Best Electric Bike Kits to Convert Your Two-wheeler Into an E-bike

Review & Comparison, Last Update January 4, 2024
Riding a bike is an eco- and budget-friendly alternative to using a gas-powered means of transport. However, working the pedals is not always what you expect from the ride as it might be really difficult. Why not enjoy the scenery instead, shirking off the hard work upon an electric motor? Today, you can get all the benefits of an e-bike by installing an electric bike kit on your bicycle! ...Read more ...Read less
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BEST 2024
PROS
CONS
OUR VERDICT
Type
Compatibility
Motor Power
Max Speed
Conveniences
Extras
Weight
Warranty
 
PROS

An advanced controller equipped with an LCD display will conveniently show your current speed, battery charge, miles driven, and other data useful during bicycle trips.

CONS

The package comes without a tire.

OUR VERDICT

Even though this model is quite moderate when it comes to power output, you can still reach the speeds of up to 25 mph and fully enjoy bike rides.

detailed parameters
Type

Rear Wheel Kit

Compatibility

26” wheel

Disc-Brake compatible

Motor Power

36 V / 500W

Max Speed

25 mph

Conveniences

Battery power indicator, 7-speed cogset

Extras

Rear wheel without tire, 2 brake pullers, Intelligent Motor Controller with LCD-Display, 2 handlebar grips, Electric controller with cables, Pedal sensor

Weight

25 lbs

Warranty

3 months

PROS

This bike motor conversion kit will let you gather an astonishing speed of up to 30 mph without spinning the pedals at all.

CONS

No pedal assistance system.

OUR VERDICT

If you like long-distance bike rides, this MegaBrand electric bike kit will help you enjoy cycling without overstraining your muscles.

detailed parameters
Type

Front wheel kit

Compatibility

26” wheel

Disc-Brake compatible

Motor Power

48 V / 1000 W

Max Speed

30 mph

Conveniences

Carrying bag for battery, Battery power indicator

Extras

Front wheel with tire, 2 brake pullers, Thumb gear changer, 2 handlebar grips, Electric controller with cable set, Bike rack, Rubber connecting harness

Weight

29 lbs

Warranty

Amazon’s 30-day return policy

PROS

A strong wheel made using a special aluminum alloy is resistant to bending and physical damage, which ensures its long service life.

CONS

Fitting the wires and controller into the controller bag is a bit of a challenge.

OUR VERDICT

An affordable and quite functional set from JAXPETY will definitely surprise you if you're looking for an electric bike conversion kit. With this kit, you will be able to bring a new life to your old bike without too much effort.

detailed parameters
Type

Front wheel kit

Compatibility

26” wheel

Disc-Brake compatible

Motor Power

36 V / 500 W

Max Speed

23 mph 

Conveniences

Battery power indicator

Extras

Front wheel with tire, 2 brake pullers, Thumb gear changer, 2 handlebar grips, Electric controller with cables, Pedal sensor

Weight

21 lbs

Warranty

Amazon’s 30-day return policy

PROS

This electric bike kit boasts a dual-mode controller (Hall-effect and non-Hall effect) to ensure a long lifespan of the motor.

CONS

The rubber connecting harness is quite thin.

OUR VERDICT

If you are looking for a budget- and eco-friendly vehicle but really don't like tiresome pedaling, the AW conversion kit is a wonderful option.

detailed parameters
Type

Front wheel kit

Compatibility

26” wheel

Disc-Brake compatible

Motor Power

48 V / 1000 W

Max Speed

28 mph

Conveniences

Carrying bag for battery, Battery power indicator

Extras

Front wheel with tire, 2 brake pullers, Thumb gear changer, 2 handlebar grips, Electric controller with cable set, Rubber connecting harness, Bike rack, Pedal sensor, Lead-acid battery charger

Weight

29 lbs

Warranty

Amazon’s 30-day return policy

PROS

As lightweight as it is, this e-bike kit comes with a portable battery and a battery charger, so you won't need to buy them separately. 

