How can you build an electric bike for just a few hundred euros in under 2 hours? The solution lies in a new generation electric bike kit, all for over $880!
Just to give you an idea, a pre-assembled electric bike with similar features would cost around $2200, but if you’re ready to invest 2 hours, I’ll show you how to make significant savings.
Convert Your Conventional Bike Into an Electric One
I’m not particularly handy, but some of the new kits are so simple to assemble that anyone can convert their bike into an electric one by following a tutorial. The age or model of my bike wasn’t an issue for the installation, as modern electric motor kits are compatible with ALL types of bikes.
Many believe that the main challenge lies in the assembly process, but from my experience, I can assure you that this is a misconception. The real challenge lies in finding the RIGHT kit. There are numerous electric bike kits available for purchase online, but 95% of them are either GIMMICKY or excessively HEAVY.
When I selected mine (which I’ll introduce below), I dedicated days to researching various kits. I even attended an electric bike show in Brussels to test numerous motor models. Here, you’ll find all my advice on selecting your electric bike kit securely.
Best Electric Bike Conversion Kits
Tested and approved for 3 years. It's the best value for money. 1-year warranty. Very light weight (around 9 lbs). Can be assembled in under 2 hours.
Price: $$ | Speed: 31 mps | Battery: Optional
Bafang BBS01 (250W)
This is Bafang’s least powerful kit (250W), hence the low price. Use it anywhere, in town or country. Ideal for beginners. Easy to install.
Budget: $$$ | Speed: 18 mph | Battery: optional
Yose Power 26
A versatile kit for installation on the rear wheel. Assembly in 1 hour. Suitable for all bikes.
Budget : $ | Speed : 15 mph | Battery : not included
Tested and approved. A very powerful and robust motor, 2-year warranty. Quick assembly (2h). Ideal for mountain roads and mountain biking.
Price: $$$ | Speed: 37 mph | Battery: Optional
Bafang's latest model. Similar performance but a slightly smaller design than the previous ones and a higher price.
Price : $$$ | Speed : 37 mph | Battery : Optional
What Is the Best Electric Bike Kit?
Below you’ll find the best motors, ranked according to their position on the bike: crankset, rear wheel, or front wheel. The best location for me is the crankset because it provides the best balance and the most natural feel while pedaling.
How to Choose Your Electric Bike Kit ?
Selecting an electric bike kit is akin to building a PC: you tailor the components to your needs and pay only for what’s necessary. It’s a savvy solution, providing access to higher quality components (motor, battery, on-board computer) than many pre-assembled bikes offer, all at a fraction of the cost.
When I constructed my electric bike, I capped my budget at $1100 to acquire the most cutting-edge components available. I found what I needed at Bafang, the leading manufacturer of pedal motors, equipping 40% of electric bikes in Europe.
The Ideal Combination: An Electric Bike Kit With a Battery
- The Bafang BBS02 B 48V 750W motor (44 T sprocket) (presently available on Amazon): a technological marvel boasting performance comparable to high-end models (such as Bosch motors, which are four times the price).
- The 48V 17.5Ah lithium battery: While cheaper options exist (often heavy lead batteries), I recommend investing in a lightweight and durable battery. Battery efficiency is crucial (mine boasts 90% efficiency, among the best), and longevity is paramount. Therefore, prioritize a battery with a high charge/discharge cycle.
- The on-board computer (speedometer) 860C: Featuring a sleek interface and effortless setup, it provides speed, distance traveled, duration, and battery charge level. It’s Bluetooth-compatible, allowing connection to your smartphone.
The Bafang BBS02 B kit, established since 2014, has garnered a strong reputation over the years. Offering power (31 mph), efficiency (a torque of 120 Nm), and balance (8.8 lbs situated at the bike’s center), it boasts exceptional features within its price range and is compatible with all bike types. I’ve personally utilized it since 2018, and it’s a joy each time.
Technical Specifications
For those intrigued by the technical details of the motor, as you can see, it’s truly remarkable.
| Motor Power | 750W |
| Max Speed | 31 mph |
| Weight | 8.8 lbs |
| Maximum torque | 120 Nm |
| Pedal sensor | Speed sensor |
| Shaft standard | JIS (standard) |
| Noise class (dB) | <55 |
| Warranty | 1 year |
How to Install the BAFANG BBS02 B Electric Bike Kit?
