Introduction
Is it possible to convert my bike to electric by myself?
The answer to this question is predicated on your ability to handle specialized tools, follow directions, be able to make modifications without comprising the integrity of the bike, have a clear idea of the of the consequences of a poorly converted bike, able to source the correct parts, understand the legal ramification of your conversion, have all of the required tools, and are willing to spend as much time required to insure the finished conversion is a bike that can travel at sustained speeds of over 25mph for an extended period of time. If you can answer yes to all of the following then it is possible that you could build your own electric bike.
This page will give you some sort of an idea of what it takes to do your own conversion. Every bike mechanic that comes to work at our shop has to go through a training period. We never assume any mechanic knows anything at all about motor installation, wiring, cabling, and troubleshooting electric bikes. While hobbyists have been converting standard bikes to electric for the last 10 years no one has done it on a scale we have at Island City Bikes. We know what works and what does not work, we have created a number of novel "work arounds," and many times we have solved obstacles for converting bikes to electric that others have considered unsolvable.
I say all this to help you understand; Never underestimate the difficulties of converting a standard bike to electric. Never stop until you get it right. Never compromise on anything that will affect the safety of the rider. Lastly, patience will be your friend. If you are patience and are willing to spend as much time as it takes to get it right then you will be fine.
“Patience and perseverance have a magical effect before which difficulties disappear and obstacles vanish.” John Quincy Adams, 1767-1848
Al Carpenter, CEO Island City Bikes