CONS

The top speed is somewhat low.

OUR VERDICT

With this fantastic electric bike kit, turning your two-wheeler or tricycle into an up-to-date motorized vehicle is a breeze. You can select one of the tree battery options available (8-, 12-, and 20-mile).

detailed parameters
Type

Front wheel kit

Compatibility

20”, 24”, 26” or 700cc wheels 

Disc-Brake compatible

Motor Power

24 V / 250 W

Max Speed

18 mph

Conveniences

Easy-to-mount bag, Battery power indicator

Extras

Front wheel with tire, Electric controller with battery (8-, 12-, or 20-mile options available), Battery charger, Cable set

Weight

20 lbs (with a battery)

Warranty

2 years

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EBIKELING 26" 700C

A Perfect Modular Option

The rear-drive model from EBIKELING is a true e-Bike conversion kit that has everything you need to get started, so without further ado, let’s get into details.

First things first, the package includes a 26-inch wheel that will be compatible with most regular bicycle models varying from roadsters to mountain bikes. In addition to the high-quality aluminum alloy wheel, the kit is supplied with an LED monitor that will show you all the data you may need on a lengthy bike trip. The display is capable of detecting and displaying current speed, miles driven, and current battery charge, among other things.

Depending on the frame layout of your bike model it is important to figure out where to place, mount or hang the bag that contains the electric motor. Since the kit is not modular, the positioning of the engine will be your first concern prior to installing the accelerator on the cogwheel.

Review of EBIKELING 26" 700C e-Bike Conversion Kit Electric Bicycle

A Solid 1000W Model

Although the conversion set is packed to the rafters, the wheel itself comes without any tires, and thus, you will have to purchase one beforehand. Alternatively, you can use a standard tire from the original bike setup, but you will have to check its width first. Since the rim width of the wheel is only 1 inch, the recommended width of the tire is 1.25-2.25 inches. That basically equals the width of a regular tire of most basic bike models out there.

Aside from the general specifications of the device, it has some neat features that will definitely come in handy during long trips. A special Pedal Assist Sensor offers an effortless bike riding that makes this kit truly shine. To be more specific, the system offers riding without any response from the throttle. Likewise, you can power up the device by simply pedaling, which will make marathon runs with your bike a pleasant task. In case you are wondering how much this 500-watt device can accelerate your metal steed, the answer may surprise you. A 36-volt engine is capable of speeding up your bike to mind-boggling 25 mph in just 90 seconds. Truly, a stunning result, considering that more powerful 1000-watt models can only provide a few miles per hour more while consuming twice as much power.

EBIKELING 26" 700C e-Bike Conversion Kit Electric Bicycle in the use

Installation Made Easy

In addition to an already great package, the device also features front and rear all-purpose lights that will make sure that your bicycle will be seen from the distance by car drivers if you are riding it during the nighttime.

Versatile, easy to use, and quite durable - this kit from EBIKELING is definitely a must-have in case you want a hassle-free conversion modification for your bicycle.

Detailed review of EBIKELING 26" 700C e-Bike Conversion Kit Electric Bicycle
Last updated price $0.00
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B079Y9MQJZ

 

MegaBrand Add-On Motorize

Incredibly Powerful

When you look at the MegaBrand conversion kit for the first time, it is hard to believe that this device will allow you to cycle at speeds of up to 30 mph. In other words, your bike will go as fast as a gasoline-powered scooter! Well, not exactly that fast, but way quicker than you would normally ride your bike. Since there are quite a few features that might affect acceleration, such as the tire type, the number of speeds, and the weight of your vehicle, the speed may not exceed the abovementioned 30 mph.

The electric bike kit will add 20-22 lbs to your bike's weight, which is a considerable weight but it is not that crucial for the bike portability. In addition to an overall better stability of your bicycle on the road (thanks to the added weight), you will be able to get wherever you need in no time!

