The Swytch ebike kit - is it worth doing?

In this video, I will talk you through the Swytch e-bike conversion kit which I bought. I'll show you how it works and give my views on whether I think it is worth buying.
Hope it's useful and if it is, please click that 'Like' button and maybe consider hitting that 'Subscribe' button, too!
Enjoy!
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
00:32 What is Swytch?
02:19 How it works
09:52 Test ride
10:37 Ordering process
14:23 Outro

[@rotary65]

This is the perfect kit for someone who wants the convenience of an ebike, but doing it in an understated manner that retains more bike feel. Ease of installation and usage are clearly the focus of this product. Very nice option for a commuter and light use. I like it.

[@user-qr5vb3vm6e]

Buy a moped

[@charlesgibbs4362]

That demo with your chain removed was very clever and impressive! Brilliant review Paul, can't wait for my Swytch to arrive. Thanks.

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Thanks - it definitely could have gone wrong! Enjoy your kit.

[@user-ob8gh7kd5t]

😊

[@MIBIncomeEncourager]

This is a super review Paul...Ive had my eyes on this system for a while ....I think you are the only person who has really shown the workings of the kit plus you mentioned the accelerator options, the fact you get the spacers in the kit, that that there are attachment options for lights on the sides of the power pack, I think you are the first person I have seen informing us that the resistance is not bad so Im really pleased about that.....thanks also for letting us know about the waiting times....I really appreciate this....super review....well done.!

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Thanks so much - I really appreciate your feedback and am glad you found the video useful.

[@NatzEvo]

Excellant review Paul- thank you. I especially liked all the various components of your review ie how to order, parts of the item and briefly how they worked and also the demo of your bike with the Swytch. I have already been on the waiting list but it helped clear some queries I’ve had - huge thanks ☺️👍

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

My pleasure - thanks for watching!

[@tonywright3051]

Brilliant video, very well explained. I’ve been thinking of what to do as I’ve only recently purchased a road bike. This has certainly helped me make my mind up. I’m now on the waiting list. Thanks for taking the time to make this video.

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks for your feedback.

[@michaellott3575]

Very useful explanation of the ordering process. I am in the queue and reassured that eventually one will become available. Can't wait.

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Glad it was helpful!

[@bryangrim6021]

Thank you for reviewing this. I learned a lot more than the commercial can get into.

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Happy to help!

[@danklein8587]

Thank you for this video. Very Well Done. The no chain part was a great idea to show its power.

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Thank you, both for watching and the feedback.

[@glasgowlady]

That is a great review Paul. I bought two of these of Swytch kits, for my and my husband's bikes. I was concerned if I'd be able to fit them, as I'm not very technically adept, but it was a piece of cake. No hassle at all. Managed to get everything fitted in half an hour. My bike is so much more fun to ride now. I'd highly recommend Swytch!

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Excellent! Thanks for the feedback and glad you're enjoying the kits.

[@user-ok3zg7tc9r]

How much for this kit?

[@justbrowsing1968]

Really excellent review in-depth and clear. Thanks for taking the time to upload it

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Thanks so much!

[@michaelteale6386]

Great video. I converted my old trek bike with a Dillinger kit. One thing i have done is change my tyres to shwalbe puncture resistant tyres .Expensive but well worth it. Kit came through in 3 days

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

That's a great idea! Thanks for watching and taking the time to share that.

[@williamstroker6805]

Great review. I bought my kit about a year ago, fitted it, but the weather changed to cloudy and rainy and left it in the garage. Have been using it this year and it's great for going to the pub and really pulls you along. Just for info, my kit only took about 3 months to arrive, so there is obviously some variation on when the order is available to ship.

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Appreciate the feedback. I must admit that mine has pulled me to and from the pub once or twice. Glad to hear you got yours a bit sooner.

[@tconnolly9820]

That was a really great and informative review. I'm really glad I came across this today and I will pass it on. Thanks for a job well done ✅

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Awesome, thank you!

[@snorkfire]

That is a really great review, Paul. That definitely cleared up questions that the Swytch guys left me hanging on. Especially thohtful of you to do the unchained demo 😉

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Glad it helped. The unchained demo was definitely a leap of faith so I was pretty glad it worked!

