Frequently Asked E-Bike Kit Questions
General E-Bike Questions
Question 1: What Are the Benefits of Having an E-Bike?
According to recent reports, bike sales in the US have been dropping in all categories, except for electric bicycles. But why are so many people now making a switch from manual bicycles to electric bikes? What is it about them that people find appealing? In essence, an e-bike can amplify whatever benefit you’re currently getting from riding a bike.
Transportation
Do you ride a bike to get from point A to point B? Perhaps you’ve hung up your car keys in favor of a greener ride. Riding a bike is certainly faster than walking, and depending on the traffic situation, many times it’s even faster than driving. When you upgrade your ride using one of our easy-to-install electric bike kits, it will be yet another step up. You’ll be able to get to where you want to go even faster than just riding a standard, non-motorized bike, and you’ll still benefit from the exercise!
Exercise
Riding a non-motorized bike is good exercise, but riding an e-bike is still good for your body. Plus, you’re likely to ride for longer periods of time and have a shorter recovery time between rides. Riding an e-bike is great for low-impact, endurance-building exercise. Do you feel like you need to kick your workout up a notch? Just because you have a motorized bike, that doesn’t mean you have to use the motor. Keep in mind that you always have the option of turning it off for a 100% human-powered experience.
Easy On Your Joints
Cruising on a bike is a great option for those who want to exercise but need something that is low-impact and easy on the joints. The problem is, even the slightest hill can still turn your ride into far more of a challenge than you’d like. Now, what if you knew that you could get that little extra push you need to get you up the hill without having to burn out your quads, or worse yet — risk injury? Having an e-bike is like adding a little turbo boost button to your current bicycle so you can get that added boost whenever you need it.
Enjoy the Outdoors
Many people like to ride a bike because they love spending time outdoors and enjoying the fresh air and sunshine. When you have an e-bike, you still get the same experience, but it’s even better! Many people enjoy riding farther distances and riding more often because they have the assistance of the battery-powered motor to help. Chances are, if you love riding but are limited by how far you can go before your energy is sapped, consider transforming your bike into an electric bike with an e-bike kit from Leeds.
Question 2: Can You Get Any Exercise on an E-Bike?
Absolutely! The great thing about e-bikes is that most people who have them find that they ride their bikes more often and for longer periods of time than they did when they had just a standard, non-motorized bike. When you purchase an e-bike, it is assumed that you still want to pedal, otherwise, you would be shopping for a scooter or a motorcycle. Pedaling on an e-bike is just like pedaling a standard bike, so you are still getting the exercise. It’s just that you can go faster and get the extra boost you need to get up hills. Now, if you feel like you need a tougher workout one day, you can certainly choose to pedal up the hill using your own power, but using the bike’s power to do it for you is often the preferred option!
Question 3: How Fast Can an E-Bike go?
You can think of an electric bike as being just like a regular bicycle with an extra kick. E-bikes aren’t meant to travel at the speeds that scooters and mopeds can go. Therefore, they’re mostly still regulated like traditional bicycles. According to federal law, e-bikes must remain below 20 mph under motor power alone. Electric bike motors must be less than one horsepower or 750 watts. This is meant to clearly distinguish them from other motor-powered vehicles and would mean they do not require registration, licensure, or insurance. However, it’s not quite that simple.
Since traffic and vehicle laws remain under the jurisdiction of the individual states, many states have their own laws to categorize and regulate the use of electric bicycles. When you buy an e-bike kit from Leeds, you can be confident that it will meet all applicable federal requirements, but you’ll have to check on the e-bike laws for the particular state in which you will be riding. The easiest way to do this is to reference the People for Bikes website for a current list of state-specific information, rules, and regulations.
Question 4: Can an E-Bike Run Without Pedaling?
All of our e-bike kits allow you to ride your bike without pedaling in most circumstances. We have to make this disclaimer because, if you’re carrying a big load and have to go up a steep hill, depending on the type of kit you choose, you’re probably going to have to do some pedaling. That being said, if it’s just you and the long, flat road ahead of you, you most certainly will be able to ride without pedaling if you choose to do so.
