01 mars 2015

What To Look For When Selecting An Electric Bike Kit

By Olivia Cross


There is nothing more rewarding than the rush of a cool breeze against your face as you cycle along a scenic road leisurely watching the cars pass you by. Suddenly, a large hill looms ahead. For most bicycling enthusiasts this means a leg crunching upwards journey, or slow walk up an incline. Scenarios like this can be made easy by attaching an electric bike kit to an existing two wheeler. Before rushing out to purchase the first one you come across, here are a few things to look for when selecting a model.

Make sure to become familiar with the vocabulary and what it represents. This way you can avoid buying a product that will not meet your needs. Someone who cycles to work will require a longer battery life than the individual who takes pleasure rides around the neighborhood once or twice a month. Also, make sure what you are getting is legal as some states forbid the use of gas powered bikes.

After you become comfortable with cyclist terminology, check out what each kit contains. A basic set up will consist of the console, a motor, and the battery. These are the main components that will change your everyday bike into an upgraded, high powered electric bike at only a fraction of the cost.

The battery is connected directly to the frame, and can be removed in between rides for recharging. It is linked to the console which is the brains of the outfit. This little device controls details like speed, tracks distance traveled, monitors battery life, and so on. Motors in the kit may come attached to a rear wheel which is used to replace the existing tire on the bike.

Spend a few minutes deciding what you need. Take into consideration how far you will travel, the terrain you will encounter, and the purpose of the two wheeler. Determine if you prefer to use a pedal assisted model or one that comes with throttle control. Pay attention to the type of motor in the kit, and whether it is front or rear mounted. Cheaper models usually include chain driven motors that are louder, and less efficient.

Do not forget to check out the battery as they can vary in style, size, and power. A mistake beginners often make is they underestimate how much battery life they need, and end up running out of juice half way through the ride. As a general rule it is safer to purchase a battery that offers higher voltage and amp as this will allow you to travel further and reach higher speeds.

While it may be tempting to purchase a new electric bicycle, there are many advantages to selecting a kit instead. For one, you get to use your existing cycle which is broken in, comfortable, and proven. Second, this saves you a nice amount of money. Finally, a kit only adds an additional twenty pounds to your bike, and can be attached to any model be it recumbent, traditional, or a trike.

Whether for pleasure or daily transportation, these kits are a great addition to put on an existing frame as they allow you to travel further, faster, and with less effort. Models are simple to install, and allow cyclists to enjoy stronger, upgraded versions of their favorite bike. The next generation of cycling has finally arrived.




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