Installing this kit is remarkably straightforward and takes less than 2 hours (even less for skilled individuals, around 1 hour). Here’s the tutorial I followed when I installed my Bafang BBS02 750W kit.
What’s Included In Your Kit
- Bafang 48V 750W BBS 02 motor
- Hydraulic sensors / mechanical brake levers
- LCD screen with Bluetooth function to be connected to your smartphone
- Speed sensor and magnets
- Waterproof EB-BUS cable (1 to 4 cables)
- Chainring (44T / 46T / 48T / 52T according to your choice) with plastic protector
- A pair of cranks
- Nuts and cables needed for the assembly
- Installation manual (I advise you to watch the video)
Since establishing this blog in 2018, I’ve had the pleasure of guiding numerous individuals interested in converting their bikes into electrically assisted ones. Through experience, I’ve observed that certain dealers LACK respect for their customers (offering poor quality parts, defective products, inadequate after-sales service, and consistently prolonged delivery times). Like many others, I purchased my kit from Amazon, which I recommend for its reliable customer service, seller communication, and thorough delivery monitoring.
Bafang BBS01 Electric Kit (250W)
Bafang BBS01 (250W)
This is Bafang’s least powerful kit (250W), hence the low price. Use it anywhere, in town or country. Ideal for beginners. Easy to install.
Budget: $$$ | Speed: 18 mph | Battery: optional
I deliberated for quite some time between the BBS02 kit and the BBS01 kit.
The Bafang BBS01 kit is 250W, allowing its use on public roads without insurance or helmet requirements (though we strongly advise wearing one!). This motor is recommended for individuals seeking to convert their bikes into electric ones with sufficient power (maximum speed of 18 mph) for daily city commutes and leisure rides. In summary, an excellent investment for those prioritizing quality, reliability, and adequate assistance.
Technically speaking, this kit is an improved version of the previous model. The pedal-assist sensor works perfectly; it doesn’t pedal for you but provides assistance as you pedal. This feature is particularly appreciated on flat terrain and inclines of less than 6%. The motor adjusts to our pedaling pace and delivers power through the bike’s crankset. The assistance it provides makes riding easy, even on hills.
The BBS01 is straightforward to mount on any bike, consistent with all Bafang motors. It delivers a compelling blend of robust torque, high efficiency with minimal power consumption, all while maintaining quiet operation. It’s an exceptional kit, often in short supply due to its popularity.
Technical Specifications
| Motor Power | 250W |
| Max Speed | 18 mph |
| Weight | 6.6 lbs |
| Maximum torque | 80 Nm |
| Pedal sensor | Speed sensor |
| Shaft standard | JIS (standard) |
| Noise class (dB) | <55 |
| Warranty | 1 year |
Bafang BBSHD Electric Kit (1000W)
Tested and approved. A very powerful and robust motor, 2-year warranty. Quick assembly (2h). Ideal for mountain roads and mountain biking.
Price: $$$ | Speed: 37 mph | Battery: Optional
The BBSHD kit from Bafang, introduced in 2016, features a powerful 1000W motor renowned for its high torque output (160 Nm). While suitable for daily commuting, its prowess shines in off-road and sporting endeavors such as mountain biking, fat biking, and enduro. It excels in conquering steep inclines, capable of surpassing 37 mph.
An appropriately equipped bike is essential, notably featuring robust disc brakes to halt this powerhouse. Among its other merits are impeccable manufacturing and a design that seamlessly integrates with the bike, ensuring a discreet appearance. In summary, an outstanding selection. Its substantial power also renders it highly suitable for tandem electrification.