Keep in mind that using the motor without pedaling at all will result in faster electric bicycle battery usage. But, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t be able to sit back and take in the scenery while giving your legs a rest every now and again. Even if you aren’t assisting with your human power, you should still be able to go a fair distance (10 to 40 miles depending on the type of motor, battery, and riding conditions).
Question 5: Where Can I Ride an E-Bike?
Similar to the laws governing how fast an e-bike can go, there is one overarching federal law, but there are also individual state laws that may differ. According to federal law, e-bikes are in the same classification as a traditional bicycle. That means that you should be able to ride an e-bike anywhere a non-motorized bicycle can go. However, the ability of states to create more specific or more stringent legislation has made things a little more complicated.
Even though the manufacturing and sale of electric city bikes are regulated by the federal government, their operation on streets, bike paths, and multipurpose trails lies within the control of the individual state. While many states have aligned with federal law, there are still some that have chosen to create alternative rules and regulations. For instance, depending on the classification of e-bike, some states will require the use of a helmet when riding.
To find out more about your state’s particular rules for e-bike classification and where you can ride your e-bike, refer to the People for Bikes’ guide to e-bike regulations around the country.
Question 6: How Far Will My Bike Take Me?
This is one of the top questions that people ask — How far can I ride my electric bike? The answer depends on many factors, including how much pedal power you’re providing, how much weight you are carrying (including yourself and any cargo), and the current riding conditions (such as hills and headwinds).
The type of battery and motor you choose will also have a big impact on the number of miles you get out of each charge. This is where customization can help you create the e-bike that’s perfect for you — especially if you have a long commute or you’re planning to ride your bike long distances. As a good rule of thumb, our kits will allow you to transform your bike into an electric bike that will carry you anywhere between 10 and 40 miles. If this doesn’t sound like much, remember that this range is for a continuous motor-assisted run, without any pedaling. When you add your pedal-power, your range will increase significantly.
Question 7: Can I Later Upgrade Distance if I Wish To?
Of course you can! All of our electric bicycle batteries are compatible (within their series) with the rear e-bike motor and front electric motor. We only use the best, name-brand lithium e-bike batteries, and all our kits are named according to the size/capacity of the e-bike battery, which ultimately determines the kit's distance and name.
Question 8: How Do I Install a Leeds Bike Kit?
Visit our YouTube links here with installation instructions. Typically, our e-bike kit installation is simple, but if you do need help, we are here to assist you. You also have our email and phone number to send any questions so we may assist you when needed, even after hours.
In the small chance we can't help you over the phone (not being there in person, and the fact that there are thousands of different bikes our kits can be installed on, can hinder help over the phone), then any local bike shop should be able to help you beyond our own tele-capabilities.
Question 9: What Tools Will I Need to Install the Kit?
For the 250 Series, you will need a 3/8” wrench. You will need more tools for rear-wheel conversions and for the installation of the 500 Series.
Question 10: Why Not a Thumb Throttle for the 250 Series?
The 250 Series is not intended to convert your bicycle into an off-road bike or fast electric vehicle, however, the 500 Series is. Our 250 Series E-Bike Kit will, however, improve your bike's overall performance by acting as a second rider and doubling your power. For this reason, we offer a simple electric throttle cable system.
From our experience with 250 Series and our love of riding, we have learned many things. Most of all, when riding, you are either using the motor fully throttled in the "ON" position or not at all in the "OFF" position. Additionally, our customers have found that gripping the handlebars naturally is the easiest way to ride. See the below image.
For these two reasons, we developed a simple pressure button that can float freely on your handlebars to give you the ability to position it as you like. Sometimes, we like to ride while squeezing the button under our first knuckle (index finger knuckle) and sometimes near our palm, depending upon the ride. That is why we have kept it as simple as possible. We have found our customers prefer this for the 250 Series Electric Bike Conversion Kits.
Question 11: I’m Having Trouble With My Kit. What Can I Do?
