Build Advice

[mark_gorman]

I am new to the e-bike scene and have questions about building an e-bike. I have a full mtb group off my regular bike that I would like to use.

I like the Trek e-caliber 9.6 but want something faster for commuting. I will also use it occasionally on trails. It would be great to have something that is assisted up to 20 or 25 mph (I am not sure 25 is legal in the U.S.). I would also like it to look more like a traditional cross-country bike. I am also open to a hardtail.

Is there anything like that out there, maybe a kit or a frame build?

Thanks in advance, Mark

 

["A"]

What's your budget? that would help determine suggestions.

For a commuter, most would consider something less flashy, doesn't attract attention from thieves.

Less expensive, so it hurts less (financially) when it get damaged getting hit by car or just in general.

That are plenty of complete ebikes below $1k that can be used a commuter and capable of 25 mph.

Keep the regular bike (ridable) as a spare.

 

[mark_gorman]

Theft is a good point. Didn't even cross my mind. Definitely keeping the regular bike.Thanks !!

 

[m@Robertson]

When you get to the point where you want to do a build, check this out. Actually, before you do the build check it out because it starts out discussing the initial planning stages of any ebike build, including picking the donor frame/bike for your intended purpose.

https://talesontwowheels.com/2022/04/27/how-to-build-an-ebike-from-scratch/
The subject bike in that series ended up being a frame I rescued off of ebay for cheap. In its day when it was manufactured (2000) it was a top-tier super expensive product. But 23 years later it sold for peanuts, and its still perfectly fit for the purposes I wanted for it (an around-town errand bike). For a fast commuter over potholes it'd be awesome as well given its full suspension comfort, and it still keeps its ability to handle singletrack and doubletrack with ease. You can't put a rack on a bike like this without incurring the wrath of the style police, but I have found a basic backpack is just fine for quick runs to the post office or grocery store.

Doing a scratch build or just repurposing an otherwise quality bike that is cheap due to the passage of time will get you a quality level in cycling components that you just can't get with an ebike unless you spend big. Go this route and the money goes into quality cycling components instead of the usual junk that you find on manufactured ebikes.

This is the bike in its initial config where I used Schwalbe Pickup street tires.

I switched to Maxxis Aggressors as the Pickups sucked on anything but pavement, and their double-thick casing made for a harsh ride. The 2.5" Aggressors are like riding on pillows by comparison.