Would this bike be good for a conversion?

[Richard_UK]

http://www.halfords.com/cycling/bikes/mountain-bikes/carrera-banshee-x-full-suspension-mountain-bike-large-19

I've been offered one of these for a good price, I want to build a fast conversion with throttle control (offroad use only of course). Would this bike be good for it? And if so, would it be best with fwd or rwd?

 

[Deleted member 4366]

I've seen a few of those for sale on Ebay with broken rear sub-frames. I'd go for a stronger frame like a Giant NRS.

 

[trex]

you need to work out battery capacity requirement, then where to fit it and how to fit it. You can't count on the two lugs on the downtube to hold the battery, probably not strong enough, therefore, may be some extra bracketing is needed.
For offroad use, is it downhill or muddy tracks?

 

[Richard_UK]

The battery I wanted to try and fit in a backpack, for me stealth is very important. I should have put a wink next to offroad use only

 

[trex]

that's very sensible.
go for a Bafang CST. You can probably hide the controller in the rucksack too.

 

[Richard_UK]

Thanks for the tips guys. D8veh the frame problem you mentioned.. is this just a problem if using it for strenuous offroad use?

Also, off topic I know but any news on my friends a2b battery? (I haven't spoken to him recently).

 

[Deleted member 4366]

Thanks for the tips guys. D8veh the frame problem you mentioned.. is this just a problem if using it for strenuous offroad use?

Also, off topic I know but any news on my friends a2b battery? (I haven't spoken to him recently).

I don't know what the problem is. I used to trawl through Ebay looking for FS donor bikes, and I saw a few with broken sub-frames. I just did a search on Google and found this:
http://www.mtbe.co.uk/carrera-banshee-x-t23813.html

this:
http://www.reviewcentre.com/reviews115475.html

and this:
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/carrera-banshee-frame-Broken-/281361503354?nma=true&si=L2ZOgKDAvOVUQtP9lxvSeTjOTFg%3D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc&_trksid=p2047675.l2557

They all brak in the same place. That's without the weight and torque of a motor. I'd keep well clear of this bike. I bet if you check it, it's already cracked.

 

[Richard_UK]

It's a 2008 model if that makes any difference.