How to electrify a Peugeot or Nakamura bike ?

With the rise of electric bikes as a preferred mode of transport, more and more cyclists want to convert their traditional bikes into electric bikes (e-bikes). Whether it's to make daily commutes easier, gain comfort on rides, or simply enjoy the pleasures of cycling without excessive effort, electrification is appealing to a growing number of French people.

There's no need to spend thousands of euros on a new bike. If you already own a Peugeot or Nakamura bike, the good news is that these models are often compatible with... electric conversion kits. By choosing the right kit suited to your use, your frame and your budget, you can give your bike a new lease of life while saving money.

In this comprehensive guide, we walk you through the steps to understand how to electrify your Peugeot or Nakamura, by detailing eligible models, available kit types, and essential installation advice. Our goal is to provide you with all the tools you need to successfully complete your electrification project simply, without complicated technical jargon, and in complete safety.

Summary

1. Why convert a Peugeot or Nakamura bicycle into an electric bicycle?
• What are the ecological and economic advantages?
• What types of bicycles can be electrified?
• What should be checked before embarking on electrification?
2. Which electric kits are compatible with Peugeot and Nakamura bicycles?
• Which Peugeot models are suitable for electrification?
• Which Nakamura bicycles can be equipped with an electric motor kit?
• Which kits should you choose depending on your intended use (city, mountain biking, mixed)?
3. How to install a Virvolt electric bike kit on an existing bike?
• What tools and skills are needed?
• What are the steps involved in installing an electric assistance kit?
• Can it be done at home or do you have to go through an authorized Virvolt distributor?
4. Case studies: Peugeot and Nakamura Summit 700
• Before/after: a Peugeot city bike turned e-bike
• Electrification of a Nakamura Summit 700 mountain bike
• Cost, battery life and user experience
5. Conclusion: Invest in an electric bike that reflects your style.

1. Why convert a Peugeot or Nakamura bicycle into an electric bicycle?

What are the ecological and economic advantages?

Converting a classic Peugeot or Nakamura bicycle into electric bike thanks to a electric bike kit represents an ecological, economical, and sustainable solution. Unlike buying a new e-bike, electrification extends the lifespan of an existing bicycle while significantly reducing its carbon footprint. According to Ademe, simply reusing a bicycle and adding an electric motor to it... electric bike kit saves up to 80% of CO₂ emissions compared to an electric bike produced and transported from Asia.

From an economic standpoint, the cost of a electric bike kit Virvolt remains on average 40 to 60% cheaper than an equivalent new electric bike, while guaranteeing high performance. Added to this are indirect savings: no registration fees, no mandatory insurance, low charging cost (a few cents for 50 to 80 km of range), and above all, very low mechanical wear if the bike is well maintained.

In short, the electrified bicycle It's an excellent compromise between performance and affordability. It allows you to enjoy the benefits of electric assistance while keeping the frame you love—often lighter, simpler, and more personalized than a standard model. Thanks to Virvolt's retrofit approach, even older bikes (as long as they're compatible) can be given a new lease on life and adapted to new uses.

What types of bicycles can be electrified?

Not all bikes are compatible with a electric bike kit, However, many Peugeot and Nakamura models offer a perfect base for conversion. The steel or aluminum frames, both robust and standard in their dimensions, facilitate the installation of a electric assist kit. This includes city bikes like the Peugeot LC01, hybrid bikes like the T02, and rigid mountain bikes like the Nakamura Complite or Trail.

An eligible bicycle must meet certain technical requirements:

• A frame in good condition, without major corrosion or cracks
• Wheels made of 26", 27.5", 28" Or 29" for wheel motors (Virvolt 500 and Virvolt 750) and of 10" has 35" for the Virvolt 900 crankset kit
• A mechanical or disc braking system standard
• Sufficient space to attach the battery (to the frame or luggage rack)
• A BSA compatible crankset in the case of the Virvolt 900 (bottom-drive motor)

The majority of Peugeot bicycles produced since the 2000s and the Nakamura ranges sold at Intersport are technically compatible with electric conversion. What distinguishes a good candidate for electrification is its simple, accessible, and standardized design. Folding bikes or full-suspension bikes, however, are more difficult to convert due to the lack of space for the components. electric mountain bike kit.

