What's an E-Bike?

An e-bike is a bicycle with pedals and an electric motor that assists when you pedal. The motor helps you climb hills, carry cargo, or commute longer distances without getting tired.

Under federal law, an e-bike must have:

• Functional pedals that work
• An electric motor under 750W
• Motor assistance that stops at 20 mph on motor power alone

These rules ensure e-bikes remain bicycles under the law, not motorcycles requiring licenses or registration.

US Three-Class System

Most states use this system, but specific rules vary by location:

Class 1: Pedal-Assist to 20 mph

• Motor only assists when you pedal
• Assistance stops at 20 mph
• Allowed on most bike paths and trails
• 750W motor limit

Class 2: Throttle + Pedal-Assist to 20 mph

• Can ride without pedaling using throttle
• Also has pedal-assist mode
• Both modes stop at 20 mph
• 750W motor limit

Class 3: Pedal-Assist to 28 mph

• Motor assists when pedaling up to 28 mph
• Must include speedometer
• May require helmet and limit bike path access
• 750W motor limit

Always check your state's specific laws before riding, as helmet requirements, age limits, and trail access rules differ.

Why Convert Instead of Buying?

Cost Savings

Converting your existing bike costs much less than buying a new e-bike. Quality conversion kits range from $400-$1,200, while new e-bikes cost $1,500-$4,000 or more.

You keep a bike you already love and trust while adding electric assistance exactly where you need it.

Transportation Savings

Replacing car trips with e-bike rides saves serious money:

• E-bike operating costs: about $200 per year
• Car operating costs: over $3,000 per year
• Replacing a car entirely: saves nearly $5,800 annually
• Daily 10-mile commute: saves about $840 per year

Environmental Benefits

Cars produce about 16% of US greenhouse gases. E-bikes have much smaller batteries and supply chains compared to cars. Converting extends your bike's life and reduces waste from manufacturing new bikes.

Health and Community Benefits

E-bike riders get more exercise than car drivers and help reduce air pollution in their communities. Electric assistance makes biking accessible to more people, including those with physical limitations or longer commutes.

First Steps for Your Conversion

Before choosing components, gather these measurements:

1. Wheel size - Check tire sidewall (common sizes: 26", 27.5", 29", 700c)
2. Dropout width - Measure rear wheel spacing (usually 135mm for older bikes, 142mm for newer)
3. Bottom bracket type - Needed for mid-drive motors (usually BSA 68mm)
4. Brake type - Rim brakes, mechanical disc, or hydraulic disc

Choose Your E-Bike Class

Decide which class fits your riding needs:

• Class 1: Best for trails and bike paths
• Class 2: Adds throttle convenience for hills or starting from stops
• Class 3: Faster commuting on roads (check local trail restrictions)

Motor Type Decision

Two main options:

• Hub motors: Simpler installation, lower cost, good for flat terrain
• Mid-drive motors: Better hill climbing, uses bike's gears, more natural feel

Next Steps

Once you understand the basics, dive deeper into specific topics:

• Choosing the Right Kit - Compare motor types and features
• US Regulations - Detailed legal requirements
• Conversion Steps - Installation walkthrough

Try This

Read the Choosing a Kit and US Regulations articles next to understand your options and legal requirements before purchasing components.