Troubleshoot common issues using our Troubleshooting 101 guide. Of course, you can also reach out to our team for assistance at any time.
Choosing the Right Bike or Kit
Question 1: How Do I Know if an E-Bike Kit Will Work With My Current Bicycle?
Our e-bike kits are designed to work with nearly any kind and size of bike. In fact, our e-bike kits have been shipped and installed on bicycles all over the world and fit 99% of all bikes. So whether you have a road bike, mountain bike, folding commuter bike, or even a recumbent bike, it’s likely that our e-bike kits will work for you. Get more information by visiting our page on bike and trike compatibility. There, you can see all of the different types of bikes that are compatible.
You can also click to see photos of e-bikes submitted by happy Leeds’ clients for further inspiration.
If you’re still not quite sure if one of our kits is compatible with your bike, feel free to reach out to a member of our team. We would be happy to answer any questions you may have and confirm which e-bike kits or electric bike parts are right for you.
Question 2: What Bikes and Trikes Does the E-Bike Kit Work With?
Our e-bike kit works on almost all bikes and trikes. Please see the customer photos section for examples of the bikes and trikes that our customers have installed the kit on.
Question 3: Can I Use the Leeds E-Bike Kit Off-Road or Even Install It on a Mountain Bike?
Heck yes! That just makes mountain biking more fun. But, please do send pictures of your bike, seriously, please do. We want to consistently add customer photos to our site, and we enjoy making memes out of customer photos for social media posts.
Question 4: Which E-Bike Kit Should I Choose?
Which e-bike kit is best for you depends on how you like to ride and what you expect to do with your bike. Here is a quick overview of the features and benefits of each kit. Please refer to the specific product page for more details.
250 Series E-Bike Kit
Our 250 Series E-Bike Kit was designed for people who want an easy transition into the world of e-biking. The kit is easy to install and can be done in as little as five minutes. The motor is quiet, and the overall feel is closest to riding a non-motorized bike. While many people choose this e-bike kit for its simplicity, it is still powerful enough to increase your speed and assist with climbing hills. If you want a quality e-bike without the feel of a high-powered moped or scooter, this kit is the one for you.
500 Series E-Bike Kit
Our 500 Series E-Bike Kit is for our customers who require more power and torque. If you’re climbing a lot of hills, carrying heavy weight, or taking your bike off-road, you probably want to consider getting this kit. It’s also great for converting your fat bike or tandem. You’ll not only get more power, but you’ll also still be able to get 25 to 30 miles of continuous battery use without pedaling.
If you’re looking for an e-bike with a few more bells and whistles, the 500 Series Kit has it. It includes some added features, such as the LCD monitor to track distance, speed, battery life, and power level. It also comes with a variable speed throttle system and a pedal assist sensor. For extra convenience, the 36-volt lithium-ion battery that comes with our 500 Series Kit also includes a USB port, so you can plug in any mobile device for a quick charge.
Question 5: Do You Have DIY Electric Bike Kits?
Yes. You can purchase a DIY system (only available with the 250 Series) and lace it onto a bicycle wheel of your choice by purchasing the items individually to complete an electric bike kit a-la-carte. Your local bike shop can also assist if you wish to be a DIY electric bike rider by installing the components for you.
We do not recommend the DIY e-bike method unless you are a mechanic or want the project. To DIY, you will need to purchase the following items for the 250 Series: electric bike motor and wheel, electric bike battery, electric bike battery charger, cabling, and electric throttle.
Question 6: Will the Leeds Electric Bike Kit Fit My Bike?
Our e-bike kits fit 99% of bikes. Our kits have been shipped and installed on bicycles all over the world. If you wish to see some of our kits on bikes, please visit our customers' electric bike photos. There are very few types of bikes that do not meet the size requirements, so be sure to measure the space at the point of the dropouts between the forks if you are uncertain.
To ensure proper electric bike wheel fitting, do two things:
1) Check your wheel size listed on the tire to make sure it is either 16"*, 20", 24", 26", 27.5", 700c, or 29er.
