By 2024, more and more cyclists are choosing to electrify their bikes, a solution that isn't too expensive and allows them to keep their beloved bicycle. Whether it's to make long distances easier, climb difficult hills, or simply get around town faster, converting a classic bicycle into an electric bicycle It offers many advantages. However, to fully benefit from this electrification, choosing the right motor is essential. And it's true that when you don't know much about it, it's difficult to know where to start!

Depending on whether it's located in the wheel hub or at the bottom bracket, the motor will influence your performance, comfort, and overall experience. A suitable motor will allow you to adjust the level of assistance to your needs and usage.

Here is a short article that will help you choose the right motor to electrify your bike.

Summary :

1. Why convert your bicycle to electric?

   • 1.1 The advantages of an electric bicycle

   • 1.2 An economical and sustainable solution

   • 1.3 The key role of the engine in the conversion

2. The different types of electric motors

   • 2.1 The front wheel motor: simplicity and accessibility

   • 2.2 The rear-wheel drive motor: improved traction

   • 2.3 The central motor: for rough terrain and heavy loads

3. Differences in driving feel between engines

   • 3.1 Front wheel motor: smoother and more predictable driving

   • 3.2 Rear-wheel drive: a propulsion sensation comparable to a motorcycle

   • 3.3 Mid-engine: a more natural and smooth driving experience

4. How to choose the right engine for your needs?

   • 4.1 Choosing an engine for urban journeys

   • 4.2 Choosing an engine for varied terrain

   • 4.3 Choosing an engine for long distances and steep climbs

5. What is the price difference for each type of engine?

   • 5.1 The price of front wheel motors

   • 5.2 The price of rear wheel motors

   • 5.3 The price of central motors

6. Conclusion

1. Why convert your bike to electric?

1.1 The advantages of an electric bicycle

By 2024, more and more cyclists will choose to convert their traditional bicycles into electric bikes. This trend is explained by the numerous advantages that an electric bike offers. electric bike. One of the main advantages is the ability to electrify a bicycle without having to buy a new, often expensive, model. Indeed, conversion is an economical solution, as it allows you to keep your favorite bike while adding the benefits of an electric motor.

Electrifying your bike makes long-distance journeys easier, making it an excellent choice for those who want to ride further without being held back by fatigue.Furthermore, for urban journeys, a electric bike It allows you to travel faster than a conventional bicycle, while avoiding the intense physical effort that long journeys or hills can require. It can also reduce travel time, especially in areas with heavy traffic, by allowing you to ride faster and avoid traffic jams.

Another major advantage is the ability to ride on varied terrain with ease. Whether for commuting in the city, countryside rides, or forest excursions, the assistance of a motor will allow you to enjoy a more pleasant ride, even on uneven surfaces. Thanks to electrification, you can also tackle hills and inclines more easily without exhausting yourself, allowing many cyclists to continue their favorite activity while reducing the effort.

1.2 An economical and sustainable solution

One of the reasons why more and more cyclists are opting to convert their bikes is the relatively low cost compared to buying a new one. new electric bike. Indeed, by installing a conversion kit on your bike, you avoid having to invest in a complete model, allowing you to make significant savings. Furthermore, conversion kits are generally less expensive than buying a complete bike. all-in-one electric bike, This makes the solution accessible to a larger number of cyclists.

Electrifying your bike is also a more sustainable, because it allows you to extend the lifespan of your current bicycle. Rather than throwing away your traditional bike, you can give it a new life with an electric motor, while reducing waste and avoiding the production of new bicycles. Furthermore, using a electric bike Using a car rather than a motorized vehicle for your daily commute helps reduce your carbon footprint, thus promoting more environmentally friendly mobility.

Regarding maintenance, conversion kits are designed for easy installation, and many brands, such as Virvolt, They offer professional installation services. This allows cyclists to avoid worrying about the technical aspects of the installation and to benefit from a turnkey service. Once installed, maintenance of the conversion kits is generally simple, as they are based on components that are already well-known in the cycling world.

1.3 The key role of the engine in the conversion

The motor plays a central role in the success of converting your bicycle into an electric model. Whether it's a electric motor kit, Whether it's a front-wheel motor, a rear-wheel motor, or a mid-drive motor, each type has specific characteristics that influence the riding experience. The choice of motor will depend on several factors, such as the type of terrain you ride on, the frequency of your rides, and the level of assistance you require.

When we talk about electric bicycle, It's important to emphasize that the motor doesn't just provide assistance; it transforms the cycling experience. It allows you to increase the power of your pedaling according to your needs, whether you're climbing a hill or covering miles on a flat road. Choosing the right motor therefore maximizes riding comfort, optimizes bike performance, and allows you to adapt the assistance to your own fitness level.

THE electric bike kits are often designed to meet specific needs: some engines are better suited to city driving, while others are made for rougher terrain, like those found in mountain bikes. electric assistance kit allows you to adjust the intensity of the assistance provided by the motor according to different types of routes, ensuring that you always ride with the level of assistance you need.