Technical Specifications
The BBSHD (sometimes referred to as BBS03) is slightly larger than the BBS02 (hence, my preference for the BBS02 due to its lighter weight and suitability for my needs) and features external cooling fins.
| Motor Power | 1000W |
| Max Speed | 37 mph |
| Weight | 13 lbs |
| Maximum torque | 160 Nm |
| Pedal sensor | Speed sensor |
| Shaft standard | JIS (standard) |
| Noise class (dB) | <55 |
| Warranty | 1 year |
Bafang M625 Electric Kit (500W)
The latest central motor kit offering from Bafang has the capability to convert any bike (over 27.5 inches) into an electric bike. It accommodates 2 inches and 4 inches cranksets, making it compatible with the majority of cranksets available on the market!
Bafang's latest model. Similar performance but a slightly smaller design than the previous ones and a higher price.
Price : $$$ | Speed : 37 mph | Battery : Optional
The standout feature of this new motor? Its redesigned design! It’s slightly smaller than its predecessors, the BBS01, BBS02, and BBSHD, and now includes an additional mounting point on top of the motor, providing extra reinforcement.
It comes equipped with a Bafang 50.4V 19.6Ah battery (featuring Samsung cells) and a rear light for nighttime safety. Its control interface is intended for handlebar mounting and thumb operation. While designed for urban use, it’s also suitable for more adventurous mountain biking.
Technical Specifications
The performance ranges from 500 W to 1000 W, depending on the model.
| Motor Power | 500W – 1000W |
| Max Speed | 28 to 37 mph |
| Weight | 13 lbs |
| Maximum torque | 100 to 140 Nm |
| Pedal sensor | Speed sensor |
| Shaft standard | JIS (standard) |
| Noise class (dB) | <55 |
| Warranty | 1 year |
Season Rear Wheel Motor (1000W)
SEASON 28 inch (350W)
A powerful 28-inch rear-wheel kit. All-in-one including battery and motor. Quick to install.
Budget: $$ | Speed: 20 mph | Battery: included
If you’re seeking a cost-effective means to convert your 28″ bike into an electric bike, the Season motorized rear wheel could be the solution! It features a 350W brushless motor integrated into the wheel, enabling speeds of up to 20 mph—a commendable achievement considering its affordable price point.
As for the battery, it’s mounted directly onto the frame, weighing 6.6 lbs. Equipped with a high-power 18650 cell and operating at 36V, the battery facilitates straightforward installation. In a matter of minutes, you can breathe new life into your classic bike by converting it into an electric one.
Technical Specifications
| Motor Power | 350W |
| Max Speed | 20 mph |
| Weight | 6.6 lbs |
| Warranty | 18 months |
Z Zelus Rear Wheel Motor (500W)
Yose Power 26
A versatile kit for installation on the rear wheel. Assembly in 1 hour. Suitable for all bikes.
Budget : $ | Speed : 15 mph | Battery : not included
The Z Zelus kit has garnered a commendable reputation despite its “budget-friendly” nature. Its wheel is driven by a whisper-quiet 48V brushless hub motor. It offers two operating modes, enabling normal bike use by disengaging the wheel motor when necessary.
The installation is very easy, and the disc brake mounting holes are pre-drilled for easy installation of disc brakes later on. The kit includes a 26” rear wheel with a motor, motor controller, wiring harness, speed controller, and all the necessary parts for installation.
Technical Specifications
| Motor Power | 500W |
| Max Speed | 26 mph |
| Weight | 13 lbs |
| Noise class (dB) | <55 |
| Warranty | 1 year |
Oukaning Rear Wheel Motor (1000W)
Oukaning (48V)
A complete kit that installs in the front wheel. Intelligent progressive assistance. Simplified installation. Assembly in 20 minutes.
Budget : $ | Speed : 12 mph | Battery : included
For owners of bikes with 28-inch wheels, motorization can be a challenging endeavor. However, this 28-inch electric rear wheel kit is specifically designed for larger bike wheels. It features a robust 1000W electric assist system, enabling speeds of up to 31 mph in under 660 feet. Additionally, it incorporates 7 sprockets and e-brake technology that automatically deactivates the motor when stationary, conserving battery power and enhancing safety.
This electric rear wheel bike kit can be described as “plug and play”: installation is accomplished in less time than it takes to say it, allowing for immediate enjoyment!
