Are you looking to take your electric commuter bike off-road and explore new terrains? Converting your bike into an electric gravel bike can provide you with the versatility you need. In this blog post, we will guide you through the process of changing the tires and stem on your electric commuter bike to transform it into a capable electric gravel bike, like we did with our Babymaker II Stealth E-bike and Step Through Comfort E-bike
Why Convert Your Electric Commuter Bike?
Electric commuter bikes are designed for urban environments, with smooth tires and more rigid frames for efficiency. However, if you're an adventurous cyclist who wants to tackle gravel paths and off road trails, converting your commuter bike is a great option. Click Here to view our gravel components
By changing the tires, stem, and seat post you can enhance the bike's stability, control, and comfort, making it suitable for off-road adventures. Let's dive into the steps you need to follow:
Step 1: Choosing the Right Tires
The first step in converting your electric commuter bike is selecting the appropriate tires. Look for gravel-specific tires that offer a wider width and a more aggressive tread pattern. These tires provide better traction and stability on loose surfaces.
For these builds we chose the Panaracer Gravel King tanwall EXT to put on the Babymaker and the Schwalbe Marathoner Gravel Tire for the Step Through
Make sure to check the tire clearance on your bike frame and fork to ensure the new tires will fit without any issues. It's recommended to consult your bike's manufacturer or a local bike shop for guidance on tire compatibility.
Step 2: Removing the Old Tires and Installing New One
Once you have the new tires ready, it's time to remove the old ones. Start by deflating the tires and using tire levers to carefully pry them off the rims. Take note of the direction of the rotation arrow on the tires, as you'll need to install the new ones in the correct orientation.
With the old tires removed, it's time to install the new gravel tires. Begin by aligning the rotation arrow on the tire with the direction of your bike's travel. Use your hands to push the tire onto the rim, ensuring it sits evenly on both sides.
Be cautious not to pinch the inner tube while installing the tires. Inflate the tires gradually, checking that the bead of the tire is properly seated on the rim. It's recommended to follow the tire manufacturer's guidelines for the optimal tire pressure.
Step 4: Upgrading the stem and seat post
Now that you have the right tires installed, let's focus on upgrading the stem. The stem is the component that connects the handlebars to the bike's fork. For a more versatile electric gravel bike, consider replacing the existing stem with an adjustable, suspension stem.
An upgraded suspension stem allows you to modify the handlebar height and reach, providing a more comfortable riding position and relief from undulating terrain when off-road cycling.
Since the babymaker is a rigid bike, we added the Cirrus Cycles Kinekt Stem for increased comfort. In addition we added the Cane Creek eeSilk suspension seat post to make for the smoothest ride possible
The Stepthrough comes spec'd with an SR Suntaur suspension fork, adding a suspension stem would be unnecessary
Enjoy Your Electric Gravel Bike!
Congratulations! You have successfully converted your electric commuter bike into a versatile electric gravel bike. With the new tires and stem, you're now ready to explore off-road trails, gravel paths, and enjoy the thrill of adventure on your bike.
Remember to always ride responsibly and wear appropriate safety gear. Regularly inspect your bike for any signs of wear and tear, and maintain it according to the manufacturer's recommendations.
So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and embrace the excitement of riding your newly converted electric gravel bike!