123RF.com (Madina Asileva)
Feeling less than enthusiastic about riding your old cruiser? Turn it into an electric bike! Not only will you have a fun and practical way to commute and run errands, but you’ll also save money. Once the job is done, you’ll have a new electric mountain bike or another type of e-bike to show off to your friends.
Whether you want to transform your road bike, mountain bike or even a fat tire bike, here are the best e-bike conversion kits for everyone.
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1. EDITOR’S CHOICE: EBIKELING Direct Drive Front or Rear Kit
Pros:- Optional LED and upgraded LCD displays available
- Includes a direct drive brushless hub motor
- Upgraded display shows you the battery percentage, total and current trip distance, speed, wattage and PAS levels
Cons:- Only comes with one torque arm
- Not the quietest motor
- Can take awhile to assemble
If you’re looking for power, consider the Ebikeling Direct Drive Front or Rear Conversion Kit with a 1200-watt hub motor and a 30-amp controller. The package includes a direct drive brushless hub motor along with a brushless motor controller and a choice between a twist or thumb throttle. Available in front and rear configurations, there’s an option to transform nearly any bike.
Based in Chicago, the company creates cost-effective conversion kits for everyone. The cost of converting an old bike is typically a fraction of what a new e-bike costs. Besides, you can keep your trusty old bike around for longer. There are numerous options to fit most bikes.
Aside from front and rear thumb and twist throttles, you can also opt for an LED display or upgrade to the LCD display.
An upgraded display shows you the battery percentage, total and current trip distance, speed, wattage and PAS levels. Other perks include a torque arm along with two brake levers that come with safety switches.
Many cyclists invest in the Ebikeling Universal Torque Arm for eBikes to ensure the wheel stays attached to the fork or frame. You’ll definitely want to invest in this torque arm if you’re installing at least a 500-watt motor.
Buy the EBIKELING Direct Drive Front or Rear Conversion Kit here.
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2. RUNNER UP: Bafang BBS02B Mid Drive Electric Bike Conversion Kit
Pros:- E-bike conversion kit comes with brake levers or hydraulic sensors
- Includes a speed sensor and magnets
- Optional LCD display with Bluetooth functionality
Cons:- Doesn't work with coaster brakes
- Won't fit fat tire bikes
- Some complaints of Bluetooth connectivity issues with the LCD display
The Bafang BBS02B Mid Drive Electric Bike Conversion Kit is easy to install and doesn’t require much more than removing the crankset and center shaft for installation. Several variations are available, including options with and without a battery. For example, you can select the 44T chain ring or 44T and 11.6Ah down tube battery kits up to the 52T chain ring and 52T and 52-volt 14Ah down tube battery kit.
Part of the appeal of this Bafang electric bicycle conversion kit is that it’s highly versatile and works with most mountain and road bikes, except ones with carbon frames. You can even retrofit an old hybrid bike. Once the kit is installed you’ll get a powerful 750-watt motor, which is plenty of conquering steep climbs, rolling along tricky terrain and more.
The e-bike conversion kit comes with brake levers or hydraulic sensors along with a waterproof cable, thumb throttle, a speed sensor and magnets, and even a headlight for safer riding in low-light settings. An LCD display with Bluetooth functionality is optional.
Find more Bafang BBS02B Mid Drive Electric Bike Conversion Kit information and reviews here.
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3. Voilamart Rear Wheel Electric Bicycle Conversion Kit
Pros:- Switches between 750 and 1,500 watts of power
- Top speed of 34 miles per hour
- Twist throttle displays remaining battery life
Cons:- Only available with a twist throttle
- Battery isn't included
- LCD display isn't available
This road-legal Voilamart Rear Wheel Electric Bicycle Conversion Kit boosts your road bike with a default setting of 750 watts of power for road bikes and a top speed of 24 miles per hour, and up to 1,500 watts with a top speed of 34 miles per hour using the second mode. This e-bike conversion kit is designed for 26-inch wheels and features a PAS system for your convenience.
You can quickly bring the bike up to speed with the twist throttle. As you ride, you can also check the battery status so that you know just how much juice is left before you need a recharge. For your safety, the brake levers cut the power supply to the motor if you ever feel out of control.
This electric bicycle conversion kit comes with everything you need, including the wire hub, motor controller, plastic coil, cable tires, a pair of brake handles and a manual. You’ll also find sturdy double-wall alloy rims for added durability.