Although less expensive than competitors due to slightly lower quality parts and finishes (while maintaining quality), Oukaning’s 1000 W 48 V electric bike kit includes all components necessary to convert your standard 28” bicycle into an electric bike. It features a twist-grip throttle and pedal-assist system, along with cable brakes equipped with sensors for motor cutoff during braking.
Technical Specifications
| Engine Power | 1000W |
| Max Speed | 31 mph |
| Weight | 19 lbs |
| Noise class (dB) | <55 |
| Warranty | / |
L-Faster Rear Wheel Motor (250W)
L-faster (250W)
The least expensive (low-cost) rear-wheel kit. Very little power, but it can help you out if you’re on a tight budget.
Budget: $ | Speed: 15 mph | Battery: not included
The L-faster rear wheel motor is better suited for individuals with some mechanical knowledge. It’s not a “plug & play” motor, as it requires manual adjustments to optimize performance on your bike.
This aspect of DIY installation may seem cumbersome to some, but it can be advantageous if you have a non-standard bike to motorize. For instance, this rear wheel motor is suitable for unique vehicles like scooters or BMX bikes.
From a performance standpoint, the 250W motor isn’t the most potent on the market, but it’s well-suited for daily use, particularly in urban environments. You can effortlessly achieve speeds of 12 mph without pedaling, and with occasional pedaling, you can reach up to 15.5 mph. Lastly, as this motor doesn’t come with a battery, I recommend using it with 12V 14Ah or even 16Ah batteries connected in series to maximize range.
Technical Specifications
| Motor Power | 250W |
| Max Speed | 15.5 mph |
| Weight | 8.8 lbs |
Theebikemotor Rear Wheel Motor (1500W)
Renowned for its impressive performance (yes, that’s the right word!), the Theebikemotor 1500W has become the benchmark for those seeking speed through their electric bike rear wheel kit. Quite simply, it combines all the qualities desired by thrill-seeking cyclists!
Impressively quiet, the 48V 1500W motor is highly efficient. The top speed speaks for itself: 40 mph—pure power! Theebikemotor’s precise pedal sensor and 85% motor efficiency make it a reliable companion on the most challenging trails. A versatile racing machine that athletes and thrill-seekers will appreciate.
Petrolscooter Front Wheel Motor (1000W)
Season 26” front wheel motor
The least expensive front kit. Powerful 250W motor for town and country. Easiest to install.
Budget: $ | Speed: 15 mph | Battery: included
This PetrolScooter conversion kit offers a simple promise: convert any 26-inch bike into an electric-assist bike in just 40 minutes. It includes a 26-inch motorized wheel to which you’ll connect the 48V, 1000W motor. Brake levers and throttle are also provided with the wheel.
The main advantage of this electric front wheel is its easy installation. The connectors are straightforward to identify, and the user guide is filled with photos to ensure correct kit assembly. Additionally, instructional videos on YouTube demonstrate easy installation.
The performance is impressive, enabling speeds of up to 31 mph on flat ground when paired with a 44V battery. The wheel’s design is understated, allowing for discreet bike motorization.
Oukaning Front Wheel Motor (1000W)
Oukaning (48V)
A complete kit that installs in the front wheel. Intelligent progressive assistance. Simplified installation. Assembly in 20 minutes.
Budget : $ | Speed : 12 mph | Battery : included
The Oukaning conversion kit is an excellent option for front-wheel installation. It offers more torque than its competitors while remaining much quieter due to its brushless system. The kit ensures comfort with its numerous supplied accessories, including the well-made LCD display (which remains functional even in hot conditions). This display allows you to monitor real-time speed, brake levers, throttle handle, and features a waterproof connector cable and dust-proof protective case.
Tested in real-world conditions, this motor can reach speeds of up to 12 mph, making hill climbing much easier. Installation is quick and straightforward, thanks to the easily identifiable connectors. The wheel is compatible with bicycles designed for 27” wheels, and its minimalist design ensures the electric wheel blends discreetly with any bike.
Which Kit Should You Choose and Install?
