The Swytch Bike conversion kit offers an accessible and affordable way to convert your standard bicycle into an electric bike. With two primary battery options, the AIR and MAX, it caters to different needs, from short commutes to longer rides. Here’s a detailed, user-friendly review that covers everything from key features to real-life experiences and guides you in deciding which kit might be better for your needs.
Swytch Bike: The Easiest Way To Go Electric
Swytch's e-bike conversion kit stands out for its simplicity, ease of use, and cost-effectiveness. Designed to fit 99% of bikes, including hybrids, road bikes, mountain bikes, folding bikes, and more, this kit transforms any regular bicycle into an efficient e-bike. Users have generally praised the Swytch kit for its simplicity and effectiveness, highlighting the lightweight design and easy installation as major benefits.
Pros
- Easy to install and use.
- Economical and sustainable way to convert an existing bike.
- Lightweight design with a smooth, quiet motor.
- Flexibility to ride without the power pack or with the motor off.
- Good customer support and quality components.
Cons
- Range may be less than advertised, especially on difficult terrains.
- Does not fit bikes with through axles
FRONT HUB MOTOR 36V250W + AIR BATTERY
FRONT HUB MOTOR 36V250W + MAX BATTERY
How Switch Bike Conversion Kit Works
The Swytch Bike kit operates on a pedal-assist system. When you pedal, the pedal sensor signals the motor controller, which draws power from the battery to assist your pedaling. This results in a smoother and less strenuous ride, especially on inclines or longer distances. The system is designed to be intuitive, delivering power seamlessly as you ride.
Swytch Bike utilizes a front hub motor, which is known for its simplicity and affordability. While front hub motors are ideal for flat terrain and moderate hills, it's worth noting that other options like mid-drive and rear hub motors are available on the market. These alternatives might offer advantages in terms of weight distribution and performance on steeper climbs, but they often come with a higher price tag and may require more complex installation.
The Swytch kit stands out for its ease of installation and user-friendly design compared to other e-bike conversion kits available online. Many alternative kits require more complex installation processes and technical knowledge.
The kit is designed to be as universal as possible, fitting a wide range of bikes. However, it does not fit bikes with through axles, limiting its compatibility to rim brake bikes.
Swytch Bike Key Features
Air & Max Batteries: Lightweight & Effortless
Perfect for urban riding and shorter commutes, the Air and Max batteries are designed for effortless integration with your bike's handlebars. Their compact size and lightweight construction make them easy to install, remove, and carry with you wherever you go.
| Feature | AIR Battery | MAX Battery |
|---|---|---|
| Range | 7-10 miles (11-16 km) |
15-20 miles (24-32 km) |
| Weight | 700g | 900g |
| Charge Time | 1.5 hours | 2.5 hours (2 hours with Fast 3A charger) |
| Use | Daily communtes | Longer distances and moderate hills |
GO Power Pack Options: Extended Range
For riders seeking more autonomy, Switch Bike offer three frame-mounted options (GO, GO+, and GO++) to significantly extends the range. This frame-mounted battery fits anywhere on your frame via velcro straps, has a single cable to plug in, and provides up to 378Wh of battery capacity. The GO batteries come in three versions (GO, GO+, and GO++), offering ranges up to 60 miles (96 km) and varying weights from 2.1 kg to 2.6 kg.
All three GO Power Pack options are the same size but have different specifications and quantities of lithium cells, offering three different range options:
| Feature | GO | GO+ | GO++ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Range | 15-20 miles (24-32 km) | 30-40 miles (48-64 km) | 45-60 miles (72-96 km) |
| Weight | 2.1 kg | 2.5 kg | 2.6 kg |
| Charge Time | 2.5 hours | 4 hours | 5 hours |
Motor and Performance
The Swytch Kit transforms a regular bike into a pedal-assisted e-bike (pedelec), meaning the motor provides assistance only when you pedal. The heart of the Swytch kit is its 250W hub motor, embedded in the front wheel. This motor provides a torque of 40Nm, sufficient for climbing moderate hills and maintaining a steady pace.
Under ideal conditions, the kit can achieve speeds up to 20 mph (32 km/h). The range varies depending on usage, terrain, and the chosen battery. The motor stops assisting once you stop pedaling or exceed the speed limit, which can be adjusted in some jurisdictions.
The motor wheel operates quietly, enhancing the riding experience without adding noticeable noise. The bike remains relatively lightweight, with the added weight from the motor and power pack most noticeable when carrying the bike.
Installation Process
The Swytch kit's components are designed to be plug-and-play, reducing the installation time to about 30 minutes for a standard bike. No specialized tools or mechanical skills are required, making the installation accessible for most users.
The process involves replacing your bike’s front wheel with the motorized wheel, attaching the pedal sensor to the crank, and mounting the battery on the handlebars. No specialized tools or mechanical skills are required, making it accessible for everyone.
The kit is designed for a front motor wheel, simplifying the installation process since you don't need to deal with the more complex rear motor wheel. The toughest part for many users is removing the tire and inner tube from the old wheel and fitting them onto the new motor wheel.
Installing the Swytch Bike kit is straightforward:
- Replace the Front Wheel: Swap your bike’s front wheel with the motorized wheel provided in the kit. Loosen the front brakes and remove the existing front wheel and inner tube from your bike. Transfer the inner tube and tire to the new motor wheel. Install the motor wheel on your bike’s front fork, ensuring the cable faces away from the chain.