Find more Voilamart Rear Wheel Electric Bicycle Conversion Kit information and reviews here.
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4. ModWheel 36v 500w Geared 7-Spd Rear Wheel Electric Bike Kit
Price: $459.95Pros:- Fits nearly any 7-speed bike
- Ideal for mountain bikes, commuters and cruisers
- Comes with Pedelec for extra assistance when pedaling
Cons:- Brakes aren't very high-quality
- Top speed is only 17 miles per hour
- Not compatible with other gear setups
From mountain bikes to cruisers and commuter bikes, you can install the ModWheel Rear Wheel Direct Drive Electric Bike Kit on nearly any type of bike. As long as yours is a 7-speed bike, this kit should fit.
Direct drive motors are known for being simple and efficient, and that’s exactly what you can expect with this ModWheel setup. This motor has 500 watts to drive enough power to the wheels for climbing up hills and overcoming resistance on a windy day. Its brushless design makes the motor a quieter and more efficient alternative to a brushed motor. Brushless motors also require less maintenance over time, which is good news for your wallet.
With a top speed of 17 miles per hour, it’s not quite as quick as some other kits on our list. This set provides up to 21 miles at a time, so you can run errands and commute to work on a single charge. You’ll get higher speed and range numbers on a traditional ebike, but you’ll also have to pay double or triple the amount.
This direct drive hub motor doesn’t require lots of time or energy to install. For example, you don’t need to worry about splurging on a jackshaft kit to set it up properly.
Along with the 26-inch rear wheel kit, you’ll receive an electric controller with a thumb throttle that provides an instant and easily accessible power boost. There’s also Pedelec for extra assistance when pedaling, along with brakes, an LCD speedometer and a controller bag.
Find more ModWheel 36v 500w Geared 7-Spd Rear Wheel Electric Bike Kit information and reviews here.
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5. CSCbike MTB E-Bike Conversion Kit
Pros:- Fits tires from 26 to 29 inches
- Durable double-wall aluminum alloy rim
- Versatile seven-speed freewheel
Cons:- Only compatible with 135-142mm dropouts
- Battery isn't included
- Warranty is only valid for one year
You can quickly and easily convert your mountain bike into an e-MTB with the CSCbike MTB E-Bike Conversion Kit. Sizes range from 26 to 29 inches to fit most mountain bikes.
Each kit has a 48V battery and a 1,000-watt motor to increase your riding capabilities in nearly any situation. From soft sand to slippery loose rocks, the powerful brushless non-gear hub motor will get you through virtually anything. It’s a dependable choice for year-round riding, especially on challenging terrain that a non-motorized bike might not be able to handle.
This rear-wheel e-bike kit is designed for 135-142mm dropouts for a secure fit. It’s also made for use with disc brake systems for a smooth riding experience.
From flats to hills, the seven-speed gearing system suits most riding routes. An eight-magnet pedal assist system (PAS) provides smooth and dependable power with each pedal stroke. You can also choose between various levels of assistance to make pedaling easier or more challenging.
Find more CSCbike MTB E-Bike Conversion Kit information and reviews here.
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6. Bafang BBSHD 1000W Mid-Drive Motor Ebike Conversion Kit with Battery
Pros:- Mid-drive motor offers a realistic riding experience
- Includes a Bluetooth display
- Compatible with 48V and 52V batteries
Cons:- Battery ships separately
- Only has a one year warranty
- Some complaints about batteries rattling while riding
One big advantage of a mid-drive motor is that it creates a balanced center of gravity for a more realistic riding sensation. The Bafang BBSHD 1000W Mid-Drive Motor Ebike Conversion Kit with a large capacity battery works with 48V and 52V batteries. It also comes with any accessory you might need to get your bike up and running.
Bafang is a trusted name in the e-bike world, with a reputation for well-built components that won’t break the bank. This mid-drive conversion kit is no exception. Each kit comes with brake levers or sensors, a thumb throttle, crank, chainring wheels and more. You can even select a headlight or taillight at no extra cost.
Instead of blindly guessing how much charge is left or your current riding mode, use the integrated LCD display to keep tabs on those features and more. Bluetooth technology keeps you connected as you ride. Each display shows your PAS level, trip distance, current and average speed, riding time and more. Any error codes will show up on the screen.
This e-bike conversion kit works with many types of bikes, including road bikes, fat bikes and mountain bikes. You can select a kit with or without a battery.
