How to Convert Your Bike to Electric
Follow these steps to turn your bike into an e-bike safely and effectively.
Pre-Conversion Planning
Confirm Compatibility
Before starting, double-check these measurements:
- Frame type: Ensure adequate clearance for motor and battery
- Wheel size: Verify kit matches your wheel diameter
- Dropout width: Measure rear axle spacing (usually 135mm or 142mm)
- Bottom bracket: For mid-drive motors (typically BSA 68mm threading)
- Brake style: Rim brakes, mechanical disc, or hydraulic disc
Gather Required Tools
- Allen key set (2mm-8mm)
- Torque wrench (recommended for proper tightening)
- Cable ties and electrical tape
- Wire strippers (for custom connections)
- Crank puller (for mid-drive installations)
- Basic bike maintenance tools
Step-by-Step Conversion
Step 1: Prepare Your Bike
- Clean thoroughly - Remove dirt and grease from areas where components will mount
- Inspect frame - Check for cracks, damage, or excessive wear
- Remove existing parts - Take off the wheel (hub motor) or crankset (mid-drive)
- Document setup - Take photos of cable routing and component positions
Step 2: Install the Motor
For Hub Motors:
- Remove existing wheel - Release brakes and shift to smallest cog
- Transfer components - Move tire, tube, cassette/freewheel to motor wheel
- Install motor wheel - Ensure proper chain alignment and secure axle
- Adjust brakes - Realign brake pads for new wheel position
For Mid-Drive Motors:
- Remove crankset - Use crank puller to remove pedal arms
- Prepare bottom bracket - Clean threads and apply grease if needed
- Mount motor unit - Thread motor into bottom bracket with proper torque
- Install new crankset - Use motor manufacturer's crankarms
Step 3: Mount the Battery
- Choose location - Down tube, rear rack, or frame triangle mounting
- Install mounting hardware - Use provided brackets and secure firmly
- Test fit - Ensure battery locks securely and releases smoothly
- Check clearance - Verify no interference with pedaling or steering
Step 4: Install Controls and Sensors
- Mount display - Position for easy viewing while riding
- Install throttle (if applicable) - Right side grip or thumb position
- Add sensors - PAS sensor on crank or torque sensor per instructions
- Route cables neatly - Avoid cable rub and stress points
Step 5: Connect Wiring
- Follow wiring diagram - Match connector colors and types carefully
- Secure connections - Ensure all plugs click firmly into place
- Protect cables - Use protective tubing in high-wear areas
- Test connections - Gently tug each connection to verify security
Step 6: Install Brake Sensors (If Equipped)
- Mount brake levers - Position sensors to cut motor when brakes applied
- Adjust sensitivity - Test that light pressure stops motor assistance
- Verify operation - Motor should stop immediately when braking
Step 7: Initial Testing
- Charge battery fully - Ensure proper voltage before first test
- Power on system - Check display functions and shows correct information
- Test throttle (if equipped) - Should provide smooth power delivery
- Check pedal assist - Motor should engage when pedaling begins
Post-Conversion Setup
Fine-Tuning
- Adjust brake pads - Account for any wheel position changes
- Tune derailleur - Ensure smooth shifting with added motor weight
- Set assistance levels - Configure power settings through display menu
- Calibrate speedometer - Enter correct wheel circumference
Safety Verification
- Test e-brake cutoffs - Motor must stop when brakes are applied
- Verify speed limits - Ensure assistance stops at legal speed for your class
- Check all bolts - Torque to manufacturer specifications
- Inspect cable routing - No sharp bends or potential rub points
First Test Ride
Pre-Ride Checklist
- Battery charged and securely mounted
- All connections verified
- Brakes functioning properly
- Tires properly inflated
- No loose cables or components
Initial Ride Protocol
- Start slowly - Begin in lowest assistance mode
- Test in safe area - Empty parking lot or quiet street
- Check motor engagement - Should be smooth and predictable
- Test braking - Verify e-brake cutoffs work immediately
- Monitor for issues - Listen for unusual noises or vibrations
After First Ride
- Retighten bolts - Check all connections after initial use
- Inspect for wear - Look for cable rub or component movement
- Note any issues - Address problems before longer rides
Break-In Period
First 100 Miles
- Check bolts and connections after every few rides
- Monitor battery performance and charging behavior
- Watch for cable wear or component loosening
- Fine-tune assistance levels and settings
Ongoing Maintenance Schedule
- Weekly: Clean and inspect key components
- Monthly: Detailed bolt and connection check
- Seasonally: Complete system inspection and battery care
Safety Reminders
- Always wear a helmet - Essential for any bike, especially e-bikes
- Follow traffic laws - E-bikes must obey same rules as regular bicycles
- Start conservatively - Learn your e-bike's behavior before aggressive riding
- Respect others - Be courteous to pedestrians and other cyclists
Try This
Perform a short 5-10 minute test ride to ensure everything works properly before planning longer trips. Pay special attention to cable routing - make sure nothing rubs or catches during normal steering and pedaling.