So this is a cool question:
I cant currently drive so my ebike is my primary way of getting around. I need to leave it outside shops and train stations etc.
So the £3K bikes are a no no for me.
My ebike is built on a Yose Power rear kit. The kit cost me £365 new (including battery). The bike is an old hybrid (worth about £50)
Add the cost of some small items like brake pads and a new tyre/ gear cable etc it is probably about £520 all in.
It will easily do 40 miles on a mid level assistance setting on a LOT of hills!
Theft proof was my no 1 requirement. So this is my setup:
1. 2 x really good locks, 1 chain, 1 D - lock (this is an additional cost)
2. Always take the battery with me
3. I have setup the LCD to be able to easily removed, if going to be away for a prolonged period of time.
4. I am sometimes conscious of constant unplugging my LCD, so the fall back is an old pair of manky oily underpants that I wrap around the display to cover it for short stops.
5. Make the bike look as least like an ebike as possible. I use rubber black tape on the wiring that makes it look quite non ebike ish
6. Park it under CCTV or where it is harder to thief
7. Park it next to bikes that clearly are worth a lot more!
And the final one, which I believe is the secret.
8. Make it look like a bag of **!!!!
I actively do not clean the frame (only the motor), so it is quite muddy. I have deliberately scratched the frame and pealed off the branded names.
I have also stuck some parcel tape and a few "my little pony" girls stickers around the frame. (if someone does nick it then they have the humiliation of riding it looking like a 6 year old girl!)
Conscious this is not for everyone, but anyone who needs it as a must it might help!
I will try and get some pictures or make a little video