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7. 8FUN Bafang BBSHD Mid Drive Electric Bike Conversion Kit
Pros:- Can be used with 48 and 52-volt batteries
- Works with many different types of bikes
- Comes with a speed sensor and magnets
Cons:- Not for use with carbon fiber frames
- Kit is quite heavy
- Display may not show full battery power with 48-volt batteries
Some e-bike conversion kits limit you to a specific voltage, but the 8FUN Bafang BBSHD Mid Drive Electric Bike Conversion Kit works with 48 and 52-volt batteries. However, the company recommends using a 52-volt battery for the best results.
The package includes a Bafang BBSHD 48-volt 1,000-watt motor along with brake levers. However, you can swap out the brake levers for hydraulic and mechanical sensors.
Multiple size options are available, including a 42T with a 68-millimeter bottom bracket, with or without a 17.5Ah downtube battery, up to a 46T sprocket with a 120-millimeter bottom bracket with a choice between a 17.5Ah downtube or touring rack battery or a 52-volt 14Ah downtube battery.
This e-bike conversion kit works with many different types of bikes, including mountain, road, commuter, and fat tire bikes. The kit comes with an optional Bluetooth LCD display, a pair of cranks, speed sensor and magnets, a headlight for increased visibility and more.
Find more 8FUN Bafang BBSHD Mid Drive Electric Bike Conversion Kit information and reviews here.
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8. NBPower Electric Fat Bike Conversion Kit
Pros:- Bluetooth adapter works with iOS and Android devices
- Kit includes a 20-inch tire
- 72-volt Sabvton controller has a color display
Cons:- Only works on bikes with a 170-175mm rear dropout
- Not compatible with a nine-speed cassette
- Battery isn't included
You can ride through virtually anything once you convert your regular fat bike using the NBPower Electric Fat Bike Conversion Kit. Boasting a powerful 3,000-watt brushless motor, the rear conversion kit also comes with a 20-inch tire to simplify your life.
The rear wheel features a 170-175mm dropout, which makes it compatible with many fat bikes. There’s also a seven-speed freewheel and 72-volt Sabvton controller with a color display.
Rides in the rain aren’t an issue, as this DIY kit features waterproof cables. You’ll also find a twist throttle to give your legs a break. This kit contains a Bluetooth adapter that’s compatible with iOS and Android devices.
Find more NBPower Electric Fat Bike Conversion Kit information and reviews here.
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9. EBIKELING Geared Front or Rear Electric Bicycle Conversion Kit
Pros:- Each version has a powerful 36-volt 500-watt motor
- Includes everything you need for installation
- Available twist or thumb controllers
Cons:- Battery isn't included
- Doesn't come with battery adapters or connectors
- Confusing assembly instructions
Convert the front or rear of your bike to an e-bike with this waterproof EBIKELING e-bike conversion kit. You’ll find several variations, from a front wheel kit with a thumb throttle and LCD display to an upgraded set with an LED display, along with twist throttles.
The same options are available for the rear of the bike. Each kit features a 36-volt 500-watt motor and is designed for 26-inch tires.
You’ll find everything you need to successfully install the set, including the motor and wheel, controller, brake levers, throttle, LCD or LED display, torque arm, pedal assist sensor and cable ties to secure the components. Tires and batteries are not included.
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10. NBpower 29-inch Rear Wheel Motor Conversion Kit
Pros:- Designed for wheel sizes from 20 to 29 inches
- Sturdy double-wall alloy rims
- Available thumb or twist throttle
Cons:- Battery isn't included
- Doesn't support regenerative braking
- Limited one-year warranty
If you’re looking for maximum power, this NBPOWER Rear Hub Motor Kit could be just what you need. Once it’s installed, this 72-volt 2,000-watt motor will propel your bike up hills without hesitation.
The wheel features durable double-wall alloy rims along with your choice between a thumb or twist throttle. You’ll also find a multi-function display that shows the battery level, mode, speed, trip distance and any error codes.
A PAS system makes it easier to cruise when you’re ready for a break. This electric bike conversion kit is designed for various wheel sizes, from 20 to 29 inches.
Find more NBPOWER Rear Hub Motor Kit information and reviews here.