2. The different types of electric motors

2.1 The front wheel motor: simplicity and accessibility

THE front wheel motor is one of the simplest and least expensive types of motors to install. It's generally installed directly into the front wheel hub, making installation relatively easy. This makes it an excellent choice for cyclists who want to convert their bike to electric without undertaking complex installations. Furthermore, many electric bike kits available on the market, such as the kit for Virvolt 500 electric bike, are designed to be installed quickly and without specialized tools.

This motor is particularly well-suited for urban riding on flat terrain, where the extra power of a motor is sufficient to make getting around easier. In the city, the ability to accelerate more quickly and maintain a constant speed can be a significant advantage, especially for cyclists who want to travel faster without having to exert intense effort. One of the benefits of this motor is that it is relatively lightweight and doesn't require major modifications to the bicycle.

However, this motor has some limitations. On rougher terrain or uphill, the assistance provided by a front-wheel motor can be less effective. This is because traction is less optimal in these situations, as the rider's weight is often concentrated at the rear of the bike, hindering better grip on the road. Furthermore, this type of motor can limit the bike's maneuverability, especially during tight turns or on slippery surfaces. It is also generally less powerful than other motors, which can be a disadvantage if you need to carry heavy loads or climb steep hills.

2.2 The rear-wheel motor: better traction

THE rear wheel motor is another popular option for those looking to convert their bicycle to an electric model. This motor is generally better suited for varied terrain and moderate inclines. The main advantage of this type of motor is that it offers better traction, especially on slopes, because it transmits power to the rear wheels, which are the drive wheels of the bicycle. This allows for a more stable ride, even on uneven surfaces or when going uphill.

In terms of handling, the feeling of propulsion is often compared to that of a motorcycle, which can be appealing to some riders who prefer smoother and more powerful assistance. Virvolt 750 electric bike kit, For example, it uses this type of engine and offers effective assistance, even in difficult conditions.

However, the main drawback of this motor is maintenance. In the event of a puncture or other mechanical problems, maintenance can be more complex than for a front-wheel motor, as the rear wheel is often linked to other bicycle components, such as the drivetrain.In addition, installing a rear wheel motor often requires specialized tools, making it a bit more technical than installing a front wheel motor.

2.3 The central motor: for rough terrain and heavy loads

THE central engine, Also called a mid-drive motor, it is one of the most powerful and efficient motors for varied terrain, including steep climbs and rough paths. By installing this motor at the bottom bracket, you benefit from a balanced weight distribution, which improves the bike's handling, especially on challenging terrain. This motor is often more powerful and has higher torque, providing better assistance in situations where other motors, such as front or rear hub motors, would be less effective.

In addition to that, the central engine It offers a more natural riding experience. Unlike hub motors, which can create a pushing sensation, the mid-drive motor transmits power directly to the chain. This results in a smoother pedaling feel, as if you were pedaling without assistance. It's ideal for cyclists who want a riding experience similar to that of a traditional bike while benefiting from extra support on climbs or challenging terrain.

One of the drawbacks of a mid-drive engine is its cost. Mid-drive engines are generally more expensive due to their performance and design. However, if you plan to ride on varied terrain or need to carry heavy loads, it can prove to be an excellent long-term investment. It is particularly suitable for enthusiasts of electric mountain bike, who use their bikes on mountain paths or difficult trails.

3. Differences in driving feel between engines

3.1 Front wheel motor: smoother and more predictable driving

THE front wheel motor It offers a driving experience unlike other types of engines. It can be compared to driving a car with an automatic transmission. This engine delivers consistent power, resulting in a smoother and more consistent ride, without abrupt changes in assistance depending on the terrain. It's an ideal solution for those who prefer predictable driving and are looking for a simple, efficient, and practical option for daily commutes in the city.

With a front wheel motor, You don't need to constantly change your pedaling style to get assistance. The level of assistance doesn't vary with speed or terrain, which can be an advantage for some cyclists. This type of motor is less intrusive and doesn't radically alter the way you pedal, allowing cyclists to adapt quickly without having to adjust their technique.

However, this can also be a drawback for those seeking a more dynamic driving experience. front wheel motor It may seem less powerful than mid-engine vehicles, and its handling can lack responsiveness on varied terrain. In short, it will be better suited to those who prioritize simplicity and predictability in their journeys.

3.2 Rear-wheel drive: a propulsion sensation comparable to a motorcycle

If you prefer a more engaging driving experience, the rear wheel motor can offer a more dynamic experience.This engine delivers a feeling of acceleration similar to that of a motorcycle, which can be particularly enjoyable for those who like the sensation of accelerating up moderate inclines or over challenging terrain. rear wheel motor allows for better control of traction, particularly uphill, because it distributes power directly to the rear wheels, which are generally responsible for traction in two-wheeled vehicles.

THE rear wheel motors These are perfect for those seeking extra assistance on more varied terrain or rides with climbs. This setup also provides better bike control, as the rider's weight is naturally concentrated at the rear. Furthermore, there are no abrupt changes in power transmission, resulting in a stable and predictable ride on diverse surfaces.

