![Photo of our DIY Electric Kick-bike](https://standupbikeadventures.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Electric-Crussis.jpg)
They say that necessity is the mother of inventions – and that is certainly true with our DIY electric kick-bike (or “footbike” if you prefer). Wanting a stand-up that we could use to quickly zip to the store, visit family, run an errand, or commute to the train station (last mile solution) where a bike locker awaits, we explored our options. We already had a handy little e-scooter (by GoTrax) that was being used for this purpose, but, anyone who’s ever ridden one of those knows they are quite literally an accident waiting to happen – mainly due to their tiny 5 to 8-inch wheels (usually hard rubber), and lack of any suspension.
Why we chose the Crussis “Cross 6.2” kickbike to electrify:
- It was a known commodity. We already had this trail worthy kick-bike (discussed here)
- The steel frame was an important feature, especially when considering the amount of torque an electric motor generates (which translates to wear/tear on the rear-wheel drop-outs)
- Large pneumatic tires: A 26″ front, combined with the 20″ rear, would be ideal for cruising safety and comfort;
- Dual disc-brakes
- Front Suspension fork – with lock-out
- Available on Amazon
- Dimensions were ideal to fit with available E-built kits (again, Amazon)
- Torque arm fits existing bolt pattern on rear-end (no funky hose clamps or drilling needed!). Learn about the importance of torque arms here.
- Standard rear mud guard fits perfectly, ideal for shedding mud and prevents any wayward feet from getting caught in the tire (never good)
- Crussis has a wider foot-deck available to swap out with the original (recommended!)
- If you’d rather kick, simply remove the battery pack. This allows the necessary “comfort” space between knee and frame!
It turns out that the Crussis was a perfect choice for the DIY E-conversion. Mr. SUB able to order a build-kit straight from Amazon, plus a few additions, and in less than 5 hours, had a beautifully built, one of a kind, E-Kickbike.
Have fun building – and go green!
If you do a DIY E-kick-bike conversion, we’d love to hear about it! Share your builds in the comments below and ask any questions!
Why we chose the Crussis “Cross 6.2” kickbike to electrify:
- It was a known commodity. We already had this trail worthy kick-bike (discussed here)
- The steel frame was an important feature, especially when considering the amount of torque an electric motor generates (which translates to wear/tear on the rear-wheel drop-outs)
- Large pneumatic tires: A 26″ front, combined with the 20″ rear, would be ideal for cruising safety and comfort;
- Dual disc-brakes
- Front Suspension fork – with lock-out
- Available on Amazon
- Dimensions were ideal to fit with available E-built kits (again, Amazon)
- Torque arm fits existing bolt pattern on rear-end (no funky hose clamps or drilling needed!). Learn about the importance of torque arms here.
- Standard rear mud guard fits perfectly, ideal for shedding mud and prevents any wayward feet from getting caught in the tire (never good)
- Crussis has a wider foot-deck available to swap out with the original (recommended!)
- If you’d rather kick, simply remove the battery pack. This allows the necessary “comfort” space between knee and frame!
DIY Need to Know:
- If you have a basic tool set, electric drill and some general mechanic skills, this DIY can be completed in less than a day.
- The complete build-kit and parts list that you’ll need for this project are below.
- Check out the complete DIY video series and build your own Electrified kick-bike!
Build-Kit and Parts List:
- Crussis Cross 6.2 kick bike (the Cross 6.1, 6.2 and 6.3 will all work with the kit – same bike, different colors) – shop around for the best deal. We found a local dealer, so no shipping costs. Find a dealer here.
- BAFANG 48V 500W Front Hub Motor Electric Bike Conversion Kit for 20-inch Wheel Drive Engine with C961 LCD Display with 48V12Ah Hailong Battery and Charger
- XtremeAmazing Universal Torque Arm Conversion kit for Electric Bicycle E-Bike Front or Rear
- Zip ties
- Zefal No-Mud Mudguard Fender 65mm Black