*Note: The 500 Series is not available in a 16" wheel size.
2) Measure between your front forks, as they will need to be 3.9 - 4.0" or 99mm between the front forks. This is the point where the wheel axles connect to the bike.
Please review the image below to ensure correct sizing prior to purchase or view the installation measurement instructional. The space between the dropouts will need to be 10mm. If you are short that standard space, a quick filing does the trick.
If you are converting your bike or trike using a rear electric motor kit, then please visit our e-blog or the trike installation instructional for further information. Please note that rear motors are a permanent conversion. Once a cassette has been installed on the motor, it cannot be removed.
For the 500 Series, bike frames will need to be able to fit a 13"x 4"x 5" battery if the 500 Series 11000mAh tube battery is chosen. The 500 Series rear rack13000mAh battery is 16"x 7"x 2".
The 250 Series will not require measurements, as it supports battery placement options on all bicycle types.
Question 7: Do I Need a Steel Fork?
Not necessarily. Although it is recommended to use a steel fork for its strength and durability, most people use their aluminum forks. We do not recommend carbon fiber forks. A 250 Watt electric bike motor does create a fair amount of torque but not enough to necessitate steel. However, steel forks are recommended for the 500 Series, as well as installing the torque arm that comes with the 500S. Torque arm installation is simple, and instruction videos are available on YouTube. Please search bicycle torque arm installation. If you are unsure of your fork material or concerned about the integrity of your forks, a second torque arm should be installed.
If you use a fork that is anything other than steel, be sure to check regularly for any cracks or bending before hopping onto the bike. Be cautious with the bicycle fork you convert to electric, and install all pieces correctly.
About Leeds Bikes
Question 1: Why Should I Buy an E-Bike Kit From Leeds?
With the rising popularity of e-bikes, you’ll find more and more options and suppliers every day. If you’re thinking of upgrading your ride, we think an e-bike conversion kit from Leeds is the way to go. Here’s why:
E-Bike Kits are Less Expensive
If your end goal is to have an electric-powered bike, you could buy a brand new e-bike that’s ready to go, but you’ll miss out on customizing it to meet your needs. You’ll also likely pay an average of three to four times the amount of an e-bike kit for upgrading your current bike. And this is just the average — it’s possible to spend up to seven or even eight times the cost of an e-bike kit, and most likely it will come with many of the same name-brand components we include in our kits.
Our Kits are Easy to Install
Saying that our e-bike kits are easy to install is quite an understatement. In fact, we call our most popular seller the “Five-minute e-bike kit”. If you want a simple, reliable e-bike that can give you the power to get up hills and go longer distances while maintaining the overall feel of a traditional pedal-powered bicycle, then our 250 Series E-Bike Kit is for you.
You Can Customize Your Order
We want you to love your bike just as much as we love ours, and that’s why we offer our customers the ability to customize their orders. Sure, it would be easier to just take the one-size-fits-all approach, but then you wouldn’t be able to assemble an e-bike that’s made just for you. Our kits allow you to modify nearly any kind of bike or trike with various options for wheel size, front or rear wheel installation, and wheel color.
In addition to choosing the primary bike components, you can further customize by selecting the type of battery and battery pack or rack system that suits your needs best.
Brand-Name Components
If you have a bike that you love, and if it happens to be a name-brand that you trust and bought for quality, the last thing you want to do is to put a generic, no-name battery or electric motor on it. When you purchase a brand-name product, you are buying quality and experience. That’s why you’ll find that all of our kits include some of the same brand-name components found on the most expensive e-bikes! Just because an e-bike kit costs less, it doesn’t mean that you’re getting less for your money.
Experience and Passion
We have been in the business since launching our first kit in 2013. That’s nearly a decade of experience providing happy customers with the ability to ride further. Learn more about how we got our start here.
Question 2: Where Are Your E-Bike Kits Made?