However, this engine has some drawbacks, particularly regarding handling in tight corners or on especially technical terrain. Due to the engine's placement, certain maneuvers can become more difficult, especially on narrow paths or downhill.

3.3 Mid-engine: a more natural and smooth driving experience

THE central engine, As for it, it offers the sensation of pedaling a traditional bicycle, but with the added assistance of a powerful motor. This type of motor integrates seamlessly with the bicycle, transmitting power directly to the chain, resulting in a smoother and more natural ride. Unlike front and rear wheel motors, the central engine adjusts the assistance according to your effort and the speed at which you ride, giving you more precise control over the intensity of the assistance.

In terms of driving sensations, the central engine It offers a much more authentic and linear pedaling experience. There's no "push" sensation like with hub motors, but rather a smooth and progressive assistance that adapts perfectly to changes in terrain. This allows you to feel much more in control, especially on steep climbs or rough terrain.

However, this engine can be more demanding in terms of maintenance and installation, as it requires more sophisticated equipment and a more complex transmission system. It is also more expensive to purchase than front- or rear-wheel drive engines, but for those seeking a premium driving experience, it can be a worthwhile investment.

4. How to choose the right engine for your needs?

4.1 Choosing an engine for urban journeys

If you mainly use your bike for urban journeys, a front wheel motor This could be an excellent choice. Indeed, this engine is ideal for daily commutes in the city, where the terrain is generally flat and the inclines are moderate. electric bike kit like the Virvolt 500 Kit is perfectly suited for this type of use. This engine allows for smooth, stable and fast driving, while being economical and easy to install.

Cyclists who prefer a predictable ride, without having to constantly adjust the assistance level according to the terrain, will find this type of motor an ideal solution. Furthermore, the front-wheel motor is lightweight and easy to maintain, making it an attractive option for daily commutes in urban environments.

4.2. Choosing an engine for varied terrain

If you drive on hilly terrain or rough cycle paths, an engine rear wheel Or central engine will probably be more suitable. Indeed, these motors offer better traction and more responsive assistance on varied terrain, such as climbs and descents, while allowing optimal control of the bicycle. Virvolt 750 Kit or the Virvolt 900 Kit are recommended choices for those who need more powerful assistance to tackle steeper slopes and more challenging paths.

THE rear wheel motor can provide an extra boost when climbing moderate slopes, while the central engine will allow you to climb steeper slopes while maintaining stable handling. This is particularly suitable for cyclists who Electric mountain bike or to those who wish to transport heavy loads.

4.3 Choosing an engine for long distances and steep climbs

If you plan to use your bike for long distances or on steep climbs, A central engine is probably the most suitable choice. This engine, like that of the Virvolt 900 Kit, It offers powerful and balanced assistance, perfect for cyclists tackling challenging terrain or steep inclines. The central weight distribution of the bike enhances stability, and the mid-drive motor's power ensures good speed even on technical terrain.

THE central engine is also recommended for those looking for a electrified bicycle More powerful, capable of handling demanding conditions while offering a natural driving experience. This type of engine is also an excellent choice if you need to carry heavy loads, such as travel bags or camping equipment.

5. What is the price difference for each type of engine?

5.1 The price of front wheel motors

In general, the conversion kits with motor front wheel are the most affordable. These motors are often simpler to install and don't require major modifications to your bike. Kits like the Virvolt 500 Kit, Starting at €599, they are perfect for cyclists looking for an economical solution to transform their bike into electric bike without breaking the bank. This option is ideal for those who don't need very powerful assistance and who want stable handling on relatively flat terrain.

5.2 The price of rear wheel motors

THE conversion kits with motor rear wheel are slightly more expensive due to the complexity of the installation and the additional power they offer. For example, the Virvolt 750 Kit, Available from €890, it's suitable for cyclists who ride on more varied terrain or who want a little more power for moderate climbs. This motor is also recommended for those who want better traction and a more responsive riding experience on different types of terrain.

5.3 The price of central motors

Finally, the kits with central motor are the most expensive, due to their more advanced design and the power they offer.THE Virvolt 900 Kit, Starting at €1250, it's designed for cyclists seeking maximum performance on steep climbs, rough terrain, or those carrying heavy loads. While more expensive, a mid-drive motor is an excellent investment for those who want a high-performance electric bike, capable of handling technical terrain while offering a smooth and natural driving experience.

6. Conclusion

In summary, choosing the right engine for your electric bike conversion depends on several factors, such as the type of terrain you will be riding on, the level of assistance you require, and your budget. Each type of motor – whether it's a motor front wheel, rear wheel Or central – offers distinct advantages.

If you are mainly in the city and are looking for an economical solution, the front wheel motor is an excellent choice. For those who ride on varied terrain or with moderate climbs, the rear wheel motor will offer better traction. Finally, for the Electric mountain bikes or cyclists looking for power and stability on difficult terrain, the central engine is the ideal choice.

THE Virvolt electrification kits are an excellent option for those who wish to convert their classic bicycle into electric bike without difficulty, by offering a range adapted to every need. Whether you choose a electric bike kit economic or an electric motor kit The more powerful the solution, the better.