This kind of transport is incredibly cheap and doesn’t require any additional fuel beside electrical charging, of course. Moreover, the kit is equipped with a high-quality motor that is both durable and quiet. So, you can relax and admire the scenery around you.

Review of MegaBrand Add-On Motorize 48v 1000w 26-Inch

Smart Brake System

A high-quality brake system is essential at high speeds. The MegaBrand electric bike kit comes with two brake pullers to install instead of the existing ones. Besides, they are equipped with a smart brake system that will turn the motor power off when you push the lever down. As a result, the bike will stop at once at a rapid braking; moreover, this function will help save the battery power and charge.

For listening to music, checking out your location, or shooting video of your rides, consider buying a bike phone mount for additional stability of the electrical devices that are usually installed on the bicycle handlebars.
MegaBrand Add-On Motorize 48v 1000w 26-Inch in the use

What's in the Kit?

You will surely like all the extras that come with the kit. In addition to a motorized wheel and brake pullers, there is an electric controller, a wire harness, a speed throttle, and a battery power indicator. Please note that there is no battery or battery charger in the package so you will have to purchase them separately. However, you will get an ergonomic battery carrying bag and a rubber connecting harness to secure it to your bike rack or frame.

All in all, the 48-volt, 1000-watt engine of this front-drive conversion kit from MegaBrand will suffice your needs if you are looking for a sturdy, reliable, and all-around good electric bicycle kit that will help turn your routine riding trips into real adventures.

Detailed review of MegaBrand Add-On Motorize 48v 1000w 26-Inch
Last updated price $0.00
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B011PVV0XS

 

JAXPETY 26" E Bike Front

The Battery Is All You Need

The 36-volt electric bicycle conversion kit from JAXPETY comes equipped with everything you need to turn your regular bike into an electric beast except with a 36 V battery. Unlike other similar models, this electric kit won’t run with a battery that is over 36 volts, hence, you will have to purchase the right one beforehand. Otherwise, you won’t be able to reach the maximum speed of 23 mph once the kit's installed on your bike.

The 500 W motor is capable of delivering enough power to reach the maximum speed of around 40-50 miles, which is quite impressive for a mid-range model. On top of that, the design of the engine includes a brushless technology that makes it an extremely durable model, capable of delivering for more than 10 seasons. Even more, to extend the service life, JAXPETY installed special brake levers that disable the engine when you press them. This way, the engine of the electric kit doesn’t stay on all the time.

Review of JAXPETY 26" E Bike Front Wheel Ebike Hub Motor Conversion Kit

The Wheel Is Optional

The build quality of the supplied wheel and its rim is quite standard so, you'll be able to keep the existing wheel if you feel so inclined. In order to install the kit on your regular front wheel, you will have to remove the spokes and put them back after the kit is installed. That said, the tire that is equipped on the wheel is of better quality and will serve you for at least a couple of seasons before wearing out.

Although the conversion kit is designed to be mounted on the front wheel, if you have enough experience with removing the bicycle cogwheels, you may also install it on the rear wheel.

JAXPETY 26" E Bike Front Wheel Ebike Hub Motor Conversion Kit in the use

Firmly Protected

The controller unit is covered with an aluminum alloy housing that prevents the harsh weather conditions from breaking down the device. That being said, the CU must not be submerged into water to prevent possible damage and eventual electric shock. In addition to these safety precautions, you can use a canvas bag that is included in the package to mount the control unit under the frame of your bicycle.

On top of the good housing, the control unit is equipped with a special crank speed sensor that allows you to see what gear is turned on at the moment. This feature will come in handy if you don’t usually switch the current gear to the neutral one when getting off the bike and have a hard time pedaling.

In the end, the JAXPETY 26-inch conversion kit will be a good choice for experienced electric bike enthusiasts and for those eager to inject a new life into their regular bicycles.

