What Tools do you need for a Mid Drive Install?

[@csjr9]

Man your cannel has been a godsend for someone like myself. Never built a E-bike and after watching your vids I feel confident in my ability to install my BBSHD kit thats coming in. Truly Appreciate ya Johnny and continued blessings to you fam!!!

[@neohproperty656]

our bicycle world is a lot better with a straight shooter , wonderful , helpful and more importantly altruistic bloke like you. My admirations and applause !! 😘

[@thinktech2go]

I'm so glad I came across your channel I have been into EV's for a while started with a Onewheel and moved to a Electric Unicycles (Gotway Nikola+ 100V). I've been telling my wife I want her to get a EV and convinced her into a ebike so we can ride together. I'm going to build her one with a Bafang BBS02B but I still havent decided if I'm going to build my own battery. I'm leaning towards doing that as the tools would come in handy for my EUC endeavors. Anyhow was nice to find a ebike enthusiast that is honest and full of useful tips. I just subscribed appreciate it

[@davidbaker8483]

This is really helpful. I usually start bike maintenance and then realise I can't find that tool I bought 15 years ago! A few months ago it took me 3 evenings to get a pedal off because I was to cheap to buy a quality 🔧!

[@dugly1149]

Thank you for the videos, I’m trying to not f…up and order the wrong stuff. You’ve convinced me that a mid mount is superior, now I have to figure out if my very good 30 year old bike is worth setting up. Again, thank you.

[@chumprop]

Thanks Johnny! Nice video!! Ordering everything now!

[@allywilkeforsenate]

Once again another great video.I am feeling confident I can do this!

[@JohnnyNerdOut]

Go for it!

[@theenglishman8668]

@@JohnnyNerdOut Instead of going through so many zip ties you can use twist ties temporarily, then replace the twist ties with zip ties after you're satisfied with the position of the wiring. Twist ties are also reusable, so you can save a lot of money buying zip ties over time.

[@irishrover63]

I have quite a few tools as I do my own motorcycle maintenance. I found the Bafang mid drive install fairly straight forward apart from the gear shift sensor. I didn't realise that the outer gear cable had stainless steel inside and thought it would cut with ordinary side cutters, what a mess I made of that and shear frustration, also frayed the end of my gear cable. So ordered a set of steel rope cutters and a new gear cable with outer. My battery has still not arrived, so not in any hurry. I also installed a new rear wheel cassette, pulley wheels and chain. Look forward to the install video, but a bit late for me. :)

[@JohnnyNerdOut]

Sounds like it will be a smooth running machine when it’s all done! Honestly the best luck I’ve had with cable housing cutting is with bicycle specific ones made by either park tool or pedros. The other ones always made a mess.

[@irishrover63]

If I get at least one descent cut I will be happy. Probably not do another conversion for a while. I also can't believe I had to pay £16 for the Bafang tool, you think they would include that. 🙄

[@TheMarkberg]

Cool vids man Thank you Greetings from Oz

[@billparmhamcope1909]

Thanks Johnny. Been battling with myself about buying an ebike but now I'm going to convert my 2013 hardrock. Great info. Regards Bill.

[@martincarter7390]

Hi Johnny, I’m interested in adding a mid drive motor to my recumbent. The local shops do not recommend. Thank for the tool recommend. I have a good many of these tools already. Keep up the great work!

[@JohnnyNerdOut]

I wonder if they just recommend buying one of their bikes?😀

[@sleepingbearffg5008]

Man missed this one.. lol if new.. take this man's advice!! Thanks jonny

[@TheHauptsturmfuhrer]

We will be waiting for the install video. Then order the parts and tools. Thanks

[@BarnabyWild13]

So glad I found your channel. Getting geared up to install my first mid drive on a Surly fat bike for bike packing. If you’re ever in Anchorage Alaska and want a shuttle around to biking destinations let me know!

[@Kay0Bot]

If you are doing only one conversion than i advise saving the money and getting the cheaper versions of all park tools.

[@scotth5503]

Not sure if they still sell them, but you used to be able to get a 50+ piece 1/4" bit set from Harbor Freight for about 7 bucks. Pair it with an interchangeable bit screwdriver or ratchet & 1/4" socket, and that will handle nearly every fitting on a bike (as well in general life) aside from the larger 8mm+ allen bolts. If you're in a pinch, you can DIY the master link pliers if you have a sacrificial pair of needle nose and some way to grind away the metal. Some cranks (with pinch bolts at the top) don't require the crank puller so that could potentially be skipped (but you would need it down the line if you have to remove the Bafang cranks). And you didn't mention anything regarding electrical tools...the BBS02 (or at least the one I got) didn't include any power connectors to the motor, so you'll need some way to attach one (crimping, soldering), and ideally some heatshrink.