When you buy from Leeds, you can be certain that you are investing in the best e-bike kit brands in the industry, including Samsung. All of our kits are hand-built with international and domestic parts at our shop in Logan, Utah. Whether you’re shopping for a 250 Series Kit, the more powerful 500 Series Kit, or specific batteries, components, or accessories, we have everything you’ll need to transform your current ride into an electric bike that you’ll love!
Do you have additional questions about e-bikes or our e-bike kits? Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at any time. We are always happy to help!
Question 3: What Payments Do You Accept?
We accept PayPal and all major credit cards. Due to the customization of each order, your card will be charged at the time of checkout. PayPal payments, as always, are completed at the time of checkout as well. Coupon codes not used at the time of order may be adjusted within two business days of ordering or before an order has been shipped, whichever is longer. Adjustment requests after that time period will not be granted.
Question 4: Do You Accept Returns?
Yes. Returns are accepted within 30 days of receipt. Kits and batteries are subject to a 15% restocking fee and must be returned in new, unused condition.
Question 5: What Is Covered in the Worry-Free Warranty?
Everything! When you purchase a Leeds e-bike kit directly from our website or from an authorized dealer, your kit automatically comes with a full e-bike warranty. That includes the bicycle motor hub, lithium electric bike battery, controller, cable set, battery charger, and more. We stand behind our e-bike kits, which include your lithium battery. If there is a quality problem with the battery pack itself, then that is covered under the warranty. However, battery range and performance can depend on many factors unique to the user’s situation and outside our control.
If there is a concern that your e-bike battery is not reaching its full potential, please contact us immediately for a replacement, troubleshooting, or support to improve the performance of your electric bike conversion kit. Please visit our warranty page for further details on the warranty.
If you somehow destroy any part of your electric bike kit by living on the edge, we also offer "crash replacement" pricing at significantly discounted prices in order to get you back on your bike as soon as possible. Just ask about the crash replacement pricing by phone or email.
Question 6: How Much Does the Warranty Cost?
Nada! When you purchase a Leeds e-bike kit, you receive a two-year warranty.
Shipping
Question 1: How Much Is Shipping?
We offer free shipping on ALL e-bike kits within the continental USA. You will be able to see the total cost for international shipping during checkout before payment is processed.
Question 2: When Do You Ship?
We generally ship Tuesdays and Fridays, and shipments in the Continental United States are shipped FedEx Ground. Plan on three to five days transit time for all kits in the continental United States.
Question 3: How Soon Will You Ship My E-Bike Kit After I Order?
Most kits ship within 48 business hours from the day of purchase. Shipments go out on Tuesdays and Fridays. Please refer to our shipping page for current ship times. All purchases within the continental United States and Canada ship FedEx Ground, and shipments can be tracked here. Please allow three to seven days for arrival in the US and five to nine days in Canada, Alaska, or Hawaii.
Orders shipped outside of the US or Canada will have varying arrival times based on the importing country's customs and import processing times and procedures. From our experience, we have found that kits leave the US within two to three days and are processed and delivered anywhere between two to five weeks. Please note that your importing country may charge customs and/or handling fees levied by the country's government. We cannot calculate those fees for you, as they vary by country. Shipments outside of the US and Canada are shipped via USPS then passed over to the local delivery service, which will vary by country.
We are closed on holidays. Orders received the day before a holiday will usually be delayed two days. We generally do not ship with a signature required. Your tracking number will give you an ETA. Shipments marked as delivered will not be replaced.
Question 4: Do You Ship Internationally?
You bet! Even to Timbuktu! Seriously, we actually do.
Shipments outside of the US and Canada are shipped via USPS then passed over to the local delivery service for final delivery. We generally do not require a signature upon delivery. Your tracking number will provide you with an estimated date of arrival. Shipments marked as delivered will not be replaced.
Question 5: Do You Comply With Federal Government HAZMAT Regulations for Li-Ion Battery Shipments?
Yes. We are licensed to ship FedEx Ground and FedEx Air. Additionally, we require all shipments to our warehouse to be shipped either on our FedEx account or through a HAZMAT-approved licensee in order to comply with all HAZMAT safety regulations.