That's why we always advise having your bike assessed by one of our authorized dealers before taking any steps. They are trained to verify compatibility and guide you to the right one. electric motor kit depending on your usage profile.

What should be checked before embarking on electrification?

Before proceeding with the installation of a bicycle conversion kit, It is essential to carry out a complete mechanical inspection of the bicycle to be electrified. Here are the priority elements to check:

1. Frame and geometry : the frame must be able to accommodate the battery and not be too cramped (diagonal tube for mounting a water bottle or luggage rack for long batteries such as Hailong).
2. Transmission and brakes : A transmission in good condition (7 to 10 speeds for wheel kits), functional brakes (V-brake or disc) are essential.
3. Cable space : although our electric bike kits Although designed for a clean assembly, some older frames may be less favorable to cable routing.
4. Weight capacity : Some ultralight frames are not designed to carry additional loads. electric assistance kit The complete set weighs between 3 and 6 kg.
5. Future use : Do you want to use it for urban, hybrid or off-road riding? This will determine whether you need a wheel motor (like the Virvolt 500 or 750) or a high-torque mid-drive motor (like the Virvolt 900).

In addition, we always recommend a free pre-assessment at a Virvolt dealer. This helps avoid any compatibility issues, optimizes the range and performance of the converted bike, and ensures a safe installation.

2. Which electric kits are compatible with Peugeot and Nakamura bicycles?

Which Peugeot models are suitable for electrification?

Peugeot bicycles are among the most widespread on the French market, particularly in the categories city, VTC And vintage route. Their build quality, standard geometries, and often steel or aluminum frames make them excellent candidates for the electrified bicycle.

Among the most frequently electrified models with a electric motor kit Virvolt, we find:

• Peugeot LC01/LC21/LC11 : recent city bikes, very well suited to a urban electric bike kit. The frame easily accepts a front wheel motor or a Virvolt 900 mid-drive motor.
• Peugeot T02/T03 : Perfect for city and mixed journeys. Compatible with Virvolt 500 and 750 wheel motors.
• Peugeot PX-10/PH-10/PL8 (vintage bicycles) : with a lightweight steel frame, they are often restored and retrofitted with electric bike kits with cadence sensor. The Virvolt 500 is recommended here to maintain the bike's lightness.
• Urbanity Range/eLC01 : Some semi-electric or lightweight Peugeot models can be upgraded with a electric assistance kit more powerful or more autonomous than the original engine.

Peugeot has always prioritized parts compatibility, with the majority of their models featuring 26", 27.5" Or 28" inches can receive a electric bike kit, mountain bike or city bike, depending on the intended use.

Which Nakamura bicycles can be equipped with an electric motor kit?

The Nakamura brand (distributed by Intersport) offers a wide range of robust and affordable mountain and city bikes, very popular for conversions. These bikes are often chosen for their good value for money, standard compatibility, and simple geometry.

Here are some models particularly suited to electrification:

• Nakamura Complite 500 to 950 : The best-selling mountain bikes. Rigid frame, V-brakes or disc brakes, wheels in 27.5" Or 28". Ideal for the Virvolt 750 rear wheel motor kit.
• Nakamura Crosscity/Urban/E-Fit : Versatile city/hybrid bike models, compatible with front or rear wheel motors. Virvolt bottle cage batteries can be integrated directly onto the bottle cage.
• Nakamura Trail/Summit : Entry-level mountain bikes well-sized to accommodate a electric mountain bike kit. Reliable braking and sufficient space for rack or frame batteries.
• Vintage Intersport models : Even older steel bicycles from the 2000s can be electrified, provided they have standard wheels and a frame in good condition. !

Thanks to their advantageous geometry and compatibility with Shimano standards, these bikes offer an excellent base for integrating a bicycle conversion kit. You just need to choose the right level of assistance and the appropriate motor torque.

Which kits should you choose depending on your intended use (city, mountain biking, mixed)?

The choice of electric bike kit depends on three factors: the use (city or off-road), the type of bike (frame, transmission, braking) and the desired level of performance (range, power, torque).