[@JohnnyNerdOut]

Good point with the electrical tools. I sell my kits so that they are plug n' play without the need for specialty tools. Smart thinking on the DIY route for tools as well.

[@scotth5503]

@@JohnnyNerdOut It's a bit inconvenient Luna makes you solder on a connector, but it does open up more battery options. I'm in the process of installing a BBS02 right now and that HF kit actually includes the 8mm. Very easy to pop those on an impact driver and zip everything on.

[@JohnnyNerdOut]

@@scotth5503 nice. I can put any connector on the kit, I just like the Anderson connectors. 👍

[@Old52Guy]

Greatly appreciate the detail!

[@PINACI]

You will also need a Park Tool HCW-4 if your bike has an older style bottom bracket. 🔧🔧

[@ashpunting]

thanks, johnny I want to try a mid-drive hub build and I'm glad I subscribed to your channel plus you make me laugh I will order the tools I need I've got some already but I need more so ill be waiting for your next video my friend.

[@JohnnyNerdOut]

Thanks😀

[@ashpunting]

@@JohnnyNerdOut I do own an areal rider style bike but I live in England so it only 5000w but I want to build a BMX ZOOZ style fun bike 750w mid-drive placing the battery on the top crossbar.

[@JohnnyNerdOut]

That would be sick👍

[@benpit5012]

Re. Security torquez bit A flat screw driver can work( not too much rust lol). Can file one down a bit

[@ioandragulescu6063]

a dremel can be helpfull to even out unwanted bumps inside the bottom bracket, preventing the motor to slide in.

[@hjeffwallace]

I’ve built 2 ebikes & just used a half round file.

[@ioandragulescu6063]

@@hjeffwallace embarased to say that I had a dremel but not a file ... must fix that at some point :)

[@JorgeRodriguez-ei2gi]

Great videos Mr,& well explained ,thanks,suscribe,keep sharing, iam learning about e bike from panamá Joe.

[@whiskeykilmer1866]

Thanks for the video.

[@damienobrien1463]

ordered the bbshd 1000w kit and while im waiting took off the bottom bracket to have it ready the bike is a 1987 raleigh maveric i had to heat the BB with a gas torch to break it loose lol

[@hillyseattlenarrowstreets6087]

For your install video. 1) Remind people Right Side Bottom Bracket Nut is CW to loosen, not CCW 2) Beware Derailleur Cable routing - mine went under Bottom Bracket thru a Plastic guide. Bafang won't fit without a lower height cable guide. Making new sheet metal cable guide should work

[@MarkDavidBlack]

Thank you. Bookmarked.

[@rlbass44386]

Great video. Do you publish a tool list? Also I believe Bafang has a new mid drive 650? Any thoughts on that?

[@CasperRc81]

10mm crank bolt on my FSA’s

[@dougrichards5036]

You are the man 👍🏻💯✌🏻

[@capt.lennymiller6524]

Always very informational! I have several of the tools that you mentioned. Crazy question time. Before I take the crank apart, how can I tell what lock ring tool I'm going to need, I've seen some with different numbers of teeth? Is there one that's typically a standard one?

[@JohnnyNerdOut]

If you are referring to the bottom bracket, I have a 1/2” socket for it for about $4 on my website. www.johnnynerdout.com/product-page/bottom-bracket-remover-generic-brand

[@capt.lennymiller6524]

Thanks for the reply. I was referring to the dog bone style one. When I was researching a Bafang for my Catrike the conversion package came with it. I see the dog bone (double box end) one on your site is only $10 which is cheap enough but just wondering if those nuts are an industry "standard" size. @@JohnnyNerdOut

[@gbrldz0]

A vid on your opinion on the CYC X1 Pro gen 2 or the CYC x1 stealth would be cool.