Detailed review of JAXPETY 26" E Bike Front Wheel Ebike Hub Motor Conversion Kit
Last updated price $0.00
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B0761QYCKM

 

AW Kit PAS System

Traveler's Best Companion

Cycling is one of the most appreciated and beneficial outdoor activities. It is so nice to ride in the nearest park, slowly spinning the pedals and enjoying the fresh air. However, what if you need to ride rather further away from your neighborhood? Such a trip can be quite exhausting, to say the least. Luckily, there is a handy solution to this problem, that both beginners and experienced cyclists will appreciate.

The AW e-bike kit features a pedal sensor that detects the moment when you start pedaling. You can spin the pedals as fast as you wish and the motor will do the rest of the job to gain the desired speed. If you feel tired and stop pedaling, your bicycle will be completely electrically powered. With this kit, you will enjoy your trip even when climbing steep hills on your bike! The powerful motor provides the maximum speed of up to 28 mph, which is considered as standard speed for a 1000-Watt model.

Review of AW Kit PAS System 26"x1.75" Front Wheel 48V 1000W 470RPM

Dual Mode Controller

For the best motor performance under any conditions, this electric bike conversion kit is equipped with a dual-mode (Hall effect and non-Hall effect) controller. Basically, if it works in the first mode, it enables an impressive efficiency of the 1000-Watt motor and reveals its real potential. However, if a special sensor inside the motor detects that something is wrong (which might be caused by a magnetic resistance change), it will switch the device to a non-Hall mode to ensure an excellent performance under any conditions, which can be crucial on the road during long trips.

A bike computer is an irreplaceable gadget for cyclists traveling far distances. It will provide you with all the necessary info: how fast you are moving, how far you have ridden, and even how many calories you have burnt spinning the pedals.

AW Kit PAS System 26"x1.75" Front Wheel 48V 1000W 470RPM in the use

For Safe Riding

You should keep in mind that installing an e-bike conversion kit might shorten a lifespan of some bicycle parts, such as a chain, a chain wheel, a cog, brake pads, etc. It's totally OK since all the components withstand heavy loads when you are riding your bike. If properly maintained and replaced as needed, they won't cause any unpleasant surprises during your cycling trips. Also, do not forget to follow road traffic regulations and wear a bike helmet in order to avoid accidents.

In conclusion, the front-drive conversion kit from AW will provide you with all the essential parts that you may need in order to turn your regular bicycle into a fully-fledged electric bike.

Detailed review of AW Kit PAS System 26"x1.75" Front Wheel 48V 1000W 470RPM
Last updated price $263.90
Stock In stock
ASIN B00YBWA5VC

 

Clean Republic Hill Topper

It is Time to Upgrade Your Bike!

Compatible with road, mountain, folding bikes, as well as other types, the Clean Republic electric kit is just what you need to convert your vehicle into an up-to-date e-bike, and without breaking a bank. Thanks to a variety of wheel sizes (20-inch, 24-inch, 26-inch as well as 700c), you will surely find the kit to suit your two-wheeler! Just check the number on your bike tire's side and select the appropriate wheel size from the options provided if your bike doesn’t have one.

To add to its benefits, this model is amazingly lightweight (only 8 lbs), so it will add practically nothing to your bike’s overall weight. At the same time, this electric bike kit will help you ride at 18 mph without pedaling at all. Thus, your bike rides will be a lot easier, particularly if you need to ride uphill. Likewise, in order to charge the battery, all you have to do is start pedaling while you ride a bike.

Review of Clean Republic Hill Topper Easy Installation Made in US

All Included in the Kit

A good thing about this electric bike kit is that everything you need is included in the package. Namely, a motorized (250 W) front wheel, a bag with a controller and a Lithium battery (24 V), a charger, a cable set, and an on/off handlebar motor control. Made of high-quality nylon, the portable bag is rain- and mud-proof, which is a true bliss when it comes down to riding in harsh weather conditions. Besides, thanks to the ergonomic straps, it can be easily attached to your bike's upper frame, rack, or seat post for the most convenient use.

