How to Install a Bike Engine

Adding an engine to your pedal bike can seem like a daunting task if you're not a full-fledged mechanic, but with the right tools and equipment even a novice can install one. Specialized kits make it easier to get your bicycle going on gas and are typically under $200 for the actual mounting hardware and drive-wheel parts. The engine will cost much more unless you have a suitable one lying around the house. If you like taking long bike rides but hate being wiped out when you get home, this modification is well worth the effort in the long run.

Things You'll Need

  • Bike engine modification kit
  • Socket set
  • Wrenches
  • Engine
  • Throttle
  • Zip ties
  • Kill switch
  • Electrical tape
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Instructions

    • 1

      Remove the nuts from the rear tire and install the rear mounting brackets for your conversion kit. Use the socket set and a wrench to tighten all the nuts and bolts. Move on to the front mount setup next. The front mounting bracket for the kit typically installs somewhere behind the seat. Every bike is different, so it may require some modification or creativity depending on the kit and the bike design. Mountain bike tires are often too knobby for a drive wheel that pushes on the outside rim of the bike rather than driving the chain housing. Replace the back tire with a smoother model to maximize the efficiency of your new rig if you choose a friction drive model. If you have a chain drive unit, the tautness of the chain is all that matters. You don't want any slack.

    • 2

      Bolt the engine to the drive mechanism using the socket set before connecting the engine to the mounting brackets. Choose the best engine for the kit you can find. If you buy your engine from the store, take the kit's drive mechanism with you and consult with a salesman or technician to make sure you get the best product for the particular application.

    • 3

      Mount the engine and drive wheel frame unit over the back tire, starting with the rear brackets. The kit should have a quick-release in the back to drop the wheel onto the bike when ready to ride. The unit should also be able to be locked into place while the drive wheel is not in contact with the tire for starting and idling before your ride. Inspect the quick release settings to make sure they work properly before the final tightening of all your mounting hardware.

    • 4

      Run the throttle cable from the engine to one of the handles of the bike. Use zip ties to keep the wire snug against the frame and out of the way of both wheels and your brake setup. Secure the throttle firmly to the handle with the electrical tape, positioning it so it is easy to grasp and operate as you ride.

    • 5

      Connect an on/off kill switch wire to the engine for extra safety, and use your zip ties to keep that wire snug to the frame as well. You can mount this on the handlebars or anywhere else that's convenient. If your engine already has a kill switch on it and you feel more comfortable reaching back and flipping it, you can skip this step.