New from Dana Point, CA

[bruce9432]

Nothing but hills here, 6% for 500 yds at a time. Thinking fat tire, mid drive, easy on off bicycle. I run therefore not looking for exercise, just a mule to go up the hills..

First step is to figure out what bike takes what mid drive, then buy the donor.

 

[Bigal1463]

Good luck Bruce, you’re at the right place. Look on the Forum for information or do a search. There’s lots of knowledgeable and friendly people here.

 

[bruce9432]

One thing I am noticing is the donor bike should be as close to what you want as you can get, to wit, fat tire rims and tires are steep viewed through a DIY prism. Had no idea they cost that much.

 

[FlatSix911]

Nothing but hills here, 6% for 500 yds at a time. Thinking fat tire, mid-drive, easy on off bicycle. I run therefore not looking for exercise, just a mule to go up the hills..

First step is to figure out what bike takes what mid-drive, then buy the donor.

Bruce, Welcome to EBR.

Take a look at BD for a good range of Fat tire bikes for conversion to hub drive.

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You may also want to look at some OEM EBike options... check out the EBR list of Best Electric Fat Bikes of 2020

These are our recommendations on the best fat electric bikes of 2020. These top five fat ebikes offer the best combination of features and value today, but you can see all 129 of our detailed electric fat bike reviews listed here. Reviewing electric bikes is what we do, EBR has the industry’s most wide-ranging and impartial reviews. Since 2012, we’ve helped millions of people discover the best ebike for their needs and budget. Let’s go!
Table of Contents:

• Best Premium Fat Electric Bike
• Best Value Fat Electric Bike
• Best Affordable Fat Electric Bike
• Promoted Fat Electric Bike
• Honorable Mention Fat Electric Bike

Things to Consider:

• Intended Use. Do you only want the rugged looks, comfort, and flexibility of an in-town fat ebike? In that case, a less powerful, heavier, cheaper model will do. However, if you plan to climb mountains, cross sandy beaches, or carry heavy loads, then you’ll want a more powerful motor, larger battery, and upgraded components. Look and pay for the things you will actually use.
• Throttle. Depending on your location, throttles may or may not be allowed. Most North American countries allow them, while European countries do not. If you plan to ride on dry sand, packed snow, or soft damp forest trails, a throttle can help you start and balance more easily.
• Motor. Think about the total combined weight of your body, bike, and cargo. Next, think about the terrain. Will you be riding off-road, navigating through soft terrain, or climbing steep mountains? Get the right type of motor with enough power to meet your needs. Motors can range from 250 to 750 watts depending on the laws where you live, I consider a 500 watt nominal motor to be very powerful. Mid-drive motors tend to be more efficient and make servicing the drivetrain and fixing flat tires easier. However, mid-drives usually cost more than hub motors, and rarely offer throttle operation.
• Battery. Match the needs of your motor and type of riding with battery power and capacity. 36 volt battery systems are typical, but 48 volt batteries are efficient and improve power output. When sizing batteries, think about total weight, terrain, and distance. You want enough capacity to get there and back, even if it means buying a second battery. Fat ebikes are heavier, and the tires produce more drag, so it’s no fun if you run out of power and have to pedal back unassisted. Consider bringing a charger along, just in case you hit a detour or want to ride farther.
• Brakes, Frame, and Suspension. Hydraulic brakes are easier to use but mechanical brakes cost less and are easier to adjust. Large disc brake rotors improve stopping power and maximize cooling. This is important as fat ebike wheels, tires, and frames are all bigger and weigh more. Planning to climb mountains, go off-road, or carry cargo? Then look for a stronger frame, nicer components, and perhaps a suspension fork and seatpost or full suspension.
• Wheels and Tires. Larger wheels ride smoother, smaller are more maneuverable. Most full-sized electric fat bikes use 26″ wheels because the extra-wide tires add additional height to the wheel. You may see 20″ wheels with fat tires on folding fat ebikes. Select a tire size and tread that suits your terrain. Use knobby tires for climbing, smaller knobs or checkerboard for cross country, and lower tire pressure when riding on sand. For city use, consider smoother tires which are quieter and have less resistance.