Please contact us if you are returning an item for warranty or inspection. We will send an invoice for the shipping and quickly email a shipping label for FedEx Ground.
Batteries
Question 1: How Far Does One Battery Take Me?
There are seven battery options for the 250 Series: Samsung - Pocket Bike Juice (PBJ), 10K, 30K, Ultra and Panasonic - 10K+, 30k+, and Ultra+. Our Panasonic li-ion batteries have a 20% higher capacity than our Samsung li-ion batteries. The Samsung PBJ will help you get up only a few hills or commute a few miles on a single charge, and the Samsung 10K can take you up to 10 miles but usually about six to eight. Therefore, the Panasonic 10k+ achieves up to 12 miles, and so on for each upgrade. The Samsung 30k can take you up to 20 miles but, again, usually about 12-16. And the Samsung Ultra has taken each of us as far as 40 miles, but as a general rule, slightly less in extremely cold weather. It is all dependent upon air temperature, bike performance, hills, wind, pedaling, weight, and more. Ratings are for pedaling on a flat surface with a 26" wheel. The kits are meant to assist, not replace your work as a rider.
There are many factors that play into determining the range of a battery. After a few rides with your electric bike kit, you will learn its optimal distance on your bike and under what conditions. It takes between four to six hours to charge your li-ion batteries, depending upon which conversion system you purchase. The 500 Series offers three battery options: the Samsung 11 Ah tube (dolphin), the 13 Ah rear carrier, and the 17 Ah Ultra.
Question 2: What Happens if My Battery Runs Out?
Some people are concerned that, if their battery runs out, they’ll be stranded somewhere, most likely far from home. The good thing about an electric bike is that it’s a bike, first and foremost. That means you can always pedal it like you would any other bike to get you to where you want to go. If you happen to be out on a particularly long ride, and you’re using the motor to help you up dozens of hills, and then your battery runs out — there’s no need to worry. You won’t be stranded, you’ll just have to burn a few extra calories and pedal your way home.
Question 3: How Long Does It Take to Charge an E-Bike Battery?
Depending on the conversion kit you purchase, it will take approximately four to six hours to fully charge your lithium-ion battery. This means that, even if you have a long commute to work, just plug in your battery, and it will be ready to go for the ride home.
Question 4: Can I Buy an Extra Battery or a Replacement if I Lose Mine?
Absolutely! Just browse our electric bicycle batteries for replacement options.
Question 5: Where Do I Attach the Battery Pack to My Bike?
The 250 Series battery pack can go anywhere you’d like. Essentially, you have eight options:
1) The handlebars, using the straps that come with the battery.
2) Inside a handlebar bag.
3) Use the quick-release straps that come attached to the battery bag and attach the battery to the frame portion between the handlebars and the seat post.
4) Inside a Leeds electric bike kit frame bag and is positioned inside the bicycle frame.
5) Under the seat attached to the seat frame.
6) Inside a seat post bag.
7) On top of a pannier rack with our rear carrier bag ($9 addition at checkout).
8) For best protection, place the battery inside your pannier carrier.
You will find your preference after one or two uses. Feel free to purchase a basket or bicycle bag for extra protection from the elements. Our frame bags are amazing, as you can store your battery inside, and no one will even know you are riding an electric bike. It will be our secret. They also provide waterproofability!
The 500 Series is available with battery options in rear carrier and tube mount.
Question 6: How Do I Charge My E-Bike Lithium Battery?
1) Turn the battery switch to "OFF."
2) Plug the battery charger into the wall socket.
3) The green light on the charger means “charged”. The red light means “not charged” or "charging”.
Question 7: How Do I Get the Longest Battery Life Out of My Lithium Battery?
Lithium e-bike batteries should be “topped off” after each use. The e-bike controller and battery management system (BMS) that come with your battery will regulate the battery discharge to ensure that it is not fully discharged. The charger will ensure that the li-ion battery is never over-charged. Disconnect the charger when the battery is fully charged.
