Curious about turning your standard bicycle into an electric powerhouse? You’re not alone. Thousands of UK riders are upgrading their bikes with a simple electric bike conversion kit and it’s more affordable and achievable than you might think.
Whether you’re looking to make your commute easier, ride farther without fatigue, or just want to explore the world of e-bikes without buying a brand-new model, a conversion kit is the ideal starting point. And with trusted brands like KirbEbike, the process is not only beginner-friendly but also surprisingly fast.
In this guide, we’ll explain exactly how electric bike conversion kits work from the core components to installation and real-world use. You’ll learn how power flows through the system, what parts are essential, and how to choose the best electric bike conversion kit for your bike and lifestyle.
By the end, you’ll know everything you need to confidently convert your bike into a powerful, road-ready e-bike.
The Core Components of an Electric Bike Conversion Kit
A complete electric bike conversion kit includes all the components needed to electrify your ride without replacing your existing bike. Whether you’re riding a road bike, hybrid, or mountain bike, these core parts work together to deliver smooth, pedal-assisted power.
Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll typically find in a KirbEbike conversion kit:
1. Motor Wheel (Hub Motor or Mid Motor)
- The heart of the conversion kit.
- Front or rear hub motor: Integrated directly into the wheel hub.
- Mid-drive motor (optional): Installed at the crankset for more natural, torque-sensitive performance.
- Kirbebike offers 250W, 500W, 750W, and even 4000W motors depending on your needs and riding style.
2. Lithium Battery
- Powers your motor.
- Available in different voltages: 36V, 48V, 52V, or 72V.
- Mounted on the downtube, rear rack, or inside a saddlebag.
- KirbEbike batteries typically offer 35–80km of range, depending on terrain and usage.
3. Controller
- The “brain” of your e-bike system.
- Regulates the flow of energy between the battery and the motor.
- Built-in to many KirbEbike mid-motor units or placed externally in a waterproof case.
4. Display (LCD/LED)
- Mounted on the handlebar.
- Shows speed, distance, PAS level, battery level, and more.
- Most KirbEbike kits include the LCD8S colour display with backlighting and intuitive control.
5. Pedal Assist Sensor (PAS)
- Detects your pedalling movement.
- Tells the motor when and how much to assist.
- The V12 PAS system from KirbEbike is included in most kits and works with both cadence and torque-based control.
6. Brake Levers or Cut-off Sensors
- Instantly cut power to the motor when you brake.
- Increases safety, especially when riding in traffic.
7. Throttle
- Some kits include a thumb throttle for direct power on demand.
- Great for hills, starts from rest, or off-road use.
How Power Flows from Battery to Motor
Once installed, your electric bike conversion kit works seamlessly in the background, helping you ride faster and farther with less effort. Here’s how the energy flows through the system:
Step-by-Step Process
- You start pedalling: The Pedal Assist Sensor (PAS) detects your movement.
- PAS sends a signal to the controller: The controller interprets the pedalling speed and intensity.
- Controller activates the motor: Based on the selected PAS level, the controller pulls power from the battery and feeds it to the hub motor or mid-drive motor.
- Motor drives the wheel: The wheel spins with electric support, reducing the effort you need to pedal.
- Display monitors everything: You can adjust PAS levels, view battery levels, and track speed in real time on your KirbEbike LCD display.
- You brake or stop: Brake sensors cut power to the motor instantly, ensuring safety.
Types of Electric Bike Conversion Kits: Which One Should You Choose?
Not all electric bike conversion kits are the same the motor position plays a big role in how your e-bike feels and performs. Whether you’re a commuter, weekend rider, or adventurer, choosing the right kit setup will make your electric bike more efficient and enjoyable.
Let’s break down the three main types offered by KirbEbike:
1. Front Hub Motor Conversion Kit
How it works:
The motor is built into the front wheel hub, pulling the bike forward while you pedal.
Best for:
- Urban commuters and casual riders
- Flat to moderately hilly terrain
- Riders looking for easy installation
Pros:
- Easiest to install (swap out front wheel)
- Good balance for rear-heavy bikes
- Affordable and lightweight
2. Rear Hub Motor Conversion Kit
How it works:
The motor is mounted on the rear wheel, pushing the bike forward and offering better traction on inclines or gravel.
Best for:
- Commuters needing extra torque
- Riders with cargo or rear panniers
- Mild to steep hills
Pros:
- Feels more like natural cycling
- More powerful acceleration
- Better grip on loose or wet surfaces
3. Mid-Drive Motor Conversion Kit
How it works:
The motor is mounted at the bottom bracket, directly powering your pedals via the bike’s drivetrain.