[@peterspowage5752]

They a very good, I only waited 12weeks for mine, but it is worth the wait. I've put mine on a steel road bike and the conversion looks quite tidy. The kit enables me to get up hills that I have never cimbed before and has made cycling a pleasure again. Pros: Well built, relatively easy to fit. For a 250W motor, there's lots of torque, even using the lower power bands. The range claimed is less than what can be achieved if power is used judiciously. Cons: The waiting, though it does give time to plan the conversion. It is difficult to get any costings from the company, particularly for aftersale items eg spare battery packs. Even though they offer a hub only kit, I was advised 3days before delivery that they could only supply the wheel. Stripping the hub out took me almost longer than rebuilding and truing it. These are little niggles, which would not stop me from buying another, should I need one.

[@guerlateguerlate989]

How much is it????

[@tuvok147]

This was an excellent review with lots of very sensible advice. Well done.

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Very kind, thank you.

[@cr5353]

Hello from one of the colonies (down here at Oz)! Great review: short, lucid and informative. Many thanks.

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Really happy to help!

[@davidbunn6274]

Excellent unbiased review. Good to see how the conversion kit actually works.

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Glad it was helpful. Thanks for watching!

[@bradzaruba9686]

I’ve used my kit for a month in southeast Missouri on flat terrain using level one on an inexpensive bike. I’m also 70 and must say I love it. The power holds until you get down to low power but I have squeezed out 23 miles (41k) on a single charge. I probably could have gotten a bit more. We don’t have the speed restriction you have in the UK so I’ve slipped by 20mph a few times by peddling hard with a little breeze. It runs at 14 mph with a little effort. I ordered in June 22 with my kit arriving in January, but missing a few items that came a few weeks later. Sorry to be long-winded but I thought the extra information might be useful.

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Hi Brad. Great to hear that you are enjoying the kit! Thanks for your additional information and happy riding!

[@brianjamieson8653]

I ordered the kit in May last year and received it in November . It's easy enough to attach to the bike . My issues were with the pedal disc that the magnets are on i dont think its robust enough and tends to come apart fairly easily meaning that the distance between the magnets and the censor is not consistent and that means the power going to the wheel motor isn't at a consistent flow . The 50 klm ride on one charge of the battery is very ambitious for a humans weight two white mice might achieve it with a tail wind . But for a occasional user it serves a purpose.

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Can't disagree with any of that! Thanks for taking the time to comment.

[@ann-mariejensen2623]

Thanks for the thorough review and details!

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

My pleasure. Thanks for watching.

[@tomconnolly3128]

Fantastic thorough review Paul!

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Appreciate it - thanks for watching.

[@waqasahmad4245]

Really thorough review. Keep up the good work

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Much appreciated!

[@jayjldn94]

Nice review, very informative. I moved to the Netherlands a couple years ago and I was surprised by how popular ebikes are. I wanted this kit but it was too long of a wait. As I use my bike to commute to work at the end I invested into a Super73 S2 which I love. If you ever have the chance you should definitely try one!

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

I will definitely Google that - cheers for the insight.

[@bribaines9130]

That was excellent being from Preston and knowing how steep the incline on your way to the Crematorium is that was outstanding.

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Always nice to hear form a fellow Prestonian!

[@zaydashfaq193]

Thanks so much for the review Paul it helped loads

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Excellent - really glad I could help.

[@jesusislove8747]

Hello Paul thank you so much for this review it was done so beautifully and just a suggestion on your bike being silver and one black on the other a simple $3 and something can of paint waterproof heatproof there is all different finds you can spray them black and then they would match just a thought! Wishing you all a blessed day

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Thanks for your feedback. Not a bad idea on the paint!

[@manondesrochers5729]

Great video, thank you for sharing. I’m on the waiting list.

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Glad it was helpful! Hope you enjoy the kit.

[@Robshotipod]

New to your channel. I am from the states and came across your video review here. Really enjoyed your overall review style and ease of explanation. You gotta new sub, looking forward to more neat reviews.

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Thanks so much - appreciate your feedback and, of course, your sub!

[@timpearson9913]

Hi Paul, really enjoyed the review. I've been running a Swytch for about a month, and it's been a game changer for me, enabling me to ditch the car for my commute (when it's not raining of course). I got the additional throttle for the bike, but to be honest I found it more of a disruption to the cycling experience, so I removed it after a couple of weeks. I'm really impressed by the thought and engineering that went into the kit, and it has got my overweight butt back out on the bike for the first time in years.

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Excellent! Anything that promotes a bit of activity, even if it helps share the load, is a winner in my book!

[@HH011]

Hey Tim, may I ask why you didn’t like the throttle? It’s a huge selling point for me (although I’m sure it creates temptation to become lazy lol).

