E-bike sales are soaring, but buying a new set of wheels isn't the only option. Last month, we covered a French marketplace for secondhand e-bikes. Now, a Dutch startup is pitching conversion as an alternative.
Using HeyFiets, consumers take their existing, regular bicycle to any bicycle repair shop, which then converts it into an e-bike by swapping out the front wheel for one with an electric motor. A battery is strapped to the bike's saddle post. Since the battery is small and easily detached, it can be popped into a bag when parking the bike to avoid theft.
Customers pay a one-off installation fee of EUR 29, plus EUR 25 monthly. The subscription includes service of any motor issues as well as battery maintenance and replacement.