Remember that over the long term the li-ion battery has a limited number of cycles. One cycle is a complete charge and discharge. Visit Leeds Bicyclology for tips on charging your e-bike battery system. Charge your battery at least once every 30 days.
Hub Motors
Question 1: How Fast Will the Leeds Electric Bike Motor Go?
The 250 Series averages around 15+ MPH on flat ground, and the 500 Series 20+ MPH, respectively. When you add your own pedaling power you will be moving faster, which we do recommend you pedal so as to enjoy a natural biking experience and improve the life of your battery. The kit is designed for flats and steep hills.
The kit will enable you to remain in your highest gears on the flats and sit down climbing any hill in a lower gear with ease. The average constant speed riders achieve pedaling with the electric bike motor is 17-20 MPH with the 250 Series and 20+ with the 500 Series.
Question 2: Is the Motor Really Powerful Enough to Pull Me Up a Hill?
You better believe it! Our electric bike motor is a hefty, powerful punch of 250 Watts (250 Series) or 500 Watts (500 Series) assisting you to your destination. Just think of it as a juiced Lance Armstrong pedaling for you while you ride. It is amazing! Just remember to always pedal along with it for the best experience possible.
Question 3: Is There Any Resistance From the Motor When I’m Pedaling?
No. Our e-bike motor is a freewheel bearing or geared motor, so you don’t have to use any of your own energy to move internal parts while it is not engaged.
Question 4: What Is the Weight of the Motor?
250 Series - 6 lbs
500 Series - 8 lbs
Question 5: What Type of Hub Motor Is This?
It is a planetary DC brushless (geared) hub motor about the diameter of a softball for the 250 Series and the size of a cantaloupe for the 500 Series. For more information, see our electric bike motor article that compares geared (planetary) and gearless (direct drive) motors.
Question 6: Will I Damage the Motor if I Am "Larger"?
No. This e-bike motor is designed to perform under stress.
Question 7: Do I Need to Use a Torque Arm With the 250 Watt Motor?
No. A 250 watt bicycle motor is under the power threshold for a torque arm. The torque arm is, however, recommended for the 500 Series (500 Watt) motor.
Question 8: How Tight Should I Make the Nuts on the E-Bike Motor Hub Axle?
Hand-tighten, but be careful not to over-tighten so much that your wheel will not spin. We recommend the rule of just tighter than hand-tight.
Question 9: Do I Need to Lubricate the Hub Motor?
No. Avoid immersing the hub motor under water and keep it clean by wiping away dirt build-up semi-regularly. The hub will not require lubricating or maintenance.
Question 10: Will the Hub Rust?
No. The casing is made of aircraft-grade aluminum.
Disc Brakes
Question 1: Is the Leeds E-Bike Kit Compatible With Disc Brakes?
Yes, absolutely. At checkout, correctly answer the drop-down box that asks you "with or without disc brakes." We will be certain to send you the correct conversion kit based on your needs expressed at the time of checkout. However, both the disc brake and v-brake motors work with v-brake systems.
Question 2: What Is the Minimum Rotor Size That Is Compatible With the Hub?
160mm rotor
Question 3: Will My Disc Brake Caliper Fit Between My Forks and the Wheel Spokes?
As a general rule, you will need 11mm clearance for it to fit without hitting the spokes. This is the standard fitting for bicycle discs. If the motor does not fit, please purchase the double-wide torque washers.
Wheels
Question 1: What Type of Tire, Rim, and Spoke Does Leeds Use?
We currently carry the highest quality aluminum rims and stainless steel spokes. We offer silver and black rims, nipples, and spokes. Choose your color preference at checkout.
Question 2: Can I Use My Own Bicycle Wheel or My Own Tire?
You bet! Our electric bike wheel is designed to work with nearly all bicycle tires. If you choose to add a tire to your kit, you will receive a cross between a mountain bike tire and a road tire. It is most commonly called an urban commuting tire. Your tube will have a presta valve. The urban tire grips well when you hit the dirt, yet not enough to slow you on road commutes.
