Electric Bike Conversion Kits

Cargocycles Melbourne stocks a carefully selected range of electric bicycle conversion kits that can be used to convert your existing bike to be an energy-efficient electric bike.

Whether you want to retrofit your city bike, mountain bike or cargo bike - there's an electric kit that can be mounted to almost any frame, so you can transform your favourite bike into a powerful eBike.

Call or email us to discuss the right electric bike kit for your bike or have a look at some we built earlier in our blog.

What is an electric conversion kit?

Electric bike conversion kits are aftermarket kits designed to transform regular bicycles into electric bikes. They offer a cost-effective and convenient way to upgrade your existing bike with an electric motor and battery system. This allows you to enjoy the benefits of electric propulsion without having to purchase a dedicated electric bike.

Here are some key components typically included in an electric bike conversion kit:

1. Electric Motor: The motor is the heart of the conversion kit and provides the power to propel the bike. It is usually mounted in the front or rear wheel hub, this type will be good for a budget conversion and will involve replacing an existing wheel. There are also add-on kits that drive the crank. Crank motors are usually more efficient and have higher torque levels available. Your bikes wheels don't need to be changed.
2. Battery: Conversion kits come with a rechargeable battery pack that provides the energy required to run the electric motor. The battery is typically mounted on the bike frame, either in a water bottle-style enclosure or as a rear rack attachment.
3. Controller: The controller acts as the brain of the electric bike conversion kit. It regulates the flow of power from the battery to the motor and allows the rider to control various functions such as speed, pedal assist levels, and maximum power.
4. Throttle or Pedal Assist System (PAS): Conversion kits can have either a throttle or a pedal-assist system, or sometimes both. A throttle allows you to control the speed of the electric motor with a twist grip or a thumb lever, similar to a motorcycle throttle but is not really legal in most Australian states. Pedal assist systems use sensors to detect your pedaling and provide assistance automatically, proportional to your effort.
5. Display: Many conversion kits include a handlebar-mounted display unit that shows information such as battery level, speed, distance traveled, and assist level. This allows you to monitor the performance of your electric bike easily. Battery level is often just like the screen on a mobile phone. More sophisticated systems will often have the ability to connect to a mobile phone app.

Installation

Installing an electric bike conversion kit generally requires some good mechanical and basic electrical skills. Most kits come with detailed instructions and can be installed with common tools like spanners and screwdrivers. However, if you are not confident in your abilities, it is advisable to seek professional help to ensure a proper installation. We can help!

Advantages of kits over dedicated e-bikes

Electric bike conversion kits can offer several advantages. They are generally more affordable compared to buying a dedicated electric bike, as you can transform your existing bike into an electric one. They also offer flexibility since you can choose the specific kit that suits your needs and preferences. Furthermore, if you decide to switch back to a regular bike, you can remove the conversion kit and restore your bicycle to its original state.

It's worth noting that electric bike conversion kits come in various configurations, power levels, and battery capacities. Therefore, it's essential to research and choose a kit that matches your requirements in terms of desired speed, range, and riding style.