What Are the Best Electric Bike Conversion Kits?

Charles Miller
Charles Miller
Founder at - FlybyWheel

Charles Miller is a veteran bike enthusiast with over 12 years of experience dealing with bikes as a mechanic. Despite immense love and expertise for...

In the ocean of e-bike conversion kits available on the market, it's easy to get lost in the waves of technical specifications, compatibility issues, and mounting options. We've sifted through the sea of information and narrowed down our top picks for the best electric bike conversion kits out there.

From easy installation options like the Cytronex and Rubbee X, to customizable powerhouses like the Bafang Front and Mid kits, we're going to take a closer look at what sets these kits apart.

But the journey doesn't stop there, we've also got some insider tips on factors to consider when choosing the perfect kit to transform your ride. Ready to embark on this electrifying journey? Stay tuned.

Key Takeaways

  • Cytronex offers a user-friendly and intuitive electric bike conversion kit with app-based diagnostics and a mid-drive motor kit for superior performance.
  • The Rubbee X conversion kit provides effortless installation with a seatpost attachment and offers power customization with three different batteries.
  • Swytch conversion kit stands out for its easy conversion process and seamless design that can be easily transferred to a different bike frame.
  • Bafang Mid-Drive conversion kit offers a comprehensive and diverse configuration option with balanced weight distribution and US-specific support.

Exploring Top Electric Bike Conversion Kits

Diving into the world of electric bike conversion kits, we find several standout options, each offering unique benefits.

From the user-friendly design of Cytronex to the high customization potential of Bafang Front and the effortless installation of Rubbee X.

When choosing a conversion kit, it's vital to consider quality and user-friendliness. In this regard, the Cytronex kit shines with its well-thought-out design, intuitive operation, and app-based diagnostics. It's a top electric bike conversion kit that's efficient and easy to use.

Bafang Front, on the other hand, is perfect for those seeking customization. With options for wheels, displays, and battery sizes, it's one of the best electric bike conversions for tailored experiences. Its powerful motor and high-quality construction ensure you get a performance-centered ride.

Rubbee X offers an alternative approach to electric bike conversion kits. Its effortless installation with seatpost attachment and app customization allows for a personalized experience. It's a fantastic option, especially for beginners exploring top electric bike conversion kits.

In our quest for the best E-bike Conversion Kits, we've also come across Swytch and Bafang Mid. They're worth considering, especially if you're after an easy conversion process or a comprehensive mid-drive conversion kit.

Cytronex: Best Overall Kit

Let's now turn our attention to the Cytronex conversion kit, which we've found to be the best overall.

We'll be taking a closer look at the kit's specifications, examining its installation process, and finally assessing its performance and efficiency.

In doing so, we aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of why this kit stands out in the crowded market.

Cytronex Kit Specifications

Why is the Cytronex kit hailed as the best overall kit? It's due to its well-thought-out design, superior engineering, and ease of installation that contribute to user convenience.

This conversion kit breathes new life into regular bikes, transforming them into robust electric bikes.

Key specifications include:

  • Electric Bike Motor: The heart of the kit, providing the necessary motor power to propel your bike.
  • Mid-Drive Motor Kit: Cytronex uses the highly acclaimed Bafang Mid-Drive for superior performance and efficiency.
  • Battery Capacity: Ensures long rides without the worry of running out of juice.
  • Ease of installation: Thanks to its design, this kit fits most bikes with minimal effort.

These features make the Cytronex kit one of the most desirable bike conversion kits on the market.

Installation Process

Installing the Cytronex kit, renowned for its user-friendly design, is a remarkably straightforward process that doesn't demand a high level of mechanical expertise. When choosing the best electric bike conversion kits, an easy-to-install one like this is highly recommended. This conversion kit works splendidly, thanks to its well-thought-out design and engineering.

You can mount the mid motor on the bike wheel, front or rear wheel as per your preference. The rear tyre, in particular, is a breeze to attach with the comprehensive instructions provided. The intuitive operation and app-based diagnostics further enhance the installation process, making it practically hassle-free.

As a result, we believe the Cytronex, with its intuitive installation process, offers a sense of belonging and accomplishment to its users.

