As if mountain bikes are not universal enough, a new DIY conversion kit called Envo can turn mountain bikes into electric snowmobiles.
Not that electric snow bikes are not the same thing-there are many powerful and well-equipped electric snow bikes out there.
Now, Envo kits bring this technology to traditional mountain bikes through the latest conversion kit from the Canadian company.
The kit includes a rear snowmobile drive assembly that uses Kevlar/rubber tracks to pass through a 1.2 kW hub motor and tough resin rollers. This component replaces the rear wheel of a mountain bike and directly inserts bolts into the trunk of the bike.
The bicycle’s existing chain still extends to the sprocket in the rear assembly to power the track. However, the crank sensor detects the rider’s pedals and is powered by a 48 V and 17.5 Ah battery to help power the rider on the snow. Taking into account the inefficiency of snow driving, the battery is clearly sufficient for a 10-kilometer (6 miles) ride. Although the removable battery can extend the rider’s riding range, it is likely to be replaced with a new battery.
The kit also includes a thumb throttle mounted on the handlebar, so the motor can be started without the driver stepping on the pedal.
Bicycle tires will be difficult to overcome when riding with loose powder. The kit includes a ski adapter that can replace the front wheel.
The Envo kit reaches a top speed of 18 km/h (11 mph), and it is unlikely to win a real electric snowmobile race against Taiga’s latest models.
Envo kits are definitely much cheaper than all-electric snowmobiles, ranging in price from 2789 Canadian dollars (approximately US$2145) to 3684 Canadian dollars (approximately US$2833).
Micah Toll is a personal electric car enthusiast, battery nerd, and the author of the Amazon bestseller “Electric Motorcycle 2019″, DIY Lithium Battery, DIY Solar and Ultimate DIY Electric Bike Guide.