This e-bike kit is the perfect option to be used with literally any bicycle, and your mountain bike is not an exception. However, in this case, you might need a wider tire than the motorized wheel comes with. To provide a better road adhesion, get a pair of the best mountain bike tires! Without them, you will have a hard time climbing even the smallest hills out there.

Clean Republic Hill Topper Easy Installation Made in US in the use

What is Your Daily Mileage?

One more amazing feature of the Clean Republic kit is that you can choose a battery capacity that suits you the most. Hence, you can ride many miles on a single charge; three battery capacity options are available. If you are only traveling short distances, the LiFePO4 8-mile battery would be enough. However, for longer trips, we recommend a 12- or even 20-mile Li-ion Cobalt option. An ergonomic indicator on the electric controller will display the battery condition for charging it from the power socket in time. To wrap things up, the US-made conversion kit from Clean Republic is your top pick in case you need a high-quality all-in-one package.

Detailed review of Clean Republic Hill Topper Easy Installation Made in US

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $0.00
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B00K5WZVY8

 

What Is an Electric Bike Kit?

Without any doubt, a bicycle is one of the most ingenious means of transport ever invented. Being absolutely eco-friendly, portable, and cost-effective, this vehicle also helps us keep fit! Yet, riding long distances is not as easy as it may look - the speeds bikes can reach are not record-high and you are likely to get tired quite fast. However, in case you are not a proud Olympics golden finalist or if you aren't planning to participate in Tour de France you can turn your conventional bike into a high-tech electric two-wheeler.

The only thing you need is an electric bike kit! It's way cheaper than purchasing a full-scale e-bike and you will be able to install the electric motor without the help of a professional mechanic. Enjoy riding your bike, breathe fresh air, and keep yourself fit and in a good shape.

If you are looking for a new road bike, you can find the model that fits your particular needs in our review. In order to maintain the correct pressure in the tires of your bicycle, we also recommend a high-quality bike pump - an essential tool for almost any flat tire situation you may encounter on the roads.

What Features to Compare

Type

So, you have made up your mind to upgrade your bicycle, converting it into an e-bike. Before selecting a suitable kit, you should consider its type, since there are quite a few differences between them.

  • Front wheel kits comprise a full-scale front wheel with a built-in electric motor and a battery bag that can be attached to a bike frame. The quality of the bag can differ from model to model, and thus, it is important to check what is it made of. The canvas models are good as a budget solution, however, they are not protected against harsh weather conditions like nylon bags are. The advantage of the front wheel kit is its quick installation: just a few minutes and you're ready to ride. On the downside, the front wheel can possibly be of a different width compared to the rear one, however, this isn’t always the case. Some models can be tuned to be of the same width as the original wheel. Alternatively, these models can be installed on already existing wheels but it will require some tinkering with the bicycle’s fork and spokes.
  • Rear wheel kits. As the name suggests, the motor is built into the rear wheel, which helps reduce the load on the frame. However, if you mount the battery on the rear rack, the load on the rear part of your bike's frame will be quite considerable.
  • Mid-drive kits. In this case, the motor near the crank powers the gears. Although this type of kit is fairly uncommon, the good thing is you don't have to replace any wheels to install the kit. There is one drawback, however - the motor is close to the ground so in order to avoid possible damage, a gentle riding is recommended.
  • Friction drive models. The front or rear wheel is driven by a motor-powered shaft. However, it is rather loud in operation and causes a quicker brake system and tire wear. Some modern friction drive systems don't have this issue, however, they cost quite a lot.