Virvolt 500 – front wheel motor, cadence sensorIdeal for urban or daily commutes on flat roads. Lightweight (3 kg), discreet, and easy to install by a Virvolt distributor, it fits Peugeot city bikes or Nakamura. Developing a couple of 35 Nm, It offers smooth and linear assistance. Compatible with wheels 26", 27.5", 28" Or 29", it combines with a battery 7 Ah (258 Wh) Or 10.5 Ah (378 Wh), depending on the desired range (up to 70 km).

Virvolt 750 – rear wheel motor, torque sensor
Recommended for mixed journeys (city + countryside) or users seeking better effort management. The engine of 250 W, with 40 Nm of torque, It is integrated into the rear hub and precisely manages power thanks to a torque sensor. Compatible with Shimano 7 to 10 speeds, it is available for wheels 26", 27.5", 28" Or 29". It combines with water bottle batteries 7 or 10.5 Ah, and boasts a range of 50 to 70 km. It's a electric bike kit both sporty and versatile.

Virvolt 900 – mid-drive motor, powerful torque sensor
Designed for demanding courses, the Virvolt 900 develops up to 80 Nm of torque. Made in France in Flins (78), it is suitable for climbs, trails and long distances. Ideal for a electric mountain bike kit or a high-end conversion. Compatible with BSA cases 68/73 mm (standard on Peugeot and Nakamura).It works with standard batteries (378Wh). Comfort/Luggage Rack (540 Wh) Or Performance (720 Wh), offering up to 120 km range.

Virvolt model	Engine type	Couple	Recommended use	Compatible bicycle type	Maximum autonomy
Virvolt 500	Front wheel	35 Nm	City, flat	Peugeot LC01, T03	~70 km
Virvolt 750	Rear wheel	40 Nm	Mixed, hilly	Nakamura Compliant	~70 km
Virvolt 900	Crankset	80 Nm	Mountain biking	Peugeot T02 Trail	~110 km

3. How do I install a Virvolt electric bike kit on an existing bike?

What tools and skills are needed?

The installation of a electric bike kit may seem accessible at first glance. But in the case of Virvolt kits, which integrate torque sensors, precision electronics, and high-capacity lithium-ion batteries, The intervention of a certified professional is essential.

Our partner distributors and installers They are trained to install on all types of compatible bicycles. They have specific tools for:

• disassemble the cranksets (in the case of the Virvolt 900)
• check the wheel centering and spoke tension (for Virvolt 500 or 750 kits)
• secure the wiring
• configure assistance levels via the dashboard screen
• perform commissioning tests (braking, torque, range)

That's why Virvolt doesn't market its electric assistance kits Available for direct sale without installation. In addition to guaranteeing safety, this process ensures a perfect integration of the bicycle conversion kit, regardless of the original model.

What are the steps involved in installing an electric assistance kit?

At a Virvolt-approved installer, the installation of a electric bike kit follows a standardized protocol:

1. Pre-diagnosis of the bicycle : The installer checks the frame, wheels, brakes, and transmission. Specifically, they verify the compatibility of dimensions (axle, rims, threading, BSA) and confirm the overall good condition.
2. Choosing the right kit : Depending on the use, user profile and geometry of the bike, the installer will recommend one of the three Virvolt kits (500, 750, 900) with the battery corresponding to your needs.
3. Engine installation :
• Wheel motor (Virvolt 500/750): dismantling the wheel, installing the spoked wheel with integrated motor, connecting to the controller.
• bottom bracket motor (Virvolt 900): complete dismantling of the bottom bracket, installation of the mid-drive motor, adjustment of the chain and transmission.
4. Battery assembly :
• Water bottle format : screwed onto the frame (attachment to the bottle cage or installation of a support without drilling)
• Luggage rack format : integration on a specific rack
• Performance format : mounting on diagonal tube or long support
5. Connection and settings : Screen installation, setting of assistance levels (3 to 5 levels), firmware update if necessary.
6. Testing and handover to the client : dynamic testing, verification of engine torque, estimated range and delivery of the kit's technical data sheet.

The entire operation usually lasts 45 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the complexity of the bike and the kit chosen.

Can it be done at home or do you have to go through an authorized Virvolt distributor?

