Electric Stand-up Bikes (of course)
This is a group of green (and fun!) stand-up wheeled machines that are distinctly different than e-scooters. The only E-SUBs currently available are of the “kick-bike” or “foot-bike” variety. As far as we know, there’s nothing currently available that is of the “elliptical E-pedal assist” variety. Read on to see why you just might need one in your life.
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 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) that we were impressed with;
- 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);
- The 26-inch pneumatic tire on the front-end, combined with the 20-inch rear, would be ideal for cruising safety and comfort;
- Dual disc-brakes;
- Front Suspension fork;
- The Crussis “Cross 6.2” is available on Amazon;
- Dimensions were ideal to fit with available built kits from 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.
It turns out that the Crussis was a perfect choice for the DIY e-conversion. Mr. SUB was 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. Check it out here.
See our step-by-step DIY video series and the complete build-kit and parts list below.
Have fun building – and go green!
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
Glide E-Cycles
The Glide E-Cycle is ready for whatever adventure you can throw at it – grocery runs, daily commuter, trails, paths, you name it. It’substantially built, of quality components in the USA. There are 3 models to choose from, road to off-road, and average 20-25 mph top speed and an advertised “up to” 25 mile range. Prices range from low $2Ks to the mid $5K range. Check out their website for all their offerings and specs.
We had the pleasure of test-riding the model pictured at a recent Earth Day/E-vehicle demonstration. It’s high end (the price reflects that) without a doubt! It is heavy – you won’t be carting this around on public transportation, and probably not the back of your car. And, given the generous foot deck, and the height above ground, forget about “kicking” this kick-bike. The ergonomic handlebars, and upright position are ideal.
Kickbike eCruise
Kickbike makes a variety of adult kick scooters (“footbikes”), including an urban commuter (complete with front basket), a foldable “last mile” solution, as well as both and off-road and a fat-tire model. They’ve been around for more than 25 years. We were excited to read that they are coming out with an electric model sometime in Summer 2019 – as pictured. The 18 MPH cruising speed is a bit less than what we were looking for in an electric kick-bike (hence our own DIY project above).
It comes equipped with front wheel hub Bafang 250W electric motor – which suggests to us that the top speed advertised may be limited to ideal riding conditions (light-weight rider, no wind, full charge, etc.). As a comparison, the DIY Crussis Kickbike project above has a Bafang 500W motor. This looks like a well put together E-SUB, still capable of being “kicked” for fun and exercise, as well as for extending the range.
Gravity Scooters
Gravity Scooters is headquartered in Spain – and they have a variety of high-end models to choose from, including a well-equipped looking E-Scooter. The look and the stats are very similar to that of our Crussis DIY project, above – including the front shock and the 500W electric motor. The key stats for this model, which runs about $1,800 are shown below.
Worth mentioning is their downhill scooter model (non-Electric) – which is described as “downhill in its purest form.” From the videos – the gravity downhill scooter looks fully legit – and a lot of fun!
Review Transparency & Ethics
These reviews & comparisons are our opinions based on our usage and testing, or where noted, based on our research. We are not paid or compensated to write any product reviews.