How to turn an ordinary bike into an electric one

With a kit you can turn a traditional bike into a modern e-bike and take advantage of the benefits of the electric motor. Here are some examples.

As the popularity of e-bikes increases, so does the number of conversion kits available on the market. Converting from a normal bike to an electric one is becoming easier, even for beginners, and cheaper than only a short time ago. But which are the best kits? Let's find out.

Before knowing the characteristics of the best kits available for purchase, it is necessary to clarify the differences that can be found between the various models.

There are three different types: central drive (or mid-drive), to be applied to the hub of the front wheel or dedicated to the rear wheel. The first ones are more powerful but more expensive, while the others are easier to mount and cheaper, although less performing. In addition, it is good to know that the Italian Highway Code provides for very strict rules regarding e-bikes, which also apply in case of conversion of a traditional bike. For example, only electric bikes with a motor power not exceeding 250 watts can circulate on roads open to traffic, while the intervention of the motor must be linked exclusively to pedaling. No accelerator, therefore, or the bike can not be used on public roads. To learn more about the regulations we invite you to read the guide to the Italian regulations on e-bikes.

Bafang, from the pioneers the mid-drive kit for everyone

It was one of the first manufacturers to make conversion kits for e-bikes and, over time, has established itself among the best. Bafang BBS02B 48v 750w is one of its best performing models, with pedaling assistance based on pedal rotation. It is mid-drive type, comes with controller, black and white LCD display and fits bikes with bottom bracket between 68mm and 73mm.

Find out more about the conversion kit: click to check price and availability on Amazon

Clip, the front wheel kit that attaches and removes in a flash

It has a 450W motor, a 6-volt, 144 Wh lithium-ion battery, and a drive system with a range of about 45 minutes, or 20 kilometers. Clip can reach a maximum speed of 25 km/h+ and, once the battery is discharged, you can go from 0 to 100% in just 45 minutes. It starts easily, once attached to the front wheel in no time; the same, at the touch of its button and with only 3kg does not weigh particularly on the overall weight of the vehicle.

Tongsheng, mid-drive small and cheap

It has a torque sensor dedicated to pedal assist, a speed system with a beam magnet. The Tongsheng TSDDZ2 kit is simple to assemble, is reasonably priced compared to alternatives on the market and is dedicated to bikes with 68mm-73mm bottom bracket. It is quite versatile and suitable for those who don't want to give up the use of pedals altogether in a free way, but without forgetting the convenience and usefulness of the electric motor.

Discover the Tongsheng TSDDZ2 conversion kit and check the price on Amazon

Season 36V 350W, rear wheel conversion kit

The Season 36V 350W is a 26-inch rear wheel conversion kit, with a motor in the hub. It allows you to reach a maximum speed of 32 kilometers per hour. The kit includes motor, 36V/12,5Ah battery, an LCD display, the PAS sensor, thumb throttle, brake levers and control electronics.

Discover all the technical features: check price and availability on Amazon

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