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11. L-faster Twist or Thumb Electric Conversion Kit
Pros:- Twist and thumb kits come in 24 and 36-volt variations
- Mounting plates and bolts are included with each kit
- Each kit comes with a 250-watt brush motor
Cons:- Won't work on bikes with coaster brakes
- Not recommended for bikes with a rear hub diameter under 36 milimeters
- Kits don't include batteries or chargers
The L-faster Twist or Thumb Electric Conversion Kit fits most bike wheels as it mounts onto the sprocket on your bike’s wheel spokes. Once it’s in place, the 250-watt brush motor will give you an extra boost when you need it. It’s on the lower end of the power range, but this is an economical solution for commuters and budget shoppers.
Several variations are available, from 24-volt thumb and twist kits to the more powerful 36-volt thumb and twist kits. A motor controller is included, along with corresponding twist or thumb throttles with battery indicators.
The twist kit comes with a key switch while the thumb kit contains a switch button. Mounting plates and bolts are included with each kit.
Buy the L-faster Twist or Thumb Electric Conversion Kit here.
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12. EBIKELING Rear Wheel Electric Bike Conversion Kit
Pros:- Available LED or LCD display
- Comes with a pedal-assist sensor
- Thumb and twist throttles available
Cons:- Battery not included
- Only designed for 700C wheels
- LED display is quite basic
Convert your bike into the ultimate workhorse using the EBIKELING Rear Wheel Electric Bike Conversion Kit. This electric bicycle conversion kit fits 700C wheels and gives you a choice between thumb and twist throttles.
You can also choose between an LCD or LED display. If you’re having trouble deciding, the LCD display is an upgrade and shows the battery level, combined and single trip distance, PAS levels, wattage, speed, error codes and more.
To make installation easier, the hub motor is already attached, as is the aluminum double-walled rim. Aside from the battery and tire, all other essentials are included, such as the brake levers, pedal-assist sensor, cable ties and torque arm. Each kit has 1,500 watts and 48 volts for maximum power and performance.
Buy the EBIKELING Rear Wheel Electric Bike Conversion Kit here.
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13. Bafang Front Hub Motor Electric Bike Conversion Kit
Pros:- Brake levers safely cut power supply to the motor when necessary
- Maximum speed of roughly 25 miles per hour
- Power rating of 500 watts is plenty for trail riding, touring, commuting and more
Cons:- Only covered by a one-year warranty
- Assembly instructions could be better
- Might not fit certain drop-outs
Propel your standard bike to new levels with the Bafang Front Hub Motor Electric Bike Conversion Kit, which has a power rating of 500 watts and is robust enough for trail riding, touring, commuting and more. A choice between e-bike and pedal-assist modes makes your rides that much more enjoyable. You’ll find this electric bike conversion kit in a wide range of options, from the smallest 20-inch and C18 to 700c and C965.
Whether you’re cruising off road or need to pick it up to get over that pesky hill on your daily commute, this conversion kit has a maximum speed of roughly 25 miles per hour. It’s also highly efficient and comes with brake levers that safely cut power supply to the motor when necessary.
You’ll find everything you need in this kit, including the front wheel and motor, controller and controller case, a thumb throttle and a brake lever or hydraulic brake sensor. Optional accessories include a Bafang LCD display, extension cable and a battery and charger.
Installation takes about an hour. An installation video is included, along with a manual.
Find the Bafang Front Hub Motor Electric Bike Conversion Kit here.
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14. AW Rear Wheel E-Bike Hub Conversion Kit
Pros:- Has a top speed of 31 miles per hour
- Aluminum alloy frame
- Thumb throttle with a battery monitor
Cons:- Installation can be tricky
- Rear wheel is a bit wide for a standard 26-inch MTB wheel
- Battery isn't included
The AW Rear Wheel E-Bike Hub Conversion Kit comes with a 26-inch wheel along with a powerful motor to transform your ride. You’ll find 1,000 watts of power along with a 48-volt motor.
Together, this combination can power your bike to a top speed of 31 miles per hour and help you conquer hills and challenging terrain. The brushless hub motor also ensures quiet operation.
If you’re concerned about durability, this wheel’s aluminum alloy frame provides peace of mind. A thumb throttle with a battery monitor adds an extra element of convenience.
Find more AW Rear Wheel E-Bike Hub Conversion Kit information and reviews here.
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15. ModWheel 48V 1000W Direct Drive Front Wheel eBike Kit & Optional Battery
Price: $938.95Pros:- Suitable for heavier riders
- Optional 48-volt lithium-ion battery with locking key
- Integrated USB port
Cons:- Battery is purchased separately
- Very basic installation manual
- Rather heavy
If you’re looking to upgrade your bike using one of the most powerful electric bike conversion kits on the market right now, check out this ModWheel front drive e-bike kit & optional battery. Not only does the powerful 1,000-watt motor offer plenty of assistance on steeper hills and rugged terrain, it’s also suitable for heavier cyclists. A top speed of 25 miles per hour makes every ride fun, whether you’re commuting to work or hitting your favorite trails.
