Suitable Bike to Electrify

[BartBart]

I have a mid 2000s Litespeed Pisgah which I'd really like to convert with a middrive Bafang motor. Has anyone performed this sort of upgrade on a titanium bike, does it make a suitable platform for this kind of project and is there anything special I should know working on a Ti bike? Thanks

[Wheelbender6]

I have not seen a Ti framed e-bike. That doesn't mean there aren't any.
My only reservation, is that a Ti bike is already a magnet for thieves.
Adding an electric kit will only increase the attractiveness to thieves.

One the other hand, a Pisgah with a mid-mount motor kit would make a great e-bike.

[Gr8fun]

Most people are actually afraid to ride my bike. When asked if they would like to ride it, they actually have a look of fear in their face.
And yes, they will probably fall in the first five feet. Especially if they can not figure out how to turn it on. Once that first five feet is mastered,you are gone.
I have had many bikes stolen in the past.
But nobody has touched my current bike in three years.
If they did decide to steal it, every sherriffs officer in the county knows who it belongs to.
Don't hide. Be bold. Be visible. Drive safe and sane.

[Retrorockit]

I would suggest getting a basic mid 2000 MTB donor bike. 26" with disc brakes and a decent fork to convert. They don't cost much, and keep the Pisgah as is. All the advantage of a Ti bike will be lost when you strap a battery and mid drive on it. I love my BBSHD Gary Fisher Solstice comfort bike, and keep my KHS Team Issue XC Softtail just the way it is. I really enjoy the contrast of getting off of the big GF road burner and riding the light responsive XC bike. I think you'll be ahead in value with a strong E bike, AND a light Ti XC bike in your stable.
It would be like putting a big block Chevy in a Ferrari.
If you just gotta do it, I would go with a hubmotor that you can remove easily.

[TNC]

OP, I continually ask this in posts like this because it isn't mentioned. What do you intend to use this conversion for? To me, that might help determine whether the Litespeed will be a bad-good-better-best candidate for this application. Also if you're no longer in love with the Pisgah, there is a decent used market for many Litespeed Ti bikes out there. A lot of hardcore single-speeders, fixie riders, and just plain old school Ti bike folks love those things. All the normal light weight love of Ti will be lost in a conversion like this...for the most part. So you might sell this bike for a more than normal premium and get something more suitable for whatever role it is you're looking for.

[Gr8fun]

All choice of bikes depends on is the intended use. My use is on the road touring and cargo. Do not confuse that with speed and off road use.
determined purpose determines choice of frame.

i personally prefer lwb recumbent steel. With "normal" size tires. "Normal" compo ents.
Modified for solar and electric, weather protection.

If you want to go fast and off road, DO NOT LISTEN TO ME.