[@pauljones9526]

How much does it cost for a adult mountain bike

[@timpearson9913]

@@HH011 Hi there. I found that on my bike, due to the number of gears it was easier to drop to a lower gear and keep the rhythm of pedalling. The throttle is quite bulky, and if you have a lot of stuff mounted on your handlebars, it can be awkward to find somewhere it would fit.

[@timpearson9913]

@@pauljones9526 it cost me £629 GBP with a pro battery pack. There was a 10 week wait for my kit though.

[@Ponkelina]

Really helpful video. I had no idea it was a 6 month wait so thanks for telling us that.

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Glad it was helpful!

[@jonkc3635]

Wow, 6 months wait? Summer will be over by then.

[@pb871]

Really helpful video, just what I was looking for and has helped me make up my mind - thank you. Love the idea of a Swytch kit but hate the idea of all those cables on show and zip-tied everywhere - you don't get to see those on their adverts. Also extra cost for a matching black wheel and need to factor in an up to £50 delivery charge.

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Glad I could help. You definitely need to take the look of the unit into account - and it is an odd looking unit on your handlebars. The new versions look less obtrusive, in my opinion. I was a bit disappointed about the black wheel costing more, too.

[@mitchkelsey8743]

Likely the most "up-front", easy to understand review I've read lo these MANY months of research. My new baseline for reviews - short, sweet and to-the-point. Nicely done!

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

I’ll take that! Very kind, thank you.

[@dougmoore5252]

Thank you Paul, very good explanation.

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Happy to help!

[@grunt22]

What a great review. Thank you

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Very kind, thank you.

[@neildavies9864]

Great review. I ordered mine in the first week of january 2022 and waited 16 weeks (although Swytch had stated 12weeks from order) so compared to others that have waited 6 months I'll consider myself very lucky. This really is a great product and I would highly recommend buying at the 50% offer. I bought the 50Km pro version. the wheel sensor on my wifes bike (different style frame) was a bit of a pain to fit but eventually I got it to work. The only negative would be their customer service but based on their last email response to me it somewhat alleviated my frustrations.

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Excellent. I've not had to use customer services yet but they are slow to respond to questions about possible affiliates, I'm realising! And, of course, thanks for the feedback - much appreciated.

[@TheRoxas13th]

How much it costs?

[@neildavies9864]

@@TheRoxas13th For the 50Km version (pro version) I paid £629

[@TheRoxas13th]

@@neildavies9864 Quite expensive. Thanks for the info!

[@furiousfajitaa2367]

Really well made video, very helpful thanks

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Glad it was useful. Thanks for the feedback.

[@seegmabeta3764]

thanks for the video.. Good job and informative ✌🏽

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Thanks for watching. Glad I could help.

[@Thetailofthetrident]

Paul your video has helped me to understand my Swytch Kit even better. I noticed that the hinged arm on the cadence sensor should be zip tied to the crank arm, and the way to know that the kit is functioning properly is the flickering red light. Thank you, I will be riding the Iron Horse Trail tomorrow. I will only turn it on when, I reach hills. I do not want to run out of battery. And regarding the new battery, I am on the waiting list and it is rather slender. It will be a back up battery if the both are cross compatible.

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Thanks for commenting - glad I could help. The new kit uses a different mount so you will struggle to easily or quickly swap them out, I’m afraid. It really is a one or the other decision, which is a bit of a shame.

[@Thetailofthetrident]

@@PaulsViewsReviews I agree that sounds like pre planned obsolescence. Which is a disease of greed. I hope they don't lose their soul and become just another corporation. Thanks again!😇

[@alexc6741]

The camera person trying not to laugh when he pulled in was really funny

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

That was my son, clearly half expecting me to end up on the floor!

[@paulwilson5874]

Really good informative review as others have said, I’m on the waiting list for the new model with the smaller battery pack that can mounted elsewhere, thanks for the review 👍

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

My pleasure. You should get the link next month, I believe, as I had early access yesterday. It certainly looks pretty cool, especially the option to mount the battery on the back of your seat column and control the unit with an LCD panel on the handlebars.

[@Daptappy]

Hi, I've also got the early access. I didn't see the rear mount option. Do you know if the new small battery mount clips in to the original handle bar mount, I still want to be able to use my old battery for longer journeys. I have asked the Swytch team but their response was a bit ambiguous.

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

@@Daptappy Hi. I definitely got the impression that it replaced the old bracket completely, making it an ‘either/or’ between the old and new, I’m afraid. I could be wrong but the connections on the new batteries definitely don’t look compatible with the old mount.

[@paulwilson5874]

I didn’t realise that the new smaller battery only has a range of 9 miles, I had thought battery technology must’ve come on leaps and bounds!