For exact bicycle wheel measurements, be sure that your tires are a minimum of 0.9” (23mm) and a maximum of 2.5” (64mm). This is usually listed on the bicycle tire. It's very rare, but sometimes you may need to adjust your brakes to accommodate your new rim if you are converting from a thinner or thicker-than-standard rim. A bicycle shop can do that for you.
The urban tire that comes with our kits is most often a Kenda 1.95" tire, but this may be slightly different depending on industry availability.
Question 3: Do You Have a 20”, 16”, or 27.5"/650b Wheel?
You bet we do! We have found that 20” and *16” wheels are amazing torque drivers and do, in fact, work exceptionally well. Our folding bike commuters love this wheel size. See our blog post about this option here. These sizes are available at checkout by picking your wheel size in the menu.
*Note: The 16" wheel is not available for the 500 Series.
Question 4: What Does 700c and 29er Mean?
In bicycle language, this means the rim is approximately a 28” wheel. In truth, it is slightly smaller than a 28” wheel and slightly larger than a 27” wheel. Therefore, a 700c and 29er becomes the same size in true bicycle language and fits our 29er and 700c rim with ease. The difference between the 29er and 700c is that the tire for the 29er is larger and is a mountain bike tire.
Our 700c and 29er tire is the same. It is a good middle-ground between the two sizes designed for street commuting. If you want exact sizes for 700c and 29er, then we recommend you use your own tire for these two sizes.
Question 5: What Is the Combined Weight of the Wheel and Motor?
10 lbs
Question 6: What Is the Largest Spoke That Will Fit the E-Bike Wheel Hub Motor?
12 gauge
Question 7: What Is the Smallest Spoke Gauge I Can Use With the E-Bike Motor and Wheel?
14 gauge
Question 8: What Spoke Gauge Does Leeds Use?
13 gauge, because the extra strength is needed for the torque stresses placed upon it.
Question 9: If I Am Going to Lace My Own Wheel, How Much Torque Should I Put on the Spokes?
All our wheels have a spoke tension of approximately 173Kgf (1730N or 380lbf). A minimum spoke tension of 120Kgf (1200N or 264lbf) is recommended.
Question 10: What Lacing Pattern Is Used and Recommended?
Two cross with all the spoke heads facing out on the left side for the disc brake compatible option.
Question 11: Will a Different Lacing Pattern Give Me More Room for Spoke Clearance When Installing My Disc Brake?
Yes, you can use a radial lace on the left side with all the spoke heads facing out of your wheel (the side your disc brake is on) and a two cross lacing pattern on the other side, or you can use a two cross pattern on both sides with all the spoke heads out on the left side and alternating in and out on the right side.
Question 12: What Length Spokes Do I Need?
700c wheels need 259mm spokes. 26” wheels need 229mm spokes and 24” wheels need 205mm spokes. These sizes may not be compatible with your rim. For this reason, we recommend you only purchase the spokes if you are replacing spokes for a Leeds rim or are doing a DIY build with a Leeds rim.
Question 13: If I Am Lacing the Wheels Myself, How Long Should I Cut the Spokes?
It depends on the size of the wheel. Every rim is different. Take it to your local bike shop to do it or ask them. It is always recommended to use 13 gauge spokes for their strength, but check with your local shop for the length based on the wheel size you will be using. Just call us if you need a custom wheel. We accommodate whatever you need. Please remember that electric bike systems and conversions are still in their infancy, and most bike shops are not properly trained or fully knowledgeable regarding electric bikes.
Question 14: Front Wheel or Rear Wheel?
Front wheel drive is the best way to go for most bikes. We always recommend a front-wheel electric bike conversion, except in unique circumstances. If you are installing your kit on a bicycle that has a front fork that is smaller than the required 3.9 - 4.0", a tadpole tricycle, or a specialty bike (such as an electric folding bicycle installation), then a rear-wheel conversion is the way to go. Rear-wheel conversions will be permanent once the free wheel/cassette are attached to the motor.
