How to Convert Bike to Moped
Bicycles have long been a popular way to travel, but they can be impractical for people whose home, school or work is too far away. A motorized bicycle can help. By placing a 2-stroke engine on your normal pedal bike, you can turn your 15 mph pedal bike into a 40 mph motorcycle. These engines cost around $150, and they include everything you need to get your own bike running like a motorcycle. Whether you're looking for some extra help on those steep inclines or your workplace is a bit too far to ride a normal bicycle, the bicycle engine kit could be for you.
Things You'll Need
- 80cc Motorized Bicycle Kit (Companies range from Grubee, Whizzer or Black Stallion)
- Screwdriver
- Adjustable wrench
- 24-inch or larger bicycle
- Knife
- Zip ties
Instructions
-
-
1
Order an 80cc bicycle engine from BikeBerry.com, KingsMotorBikes.com, SickBikeParts.com or GasBike.net. The engines range from $119 to $179, and it depends on your budget as to what type of engine you would like. If you need power and speed, consider an 80cc model. If you're looking for long-lasting gas mileage, consider a smaller, compact 50cc engine.
-
2
Once you receive your motorized bicycle kit, read over the instruction manual before you start the assembly. When you're ready to start the installation, begin with something big and easy to put on, such as the gas tank or engine. When placing the engine on your bike, make sure that it is solidly secured to the bicycle frame with metal clamps or masking tape.
-
-
3
Place the engine sprocket on your bicycle's rear wheel. Most models will be placed on the left side of the wheel, away from the riding sprocket. Make sure that the sprocket is perpendicular to the axle of the bike.
-
4
Secure the drive train to the engine and the back wheel sprocket. It will be too big for your bike: shorten it up by removing the master link and taking out the number of links needed.
-
5
Mount the ignition onto the handlebars. Using zip ties, secure the throttle wire to the bike frame, so that it doesn't get caught in the wheels or engine. Placement on the left or right handlebar is your preference.
-
6
On the empty handle bar, install the kill switch. Follow the same procedure as the throttle, so use zip ties to secure this wire also.
-
7
When riding your bicycle, it is necessary to "break in" the engine before pushing the engine to its maximum. Usually this break-in period lasts for 300 miles; it is essential that you follow your engine's guidelines for this period.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Most bicycle engines fit inside a "V" shape frame: this works the best for the engine.
Some states mandate the speed of certain motorized bicycles: check your state's laws before purchasing an 80cc engine kit for your bike.
References
- Photo Credit American style power motor bike image by Aleksey Kondratyuk from Fotolia.com