Electric vs Gas Bike Conversion Kit: Which 1 To Pick?
To give your bike that extra power, you have the dual options of an electric vs gas bike conversion kit. To be able to make the best purchasing decisions, you have to know what each of these entails. That is why it is sensible to devote your time to a discussion of this kind.
We are going to examine in detail what each of these conversion types entails. Thereafter, we shall look into their similarities and differences. It is our hope that at the tail end of the discussions, you will be able to make the most informed purchasing decisions.
Electric Bike Conversion Kit
As the name suggests, electric bike conversion kits are those that grant your bike that extra push from electric sources. A typical kit comprises a motor, display unit, cable ties, and friction drive, among others. Perhaps the most notable benefit of this kit is zero carbon emissions. In most instances, an electric kit is powered by a rechargeable battery. Lithium-ion and Lithium-max are two of the most preferred batteries for the job. This form of conversion is popular also due to its quiet nature and its acceptance by many jurisdictions.
Gas Bike Conversion kit
The gas conversion kit is so called because it derives its power from gas rather than electricity. The finer details of its kits are similar in many regards to the standard electric kit. They do differ though with regard to their structures and functions. Many people prefer this conversion kit mainly because it is cheaper than the electric one. Also, it is easier to install, de-install, master, and engage when compared to the electric kit. Its lack of a display unit, however, makes the process of monitoring progress quite intriguing.
Electric vs Gas Bike Conversion Kit
Having examined the definitions and brief explanations of these two kinds of kits, it is now worthwhile to look into their inherent differences and similarities. To do this, we shall first identify those parameters that determine the functionality of these two gadgets. Thereafter, we shall ascertain how they perform with regard to each parameter.
Maximum Speed
All factors considered electric bikes can sustain higher speeds for longer. This stems from their powerful motors which are able to yield higher torque for longer durations. They may not really hit higher speeds than their gas counterparts though. If you want to go further faster, you have your safer bet on the electric conversion kit. You will also expend less of your effort while engaging it due to its almost fully automated features. Sadly, you will have to pay more per trip than you would with a gas kit.
Carbon Emissions
Obviously, battery-powered kits emit zero carbon emissions. That is because they make use of stored electricity rather than gas to operate the motor which provides the torque. Your use of the electric kit hence goes a long way to preserve your environment as well. The same may not be said of the gas conversion kit. This kind of kit emits toxic carbon monoxide which is definitely harmful to the environment. Also, continued exposure to these harmful emissions may definitely harm your lungs considerably.
Noise Output
In the course of their operations, these two kits may yield some noise. Given that electric conversion kits use batteries to power the motors, the noise output is comparatively low. You can hence use them in environments that are sensitive to noise pollution. The noise output levels of gas conversion kits are however higher. That is due to the fact that they emit noise at the engine and at the motor portions of the kits respectively. It is certainly in your best interest to stay away from this motor if you intend to ply sensitive routes.
Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency refers to the comparison between the energy consumed by the motor and that which is exuded by the same motor in the form of torque. These two kits vary considerably as pertains to their energy efficiency ratings. Of the two, the electric kits are more energy efficient. That is because it loses less energy in the forms of noise and heat. Also, it does not emit any harmful gas wastes in the process of use. Its gas counterpart, as has already been explained, suffers severely from all the stated issues.
Torque Output
Torque is the rotational force that the motors generate. It is the torque that subsequently powers the chains which in turn drives the bike forward. Of these two kinds of conversion kits, electric bikes generate the highest net torque levels. That is mainly because it is less prone to the twin issues of energy losses and carbon emissions. At the same time, its motors come in various shapes and forms and are as such capable of managing diverse kinds of terrains and areas of use.
Performance
While engaging these two kinds of conversion kits, you stand to accrue diverse kinds of problems and operational issues. The kinds and severities of problems, however, vary markedly from one kit to another. Yet again, the electric conversion kit stands tall as the better of the two. It comes equipped with automated features, sensors, and display units. All these converge to reduce the kinds of impacts and efforts you have to put in to generate the necessary outcomes. Also, they reduce the level of attention you have to put in to operate smoothly.
Repairs and Spare Parts
From time to time, the various parts and components that constitute these kits will definitely break down. They have to be replaced to maintain the entire bike in proper functioning form and means. This is where you will have to put in some spare parts. On the whole, the spare parts of the gas conversion kits are not only available but also easier to make use of. You do not have to be too much of a pro to be able to fix them in place. The exact opposite is however applicable to the electric conversion spare parts kit.
Conclusion
From the foregoing conversations on Electric vs Gas Bike Conversion Kit, it is crystal clear that the electric conversion kits are the superior of the two. Further to this superiority, the electric kits are also subsidized by many regimes the world over. This means you will find one at a cheaper price compared to the gas one. When do you plan to purchase one? Who else shall you pass this information to? It would be nice to communicate with us in the comment segment below. All the best in your subsequent purchase of either kit of your choice!