[@Daptappy]

@@PaulsViewsReviews Paul, thanks for the quick response. Think I'll give the new battery a miss. The cost would be well over £300 with the extras, for a 15km battery that makes the old (not even had it for a summer) 50km one redundant. Frustrating because a small battery for short journeys would be really useful. If they had designed an adaptor to fit the old battery mount then it would be truly backwards compatible as they claim.

[@Fudders]

Thanks for the review Paul. Maybe if you have the time (and energy!), you could do an update video, with a couple of real-world range tests to see how far you can go with the varying levels of assistance on flat/hilly terrain etc. BTW, I like the chain-removed demo too! 😄

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Thanks for commenting. That’s a good idea - I’ll look to do some trials.

[@FlyingSpaghettiMonster2000]

Thanks for this Paul. I've just ordered the slimline version (30km) with uk delivery dates of july/August.

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Hope you enjoy it!

[@sallym2827]

How much did it cost you?

[@FlyingSpaghettiMonster2000]

@@sallym2827 549 Inc delivery. It was at a discount of 60% against their "rrp"

[@sallym2827]

@@FlyingSpaghettiMonster2000 Thank you! The discount listed currently is 50% so it should be not too dissimilar.

[@ppineault]

Great review....thanks so much, Paul :)

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

My pleasure!

[@DrGlynnWix]

This was the most thorough review, and I really appreciated it. I have been debating buying this versus just buying an eBike so that I wouldn't be disappointed by having bought some after-market solution that didn't really meet my needs, but I can see that it actually should be just what I need.

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Really glad I could help! Thanks for watching.

[@antifugazi]

Great review mate, real professional

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Very kind - cheers buddy!

[@MYKEYCARD]

Thank You Excellent Presentation👍

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Glad you liked it!

[@lydiaseritt6343]

Thanks Paul great info

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Happy to help! 👍🏼

[@sallym2827]

Really good review, thank you. I currently have an ebike and a regular bike and am considering just running the one with the conversion kit. The lighter weight is definitely desirable as my fat tyre ebike weighs a ton!

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Thanks very much. The newer, smaller version 2 of the battery should be a better fit for you. Enjoy!

[@sallym2827]

@@PaulsViewsReviews Actually Paul, I've thought of something that could pose a problem, maybe you'll be able to tell me. In order to have a more comfortable riding position I changed my mountain bike handle bars for some BMX ones so they sit higher. I'm assuming that the wires to and from the battery mount are designed to be a specific length. Do you think that will be a problem? I'd say my handle bars are about 3 inches or so higher than normal.

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

@@sallym2827 Morning. No, you’ll be fine. There’s quite a bit of slack underneath the battery.

[@sallym2827]

@@PaulsViewsReviews Great! Thanks for your help.

[@dross24MA]

I looks inviting and after a quick check for input, I am asking you: - What does the accelerator do, why would we want it & how do we use it? - How does it cut in/cut out when you are not pedaling at all (coasting)? - I am still confused how this helps going up hill if you are at the point where you can barely (or not) get the pedals around. I have a bad knee and cannot put serious strain on it, so I die out without a lot of rapid pedaling first. Great review, thanks!

[@grahamemmett]

I have one of these without the accelerator or throttle, when you pedal the motor comes on, and depending on the speed and rate of pedaling and power level selected the more assistance but a hill is a lot easier but uses the battery a lot more, as I ride up a steep hill on full power and it uses 1 out of 5 bars on the battery and then lower the power to low for the rest and it will last for two rides up the hill and the rest (2x 6 miles hill and flat ride, or 20 miles on low power it will use about 80 or 4 battery bars), you might want to look at getting the throttle as an option and there is a new battery version out now and the only downside is the weight on the front as I have to lift my bike up steps but the battery can be taken off for this

[@dross24MA]

@@grahamemmett Thanks for some great input! =:^)

[@jochenschrey2909]

Accelerator: Serious police hassle in some parts of the world, like (ex)EU. But it activates the motor without pedaling. Hill climbing: I did not ride a Swytch but a mid motor MTB. I had to gear down to master steep hills. So while you surely get SOME assistance from a hub motor, it won't master extreme stuff (that healthy juveniles pedal up for bragging rights) and you better prepare to push your bike there. If you are American: Buy more power. As an European in a hurry ponder mid motors. Try to test ride something. Any kind of 250W hub motor bike should give you an idea what those things aren't. Sorry for sounding not enthusiastic, I do live upon a quite nasty hill.

