What is an e-bike conversion kit?
Conversion kits allow people to add an electric motor and battery to a standard bicycle.
While these kits can be convenient, they can also increase the risk of battery fires if they are poorly installed or use incompatible components.
Why can conversion kits increase fire risk?
Not all conversion kits include a battery or charger.
This means the battery and charger may be purchased separately, sometimes from different sellers. This increases the risk of incompatible equipment being used.
Batteries purchased online may not meet UK safety regulations and are more likely to fail.
Are second-hand batteries safe?
Buying second-hand batteries can be particularly risky because they may already be damaged or degraded.
A damaged lithium-ion battery can fail unexpectedly and start a fire.
How can you reduce the risks?
To reduce risks when converting a bicycle to an e-bike:
- buy kits from reputable sellers
- avoid second-hand batteries
- do not modify or tamper with the battery
- use the correct charger
- have the conversion carried out by a qualified professional
DIY e-bike conversion kits
DIY installations can also lead to damage of the kit, increasing the chances of battery failure and the likelihood of a fire.
If you plan to convert your bicycle to an e-bike, get a professional to carry out the conversion.