[@JohnnyNerdOut]

It’s in the queue. Probably won’t be live until May-ish

[@JohnnyNerdOut]

@August Gronas what bike did you try? Some are better than others and some tune-able

[@leethomas1884]

Johnny, I live in Denver CO. . I'm going to take on a e-bike build. The issue I want to get your advice on is ; in the winter I'm inclined to want to travel to Tueson AZ with my e-bike which means it has to fold. Which foldable mens cruiser should I look to convert? Keep in mind I am retired and I have to take care of my rent here in Denver while I'm on my adventures, therefore, I'm attracted to 1) no insurance 2) no gasoline etc. I'm disabled now and I need the uphill power that the e-bike provides. I also need the excersise to keep independent. I've got a really bad back with a three level fusion and swimming and cycling is it for me...

[@jltsoyowdycjltsoyowdyc1076]

Ok, so ignore my last comment asking for build videos, now I know they are on the way, looking forward to it.

[@JohnnyNerdOut]

Its up my man!

[@cowcat7436]

My assumption is that one conversion could take all day and after $1000+ in parts, what do you net in labor for yourself?

[@leosiwicki2013]

can you give some insight on where to buy the parts and what is needed to build this conversion?

[@andyvast-binder4316]

I had an old bottom bracket tool from a while ago but it (of course) didn't fit the bike I was converting. I think it would have been cheaper to have taken my bike into the shop and have them remove it than to buy the tool. Oh well, next time

[@50nightowl]

Are the Lekkie chain ring available in Australia

[@JohnnyNerdOut]

Best bet is probably directly through Lekkie. They are in New Zealand .

[@fredchapa1914]

Hey Johnny I'm new to your channel and would like to covert my mongoose hitch to a ebike, I currently have hydrolic beaks installed. Can I order from you all that I need? Would like the 52v bafang BBSHD.

[@JohnnyNerdOut]

Hey Fred, yep I have an online shop @ johnnynerdout.com 👍

[@missakhaladjian]

Hi Johny. Do you know if the bbs02 500w fits on a 2017 specialized crosstrail? I have 70mm bb but behind bb cables are going to the back. Thank you

[@theenglishman8668]

Hi Johnny, I enjoy your videos as you provide a lot of good advice with humor. What size motor do you recommend for a Lightning P38 recumbent, to be ridden in the state of Texas (lots of restrictions)?

[@JohnnyNerdOut]

Since that thing weighs nothing, I’d go with a bafang bbs02 👍

[@theenglishman8668]

@@JohnnyNerdOut Thanks Johnny, you're the man. I've watched a lot of power assist conversation videos, and yours are the best..

[@AccordionSqueezer]

Which mid drive motor would you recommend for a Radrover? BBSHD or BBSO2b? What size is the Bottom bracket? What about the rear wheel? Or... Should I just use a mongoose Dolomite and put some good forks on it?

[@JohnnyNerdOut]

You would probably have to use the BBSHD 120mm for either bike as fat bikes generally have 120mm bottom brackets

[@rmccombs66]

If the tools are going to cost $1000 is it going to be worth it to build it myself.

[@desotopete]

His listed tools total...minus miscellaneous tools = $96.79

[@theenglishman8668]

If you plan on maintaining it, you may want a few tools..

[@IIMANIXII]

sometimes it's a 14mm nut on the pedal arm.

[@JohnnyNerdOut]

true, but rarely. 1/15 maybe i see

[@samhiggins9122]

JONNY WERE DO I FIND A RIGHT CRANK FOR THE CYCLONE MID DRIVR FREE WHEEL??????????????

[@JohnnyNerdOut]

Did you try cyclone-tw.com ?

[@kenroberts3454]

What are the correct Park Tool sockets to order for installing the lock rings? I would prefer to torque the nuts instead of just snugging them up.

[@JohnnyNerdOut]

There isn’t one unfortunately (at least for the main lock ring)

[@kenroberts3454]

Empoweredcycles sells both sockets. I just found them in a search.

[@JohnnyNerdOut]

@@kenroberts3454 are both in stock? I’m working on getting some made locally to sell😀

[@jayrobinson485]

Great Videos...Newbie here...Where can I get the needed special tools for a mid drive Bafang 750 w here in Vancouver Canada? Where can I get the Bafang 750 w motor and assembly parts ? Thanks

[@JohnnyNerdOut]

I do ship to Canada.. But there is also GoldenMotor

[@jayrobinson485]

@@JohnnyNerdOut do you know if there is duty at the border ?If so how much? I

[@JohnnyNerdOut]

@@jayrobinson485 I’m sure there is. Not sure though how much. I’m sure it’s googleable

[@pinstripebanditt]

hi ther thank you for your video im intrested in instilling a

[@duflyingdutchssswest-fries4941]

Beer !

