I seem to remember Johnny saying in a video that he recommended not converting a carbon frame bike. I have a carbon Santa Cruz Hightower. Any thoughts on good idea or bad idea would be appreciated.
I have a Trek 5000 carbon road bike and would like to convert to electric. Is this possible and practical or would there be issues with the carbon frame and the bottom bracket as some manufacturers warn? Is there a work around or other recommendations?
it just depends. theres new motor kits coming out that fit most bikes BBs. also motors are getting lighter and if you lack triangle space you can run a tethered battery setup keeping more weight off the bike. these new developments make carbon frames more suited for ebike conversion, especially full susp. im moving away from bafang and headed toward CYC photon for most mid drive motor recommendations, but CYC is still facing supply issues.
just looking at it no it doesnt look suitable for many reasons. 1. carbon frame = brittle especially under the momentum of an ebike motor and battery - you crash, it more easily snaps. 2. thats a full susp mtb. it lacks adequate frame space for most batteries. 3. the bottom bracket lacks frame space and a good angle for the motor, which usually needs to swing up some, rather than hang down too low which could hit obstacles. that bike will be a good example of a poor ebike conversion candidate. ill add that to my ebike starters guide.
I have a Trek 5000 carbon road bike and would like to convert to electric. Is this possible and practical or would there be issues with the carbon frame and the bottom bracket as some manufacturers warn? Is there a work around or other recommendations?
just looking at it no it doesnt look suitable for many reasons. 1. carbon frame = brittle especially under the momentum of an ebike motor and battery - you crash, it more easily snaps. 2. thats a full susp mtb. it lacks adequate frame space for most batteries. 3. the bottom bracket lacks frame space and a good angle for the motor, which usually needs to swing up some, rather than hang down too low which could hit obstacles. that bike will be a good example of a poor ebike conversion candidate. ill add that to my ebike starters guide.