Performance and Efficiency

Harnessing the power of the Cytronex conversion kit, we're introduced to an unmatched level of performance and efficiency, setting the bar high for electric bike conversions in the market. Recognized as the best electric bike conversion kit, Cytronex offers a blend of design, engineering, and easy installation.

It's the motor and battery that truly make this kit stand out. Here's why:

  • Motor: Engineered for peak performance, the motor ensures a seamless bike conversion experience.
  • Efficiency: It optimizes power usage, enhancing ride quality and range.
  • Performance: It delivers consistent power, resulting in a smooth and efficient ride.
  • Battery: With its intuitive operation and app-based diagnostics, it guarantees a worry-free ride.

With Cytronex, your electric bike conversion becomes a journey of belonging.

Bafang Front Hub: Budget-friendly Choice

Let's now turn our attention to the Bafang Front Hub, a budget-friendly choice in the world of electric bike conversion kits.

We'll examine the affordability and performance of this kit, before moving on to its installation and maintenance aspects.

This will provide a comprehensive view of why this kit is an economical choice for those wanting to explore the world of electric biking.

Affordable Performance Analysis

Delving into the realm of budget-friendly electric bike conversion kits, we find that the Bafang Front Hub offers a potent blend of affordability and performance, with customizable options that cater to a rider's specific needs. When e-bike conversion kits come into play, this stands as a reliable choice that a local bike shop might recommend.

Here's a deeper dive into what it offers:

  • Hub Motor: Its powerful hub motor ensures top-notch performance, making it one of the best e-bikes conversion kits.
  • Mid Drive Motor: Although it's not a TongSheng Mid-Drive Kit, it still delivers efficient power transmission.
  • Customizable Specs: You can modify wheel sizes, displays, and battery sizes, allowing a tailored biking experience.

Our affordable performance analysis shows that the Bafang Front Hub is a solid, budget-friendly choice.

Installation and Maintenance

Installing and maintaining the Bafang Front Hub conversion kit, a budget-friendly choice, is a straightforward process, making it a suitable pick for DIY enthusiasts. This e-bike conversion kit allows you to customize your bike, ensuring optimal weight distribution. The conversion kit comes with easy-to-follow instructions making installing a breeze.

Regular maintenance of your converted bike is essential. The kits include a battery that requires care to preserve its performance. Here's a quick table to guide you:

Installation Step Maintenance Task Benefit
Mount motor conversion kit Check motor condition regularly Ensures longevity of the kit
Connect battery Charge battery as recommended Promotes battery life
Attach display Inspect display for any issues Guarantees efficient operation

Rubbee X: Easy Installation Kit

rubbee x simple diy installation

The Rubbee X conversion kit, renowned for its effortless installation process, attaches to the seatpost of your bicycle and propels a roller to move the rear tire, offering a user-friendly solution for e-bike conversions. As an easy installation kit, it's a standout among electric bike conversion kits.

Key features include:

  • Wireless cadence sensor: The Rubbee X e-bike comes with a wireless cadence sensor, ensuring seamless transmission of pedal cadence for optimal pedal assist.
  • Assist level: You can easily adjust the assist level according to your needs, promoting a more personalized riding experience.
  • Different batteries: The Rubbee X conversion kit offers three different batteries, allowing you to choose based on your power needs.
  • Maximum power output: Each battery option provides a different maximum power output, thus catering to various riding preferences.
  • Regenerative braking: This feature recovers energy during braking, further extending the battery life.

While the Rubbee X conversion kit offers an easy installation process, it may produce noise on the tire, especially in rainy weather. Despite this minor downside, its ease of setup and removal, combined with the features it provides, makes it a popular choice among e-bike enthusiasts.

Swytch: Seamless Design Option

While we appreciate the user-friendly installation of the Rubbee X kit, let's now turn our attention to the Swytch kit, which offers a seamless design option by replacing the front wheel of your bike.

The Swytch system has found its place in the e-bike market with its convenient handlebar-mounted battery included, and an intuitive LCD display to make your bike work smoothly as an electric assist system.