[@criscisner]

Thanks for all the information. I was very interested in this conversion kit, looks great!, but waiting for six months it's not an option. I'm giving it up.

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

It is quite a wait!

[@stables_ops2479]

Really helpful hopefully I can get one

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Glad I could help!

[@noga1103]

Gute Arbeit Paul 😉👍

[@desmondwilkinson7998]

Great detailed review which should make the installation process a bit less daunting (thank you) when the kit actually arrives. I'm waiting for mine for eight months at this stage.

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Glad I could help, though that is a mighty long wait! I assume you’ll get the new updated kit now? Same wheel and cadence sensor, but a more streamlined battery.

[@stewartmcleod4094]

Awesome review 👍

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Very kind, thank you.

[@wildcreatures468]

very helpful thanks

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

You're welcome!

[@lazziebardakos2956]

Great review 👍

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Thanks so much!

[@garrettgarcia7115]

Great bike for the price. Very high quality!

[@christianstorms3950]

thanks for stating the price, that's what their homepage completely fails to do. The whole waiting list ordeal and those maybe transparent, maybe fishy information about how much are ordered yet keep me away, even though I am really intrigued. Maybe when they grow to meet a timely delivery, I'll come back to it.

[@Mikejl83]

Great review

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Appreciate that, thank you.

[@Primo_extracts]

Very helpful video. 👍

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Happy to help!

[@charliebaby7065]

Ang, about?.. lol. Love the chainless demo. I'm sold

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

It was a leap of faith!

[@charliebaby7065]

@@PaulsViewsReviews LOL. Thats kinda funny because watching you start working those peddles, i could feel my own gut, just fall out from inside of me totally due to the lack of tension from the missing chain it actually did spark up leap like sensations in me as well. enough to notice. i think this is a great example of 'mirror neurons' working in our brains. like cringing as we watch others hit the ground. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3898692/ lol. sorry i go a bit deep.

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Mirror neurons are an interesting discovery and I absolutely know what you mean. I get it a lot when watching films; I become conscious that I am pulling a face that reflects my response to a scene or even duck slightly when someone is in a hazardous situation. When I notice it most, though, is watching my son play football and I actually kick my feet at the points when I think the player on the ball ought to! I can't stand still watching live sports. Thanks for watching and joining in the chat!

[@charliebaby7065]

@@PaulsViewsReviews well, sounds like you heard about them before. and neuroscience catches your attention. if thats so, might as well skip a head and check out what they unraveled about our dreams. i would consider this one of the more significant discoveries. of..this decade? brain wise. (he forgets to turn off the mouses brain microphone right in the middle. its annoying but passes) kzbin.info/www/bejne/jJfCnmlrgrGXgqs (whoops. had to correct the url)

[@BrownPassport]

Thank you :)

[@harishr7721]

I like the charging time ❤

[@drumkommandr9779]

It sounds lovely. It'd never work in Seattle. Going up that hill requires a 1000w motor. Probably the same with San Fran and Tuscon.

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

I think you’re probably right. I’ve never been to Seattle, San Francisco or Tuscon, but, from what I’ve seen on television, they certainly appear to have incredible inclines!

[@StuBoyUK]

Very informative

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Thanks for the feedback - hope it was useful.

[@StuBoyUK]

@@PaulsViewsReviews hi Paul it was yes thank you for making the video. Easy to follow for a dyslexic. I may purchase the kit but comes down to costs.

[@cheshirehomebrew]

Probably the best review I've seen Paul, at what point do you order the wheel size or any other additions? Thanks and you have another Sub. Cheers, David.

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Thanks David - appreciate the feedback. You choose the size and colour, along with accessories, when they open the ordering process for the people who registered to buy one, I seem to remember. Hope that helps and welcome aboard!

[@cheshirehomebrew]

@@PaulsViewsReviews Brilliant, thanks very much 👍

[@kevfirey7799]

great review mate Thanks , Swytch should be paying you , better info on her than on their website .

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Thanks - I wish they were! Not even an affiliate link from Swytch, sadly,

[@Yogurt1701]

Great review, well done. But 400 quid for their basic kit is a dear do. E-bike conversation kits are a fantastic idea, but they still need to get the price under £200. Under £150 to make it appeal to the mass market. If you spend 3-4 hundred on a bike, then the same on this, you'll be on track for the same price as an e-bike anyway.

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Thanks for the positive feedback. I don't disagree with your comment - I do think the hardware could do to be a little cheaper.

