E-Bike Conversion Kits vs Buying a New E-Bike: Which Is Better for You?

The adoption of electric bicycles is on the rise. Their advantages are many: longer rides, steep hills, and high-speed traveling. However, if you are into e-bikes, the question is — the new one or an old bike re-converted by an e-bike conversion kit? 

At Rev-Bikes, we help riders across Australia decide what works best for them. Both options have good points. It depends on how you ride, how much you want to spend, and what type of bike you already have. Let’s compare both choices in detail. 

What Is an E-Bike Conversion Kit? 

An e-bike conversion kit is a miracle which allows you to convert your classic cycle into an electric bike. The package normally incorporates a motor, battery, display, and controller. Once installed, your regular bike can give you power when pedalling or even move with just the throttle. 

At Rev-Bikes, we offer high-quality mid-drive and hub motor kits from trusted brands like Bafang and Bikee Bike. These setups can be performed elegantly and are really tough. If you get it installed by a professional, your bicycle can be a smooth, mighty e-bike within a couple of hours. 

What Is a Factory-Built E-Bike? 

A factory-built e-bike has been produced by the company as an electric bike from the very beginning. The motor, battery, and components are integrated within the structure. These bikes look neat and ride very smoothly. 

Factory-built e-bikes are all set for riding the moment you purchase them. However, they come at a higher price and in some cases, they are hard to fix due to the use of single-brand special parts. 

Cost: Conversion Kits vs New E-Bikes 

The price is one of the main factors that differentiate the two options. Typically, a top e-bike conversion kit can be priced between $1,200 and $3,000 AUD. You save money because you keep your current bike. 

In contrast, a new e-bike can be in the range of $3,000 to $8,000 AUD or even higher. You pay extra for design, comfort, and brand quality. In case you own a decent bike already, then going for a conversion kit can be a smart and less expensive option. 

Performance and Power 

The performance of the e-bike relies on the quality of the motor. Conversion kits are frequently supplied with powerful motors such as the Bafang BBSHD 1000W or Bike Bike Best 1000W. These kits make it easy to get the horsepower needed for hills and long rides. 

Many factory e-bikes use motors limited to 250W–500W for road use. Quiet and smooth are the words used to describe this, yet their power is limited. Conversion kits typically grant you the opportunity to experience more power and thus better performance particularly for riding on rough terrains. 

Customisation and Flexibility 

Conversion kits offer great flexibility in terms of the e-bike’s character and riding experience. Motivator strength, battery capacity, display and throttle type can all be selected. It gives you more control over speed, distance, and performance. 

A factory e-bike does not offer this freedom. You get the parts it comes with and changing them can break the warranty. If you like custom options, a conversion kit is the better choice. 

Installation and Maintenance 

Many riders think installing a conversion kit is hard, but Rev-Bikes can do it for you. Our experts fit and test every kit carefully, so your e-bike works safely and smoothly. 

A factory e-bike is ready to ride right away. On the other hand, service and replacement of components might be more expensive in the long run since you will always have to use a specific component from the same brand and manufacturer. It's common to see conversion kits as the easier and less costly option when it comes to maintenance. 

Design and Look 

The new e-bike has a bright and contemporary appearance. It has a hidden battery and smooth motor that is enclosed in the frame, giving an appealing and well-balanced look. A lot of bikers adore it for its sleek and urban appearance. 

Conversion kits may look like an add-on, but today’s designs are much smaller and smarter. For example, the Bikee Bike Lightest Mid-Drive Kit looks sleek and performs great without adding bulk. 

Environmental Benefits 

E-bike conversion kit use is among the most environmentally friendly options available. Going for a recycling option instead of throwing away your old bike and buying a new one leads to reducing waste directly, which is the case with the new bike frames also, as less energy has to be consumed for that process. It's like killing three birds with one stone, eco-friendly, cost-effective and very simple! 

An electric bicycle will still be better for the environment than a car, but it will be less so and more resource and energy consuming in the manufacturing process. In case you have sustainability concerns, conversion kits are without doubt the best pick. 

Safety and Legal Rules 

In Australia, both conversion kits and factory e-bikes must follow safety and power rules. On roads, e-bikes can have up to 250W motors with pedal assist. For off-road or private property, up to 1000W is allowed. 

At Rev-Bikes, we make sure your e-bike meets these laws. We help set up and test every system so you can ride safely and legally anywhere you go. 

Long-Term Value and Upgrades 

A conversion kit gives you long-term value because you can upgrade parts anytime. You can replace the battery with more range or the motor for more power. This makes it a great long-term investment. 

Factory e-bikes are harder to upgrade. When you crave new features, it often means getting a completely new e-bike. The case is different from a conversion kit since they are easier and less expensive to upgrade. 

When Buying a New E-Bike Makes Sense