Best for:
- Experienced riders and enthusiasts
- Hilly or off-road terrain
- Riders looking for high performance
Pros:
- Most efficient use of power
- Excellent for climbing
- Balanced centre of gravity
Which One Is Right for You?
| Motor Type | Terrain | Legal for UK Roads | Best For | Installation |
| Front Hub | Flat/urban | Yes (up to 250W) | Beginners, commuters | Easiest |
| Rear Hub | Urban/hilly | Yes (up to 250W) | Stronger assist, heavier riders | Moderate |
| Mid-Drive | Hilly/trails | Off-road only | Advanced riders, steep terrain | Advanced |
Choosing the Right Battery for Your Electric Bike Conversion Kit
The battery is the powerhouse of your electric bike. Even the best electric bike conversion kit is only as good as the battery that feeds it. Choosing the right battery ensures your ride has the speed, range, and reliability you need whether you’re commuting in the city or exploring country roads.
Key Factors When Choosing a Battery
1. Voltage (V)
This determines how fast your motor can go.
- 36V – Standard for UK-legal 250W kits. Great for city commutes and moderate climbs.
- 48V – Delivers more torque and speed. Ideal for 500W–1000W kits on private land or steep hills.
- 52V or 72V – High-performance. For off-road or extreme riders using 1500W+ motors.
2. Capacity (Ah – Amp Hours)
This determines your range (how far you can go per charge).
- 13Ah – Ranges from 35–45km, ideal for daily UK commutes
- 16Ah–20Ah – Ranges from 50–80km, better for longer trips or heavier loads
- 30Ah+ – Extended range for trail riding or delivery bikes
3. Mounting Style
Batteries come in several formats. KirbEbike supports:
- Downtube mount – Sleek, central, and balanced
- Rear rack mount – Ideal for city bikes and step-through frames
- Saddle bag or internal cases – Compact for folding bikes or space-saving setups
Safety & Smart Features
KirbEbike batteries include:
- Battery lock with keys for theft protection
- Smart BMS (Battery Management System) for safe charging and temperature control
- Quick-release design for convenient charging at home or the office
Step-by-Step: How to Install Your Electric Bike Conversion Kit
One of the biggest benefits of using a KirbEbike electric bike conversion kit is that it’s DIY-friendly. Whether you’re upgrading your 700c commuter or mountain bike, installation can be done at home in under 30 minutes with no special tools or bike mechanic needed.
What You’ll Need
- Basic toolkit: Allen keys, spanner, tyre levers
- Bike stand or space to flip your bike
- KirbEbike conversion kit components
- Charging cable & manual
Step-by-Step Installation
Step 1: Remove the Existing Wheel
- Unbolt your current front or rear wheel.
- Deflate the tyre and remove the tube if you’re reusing it.
- Save the existing hardware (washers, spacers).
Step 2: Install the Motor Wheel
- Slot the KirbEbike motor wheel (front or rear) into the fork or dropouts.
- Ensure the axle sits securely in the fork ends.
- Add spacers if needed for a tight fit.
- Reinstall tyre and inflate.
Step 3: Mount the Battery
- Attach the battery to the downtube or rear rack, depending on your model.
- Use included mounts or brackets.
- Lock it securely in place.
Step 4: Install the Display
- Mount the LCD8S display to your handlebars.
- Connect the display wire to the main harness.
Step 5: Connect the PAS Sensor
- Fix the Pedal Assist Sensor (PAS) near the crank.
- Secure the magnet ring and sensor with correct spacing (~2mm).
- Make sure the ring spins freely with the pedal.
Step 6: Plug in All Cables
- Connect waterproof cables:
- Motor cable
- Battery cable
- Display and PAS sensor
- Throttle and brake sensors (optional)
- Match colour-coded or labelled connectors from KirbEbike’s 1T4 harness.
Step 7: Power On and Test
- Turn on the display and check for error codes.
- Spin the wheel to test motor assist.
- Try out PAS and throttle (if applicable).
- Adjust PAS level and confirm all functions are working.
Convert Your Ride, Commute Smarter
An electric bike conversion kit is more than a simple upgrade it’s a lifestyle shift toward cleaner commuting, cost savings, and more enjoyable rides. Whether you’re tackling the daily grind in London, exploring countryside paths, or just want a sweat-free school run, converting your current bike is the smartest and most affordable way to get started.
With KirbEbike, UK riders gain access to:
- High-quality, road-legal 250W kits
- Powerful 500W–4000W options for off-road adventures
- Reliable batteries, intuitive LCD displays, and plug-and-play wiring
- Fast, free UK shipping + a 1-year warranty
From front hub kits for commuters to mid-motor systems for hill conquerors, KirbEbike makes it easy to customise your electric ride no matter your experience level.