right model for your needs.
Convenience
One of the biggest advantages of buying a new electric bike is convenience. You don’t have to worry about compatibility issues, installation, or any of the other hassles that come with converting a regular bike into an electric one.
Ready to ride
Another big advantage is that you can simply buy an electric bike that is ready to ride right out of the box. This is ideal if you don’t have the time or patience to deal with installing a conversion kit yourself.
Wider selection
When you buy a new electric bike, you also have access to a much wider selection of bikes to choose from. There are many different types, styles, and brands of electric bikes on the market, so you are sure to find one that suits your needs.
Cons of buying a new electric bike
Of course, there are also some disadvantages to buying a new electric bike.
Cost
The biggest disadvantage is the cost. Electric bikes can be quite expensive, so if you are on a tight budget, then this may not be the right option for you. Also, manufacturing a new bike also has a larger environmental impact than converting an existing one.
Less customization
Another disadvantage of buying a new electric bike is that you have less opportunity to customize it to your specific needs. When you buy a new bike, you are usually stuck with the features and components that come with it.
With an electric bike conversion kit, you can choose exactly which parts and components you want and need.
Not as much control
When you buy a new electric bike, you also have less control over the components that are used. This means that you may not be able to get exactly what you want in terms of range, power, and other features.
No sense of achievement
Another downside is that you won’t get the same sense of achievement that comes with successfully converting your own bike. If you enjoy working on projects yourself, then this may be a big downside for you.
Advice on which option is suitable for you
So, which is the better option for you?
As you can see, there are both advantages and disadvantages to buying a new electric bike and converting your own. The best option for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
If you are on a tight budget or if you enjoy working on projects yourself, then an electric bike conversion kit may be the better option.
However, if you want a ready-to-ride bike with fewer worries and less hassle, then buying a new electric bike may be the way to go.
Whichever route you decide to take, we hope that this article has helped you make a decision. Thanks for reading!
