Currently own a 2015 Electra Straight 8 that came with the SRAM i motion 3 rear hub that has been recalled.
Been researching Ebikes and was originally planning to replace my existing beach cruiser with a new Ebike. But now I’m leaning toward converting my Straight 8 as I love the look of the bike and it’s really comfortable to ride. I’m pretty mechanical and have always worked on my own bikes and motorcycles. So I think it’s a project I should be able to handle with some research and patience…
After looking at different conversion options I’m thinking of using the Bafang BBS02 mid drive as the motor. I haven’t decided on the battery yet. But I’d like to mount it in frame and love some of the custom work I’ve seen here and online. Really liked the leather bag used on one Straight 8 posted here. My bike also need the SRAM imotion 3 hub replaced due to the recall. So thought I might be able to kill two birds with one stone by incorporating a new internal gear hub that also integrated a drum brake. I’ve looked at other builds of straight 8s online that added rear disc brakes and welded caliper mounts. But, welding isn’t in my wheelhouse (I’d need to outsource it) and I’m thinking a drum brake in a new hub which I’m replacing regardless would be a pretty decent alternative for the rear… Has anyone gone that route and any thoughts/feedback on hub alternatives for the SRAM hub I need to replace? Good/bad experiences? Anyone able to relace the new hub into the existing wheel?
For the front, I’m looking at options to replace forks and add disc brakes. I’ve called Electra and can purchase the new 2022 Straight 8 front forks from them which now incorporate mounts for front calipers. I’m also not opposed to aftermarket forks or forks that add suspension. I’m mainly looking to address the brakes but might as well look at other options to improve the bike while I’m at it…
Any feedback on my plans is greatly appreciated. I’ll document the build here once I start.
Been researching Ebikes and was originally planning to replace my existing beach cruiser with a new Ebike. But now I’m leaning toward converting my Straight 8 as I love the look of the bike and it’s really comfortable to ride. I’m pretty mechanical and have always worked on my own bikes and motorcycles. So I think it’s a project I should be able to handle with some research and patience…
After looking at different conversion options I’m thinking of using the Bafang BBS02 mid drive as the motor. I haven’t decided on the battery yet. But I’d like to mount it in frame and love some of the custom work I’ve seen here and online. Really liked the leather bag used on one Straight 8 posted here. My bike also need the SRAM imotion 3 hub replaced due to the recall. So thought I might be able to kill two birds with one stone by incorporating a new internal gear hub that also integrated a drum brake. I’ve looked at other builds of straight 8s online that added rear disc brakes and welded caliper mounts. But, welding isn’t in my wheelhouse (I’d need to outsource it) and I’m thinking a drum brake in a new hub which I’m replacing regardless would be a pretty decent alternative for the rear… Has anyone gone that route and any thoughts/feedback on hub alternatives for the SRAM hub I need to replace? Good/bad experiences? Anyone able to relace the new hub into the existing wheel?
For the front, I’m looking at options to replace forks and add disc brakes. I’ve called Electra and can purchase the new 2022 Straight 8 front forks from them which now incorporate mounts for front calipers. I’m also not opposed to aftermarket forks or forks that add suspension. I’m mainly looking to address the brakes but might as well look at other options to improve the bike while I’m at it…
Any feedback on my plans is greatly appreciated. I’ll document the build here once I start.