All you need to know about bicycle electrification
Electrification may seem complex at first glance, but it’s actually much simpler than it appears. The operation involves transforming a conventional bicycle into a bike equipped with an electric kit. This includes a control screen, controller, motor and battery. The electric kit or conversion kit is generally fitted to the crankset, i.e. directly to the frame, or for cheaper, less powerful kits, directly to the bike’s front or rear wheel. At Syklo we only offer kits worthy of top-of-the-range motorizations (without the price tag 😉 ) and therefore in pedal motor with torque sensor.
Electrically-assisted bicycles can be used in major cities as well as in the countryside. Their power and durability depend on a number of factors, including the quality of the conversion kits used. A top-of-the-range conversion kit is your guarantee of a quality electric bike. However, it’s still important to use your bike wisely, while respecting the rules of the road. Like all other means of transport (cars, scooters, etc.), using an electric bike requires you to follow certain instructions.
How much does it cost to electrify a bike, and what about the subsidy?
The cost of electrifying your bike
Buying a new VAE requires a certain budget that not everyone can afford. That’s why electrifying your bike is an excellent alternative. To convert your mechanical bike into an electronic version, you’ll need to spend at least 850 euros. However, this price can vary according to the quality of the electric kit, from low-end to high-end. Note that a new electric bike costs a minimum of 1,500 euros. Here are the criteria that determine the price of electrifying a bike:
– The quality of the mechanical bike (its condition, the repairs to be carried out, its compatibility with the motor);
– Electric kits for selected bikes (high-end, low-end, mid-range). The Skylo team offers quality electric kits compatible with most bicycles at competitive prices;
– Batteries, accessories and tools;
– Installation services (at home or on the premises).
Subsidies for electrifying your bike in Toulouse
For those in need of financial assistance to convert their conventional bicycle into an electric model, there are subsidy opportunities in Toulouse. These are available to individuals, professionals and associations. To qualify, however, applications must meet certain eligibility criteria: – Individuals benefiting from the subsidy must live in one of Toulouse Métropole’s 37 communes;
– Their tax income must not exceed the threshold of 35,052 euros per unit;
– Only companies and associations operating in one of the 37 communes and employing fewer than 250 people are eligible for a grant;
– For the conversion of electric bicycles in Toulouse, an approval must be provided;
– Assistance is available for all types of bike (classic, new or second-hand).
The subsidy amounts to 40% of the cost, excluding tax. It is capped according to the type of bike and the reference income per unit. In line with our commitment, the purchaser is prohibited from reselling the bike for the first three years.
How do you convert your bike into an electric bike?
It’s not difficult to convert a conventional bicycle into an electrically-assisted bicycle (EAB). All you have to do is buy an electric kit compatible with the classic bike. The owner can then install the kit himself. The pedal motor can also be mounted on your bike’s front or rear wheel.
However, to ensure an impeccable finish, we recommend that you call in a professional. In France, many stores and workshops specialize in electric bike assembly. Our team of experts will carry out all the necessary repairs and diagnostics on your bikes.
Toulousans, for example, can visit Mecanicycle for electric bike assembly (47 avenue Grande Bretagne, 31300, France). Comprising a team of experienced professionals operating in the market since 2013, atelier mecanicycle offers services for all types of bike (small or large, two- or three-wheeler, mountain bike, etc.). For those who are unable to travel, a home service is available by appointment.
Or Cyclomane Atelier Itinérant (35 Rue Saint-Sylve, 31500 Toulouse, France): Cyclomane, run by Franck, offers an exceptional itinerant service in the city of Toulouse, giving residents easy access to bike electrification directly in their homes or workplaces. The team at Cyclomane Atelier Itinérant is made up of skilled and passionate professionals, who will transform your traditional bike into a modern and efficient electric model, with the utmost precision and safety. For more information or to schedule a visit, please contact Franck and his team at contact@cyclomane.fr.
Why electrify your bike in Toulouse?
In addition to the subsidies offered by the metropolis, this city boasts a wealth of cultural treasures. It boasts several UNESCO World Heritage sites and buildings. This is the case for the Canal de Brienne and the Canal du Midi. To showcase the city’s landscapes, the Metropole organizes bike rides once a month (from April to November). This activity allows you to retrace all the city’s landscapes while enjoying places like the shared gardens. It also gives you the opportunity to explore the center of Occitanie’s largest city and its southern boundary, while discovering the Arc-en-ciel greenway. Strolling through the heart of Occitanie’s largest city and enjoying its magnificent landscapes in complete peace of mind with a VAE is a unique experience.
Unlike conventional bikes, electric-assist models make mobility easier and more comfortable. Thanks to this means of transport, traveling hundreds of kilometers becomes less tiring. Speed and kilometers covered can be monitored via the control screen, so you can go at your own pace. What’s more, EV travel is more environmentally-friendly and less expensive than car travel.
In short, electrifying your bike in Toulouse means getting help, enjoying a landscape rich in heritage and contributing to environmental sustainability.
Bicycle electrification solutions from Syklo
In response to the growing demand, electrification kit designers have increased their presence on the market. At Syklo, we offer three motor kits for professional and private use.
– The TSDZ2B pedal motor KIT: comprising a top-of-the-range battery and a precise torque sensor. This kit guarantees a smooth ride. What’s more, with its Open Source Firmware system, it’s flexible, responsive and customizable. Thanks to its light weight, riding for hundreds of kilometers becomes easier. Those eligible for subsidies can take advantage of EN 15194 certification to obtain premiums. It can be used on public and private roads. The kit is available from 550 euros (including delivery).
– The TSDZ8 motor KIT: available from 610 euros, this kit fits a wide range of bicycle frames. With 110 Nm of torque and 860W, it’s the ideal kit for climbing steep hills. Due to its speed, which can exceed public road standards, it can only be used on tracks specially designed for this type of vehicle.
– DM01 1000 W motor kit : starting at 680 euros, this kit far exceeds the power of the Bafang BBHD. With the power of this motor, it can only be used on private roads. With its long battery life and 1000W of power and 160Nm of torque, this motor can take on any obstacle.
FAQ
What does electrification involve?
Electrification involves fitting a bicycle with an electric kit. All you have to do is buy an electric kit and install it on the bicycle’s front or rear wheel. Don’t forget to check material compatibility.
How do I install the kits?
The kits can be mounted on the vehicle’s front or rear wheel. This can be done at home or in specialized workshops.
Is it legal to electrify your bike?
Yes, electrification is perfectly legal in the Occitanie region. The same applies to other cities such as Paris, Lyon and Bordeaux.
The benefits of a crankset kit
A pedal kit makes it easy to get around without too much effort. It’s perfect for people who want to control their speed. Plus, it’s cheaper than buying a new bike.
Can I get an electrification grant?
It all depends on your eligibility criteria and the city you live in. To do this, we invite you to consult the websites on grants and subsidies available in your area.
Discover other cities :
- Bike electrification in Paris: the best deals
- A quick and easy guide to electrifying a bicycle in Lyon
- Bicycle electrification in Marseille: the best deals
- It couldn’t be easier to electrify your bike in Toulouse!
- Bicycle electrification in Bordeaux: the guide
- Electrifying your bike in Strasbourg : everything you need to know
- Overview of bicycle electrification in Montpellier
- Bike electrification scheme in Lille
- Bicycle electrification guide in Nice Côte d’Azur
- Guide to electrifying your bike in Nantes
- A kit for electrifying bicycles in Grenoble