The ModWheel Complete Pro Series set includes everything you need to convert your bike to a premium e-bike. In addition to a 1,000-watt motor, you’ll find a controller bag, electronic controller and LCD speedometer.
The display provides valuable feedback such as real-time distance and speed, as well as your riding time and battery level. An optional 48-volt lithium-ion ebike battery comes with a locking key and charger for added security. There’s even an integrated USB port to charge your smartphone as you’re cruising along.
One of the biggest advantages of this front-wheel e-bike kit is that it’s easy to install and operate. Additionally, it doesn’t require much maintenance over time. This e-bike kit is best for riders looking for a fun city or commuting bike.
Looking for a rear-wheel e-bike kit? Check out the ModWheel 48v 1000w Direct Drive 7-Spd Rear Wheel Electric Bike Kit & Optional Battery
Are eBike Conversion Kits worth It?
If you want to breathe new life into an older bike or are looking for a cheaper alternative to purchasing a shiny new electric bicycle, an e-bike conversion kit is definitely worth it.
Maybe you have an old bike (or two) lying around that you just can't bring yourself to part with, or you're intrigued by the thought of trying out the power of an electric motor without the potentially high upfront cost of an e-bike. Or, you've struggled to find a good alternative and want the most powerful electric bike conversion kit for your money.
Either way, electric bike conversion kits give you the flexibility of choosing which bike you want to use along with the type of kit that works best for you and your bike.
There is no standard for installing an e-bike conversion kit, so you'll need to decide whether you want a rear-wheel kit or a front-wheel kit. Both options involve removing the existing tire and replacing it with the motor and any necessary components, such as a crank arm or a speed sensor.
Some electric bicycle kits are easier to install than others, especially if you have some previous experience working on a bike. Don't worry if you're not mechanically inclined, however, as most conversion kit enthusiasts are able to make it through the installation process without issue.
Which Are the Best E-bike Conversion Kits?
Generally speaking, the more you spend to get an e-bike conversion kit, the more power and performance you can expect. You don't need to splurge on the most expensive electric bicycle kit available, however, as the best e-bike conversion kits largely depend on your bike, riding habits and the amount of riding you'll be doing. For example, if you typically use your bike for shorter rides, you can get away with less power and performance.
According to Easyebiking.com, you can get an e-bike conversion kit with 350 watts of power and a 10Ah (ampere-hour) battery for shorter distances.
If you frequently head out on longer rides or often find yourself riding over rougher terrain, such as mud and rocks, you might want to consider an e-bike conversion kit with 500 to 750 watts and a 40Ah battery.
Aggressive riders seeking to transform an existing bike into a premium electric mountain bike will want higher-end kits that offer the necessary power and capabilities. If you're shopping for the most powerful electric bike conversion kit, ModWheel 48V 1000W Direct Drive Front Wheel Electric Bike Kit & Optional Battery.
Can You Turn a Regular Bike Into an eBike?
With the right kit, you can convert many different regular bikes into electric ones.
Front hub conversion kits tend to be the more popular and more affordable type of e-bike conversion kit. One of the biggest draws of a front hub conversion kit is that it often doesn't require special tools for installation.
To properly convert your bike, you often simply need to remove the front wheel, replace it with the one in the kit and set up the wire from the hub to the controller to complete the installation.
On the other hand, rear hub conversion kits can be trickier to install. However, fans of rear hub kits praise the rear placement because it provides a more balanced ride and doesn't require you to use as much wire.
Another option is direct drive to the rear wheels. According to WheelsGo, the advantage of this setup is that it can be more efficient overall, as the electric motor is bolted onto the frame, with a chain running to the rear wheel.
Most of these types of e-bike conversion kits are also affordably priced. However, they can be bulky and tricky to assemble.
How Much Does It Cost to Convert Your Bike to Electric?
On average, you can expect to spend between $300 and $1,000 for an e-bike kit. This wide price range reflects the type of kit as well as the motor and additional accessories.
The most powerful motors with 1,000+ watts are often the priciest. If you don't need that much power, you can potentially save hundreds of dollars by choosing a smaller motor.