[@charlieterry5357]

I enjoyed your review and I have done everything you said. I have no throttle or brake sensor connected but the pedal sensor assembly of course. However, for some reason, although the power unit is fully charged, i.e, five lights showing, I cannot get it to work. I have a base unit on but I cannot get it to function at all. I am sure I have connected all the cables to their correct other halves. You seem to have a different power unit to mine, with your display built in. My battery allows me to do 30km. Have I missed something?

[@mariner7853]

In a word - Yes. It is a great conversion kit.

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Can't argue with that!

[@michellecastillo7576]

I am concidering getting me a kit, but I too would like to see it in action, i,e switching from peddling to motor power, and going up hills, and seeing you switch from one to the other... thanks

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

You don't really switch from pedal to motor, you switch from pedal to both, as the motor supports your efforts. It's very smooth so there isn't anything to really illustrate in a video; it just gets faster and hills get easier.

[@helgetippmann]

Good Review - any long time update? Was looking a bit for explicit downsides of the whole setup in your review. How is the flimsy looking cadence sensor setup holding up in the long run? NB, I think your front crankset could use a replacement (at least the big chain ring) ;)

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

I'd be lying if I said it has had much use over the last couple of months so no long term update just yet. I've been rowing inside the house during the colder months instead. The cadence sensor does look a little flimsy to me too, so I'll be keeping an eye on it. As for the crankset, you're likely right. The whole bike was serviced not that long ago but it will probably need a much bigger overhaul at some point soon!

[@KevinJohnsonist]

Hey Paul. Do you know if you can upgrade from Eco to Pro without having to change the other parts, like the motor?

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

You definitely can - the pro is all about the batteries so the motor is the same with both.

[@Buckle1969]

Just came across your great video. Thanks for a brilliant overview. Do you have any idea of weight for the front wheel and battery pack? I've a Bontrager RaceLite tubless wheelset and wonder if the Swytch set up would negate this low weight I currently have? That said, and increase in weight is supplemented by the motor assisted drive. Also, in the real world usage, how have you found the battery life to be? Thank you!

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Hi. The weight of the battery pack and the addition of a motor over the weight of a standard wheel are each 1.5kg, according to Swytch (www.swytchbike.com/p/universal-ebike-conversion-kit/). I have found the battery life to be good but it is difficult to give a clear assessment, as the incline of a hill or the strength of the head wind can change it. I will say that I have not been disappointed.

[@Jj-ff9vq]

Hi mate good video...that's a lot of resistance on the front wheel, but swytch state there's zero as they designed it out by not doing regeneration braking? How much energy are you losing on freewheel?

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Thanks for watching. Honestly, despite the way it stops on the video, I don't feel any resistance when riding. Don't let it put you off - you'll be hard pushed to notice.

[@JohnSmith-ox7xc]

For the wheels do you get a choice of whether it's tubeless ready, or do they require inner tube? Also quick release skewers an option, or just bolts. When the battery is removed, can the holder be fine when it's raining or will it knack it up? What was the price? If it's £1000+ then it's prob worth looking for a cheap ebike, but i've watched another video saying it's £350 but this was years ago. I like that you tested it without the chain, if it is practical both speed and duration-wise it would definitely be useful in scenarios involving damage to derailleur, hanger or chains.

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Thanks for your questions. I must admit, I don't remember an option to specify wheels that are tubeless ready and I'm pretty sure quick release is not possible. It's definitely worth asking Swytch directly - they're based in London and, apparently, quite good at responding. When the battery is removed, there is a waterproof cover that comes with the kit so you just cover it up to protect it from the elements. The prices, if preordered, started at £500 in 2021, rising to just over £600 for the more powerful battery. This is apparently half the price of buying the units from a retail outlet - though I've never seen them in a retail outlet. Thanks again for watching and taking the time to comment.

[@JohnSmith-ox7xc]

@@PaulsViewsReviews Thanks for taking the time to answer.

[@imarchello]

@@PaulsViewsReviews The Chinese conversion kits cost about 300$ in comparison, so their 'discount price' is very likey the actual full price. No one is gonna buy a conversion kit for 800$ or 1000$, let's be real. For that amount you could buy a full fledged e-bike, built from zero.

[@MrGmooney]

Excellent video,my question ❓ do you think it would be worth my while converting front wheel of my 70s claud butler Tandem to the switch wheel? And if you think it's a good idea... approximately how much heavier will the bike be? with the whole kit

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

I love the idea - and I’m sure Swytch would love to see that, too. The whole kit would add about 3kg, I think.

