Fan of Shared Truth & EmpathyNov 20, 2023

I couldn’t afford a new eBike, so I bought a kit to rebuild the first mountain bike I purchased in college - which had been hanging in the garage for more than 20 yrs.

It has absolutely changed how I use a bike, especially instead of my small truck.

Commute to town, grocery runs, and much more recreational miles with the added health benefits.

Highly recommended!!!

280 million e-bikes are slashing oil demand far more than electric vehicles | Ars Technica https://arstechnica.com/cars/2023/11/280-million-e-bikes-are-slashing-oil-demand-far-more-than-electric-vehicles/

280 million e-bikes are slashing oil demand far more than electric vehicles

E-bikes and scooters displace 4x as much demand for oil as all of the EVs in the world.

Ars Technica
Show threadbeSpacificNov 20, 2023
@JohnSullivan can you plz share info about the kit you used. I am a regularly cyclist and would very much like to add E to one of my steel bikes. Thank you!
Show threadFan of Shared Truth & EmpathyNov 20, 2023
@bespacific Sure! I picked up my mid drive setup from Luna: https://lunacycle.com/bafang-bbshd-1000w-middrive-kit/
Bafang BBSHD Mid Drive Ebike Kit

Lowest price anywhere on the BBSHD. The new bafang 1000 BBHD will put out a maximum of 1600 watts and is the most powerful ebike kit ever and its a mid drive!

Luna Cycle
Show threadbeSpacific
@JohnSullivan thank u vry much! are there specific specs that my bike must have to use this set up. Wanted to do this for a long time but could not find proper gear.
Nov 20, 2023 at 12:31pmWeb
Show threadFan of Shared Truth & EmpathyNov 20, 2023
@bespacific The main spec to select is the bottom bracket width. The install spacer kit makes adjustments of the side to side clearance for whichever chainring you select easier. I had to sand down one of the big washers by hand, which was a bit of a chore, but I got it perfectly arranged with a few millimeters of clearance between the frame and the chainring so I have minimal driveline angle saving on chain wear in the lowest gears.
Show threadbeSpacificNov 20, 2023
@JohnSullivan Ok so I have my work cut out for me - many thanks for all the details and guidance. I will also ask my local bike shop whether they have ever done this. They do sell ebikes but I want to go w a retrofit. Do you have a photo of your bike and any idea how much weight it adds overall. I have a heavy steel bike (27 lbs) and weigh <100 so already a heavy lift!
Show threadFan of Shared Truth & EmpathyNov 20, 2023
@bespacific I can’t remember if I weighed just the motor/battery. With my heavy steel frame, racks, fat tires, etc my rig is around 65lbs. The total isn’t much of a concern when riding - it’s things like lifting up onto my work stand or putting into the back of my truck that are an effort. Fourth floor walk up apt would be quite difficult. Obviously the true test is can you pedal home if something goes wrong! So far I haven’t had any issues.
Show threadFan of Shared Truth & EmpathyNov 20, 2023
@bespacific Here a photo that shows an optional motor bracket purchased elsewhere that I recently installed. I wouldn’t say it’s necessary - though getting enough torque on the regular locking ring so the motor doesn’t move if you’re jumping off curbs or trail riding is challenging with the basic installation tool which Luna sells. I still need to pull it back apart to paint the stainless steel bracket to match the frame. #ebike #BBSHD #DIY
Show threadbeSpacificNov 20, 2023
@JohnSullivan Excellent thank you. Really helps to see this photo of your terrific ride - congratulations on all the work - the color scheme is wonderful!
Show threadFan of Shared Truth & EmpathyNov 20, 2023
@bespacific Thanks! I would suggest checking out the how-to links to videos and other information on Luna’s website which points to a whole database of helpful background on different builds which should give you a better idea about creating your own #eBike. I really love bragging about recycling my old frame with new parts and a motor kit. Some people recognize that it’s a vintage #MarinBike but often it’s just perceived as a cool ride.
Show threadbeSpacificNov 21, 2023
@JohnSullivan I also have an old used Marin - I cycle 20 miles every night on the cycleops - the bike is a small beast.
Show threadbeSpacificNov 21, 2023
@JohnSullivan Along with the Marin, I have 2 - 50 year old Peugots and an Appaloosa (RivBike). Steel is best. Old steel never dies.
Show threadderwinNov 22, 2023
@JohnSullivan i built my own, too, from a Cannondale. BBSHD is a great motor.