If you’ve been riding an electric assist bicycle for a while, you probably know the joys of that added power when climbing hills or covering longer distances. But let me tell you—after a few years of enjoying the convenience of pedal-assist, I wanted more.
I wanted to cruise without constantly pedaling, to enjoy the ride without always having to work for it. That’s when I decided to convert my electric assist bike into a fully automatic one, and honestly, it’s one of the best decisions I’ve made as a cyclist.
In this guide, I’ll share the steps I took to transform my electric assist bike into a fully automatic machine. If you’re like me and you’re looking for a smoother, more effortless ride, follow along!
Why Convert to a Fully Automatic Bicycle?
Before we jump into the technical bits, let’s talk about why you’d even want to convert your bike. For me, the decision came down to one thing: convenience. With a fully automatic bicycle, you don’t need to pedal at all to get the motor running.
This is perfect for those moments when you just want to glide through the city or take a leisurely ride without breaking a sweat. It’s also helpful if you’ve got any physical limitations or injuries that make pedaling tough.
But let’s get real—converting your bike isn’t just about convenience. It’s about having fun with the ride, adding more automation, and letting the bike do all the heavy lifting. And who doesn’t want that?
Components Required for the Conversion
Now, converting your electric assist bike into a fully automatic one isn’t as complicated as it sounds, but you’ll need a few key components. I spent some time researching and shopping around before I settled on the right parts. Here’s what you’ll need:
Motor and Controller
The motor is the powerhouse of your conversion. Most electric assist bikes come with motors that only engage when you’re pedaling. To make the switch, you’ll need a motor that can run continuously, even when you’re not pedaling. I opted for a mid-drive motor, but hub motors work as well.
The controller is just as important. It regulates the power going to your motor and allows for automatic control. A good controller will support features like throttle input (where you can control speed with a twist or thumb throttle) and automatic speed adjustment.
Battery Upgrade
Here’s the thing: fully automatic bicycles consume more power since you won’t be helping the motor by pedaling. I had to upgrade my battery to a more powerful one to ensure longer rides without running out of juice mid-trip.
You’ll want a battery with enough watt-hours (Wh) to handle your needs. For me, a 48V battery did the trick, but you can adjust based on your riding habits.
Sensor Systems
Your bike will need sensors to detect speed and manage throttle control. These sensors are crucial for making the bike fully automatic.
I added a speed sensor and a throttle system that could seamlessly control the motor without my input. Trust me, it makes a world of difference when the bike “knows” what to do without you constantly adjusting things.
Step-by-Step Guide to Converting Your Bicycle
This part can seem overwhelming, but take it step by step, and you’ll be riding your newly converted automatic bike in no time.
Assess Your Current Bicycle
Before you start, give your bike a once-over. Not every bike is ideal for conversion, so check your motor, battery, and frame to ensure they can handle the upgrades.
I was lucky that my bike already had a decent motor mount and battery compartment, which made things easier.
Choosing the Right Motor and Controller
Once I knew my bike was compatible, I picked out a motor and controller combo. I went with a kit that included both, which made the process smoother. The motor was designed to function independently of pedaling, and the controller allowed for throttle control.
When you’re shopping, make sure your motor and controller work well together and fit your bike’s specs.
Installing the Battery and Sensors
Next up was the battery installation. This part was straightforward, but you need to make sure everything is secure.
I mounted my new battery to the frame where my old one was. After that, I installed the throttle and speed sensors. These sensors are crucial because they tell the motor when to kick in. Make sure you follow the instructions carefully to avoid any miscommunication between the motor and the sensors.
Programming the Controller for Automation
This was probably the most technical part, but it’s worth it. Most controllers come with detailed programming instructions. I had to tweak the settings on mine to ensure that it would manage the motor’s speed automatically and respond to throttle input.
Take your time with this step. A poorly programmed controller can make the bike jerky or unresponsive.
Testing and Fine-Tuning the Fully Automatic Bicycle
Once I had everything installed and programmed, it was time to test.
The first few rides were all about getting a feel for the new setup. At first, I noticed the motor wasn’t engaging as smoothly as I wanted, but after adjusting the sensor alignment and tweaking the controller settings, everything started working perfectly.
I’d recommend taking a few short rides around your neighborhood to get everything dialed in. Pay attention to how the motor responds, and don’t be afraid to make small adjustments until it feels just right.
Maintenance Tips for Your Fully Automatic Bicycle
Now that you’ve got your fully automatic bike, you’ll want to keep it in top shape. Just like any other bike, regular maintenance is key. Here’s what I do to keep mine running smoothly:
Battery care: Keep it charged but avoid overcharging. Lithium-ion batteries don’t like to be completely drained either.
Check the sensors: Every so often, I inspect the throttle and speed sensors to make sure they’re still functioning properly.
Lubricate moving parts: Even though you’re riding with less pedaling, the chain and gears still need regular lubrication.
Software updates: If your controller has any firmware updates available, it’s a good idea to install them. These updates can improve performance and sometimes even extend the range of your bike.
Legal Considerations for Fully Automatic Bicycles
Before you hit the road, make sure to check your local regulations. Fully automatic bicycles might be categorized differently than electric assist bikes, depending on where you live.
In some places, they might be treated more like mopeds or scooters, meaning there could be restrictions on where you can ride or how fast you can go. I had to look up local speed limits and check if my fully automatic bike was allowed on bike paths.
Benefits of a Fully Automatic Bicycle
Converting my electric assist bike to a fully automatic one has completely changed the way I ride.
I can now take longer rides without worrying about pedaling, and it’s incredibly relaxing to just cruise along at a consistent speed. Plus, I love the flexibility of having throttle control. It’s especially handy in stop-and-go traffic or when I want to take a break from pedaling without slowing down.
Conclusion
Converting your electric assist bicycle to a fully automatic bike might seem like a big project, but trust me, it’s worth every step. From upgrading the motor and battery to installing sensors and programming the controller, the process is straightforward as long as you take your time and do your research. Once you’re cruising down the road on your fully automatic bike, you’ll wonder why you didn’t make the switch sooner.
FAQs
How much does it cost to convert my electric assist bike to a fully automatic bike?
The cost can vary, but expect to spend anywhere from $500 to $1,500, depending on the quality of components you choose.
Is it difficult to install the conversion kit?
It’s manageable if you’re comfortable with basic mechanical tasks. Most kits come with instructions, but you might want to get help with the programming if you’re not tech-savvy.
Will the conversion affect my bike’s range?
Yes, fully automatic bikes use more battery power since you’re not pedaling. Be sure to upgrade your battery if you want to maintain or extend your range.
Can I use any electric assist bike for this conversion?
Not all electric assist bikes are suitable for conversion. Check your bike’s compatibility with the motor, controller, and battery requirements before starting the project.
Is it legal to ride a fully automatic bike everywhere?
Laws vary by location. Fully automatic bicycles may be subject to different regulations, so make sure to check local laws regarding speed limits and bike path access before riding.