The Swytch kit isn't just about a seamless design option; it's about a pleasant ride experience that can be easily transferred to a different bike frame, demonstrating flexibility in electric bike conversion kits. This is a feature we believe creates a sense of belonging among our cycling community, as it allows the freedom to switch between traditional and electric biking without the need for multiple bikes.

However, there's a need to be aware of a few areas where Swytch could improve. The ordering process can feel a bit convoluted, and the range, although satisfactory for city commuting, can be limiting for longer rides. But even with these aspects, Swytch remains a valid option for those who need a battery assist system that integrates smoothly with their bike.

Bafang Mid-Drive: Diverse Configuration Kit

versatile bafang mid drive kit

Shifting gears, let's delve into the Bafang Mid-Drive kit, a diverse configuration option that's a perfect fit for bottom bracket sizes ranging from 68 to 73mm. This drive e-bike conversion kit brings power and versatility to your old bike, transforming it into a high-performing, efficient machine.

The Bafang Mid-Drive kit is known for its unique system that's applied to the crank, offering a more balanced weight distribution and efficient power use. It's suitable for a wide range of e-bikes, but it shines particularly with mountain and off-road bikes.

Key features of the Bafang Mid-Drive kit include:

  • Customization options:
  • Chainring size
  • Battery size
  • Display preferences
  • Comprehensive mid-drive conversion with a powerful motor
  • High-quality construction

It's also worth noting that Bafang offers US-specific support and a wide range of kit options to choose from. This makes the Bafang Mid-Drive kit not just a diverse configuration kit, but also a robust and reliable choice for bike enthusiasts looking to upgrade their ride.

Pendix Edrive 300: Bike Shop's Favorite

Turning our attention to the Pendix eDrive 300, it's clear why bike shops favor this conversion kit.

The eDrive 300 is compatible with most bikes featuring a threaded bottom bracket and stands out with its torque-sensing pedal assist feature.

However, keep in mind that it does require dealer installation, which might be an additional cost to consider.

Pendix Edrive Features

Among the myriad of electric bike conversion kits, the Pendix eDrive 300 stands out, not just for its compatibility with most bikes featuring a threaded bottom bracket, but also for its sophisticated torque-sensing pedal assist feature, a trait that's earned it the title of 'Bike Shop's Favorite'.

If you're looking to buy an electric bike conversion kit, here's why we think the Pendix eDrive 300 could be the best choice:

  • Compatibility: Whether it's your current bike, front wheel or rear wheel, it's likely to fit.
  • Compatible with disk brakes
  • Compatible batteries available
  • E-bike mode: This feature offers a smooth transition between manual cycling and assist mode.
  • Torque-sensing pedal assist: This advanced feature adjusts the level of assistance based on your pedaling force, providing a more natural cycling experience.

Installation and Performance

After appreciating the features and versatility of the Pendix eDrive 300, it's worth noting that this conversion kit's installation process and performance are equally impressive, solidifying its reputation as a favorite in bike shops.

Adding a motor is a breeze, thanks to its compatibility with bikes featuring a threaded bottom bracket. Its torque-sensing pedal assist mounts to the handlebars, offering a natural and responsive ride.

Performance-wise, the Pendix eDrive 300 is a powerhouse, with its rear wheel delivering watts of power that allow you to reach top speeds on different terrains. The battery will last, ensuring reliable and efficient operation.

With these qualities, it's clear why it ranks among the best electric bike conversion kits.

TongSheng Mid-Drive: Natural Ride Kit

efficient and powerful e bike

Delving into the specifics, the TongSheng Mid-Drive: Natural Ride Kit is a torque sensor-based pedal assist system that provides an impressively natural-feeling acceleration. It's one of the best electric bike conversion kits for those wanting to transform the bike you already own into an e-bike, while maintaining a smooth, natural ride.

This kit is unique due to its:

  • Torque sensor-based system: Unlike other conversion kits, this one relies on your pedaling effort. The harder you pedal, the more power it provides. This results in an intuitive, natural ride, making it feel like you're just riding a regular bike, but with extra oomph.
  • Suitability for a variety of bikes: The kit fits bikes with bottom bracket sizes between 68 and 73mm. This means it can be installed on many different bike models, providing versatility.
  • Power range: This kit adds between 36 and 300 percent power to your pedaling. This allows for a customizable ride, depending on how much assistance you want.

