When it comes to e-bikes, it can be difficult to know which is the best option for you. There are many questions you may find yourself asking.
Which E-bike should I get? Will it be comfortable? Should I try a conversion kit?
At Ridekick, we can provide you with a unique product that can transform your bike and give it an electric boost. Compare the option of keeping your bike and hitching up an electric trailer to investing in an e-bike.
Clever Design Advantages of The Ridekick™ Trailer
- Unlike an electric bicycle or an electric bike conversion kit, the weight is in the trailer and your bike stays light and nimble.
- You CHOOSE the battery system that fits your style. There is even room for two batteries.
- Use the bike that you love. Simply add a “kick” to it.
Comparison between the Ridekick power trailer, electric bikes, and electric bike conversion kits:
| Ridekick PT | Ebike | Conversion Kits | |
| Cost | $799 | $500 – $8500 | $500-$2000 |
| Ease Of Installation | 20 Minutes
After installation, the Ridekick power trailer comes on and off your bike in seconds.
|
Pre-assembled | 1 hr++
Install the motor wheel, battery, throttle, and wiring. One hour + for any special brackets etc
|
| How’s the ride? | Just like your regular bike! The weight is in the trailer. Patented hitch design makes it smooth and simple. |
The affordable ones are heavy, and the most expensive are awesome. (Pay more for lighter materials and sleeker design.) |
Your bike with extra weight. |
| Maintenance | Easy
Maintain your bike.
The Ridekick PT is self contained and simple. Lube the chain periodically and enjoy 1000’s of carefree miles. SLA and LiFePO4 batteries are the more robust and longest lasting.
|
Moderate
Bicycle maintenance depends on the e-bike components. Electric components reliability vary by supplier.
New compact and light batteries may have shorter life spans.
|
Moderate
Maintain your bike with extra care. Conversions can cause extra strain on the frame, fork, tires, and spokes.
Select your battery option with care.
|
| Flexibility – switching power assist to other bikes. | Wow
Simply unhitch the Ridekick PT in seconds and your bike is back to its classic pedal-powered self.
Hitch it to another bike in seconds.
|
Impossible
You may remove the battery if you want to pedal a lighter bike.
|
Generally Permanent
You may remove the battery if you want to pedal a lighter bike.
Plan on 1-2 hours to put on another bike.
|
| Cargo Capacity | 75 lbs (34 kg)
What can you carry in 42 liters of weather-tight space? Beer anyone?
|
Backpack or panniers.
The extra weight is on your bike, unless you pull a trailer!
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Backpack or panniers.
Add even more weight on your regular wheels.
|
| Throttle styles | Simple throttle. Press a little and go slowly, press more to go faster.
1. Turn on
2. Press throttle 3. GO! |
Throttle or PAS
There are varying options on e-bikes. Some are throttle control only, some are designed for only providing power as you pedal, and others give you a choice.
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Throttle or PAS
Varying options, but usually limited to throttles that can install on your handlebars.
|
| Serviceability | Easy
Built-in diagnostics in the controller make problem-solving as easy as a look at the display.
Great Service Ratings from customers! |
Moderate
E-bikes generally require in-store service to solve electronics problems.
|
Moderate
Conversion kits can be challenging to service because there is a unique installation for each bike and you need electronics knowledge to diagnose the problem.
|
More sources of information:
Here are good sites to compare different Electric Bikes: http://www.electricbikereview.com/ OR http://www.electric-bikes.com/
The Wikipedia page also has some good general info: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/EBike
Also compare the Ridekick with Currie E-bikes, Pedego E-bikes and Amego E-bikes
Example electric bike conversion kits and sources of information at BioniX or ebikekit.com
If you have questions about the Ridekick, be sure to check out our FAQ page. You can also contact us with any additional questions you may have about our electric-powered bike trailer.
Ridekick is born in Colorado, USA where we proudly design, source, and support your riding experience.