Absolutely the best easy to follow video on e-bike conversion I've seen. We've got two Brompton's and might consider the conversion after watching this. Olive was a treat too.
You are a master! The Nano design is a 'Triggers Broom' (Ship of Thsesus). Over 18 years it has had 3 controllers, 7 motors and 20 batteries to keep it fresh.
I've had one of these for a few years now and I'm very happy with it. It gives just enough help so that I don't need to worry about the hills surrounding my home with the result that I get out more. Hills get worse as you get older... I think it's worth explaining that the black "lump" on the front is a standard Brompton luggage carrier (my own bike came with one) that has had electrical contacts added. It follows that any Brompton front bag can be adapted to match - my bag is much bigger than the one seen here, so I can still carry "stuff" as well as the battery. I chose a twist grip throttle option, which gives a little control over acceleration, because it appealed most at the time. As a result I can turn off the power manually or by stopping the pedalling action so I'm not required to fit the brake lever switch. I think the throttle can involve a little more work to fit, but having now seen the brake switch I'm glad I went that way as I don't like to rely on sticky pads on a bike. An expensive kit perhaps, but still much cheaper than trading in against a Brompton Electric, and with better luggage options. I have seen a cheaper kit which seemed generally decent except that their battery installation used up the front luggage point without a bag option.
The bottom bracket on my cross-country hybrid bike often needs renewing after a wet winter. I am not very technical so I want to avoid having to disassemble a mid-drive just to replace the BB. This front hub option sounded v. quiet and just looks better. Thanks for the great camera work.
Very helpful information and great video work. Can’t help but wonder why I’ve not run across the Nano kit anywhere else yet? Big thanks to you, and Olive of course. Happy trails. 🙏🏼🐾🎶
It’s not recommended to clamp a Brompton by the seatpost. The slightest crush on the post can prevent it dropping when folding the bike. Instead, you should clamp by the main frame tube.
Thanks Dave for the clear and concise guide provided. Wondering where to get the nano kit and the cost of the kit. Do share what are needed beyond the standard Nono kit as I’m based out of UK. Chanced upon your video and I like it and have subscribed to ensure I continue to get more update from you. Keep up the great work and look forward to more update from you. Well done.
Hi David, thanks for watching and your nice comments, thank you. As you may already know the Nono kit www.nanoelectricbikes.co.uk/ Is uk based and I’m not sure if the ship abroad. The kit come with everything needed.
you can save a lot by buying a kit on ebay or aliexpress. I have one on order and was given advice (by a large converter) to stick with the AKM brand motor. It apparently stands above the rest. As for things like battery adapters I plan on using the Bosch due to the fact that if you stick to under 100 watt hours they are legal in your carry on luggage on a commercial flight. In general you are allowed 20 of these. (do confirm before trying). That's a huge amount of power...more than you'll ever need. In addition most of the tools batteries charge in 40-60 minutes. Phil
Thank you for this very informative and detailed video. 🙂 This is a great example of "How you do anything is the way you do everything" and you are so very thorough.
Interesting video Dave. I have a Rail 5, great, but sometimes I wish I had a little assistance on my Giant Anthem X3 29er. I'd be interested to see a conversion on a proper mtb, the cost, the range, without the expense and even weight of a lightweight emtb.
Hi John, Nano only make the kit for the Brompton, shame because it seems like an ok kit. I have converted quite a few in the past, the massive problem is getting hold of a quality conversion kit, they are very few and far between, A-lot of them might as well be made out of marzipan. no spare parts, the back up service is dire. The only one to consider at the minute is Bafang
Far more complicated than needed. Look at the Sparticle system from 14 years ago, no pedal sensor because a conversion of an old bike DOESN'T need a pedal sensor.
It might not have been necessary back then but either a cadence or torque sensor is currently essential for legal reasons. If the bike is to be used on public roads, electrical assistance must only be available while the bike is being pedalled. If this condition is not met then you have created an electric motor vehicle, needing the usual tax, test and insurance, none of which is possible because they are not legally recognised. Theoretically you would also need to wear an approved crash helmet... I've seen "bicycles" freewheeling uphill too, and I'm not going to be drawn into a discussion about it. But it is a real legal requirement - best to be aware! ,🙂
Hi, as promised. We have only fitted one brake sensor since about 2012 when we stopped swapping brake levers to put the sensors on. This means we make less change on the Brompton itself. We have adapted the way the sensor is attached a few times too as we have had to be flexible to account for the Brompton fold. Although they are not legally required we always put them onto the display only set up - not on the throttle systems any more as no one is going to be braking while opening the throttle!.
I thought an after market electric power system on a bike doesn't need to be a pedelec rules fitting.? The older Sparticle system was a lot less complicated and you could have a normal front bag.
All e-bikes have to be pedal assist to be compliant. If they have a throttle they are deemed to be a moped and you are in a different ballgame as you need insurance and a licence.
Although if you bought an E bike before 2016 throttles were allowed. Throttles are allowed to bring the bike up to walking pace this is more than likely a feature for laden cargo bikes.
Talking of wrangling Brompton tyres on and off, check out the lovely lady over at Brilliant Bikes. She can do it with her bare hands; no tyre levers involved. What's more, in one video she appears to do it while remaining seated!
I think you would only do this if you are lazy and don't give a stuff about our planet because if you did riding the Brompton without a dirty great motor and battery attached is fine.
Why are you so pissy? Its not that impactful given the alternatives. E bikes give more mobility to people with injuries, disabilities, old age, or live in hilly areas, or can't arrive at their destination sweaty, or want to tow things... the list goes on Every car trip replaced by a bike is a victory. Including e bikes
Two Bromptons modified some years ago. Slightly different preparation works on older Bromptons necessary but doable. Always headwinds in our country but Nano helps to sail against.