- Attach the Pedal Sensor: Secure the pedal sensor to your bike’s crankset. Attach the magnet disc to the crank axle opposite the chain. The pedal sensor detects when you are pedaling and activates the motor.
- Connect the Battery Connector: Mount the power pack on the handlebar and connect the cables then attach the battery to the connector, ensuring it is securely connected.
- Install Additional Components: Optionally, install the OLED display or throttle. Choose a spot close to your dominant hand on the handlebar, as the display controls the motor wheel’s power levels.
Swytch Bike AIR & MAX Tech Specs Comparison
Not sure which is right for you? Let's take a look at them side by side.
| Feature | AIR | MAX |
|---|---|---|
| Motor Type | Front Hub | Front Hub |
| Max Torque | 40Nm | 40Nm |
| Motor Power | 250W | 250W |
| Range | 7-10 miles (11-16 km) | 15-20 miles (24-32 km) |
| Battery Weigth | 700g | 900g |
| Capacity | 98Wh | 180Wh |
| Max Speed | 20 mph/32 km/h (15.5mph/25km/h in Europe) | 20 mph/32 km/h (15.5mph/25km/h in Europe) |
| Mounted | Handlebars | Handlebars |
| Charge Time (2A charger) | 1.5h | Â 2.5h Fast 3A charger: 2h |
| Motor Wheel Size | From 16" to 29" | From 16" to 29" |
| Brake Compatibility | Rim/Disc Brakes | Rim/Disc Brakes |
| Wheel Colour | Silver or black | Silver or black |
| Total Added Weight | 2.2kg | 2.6kg |
| Waterproof Rating | IPX6 | IPX6 |
| Safe Flying | Yes | No |
| Gear Compatibility | All types | All types |
Your Switch Bike Starter Kit (AIR & MAX Series)
The Swytch kit includes a front wheel motor, two battery options (Swytch AIR or Swytch MAX), a display unit for monitoring speed and battery life, a pedal assist sensor, and various cables and mounting hardware. The kit also comes with detailed instruction manuals and ample mounting accessories, noted for their quality and clarity, making the installation process straightforward and user-friendly for most people.
The Swytch Bike conversion kit includes everything you need to electrify your bicycle:
- Motor Front Wheel: This wheel replaces your bike’s original front wheel and houses the 250W hub motor.
- Battery: Depending on the model, you will receive either the AIR or MAX battery.
- Pedal Sensor: This discreet sensor, attached to your bike's crank, detects your pedaling motion and activates the motor assistance.
- Handlebar Connector: This allows you to easily attach and detach the battery from your bike, providing convenient charging and storage.
- Charger: A standard 2A charger is included to quickly recharge your battery.
- Display (optional): The optional OLED/LCD display unit offers additional features like speed tracking, battery level monitoring, and customizable power modes.
FRONT HUB MOTOR 36V250W + AIR BATTERY
FRONT HUB MOTOR 36V250W + MAX BATTERY
Choosing the Best Swytch Bike Conversion Kit for Your Needs
The Swytch Bike kit is primarily targeted at urban commuters and leisure riders who want a simple and affordable way to electrify their bicycles. It's ideal for shorter to medium-distance rides, especially in city environments.
If you face hilly terrain or longer commutes, the Swytch kit can still be a great option, as it provides electric assistance to reduce the effort required for your daily rides.
Choosing Between AIR & MAX Batteries
When deciding between the AIR and MAX batteries, consider your typical riding patterns and needs:
- Distance: If your rides are typically under 9 miles (15 km), the AIR battery should be sufficient. However, if you regularly cover distances closer to 19 miles (30 km), the MAX battery would be the better choice.
- Terrain: If you encounter hills on your routes, the MAX battery's larger capacity will provide more assistance and potentially extend your range.
- Riding Style: If you prefer a more leisurely pace and don't mind pedaling a bit harder, the AIR battery might be enough. But if you like to ride faster or need more power to tackle hills, the MAX battery is a better choice.
Keep in mind that other factors can also impact your battery range:
- Pedal Effort: The more you pedal, the less battery power you'll use.
- Weight: Heavier riders will generally experience a slightly reduced range compared to lighter riders.
- Speed: Riding at higher speeds consumes more power. Riding at a moderate speed can help conserve battery life.
- Weather Conditions: Cold temperatures and strong winds can decrease battery performance.
Swytch Bike: Effortless Power, Endless Possibilities
The Swytch Kit is an affordable and eco-friendly way to convert your bike to electric, offering pedal assistance without needing a new bike. Its lightweight design, easy installation, and smooth motor make it attractive for urban commutes and shorter rides.
However, while the AIR and MAX batteries are ideal for shorter commutes and urban riding, with ranges up to 19 miles/30 km, riders seeking extensive rides may need to consider the longer-range GO series batteries. Additionally, the ordering process, which can involve a waitlist, might require patience.
Despite this, Swytch is commended for its excellent customer support and high-quality components. This support can be invaluable for those new to e-bike conversion kits, ensuring a smooth transition to electric cycling. If your cycling needs align with shorter commutes, leisure rides, and urban environments, the Swytch Kit with either the AIR or MAX battery could be a worthwhile investment, offering a practical and enjoyable way to electrify your existing bike.
FRONT HUB MOTOR 36V250W + AIR BATTERY
FRONT HUB MOTOR 36V250W + MAX BATTERY