[@xx-tl1fg]

what's the standalone tool that you need for the inner bb lockring?

[@JohnnyNerdOut]

It’s a bafang 2 in 1 tool

[@xx-tl1fg]

@@JohnnyNerdOut oh ya sorry i mean you mentioned one that would attach to a socket. what tool is that?

[@JohnnyNerdOut]

@@xx-tl1fg bottom bracket remover

[@nicholasn.2883]

I fucked up and stripped the threads on the cranks arm :(. Saw time

[@JohnnyNerdOut]

What crank puller did you use? You naught be able to rethread it in and get it out. Otherwise get an angle grinder and cut that sucker off

[@nicholasn.2883]

@@JohnnyNerdOut Nah I got lucky. I didn’t break all the threads. I thought I could hand tighten the tool in but it wasn’t enough

[@JohnnyNerdOut]

@@nicholasn.2883 The majority of the time I just hand tighten it. Dang

[@BootJamesOut]

hello folks. my favorite tool to use on a BB tool. Snap-on 3/8" drive with a flexible head and the handle is S shape. Why the BB tool stays in place. Ride Easy bjo

[@mikef8846]

He's cute.

[@leightonblackwell3901]

How much would you charge to make a e bike for a customer.

[@JohnnyNerdOut]

It really depends on the specs you are after. I charge $300 for labor and you can get an idea of prices for individual components on my website. If you're interested, you can schedule a consultation with me and we can go over your riding style/preferences and price out what a conversion would cost. www.johnnynerdout.com

[@JohnnyNerdOut]

$300 labor

[@leightonblackwell3901]

I’m a casual rider. I do prefer off-road riding. But a i do both on and off. I’d like a fat tire bike. The thing is I live in Yonkers nyc.

[@JohnnyNerdOut]

@@leightonblackwell3901 shipping would be about $150-200 each way

[@leightonblackwell3901]

I’m ok with that. Or you can purchase the bike and change me for that as well. I’ve got a 2-3k budget to work with. Let me know.

[@westmibaddrivers2573]

Great, u tube has a problem.. its showing the chainring video, but plays this one..

[@JohnnyNerdOut]

Weird

[@brianbassett4379]

You actually recommend using a hand wrench to tighten the main lock-nut on a BaFang mid-drive? This is why I hate KZbin more and more. People giving advice that profits them personally rather than showing how to perform the job properly. Use the proper sockets and a torque wrench folks it may not put money in this guy's pockets, but it's how it should be done correctly. Stay safe.

[@JohnnyNerdOut]

Im putting a video out soon showing an install video you’re gonna like that one. I go over all the different tools that you can use. There’s such a range of tools to use from basic to premium. I carry them all. There’s got to be a video I made that you like. There’s no way you can hate them all😀🤞

[@brianbassett4379]

@@JohnnyNerdOut It's not the videos, I have only seen those that I left a comment on John, it's the attitude and poor execution. Good luck and stay safe man.

[@JohnnyNerdOut]

@@brianbassett4379 I’m trying to get better each video. Incrementally. Sorry I’m not your cup of tea. Ride on!

[@brianbassett4379]

@@JohnnyNerdOut Then I suggest John that you not ask for handouts, or "test"... let alone actually recommend, items provided by manufacturers. The 1st time you give a negative review to any manufacturer the ride is over cause that's not what they expect. Until you Do give a negative review your word is meaningless to viewers, it's a Catch-22. Wanting to help people build a good to great ebike is admirable. I understand completely what crap is being sold online especially all the hub-motor junk and all the misleading bullshit spin that goes along with those rides. I'd also suggest you get good at what you are demonstrating before you make a video, which includes using the correct tools. If you don't have the correct tools then don't make the video until you do. That cute little BaFang hand wrench you showed should be carried during rides/tours and used only if it becomes necessary. It won't be if you used sockets and torqued to specs. Get better at the actual job and then worry about making a better video for assholes like me to be over-critical about. It's not you, your video production is fine, just do the job better. I did ride on today thanks... 30 some miles around the area, a stunningly beautiful day in the high 50s. Hope things work out for you, stay safe. - photos.app.goo.gl/hG4GAaCBWYBdsasW9

[@mhmm5398]

@@brianbassett4379 what a fkin melt bet ur wife loves u 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