Electric Gravel Bike Conversion

Oct 05, 2023
by Dennis Pike

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

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.

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

tight photo of a young man riding an FLX Step Through Electric comfort bike on an off road trail

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!

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- Jul 24, 2023
- by Andrew Cayas
How to Choose The Right eBike Without Breaking The Bank
- Nov 30, 2023
- by Dennis Pike
Superhuman Bikes

Frequently Asked Questions

Have a question? We've got answers.

What's the best commuter ebike?

For daily commuting, the Babymaker II Pro is our most popular pick. It weighs just 35 lbs — light enough to carry up stairs or onto transit — and its Gates Carbon Belt Drive means virtually zero maintenance. A single charge gets you 20–70+ miles depending on assist level.

If you want cargo capacity and a more upright position, the Moonrider is a great alternative with dual racks and a Bafang mid-drive motor that handles hills with ease.

What's the best lightweight ebike?

The Babymaker II is our lightest model at just 33 lbs — significantly lighter than most ebikes on the market. Its minimalist frame and compact battery keep the weight down without sacrificing range or performance. Perfect if you need to carry it up stairs or store it under a desk.

Do I need a license to ride a Superhuman ebike?

In most US states, no license, registration, or insurance is required to ride an ebike — as long as it meets federal ebike classification standards. Most Superhuman models meet these requirements. Rules vary by state and municipality, so we recommend checking your local laws, especially for Class 3 bikes on trails or shared paths.

What's a fat tire ebike?

Fat tire ebikes feature oversized tires — typically 4 inches wide or more. Those wide tires give you more traction on loose surfaces like sand, gravel, and snow, better shock absorption, and increased stability at low speeds or in technical terrain. Great for riders who want to go off the beaten path or ride year-round regardless of conditions.

If you're looking for the best fat tire electric bike for all-terrain riding, the Superhuman Bikes Bomber is our top pick. The Bomber is a 750W scrambler-style fat tire ebike built to go anywhere — sand, trails, dirt roads, or city streets. It runs on a 48V 17Ah battery with 40+ miles of range, 20-inch fat tires for maximum grip, hydraulic brakes, dual suspension, a comfortable bench seat, and optional foot pegs for a moto-inspired feel. Available in multiple colors and two configurations, it's one of the most capable and versatile fat tire ebikes on the market.

What's the best ebike for beginners?

We recommend the Moonrider or the Photon for riders new to ebikes.

The Moonrider has a step-through frame (easy to mount and dismount), an intuitive mid-drive motor, and comes with front and rear racks so you can start using it for real errands right away. Its Shimano 10-speed lets you gradually learn how to blend pedal assist with gear selection.

The Photon is a great option if you want something lighter with a throttle option, so you can start by letting the bike do the work and increase your own pedaling input as you get comfortable. It ships 95% pre-assembled — front wheel, pedals, and handlebars and you're ready to ride. (And they glow in the dark!)

How long does shipping take?

All in-stock Superhuman bikes ship within 3–7 business days of order confirmation. You'll receive a tracking number via email once your order leaves our warehouse. For the most current availability on specific models, check the product page or contact our support team.

What's the longest range ebike in your lineup?

The Weapon leads the lineup with 70+ miles of range on its 840Wh battery — the highest-capacity battery we offer. The F5 Trail also carries an 840Wh battery and delivers 50+ miles per charge under typical conditions.

Real-world range depends on rider weight, terrain, wind, temperature, and how much you pedal vs. rely on the motor. Using lower assist levels and pedaling more actively will always extend your range.