Is Buying a Conversion Kit a Good Idea?
The electric bike (e-bike) market is growing rapidly. However, the price of an electric bike can be a barrier to purchase. A seemingly more affordable alternative is becoming increasingly popular: the conversion kit, which allows you to transform a traditional bike into an electric one. While this option may seem appealing, it does have its limitations. So, is choosing a conversion kit really a good idea?
Key takeaways:
- A conversion kit can be more affordable than an electric bike. However, be careful of hidden costs, especially if you choose a low-end kit.
- Installing a kit requires specific tools and a structurally sound bike. Professional installation is strongly recommended to avoid breakdowns.
- Installing a conversion kit can lead to insurance issues and potential safety risks.
1. Conversion kit vs electric bike: cost
A conversion kit generally consists of a motor (hub motor or mid-drive motor), a battery, a controller, and a display. The price range varies depending on the quality of these components:
Entry-level: generally between €500 and €700
Mid/high-end: generally between €600 and €1,200. Here you’ll find high-performance mid-drive motors (such as Bafang) with quality batteries.
To this, you must add the cost of the bike itself and the installation of the conversion kit if you cannot do it yourself (generally between €150 and €300).
Now let’s look at the cost of a new electric bike:
Entry-level: between €800 and €1,500. These bikes are often heavy and equipped with basic mechanical components.
Mid-range: between €2,000 and €3,500. Motors and batteries come from well-known brands such as Bosch, and manufacturer warranties are generally advantageous.
Verdict: the conversion kit has the advantage in terms of price. However, beware of hidden costs! Poor installation or low-quality components with shorter lifespans can increase the overall cost. For example, if the battery is not installed according to the manufacturer’s guidelines, it may wear out faster and have a reduced lifespan. Yet the battery is the most expensive component of your bike!
2. Installation
Installing a conversion kit usually requires specific tools, such as a crank puller or a bottom bracket tool. Poor installation (badly secured cables, improperly mounted battery) is the main cause of breakdowns in electric bikes. Additionally, the bike’s structure must be in good condition: installing a powerful motor on a worn aluminum frame or with low-quality brakes is dangerous. Unless you are an expert, it is recommended to have your kit installed by professionals, such as Virvolt.
3. Repairability
Since a conversion kit is made up of separate components, repairs are often easier. Parts are usually standardized. For example, if the controller fails, you can buy a new one at a low cost and replace it yourself or have it replaced.
When you choose an e-bike, you are buying a complete solution from the manufacturer. This generally makes the bike harder to repair, and spare parts are more difficult to find. However, replacing or refurbishing the battery is most often possible.
At equivalent quality, the lifespan of electric bike components and conversion kit modules is similar.
4. Regulations
This is where conversion kits face their biggest drawback, especially in Europe. There is, in fact, a legal grey area surrounding conversion kits.
To be classified as a bicycle rather than a moped, an e-bike must meet three requirements: the nominal power must not exceed 250 watts, assistance must cut off above 25 km/h, and it must only activate when you are pedaling.
However, a bike converted by yourself technically loses its original certification. In the event of an accident, an expert could argue that the frame or brakes were not designed to handle the additional speed and weight. Most liability insurance policies only cover certified e-bikes. With a conversion kit, you therefore risk not being insured.
Doctibike expert opinion
Pierre - Head of Purchasing and Product
"Conversion kits can also raise safety concerns: in rare cases, the battery may catch fire if not installed correctly. Moreover, your bike may not be designed to reach higher speeds—especially if certain components, such as tires, are old or of poor quality. At Doctibike, we do not sell conversion kits due to safety risks and regulations that remain unclear today.”
Buying a conversion kit: is it ultimately a good idea?
In summary, choosing a conversion kit is a good idea if:
You own a very high-quality bike (strong steel frame, good brakes) that you are attached to.
You have a limited budget.
You are aware of the risks in terms of safety and insurance.
On the other hand, it is not a good idea if:
Your current bike is entry-level or you do not own a traditional bike.
You do not want to take any risks.