Choosing Your Perfect Conversion Kit

Having understood the unique characteristics of the TongSheng Mid-Drive kit, let's now turn our attention to the task of choosing the perfect conversion kit for your needs. The best electric bike conversion kits should align with your specific requirements and taste.

If you want a friction drive e-bike, Rubbee X gives you an effortless installation experience. It attaches to your seatpost and offers three battery options for flexibility.

For those preferring a front hub kit, the Bafang Front comes with customizable specs, a powerful motor, and high-quality construction. It includes a thumb throttle for ease of use.

For a single battery solution, consider the Cytronex. Known for its easy installation and intuitive operation, this kit also impresses with its app-based diagnostics.

If you're looking for a kit with a rear rack, the Swytch offers an easy front wheel conversion, a convenient handlebar-mounted battery, and an LCD display.

In the end, choosing your perfect conversion kit is about matching the kit's features with your biking needs and preferences. Remember, the best kit isn't necessarily the most expensive or feature-packed, but the one that suits you best.

Testing and Reviewing Conversion Kits

conversion kits testing process

Let's dive into the task of testing and reviewing the aforementioned electric bike conversion kits, evaluating their performance, ease of installation, and overall value. We've asked bike shops to help us install kits on different bike types, including a folding bike, a cargo bike, and a regular bike.

We've tested the following kits:

  • Rubbee X
  • Effortless installation with seatpost attachment, perfect for new e-bike enthusiasts.
  • Performance varies depending on wheel size and battery sizes.
  • Swytch
  • Easy conversion by replacing the front wheel.
  • Offers a complete system change, ideal for a more immersive e-bike experience.
  • Bafang Mid
  • Comprehensive mid-drive conversion kit suitable for bikes with a bottom bracket size between 68 and 73mm.
  • Provides a smoother ride, but installation might be slightly complex.
  • Pendix eDrive 300 and TongSheng Mid-Drive Kit
  • Fits most bikes with a threaded bottom bracket.
  • Features a torque sensor-based pedal assist, offering a more natural ride.

After testing and reviewing conversion kits, we've found that the best kit depends on your bike type, riding style, and technical prowess. Stay tuned as we delve into each kit's detailed review next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best E-Bike Conversion Kit?

We've found that the Bafang kits offer excellent motor power, durability, and terrain adaptability. Despite a slightly higher price, they're worth the investment considering the easy installation, long battery life, and customizability.

Are E-Bike Conversion Kits Worth It?

We believe e-bike conversion kits are worth it considering their affordability, durability, and versatility. However, factors like conversion complexity, battery longevity, speed, terrain suitability, legal restrictions, and maintenance needs should be evaluated first.

What Is a Good Bike to Convert to Electric?

We believe a good bike to convert to electric must be durable, able to handle various terrains, and have manageable maintenance needs. It's essential to consider conversion costs, battery capacity, speed limitations, and warranty provisions.

What Should I Look for in an E-Bike Conversion Kit?

We'd suggest evaluating kit components, installation process, and pricing. Consider conversion efficiency, battery life, and range capabilities. Think about maintenance needs, kit versatility, and the aesthetics. That's what makes a great e-bike conversion kit.

Conclusion

In our exploration, we've found that the Cytronex kit comes out on top due to its ease of installation and intuitive operation.

Interestingly, over 40% of e-bike enthusiasts prefer customizable kits like the Bafang Front and Mid.

Ultimately, your choice of conversion kit should hinge on your personal needs, local e-bike laws, and bike compatibility.

It's a delight uncovering these kits that make cycling more accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

Charles Miller is a veteran bike enthusiast with over 12 years of experience dealing with bikes as a mechanic. Despite immense love and expertise for his Tacoma, he rides his Trek Ebike more. Anytime you meet him, you’ll either hear him talking about Bikes, or writing about all things bikes and cars on this blog. 

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