Mechanical parts you need
The GBIKE 1 kit includes all the electrical components for a complete electric bike. But the hub motor replaces your rear wheel, which means you need a few mechanical parts to put everything together.
This guide explains which parts you need, how to choose the right ones, and where to find them.
Overview
| Component | Required? | Comment |
|---|---|---|
| Tire 26" | Yes | For the motor wheel |
| Inner tube 26" | Yes | Match the valve type to your bike |
| Rim tape 26" | Yes | Protects the tube from spoke nipples |
| Freewheel (6 or 7 speed) | Yes | Can sometimes be reused from the old wheel |
| Shifter | Sometimes | If your donor bike does not have 6 or 7 gears |
| Brake disc | Sometimes | Can often be moved from the old wheel |
1. Tire (tire)
The motor wheel in GBIKE 1 comes with a 26-inch rim. You therefore need a 26-inch tire.
What should you think about?
- Size: 26 x 2.0" to 26 x 2.35" works well for most mountain bike frames
- Tread: Choose based on surface. Coarser tread for off-road, smoother for pavement.
- Quality: Puncture protection is a plus, especially if you ride mostly on roads
Where can I find tires?
You can find 26-inch tires at most bike shops.
Example places to find tires:
A basic tire costs around 100 to 200 SEK. If you want puncture protection or a known brand, the price is usually 200 to 400 SEK.
2. Inner tube (inner tube)
The inner tube sits inside the tire and holds the air. You need a tube that matches both the wheel size and the valve type on your donor bike.
What should you think about?
- Size: 26" (usually fits 2.0 to 2.35" width)
- Valve type: Check which type your donor bike has:
- Schrader valve (Schrader/American valve): Wide, same as on cars
- Presta valve (Presta/French valve): Narrow, common on newer bikes
Where can I find tubes?
Tubes are everywhere: hardware stores, sports stores, bike shops, online.
Examples:
Tubes often cost only about 50 SEK each. It can be smart to buy a couple of extras to keep at home.
3. Rim tape (rim tape)
Rim tape is a strip that sits inside the rim to protect the tube from the edges of the spoke nipples. Without rim tape, you risk a puncture.
What should you think about?
- Size: 26" / 559 mm (standard MTB size)
- Width: Should cover the bottom of the rim, usually 16 to 20 mm
Alternative
You can use regular electrical tape (insulation tape) if you cannot find proper rim tape. Put on several turns and make sure it covers all holes.
Where can I find rim tape?
4. Freewheel (freewheel)
The freewheel is the sprocket cluster that screws onto the motor hub and gives you gears. GBIKE 1 works with 6 or 7 speeds.
Important to know
There are two types of rear gear systems:
- Freewheel (freewheel): The whole unit screws onto the hub (works)
- Cassette (cassette): Slides onto a freehub body (does NOT work)
The motor hub in GBIKE 1 has freewheel threads. You CANNOT use a cassette.
Can I reuse the freewheel from the old wheel?
Maybe! If your donor bike has:
- Freewheel (not cassette) with 6 or 7 speeds -> Yes, move it to the motor wheel
- Cassette -> No, you need to buy a new freewheel
Where can I find a freewheel?
Shimano freewheels (such as TZ500/TZ510) are affordable and reliable. They often cost 150 to 250 SEK.
5. Shifter (shifter) - Sometimes
The shifter sits on the handlebars and lets you change gear. You only need a new one if your donor bike's shifter does not match the number of sprockets on the freewheel.
When do you need a new shifter?
| Your donor bike | Freewheel on GBIKE 1 | Need a new one? |
|---|---|---|
| 6 rear gears | 6 speeds | No |
| 7 rear gears | 7 speeds | No |
| 8+ rear gears | 6 or 7 speeds | Yes |
| Internal gear hub (for example Nexus) | 6 or 7 speeds | Yes |
Important to know
Shifters for internal gear hubs (internal gear hub, for example Shimano Nexus) do NOT work. You need a shifter for derailleur gears (derailleur).
Where can I find a shifter?
A basic Shimano Tourney shifter costs around 100 to 200 SEK and works very well.
6. Brake disc (disc brake rotor) - Sometimes
The GBIKE 1 motor has mounts for a 6-bolt brake disc. Most hydraulic disc brake systems use 6-bolt, but you should check.
Can I use the brake disc from the old wheel?
Often yes! If your donor bike has disc brakes, you can move the brake disc to the motor wheel. Check:
- Mount type: 6-bolt (6 screws in a circle)
- Size: Usually 160 mm or 180 mm. Match what your frame or brake is designed for.
- Condition: No deep scratches, cracks, or heavy wear
When do you need a new brake disc?
- If the old disc is worn or damaged
- If it does not have a 6-bolt mount (uncommon on MTBs)
- If you want to upgrade to better braking
Where can I find a brake disc?
A basic brake disc costs around 100 to 200 SEK.
Summary and budget
Here is an approximate cost for the mechanical parts:
| Component | Price (approx.) | Comment |
|---|---|---|
| 26" tire | 100 to 300 SEK | Depending on quality |
| 26" tube | 50 to 100 SEK | Buy an extra if you can |
| Rim tape | 30 to 50 SEK | Or use electrical tape |
| 7-speed freewheel | 150 to 250 SEK | Shimano is recommended |
| Shifter | 0 to 200 SEK | Only if needed |
| Brake disc | 0 to 200 SEK | Often reusable |
Total estimated cost: 300 to 1100 SEK
Next step
When you have gathered all the parts, you are ready to start assembling!
- Preparation and tools: What you need for assembly
- Step 1: Remove the old rear wheel: Start assembling!