damoj

Hi, I have a lovely old Marin Bear valley SE (1996) steel frame bike which i ride as a commuting bike most days of the week. The frame is excellent - lightweight and forgiving and I would like to keep running it however I would also like to add an electric retrofit. My requirements are: - short distance commute (<10 miles return) but plenty of steep hills - occasional longer day bike trips with my partner when would like to be able to transfer kit relatively easily to her bike. Unfortunately the cycle 2 work scheme my company runs (only uses Halfords or shops registered with the Cycleplus scheme) appears to require a fully working bike to be delivered - which rules out buying a kit through it. Therefore, it appears my options are either: 1. Buy the cheapest electric bike with a reasonable motor/battery kit. (Looking at the Cyclotricity Revolver (£599) or Stealth (£699). Concerns - battery life is short. Is a replacement larger battery possible? What is the torque like of the Cyclotricity kit? 2. Buy an ebike or kit on ebay Concerns - obviously i'm taking all the risk if there's a fault - particularly with the battery. However, i have seen 2nd hand bikes with Alien kits going for < £400. 3. Pay 'full' price for an e-bike kit (considering the Alien or Ezee kits as i'm attracted by the relatively good torque these seem to have). Downside here is cost (£700 - £800) Thoughts / advice most gratefully received. Damian