By now, you may have gathered that any bicycle can be converted into an electrically-assisted bike at a very low cost! All you need to do is select the conversion kit that best suits your needs. Here’s how to differentiate between them and choose the right one based on your requirements:
- Bottom bracket motor conversion kit
- Front wheel conversion kit
- Rear wheel motor conversion kit
- Electric bike conversion kit with battery
Pedal Motor Kit
The pinnacle of electric bike conversion kits. The electric bike kit with a motor in the pedal assembly (also known as a mid-drive kit or mid-motor kit) ensures optimal performance.
Installed in place of the original crankset, the motor is directly connected to the transmission. The selected chainring directly affects the power output of the motor. The result is an efficiency level that even the most avid cyclists or those who tackle hilly terrain will appreciate.
With the weight positioned at the center and bottom of the frame, the bike’s balance is optimized.
Whether using a small chainring for maximum torque on a commuter bike or a large chainring for increased speed, the crankset-mounted motor offers excellent versatility and reasonable power consumption.
This efficiency justifies a slightly higher upfront purchase and maintenance cost. Transmissions, sprockets, and even cassette holders undergo greater stress due to the motor. With many moving parts, there’s faster wear and tear, potentially requiring more frequent maintenance. For the record, I’ve been using mine daily since 2018 without any repairs. Additionally, a motor of this type simplifies tire repairs.
The Best Pedalboard Motor Kits
- 🥇 Bafang BBS02B (750W)
- Bafang BBS01B (250W)
- Bafang BBSHD (1000W)
- Bafang M625 M325 (750W)
Electric Rear Wheel Kit
The electric rear-wheel kit is a compelling option for those seeking performance while maintaining ease of use.
All you need are a few simple tools, a methodical approach, and plenty of patience (installation takes less than an hour). Assembling the numerous cables is easier than it appears! Furthermore, the original transmission with all its chainrings is retained.
The motor, directly connected to the wheel, consistently delivers the same power regardless of the gear engaged. The overall lightweight design enhances ride comfort. This comes at a reasonable cost with minimal maintenance. Currently, the Z ZELUS (500W) offers the best value for money.
Note that, unlike front-wheel kits, rear-wheel kits have a separate battery from the motor, typically mounted on the frame or in the form of a luggage rack, as I chose for my B-twin.
The Best Rear Wheel Kits
- Season (350W)
- Z ZELUS (500W)
- Oukaning 28′ (1000W)
- L-faster (250W)
Electric Bike Kit In the Front Wheel
The ultra-simplified electric wheel, or “all-in-one electric wheel”, may seem like an ideal solution for transforming your bike into an electric bike at a low cost and in just a few minutes: simply install the front wheel and a sensor on the crankset, and… you’re done! However, it’s important to note that this is an electric bike kit with an integrated battery. But there’s a slight drawback.
Having the motor in the front wheel is the least stable solution in terms of balance: being “driven” by the front can cause some sliding in wet weather, which can be surprising. The first time I tested an electric bike, it was equipped with a motor of this type, and I didn’t feel comfortable, mainly because I was afraid of falling.
If you’re interested in this system, you should know that the all-in-one electric wheel is often equipped with a brushless motor, which has the advantage of being virtually maintenance-free due to the absence of friction. It is connected via Bluetooth to a unit attached to the pedals (the sensor), which functions as a speedometer.
Available in several sizes, the electric front wheel can be adapted to a wide range of models. While installation is very easy (this is the easiest type of kit to install, as it takes less than 5 minutes), and you quickly get used to it, pedaling with weight on the front isn’t exactly comfortable when the battery is discharged…
The Best Electric Front Wheel Kits
An electric bike conversion kit typically includes the following components needed to transform a regular bike into an electrically-assisted bike:
- PetrolScooter (1000W)
- Oukaning (1000W)
What Is Included In an Electric Bike Kit?
- The motor: To comply with regulations, its power should not theoretically exceed 250W. It can be placed in the crankset or in the wheel, enabling the bike to reach speeds of up to 20 mph.
- The controller: A key element of the installation, it serves as the brain of the electric bicycle, managing the assistance. Without it, there is no communication between the various components of the kit!
- The battery: Sellers of electric bike kits generally prefer lithium-ion models due to their lightness and reliability. Note that the battery is not systematically included in the kit; it is then up to the buyer to equip themselves with a model corresponding to their needs. Note that current batteries allow rides of 25 to 31 miles.