[@radzillo]

Nice review! Very informative. Thinking of something like this for wife and I. I am 66 now and new right knee 4 weeks old that I am breaking in LOL. I rode a lot in my younger days Cross Country ride here Mass to California long ago many charity rides and other rides but not liking hills as much in my old age. My wife despises hills and will always prefer to ride an old RR bed bike path. Anyways I see that when you pedaled it you had high RPM’s which kicks in the motor? Low RPM disengages? is that how it works. Anyways interesting way to get E bike capability without high cost of a total new bike. Hope it’s available in the Colonies here LOL

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Hi and thanks for the feedback. Hope your knee is settling in nicely. The motor is intended to mirror your effort, so low rpm from you should be reflected by the motor, much the same as high rpm. When it works most efficiently, you can’t obviously feel it is supporting you at all - but it is. If you and your wife don’t like hills, then this, or indeed any e-bike, would be a great asset to keep you out on your bikes but without the added strain. Enjoy!

[@johna.a.9829]

Will it work if you're coasting, or does the crank have to be spinning for the motor to operate?

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

It does require the crank to turn, activating the cadence sensor and, in turn, the motor.

[@beaterbikechannel2538]

Handy if you've lost your license (illness) and need to get to work. If your place of work is 6 miles away at 15mph you'll get there in 25 minutes. If you can push that up to 18mph this drops to 20 minutes and the DVLA can't touch you. Food for thought.

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Can't argue with that! Thanks for your input.

[@HDsharp]

Did you have to make any adjustments to the brake pads after placing the disc brakes ( the circular metal plate) on the front hub motor.

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Hi. Yes, I had to, as they started rubbing. It’s exceptionally easy to do, mind you. I touch on how to do it in this video, at 7:30: kzbin.info/www/bejne/a6iok2luiq-LicUsi=MKsh2bogWu6aNH_v

[@TheStickCollector]

Yes

[@janetburrows137]

Yes,I did notice it was on wet or damp roads?

[@holtdcw]

So I got a preorder invite but I can't see details about the "wheel" part. I'm wanting to install this on a BMX type bike, do they give you different rim size options? It gives me absolutely no info in the preorder invite and is asking me to put down a $300 deposit with no info

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

It should give you the choice nearer the time, if I remember correctly. Your best bet is to reach out to Swytch to clarify. I am not associated with them and am just going off what I remember. Hope you find the information you need.

[@daviddunn1377]

I don't know if they have them in UK but Aventon is a very high quality, reasonably priced E-bike about $1000. I highly recommend them. But I have committed to buying the Switch conversion kit for about half that. We will see how it goes.

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

I’m not familiar with the Aventon but I’ll have a look. The Swytch is a quality piece of kit so I’m sure you’ll enjoy the benefits. Thanks for watching.

[@davidmoor6993]

Hi, Paul. I really enjoyed your review. Jow well do you think the system would perform on a tandem bicycle?

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Thank you for your feedback. In answer to your question, I believe it would undoubtedly support your own pedalling, but, with twice the weight to pull, the effectiveness would be halved. The U.K. law states that an e-bike shouldn’t have a motor larger than 250W to be used on public highways. However, it might be worth looking to see if that is applicable to tandems. It might be the case that it is 250W per person, in which a 500W motor could be a consideration? It couldn’t be from Swytch but opens up your options a little. I’m currently testing a unit from these guys, which I will post shortly, and I’m impressed with it. Plus, it’s available in 500w form: www.100g.tech/product/geeko-front/ Hope that helps.

[@jaisonwow8752]

If you were to stop pedaling, does the bike stop suddenly or does it glide as it would if you didn’t have the swytch connected to it?

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

It just coasts as normal, but without the drive from the motor in the front wheel.

[@jacktyson9277]

Nice

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Cheers

[@dougmason3274]

First ride with new Swytch kit on my old Marin mtn bike. Up my steep driveway in low gear and full power (just see how much assist I got) and front forks broke. Turns out for older bikes, aluminium forks you should add a Torque arm. This is available from Swytch but no mention of what could happen (as it did to me) that I could find in their literature. Bike being repaired and I will definitely add a Torque arm before I go for my 2nd ride. Just wish Swytch had mentioned this in their specs. BTW. Great review - thanks!

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Blimey! That is news to me. Hope you weren't hurt and your bike is nearly back in action! Thanks for the feedback.

[@dougmason3274]

@@PaulsViewsReviews No real damage, just a literal pain in the ass. What annoys me is no mention of risk in Swytch's manual. Makes sense now that something (Torque Arm) is needed to counter effect of a powered front wheel. Disappointed that Swytch's response to my query/comment was essentially "it's a part you can buy - do you want one."

