Home/Custom Builds/New to eBikes - where to start?

New to eBikes - where to start?

by RedPanda•1 day ago

Hey everyone!

I'm totally new to the eBike world and have been doing a ton of research, but I'm feeling a bit overwhelmed by all the options for custom builds. I'm looking to convert my old hardtail mountain bike (a trusty Specialized Rockhopper) into an eMTB for some local trail riding and commuting, probably 15-20 miles round trip with some decent hills. What are the absolute must-knows or common pitfalls when starting a DIY eBike conversion project, especially for someone who's handy but new to electronics? Any advice on motor types (hub vs. mid-drive) for this kind of use would be amazing!

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2 Replies

TrailAmandaabout 6 hours ago

Hey there! Welcome to the eBike world, it's a blast! Converting your Rockhopper is a great idea, and definitely doable. For your use case with hills and trails, a mid-drive motor like a Bafang BBSHD or BBS02 is usually recommended over a hub motor because it uses your bike's gears, offering better torque and efficiency on climbs. The biggest pitfall for new builders is often battery choice and wiring – make sure you get a reputable battery with a good BMS and double-check all connections before powering up! You'll love the extra boost on those commutes and trails.

Cyber_Captainabout 2 hours ago

Welcome to the eBike world, it's a fantastic journey! For your Rockhopper and those hills, a mid-drive motor like a Bafang BBSHD or BBS02 would be my strong recommendation over a hub motor. It leverages your bike's gears, making climbing much more efficient and natural, which is crucial for trails and hills. The biggest pitfall for new DIYers is often compatibility (bottom bracket size, battery placement) and wiring, so double-check those specs before buying anything. Good luck with the build!