- The pedaling sensor: As its name suggests, it informs the motor when the user is pedaling. Pedaling is required for assistance; otherwise, the bike is classified as a moped.
- The console or control box: Fixed to the handlebars, it allows you to manage the desired level of assistance, check your speed, and track the distance travelled…
- The cables
Should I Choose an Electric Bike Kit With a Motor On the Wheel or In the Crankset?
In summary, each of the available solutions for converting your bike into an electric bike will appeal to different audiences. The ultra-simplified kit, which is the quickest and easiest to install as a complete wheel, will please bike enthusiasts and urban athletes seeking simplicity in use and assembly, even if it comes at a slightly higher price.
Lighter wheel-mounted kits provide improved performance at a lower cost but require some DIY skills for installation. Alternatively, choosing a kit with a motor in the crankset will appeal primarily to the most demanding cyclists seeking optimal performance, who are not averse to getting their hands dirty with maintenance.
Are Conversion Kits Compatible With All Types of Bikes?
Most bicycles are compatible with electric bike conversion kits. Before purchasing a kit with a wheel-mounted motor, verify the wheel center distance, frame width, and tire size of your bike, and compare them with the dimensions of the kit you are considering. For a bottom bracket motor, consider the width and diameter of the bottom bracket tube.
Which Is Better: Mounting the Electric Bike Kit On the Front Or Rear Wheel?
Mounting the kit on the rear wheel provides better traction, especially for off-road adventures. However, it requires more complex assembly due to the rear derailleur, which may need specific adjustments.
Mounting the kit on the front wheel has practical advantages. It is easier to install without hindrance from the chain or derailleur. Additionally, there is no need to change the cassette, allowing you to retain the same gear shifting system.
For city bikes, where the rider adopts an almost seated position with weight naturally distributed towards the rear, it is advisable to balance the weight distribution by choosing a front-wheel motor. However, this setup may affect grip on wet ground, especially on gravel or sand. For a relaxed ride and setup, the front-wheel kit is still an excellent choice.
Why Choose an Electric Bike Kit Instead of a Fully Electrically-Assisted Bike?
The primary reason to choose an electric bike kit is both sentimental and ecological: with it, you can go electric while keeping your beloved bike! The motor provides your familiar bike with newfound versatility. Lighter than a fully electric bike, a bike equipped with a kit offers sportier sensations and requires less adaptation time.
Additionally, it’s easier to customize your equipment as your needs or routes change with a kit-equipped bike. Furthermore, electric bike kits offer significant financial advantages: they are cheaper to buy, easy to repair, inexpensive to maintain… and can even be reused if you change bikes.
Should You Opt for an Affordable Electric Bike Kit?
The electric bike kit market is booming, with a wide range of affordable models available. We have highlighted some excellent low-cost kits, such as the Z ZELUS (500 W) or the impressive Bafang BBS02 B compromise. These kits demonstrate that you can achieve all the desired qualities—lightweight, powerful, and with progressive assistance—at a reasonable price.
To ensure you make the right purchase, research thoroughly on specialized websites (like ours!). Additionally, verify the reputation of the merchant site or purchase from a trusted retailer. We have curated a list of the top sellers in our comparison of the best electric bike kits (mentioned above).
Following these precautions, you can often find a great deal. An electric bike kit can be more cost-effective than a fully electric bike. The average cost of a kit is around $550, compared to around $1,650 for a fully electric bike. Additionally, today’s kits come complete with all necessary equipment.
What Are the Legal Regulations Regarding Electric Bikes?
Exercise caution if you plan to install a high-performance kit on your bike. According to the law, the motor of an electric bike must disengage once it reaches 15 mph and should not exceed 250 W.
Exceeding these limits classifies the bike as a moped, which entails specific obligations, including wearing an approved helmet—an essential safety measure, especially since using cycle paths is no longer permitted with your modified bike. Additionally, in some states, obtaining the BSC (Basic Safety Certificate) is mandatory.
Finally, you must obtain a new insurance policy. Collisions with pedestrians can occur suddenly, and exceeding the legal power limits may lead to insurance coverage being invalidated.