[@biggerburke]

Thank you for this information Doug. I'm considering putting this on a 20 year old aluminium composite fork, so you may have saved me a trip to hospital. Now I'll show my ignorance by asking what exactly does a torque arm do?

[@dougmason3274]

@@biggerburke if you look in Swytch's Parts List, you'll find a picture of their Torque Arm. One end mounts on the axle shaft and the other end is strapped (hose clamp) to the down tube. So if, in my case, you apply too much power, instead of the motor breaking the fork, the torque arm counters the force so that the down tube takes the torque force. Much harder, if not impossible, for a 250W motor to break the down tube. I still feel it is something Swytch should at least mention in their literature 'cause I never thought doing what I did ( max power/steep grade) would cause me any grief. Nonetheless, I am enjoying my new old e-bike. Hope this helps!

[@biggerburke]

@@dougmason3274 It most definitely helps. Thank you for the explanation.

[@francescalorenzini9498]

Excuse me, how long does it take from signing up in the waiting list to make the order in the web site approximatly? I signed yesterday

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Hi. I’m not sure - they seem to open the ordering window every few months, I think. The last one wasn’t too long ago, so it may be a little while, I’m afraid.

[@emo_galaxy9413]

Hi Paul. Well you should get a free unit. You sold me when i can afford. Two i actually really enjoyed your video. I subscribed. Thanks and i hope tings are going well for you and yours. Thanks, David

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Thanks David. It would be nice to have some recognition from Swytch, but there isn’t an affiliate scheme for them, disappointingly, and I’ve bought everything I’ve received. Maybe next time!

[@LloydRandall]

what bike hanger/holder do you have there on the wall?

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Thanks for the question. It was one I bought from the supermarket, Aldi. It is really good and can be taken off the wall when not in use. Here is a similar, but slightly better, one on Amazon. This has two wall plates and looks like it has an arm to hold the handlebars in place: amzn.to/3wOG34L

[@onthewater4020]

How is the cadence sensor holding up? That's my biggest concern.

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

So far, so good. However, it's not really seen tons of action over winter - I've been rowing inside instead. Hopefully, it'll last!

[@luzmarball5392]

Does your Universal Swytch Kit work properly? mine hasn't because one after another malfunction of the Kit and Swytch is ignoring my emails asking for help! and I am not the only unhappy customer!

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Mine is still working just fine but that's not great news! Ask Swytch for help via social media where everyone can see your question - that might prompt a response.

[@LJSMusic54]

THANKS! Swytch should have a link to this video...they don't tell you how it "activates"...BTW I paid full price and received it in 5 days...

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Appreciate the feedback, thanks!

[@ewanmcallister945]

Good review Paul. Very helpful. Thanks for that. Got myself added to waiting list. Since your video, have you had any issues at all or loss of performance?

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Thanks. No issues so far. They launched the new slim line version of the battery to existing customers today. I think it will be out for the public next month so keep an eye open for that!

[@alisimmons4073]

Excellent review thanks very much. I've just picked a BNIB kit for £200 (right time right place) and fitted it to my old lightweight aluminium MTB. I read in your comments section that a guy broke his forks because of the torque. I'm now now worried my forks will do the same! Have you heard/received any other feedback on this subject?

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Thanks very much. I haven’t heard any other examples of the forks not being able to take the torque, I’m pleased to say.

[@alisimmons4073]

@@PaulsViewsReviews cheers Paul.

[@RuytonXI]

Nice :) However, the power cable should come out of the BOTTOM of the axle as per the instruction manual. Waiting for my kit to arrive, should be any day now.

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Cheers - I’ll have to have a look at that!

[@RuytonXI]

@@PaulsViewsReviews I think it's to stop water running down the cable into the hub motor. Thanks for the review, my thought process was just the same, an old but perfectly good bike and not wanting to spend too much to have a play with an eBike. Ordered back in October and just had the 'delivery in 7 days' email, so keeping my fingers crossed :)

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

@@RuytonXI Makes sense - thanks for noticing. Exciting time for you! Enjoy it - it’s really good fun.

[@snorkfire]

Just checking in…I looked at their website and there was a relevant comment in there. They said the reason for taking the cable out between the fork opening was to avoid the possibility of it getting squashed. So with your successful demo and that tidbit, i’ve reverses the flanged washers and mounted it with the cable slot “up”. Now the little rubber boot fits great. Nice team effort 😉.

[@nigeace]

Excellent review. Succinct and pragmatic.

[@PaulsViewsReviews]

Very kind, thanks.