Compatibility

Next, check if the electric bike kit is compatible with your bicycle. Consider the wheel size and brake system. You should also take the motor's efficiency into account. If you want your vehicle to go fast, it is recommended to choose the kit with higher voltage and wattage. Besides, the manufacturers usually specify the maximum speed the kit can provide. However, it depends on a number of factors, such as bike weight, tire width, roadway surface, etc. Check whether the kit includes a battery carrying bag (batteries are usually sold separately) that you will mount the way you like. A power indicator will inform you when it is time to recharge the battery.

What's in the Package

By selecting a bike conversion kit, don't forget to check its packaging. If you wish to avoid extra purchases, opt for the kit that comes with all the necessary items. Some manufacturers even provide a bike rack to mount a battery bag on. However, most kits come without a battery, therefore, you need to buy it separately. Also, you might want to consider the kit's weight since the heavier your two-wheeler becomes, the more difficult it will be to push the pedals.

Did you know?

How to Install an Electric Bike Kit?

When electric bikes are just too expensive to be a reasonable alternative to fossil fuel consuming vehicles one might think that there is no other option than to ride a regular bicycle. And they would be wrong. Thankfully, there are a lot of affordable solutions for owners of regular bikes. Even though they may look simple enough to install on paper, in reality, things might get a little bit complicated. So let’s take a look at how to install a standard electric bike conversion kit, step by step.

  • If the kit of your choice doesn’t include a battery you will have to choose one on your own. Depending on the motor type you may need to do the math accordingly. Each motor has specifications that note the maximum allowed wattage as well as the voltage so selecting the right battery won’t be a problem. A good battery charger will also come in handy, so consider buying a high-quality adapter and a cable for it, since standard models rarely live for more than a few months.

  • Moving on, the first thing you will do after installing the electric engine is replacing your stock wheels with an electric-powered one. In case you haven’t changed a tire once in your life your best bet is to loosen the brake cables and a quick release with a combination wrench.

  • Depending on the layout of a particular kit you may need to connect the kit to either front or rear wheel of your bicycle. If the latter is the case, you will also need to remove the freewheel (a cogwheel usually located on the rear wheel of your bike that changes the speeds with a chain connected to it). In order to do that you will need a combination wrench of appropriate size.

  • After that is out of the way, deflate the tire and release the wheel from it to remove it from the setup. To do so, you will have to loosen the bike nipple (spoke).

  • Next, install the new wheel that comes in the package and connect it to your old freewheel. Remember that in order to connect the cables you will have to loosen the freewheel first to prevent binding of the chain in the future.

  • The next step will be the installment of the wheel back. To do so, you will have to connect the washers and torque arms included in each electric conversion kit. Once the wheel has been seated in its spot secure it with the provided axles.

  • And now to the most interesting yet complex side of the story - the wires. Running wires may be a daunting task but only if you won’t follow instructions provided in the user’s manual. To avoid cutting the especially long wires we recommend using zip-ties to secure them under the bicycle frame. Try to memorize the wires and connect them one by one in the correct order. Once the engine is connected to the driving wheel all you have left to do is connect the brake system and display (in case they are included in the package).

After all these steps are complete, don’t forget to test your e-bike in a safe location before heading on to the road. Remember that your safety must always come first, especially when it comes to driving your newly obtained electric steed on the busy streets of your city.

Sources:

1. Jamie Beach How to electrify your normal bike, BikeRadar. June 23, 2016.

2. Eric Hicks One Hour Electric Bike Conversion; Installing a Kit, Electric Bike. April 21, 2015.

3. Electric bicycle, Wikipedia. February 16, 2017.

4. Milo Dakota How Does an Electric Bike Speed Controller Work? LIVESTRONG. November 11, 2015.

5. Hall effect, Wikipedia. March 5, 2017.

6. Michael Nunez How Pro Cyclists Cheat Using Motorized Bikes, Gizmodo. January 2, 2016.

7. Max Glaskin The Environmental Impact of Cycling, MOTHER EARTH NEWS. September 10, 2013.

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