Unlike some kits sold online at low prices, the Virvolt electric bike kits are designed to be installed exclusively by trained professionals. This meets several requirements:

• Security : Incorrect battery installation or poorly managed engine torque can cause technical incidents, or even accidents.
• Manufacturer's warranty : Only a certified installation retains the Virvolt guarantee.
• Optimized performance : The fine adjustments of the motor, sensors and screen ensure smooth assistance, without jerking or loss of performance.
• Regulatory compliance : Bike retrofitting must comply with CE and EN 15194 standards. Virvolt is committed to these points through its network of partners.

In short, the installation of a electric bike kit is a technical, regulated and strategic operation. That's why we have developed a national network of approved distributors, capable of supporting you at every stage of the project, from diagnosis to commissioning.

To find the installer closest to you, you can consult our interactive map of vending machines.

4. Case studies: Peugeot LC01 and Nakamura Complite 930

To understand the concrete advantages of a electric bike kit, Nothing beats real-life conversion examples. Here are two emblematic cases: one involves a Peugeot LC01 city bike transformed for daily urban commuting, the other a mountain bikeT Nakamura Complite 930 reedEquipped to tackle hilly terrain and long outings. These two These transformations perfectly illustrate the technical, economic, and practical benefits of the electrified bicycle.

Before/after: a Peugeot city bike turned e-bike

This Peugeot bike is a city bike that is particularly popular among urban cyclists.It features a mixed aluminum frame, 28-inch wheels, a seven-speed Shimano Tourney drivetrain, and V-brakes. Its low step-through frame and integrated rear rack make it a popular choice for everyday commuting. This bike therefore provided an ideal base for a... electric bike kit suitable for the city.

The kit chosen was the Virvolt 750, a suitable solution with a rear hub motor and torque sensor. This 250-watt motor, with a torque of 40 Nm, is quiet and efficient for flat terrain and frequent restarts. The selected battery was a 7 amp-hour bottle cage, offering 252 Wh of energy. It was mounted on the frame's downtube. The entire system was installed by an authorized Virvolt distributor.

Once electrified, the observed range was between 55 and 70 kilometers depending on the chosen assistance level. The cyclist, a regular user of bike paths, saw his commute time reduced by nearly 30%, while maintaining a smooth and intuitive ride. He also highlighted the fluidity of the assistance and the almost invisible nature of the installation. For him, the electric bike kit has become a simple and reliable way to increase urban mobility without disrupting one's habits.

Electrification of a Nakamura Summit 700 mountain bike

In the all-terrain category, the Nakamura Summit 700 stands out as an ideal candidate for the electrified bicycle. This hardtail mountain bike, equipped with mechanical disc brakes and 27.5-inch wheels, has won over many cyclists with its excellent value for money. The goal here was to provide it with high-performance electric assistance for rides in the forest and on hilly roads.

The distributor Virvolt recommended the Virvolt 900 kit to the cyclist. This model features a mid-drive motor with a torque sensor, delivering 80 Nm of torque. This sensor measures the pressure exerted on the pedals and adjusts the assistance in real time, providing a more natural and dynamic pedaling feel, which is particularly appreciated on mixed terrain. The battery chosen was a 10.5 Ah water bottle, mounted on the frame.

After the conversion, the mountain bike's handling was significantly improved. The electric assist allowed for an average increase of 40% in ride time. electric mountain bike kit It has allowed us to push the limits of cycling while retaining the pleasure of riding your bike.

Cost, battery life and user experience

From an economic standpoint, these two electrifications proved particularly advantageous. Converting the Peugeot with the Virvolt 750 cost approximately €890, including installation, for a range of 50 kilometers. Converting the Nakamura Summit 700 with the Virvolt 900 cost €1250, for a range of 80 kilometers. These amounts are significantly lower than the purchase price of a new electric bike of equivalent quality, which is often priced between €2,000 and €2,500.

Conclusion

Converting a Peugeot or Nakamura bicycle into an electric bicycle using a Virvolt kit represents an ecological, economical and sustainable solution, allowing you to extend the life of an existing bicycle while reducing its environmental impact.

Adapted to many models thanks to robust and standard frames, this electrification offers a flexible and efficient alternative to the new electric bike, with significantly lower installation costs and long-term savings.

By relying on a network of certified professionals, this approach guarantees a safe and optimized installation, enhancing both the technical qualities of classic bicycles and the modern advantages of electric assistance. !

And you? Have you already taken the plunge? Feel free to leave a comment or share this article with other cyclists seeking autonomy and freedom.