How to put together your 85%-assembled bike?Updated 6 months ago

You have selected the 85% assembled e-bike option. It should only take about 20 minutes to get your e-bike ready to go! Listen to one of our senior mechanics, Collin, explain how to properly set up your e-bike.

Assembling an 85% e-bike typically will require 4 easy steps to ensure proper setup and functionality. Here are the steps explained:

Step 1: Attaching the Handlebar

Begin by locating the handlebar stem on the bike frame. Align the handlebar with the stem, ensuring that it is facing the correct direction (usually marked "front" or with indicators for alignment). Insert the handlebar into the stem, making sure it is seated securely. Tighten the bolts or screws on the stem clamp using an appropriate tool, such as an Allen key or wrench, to firmly secure the handlebar in place.

Step 2: Attaching the Front Wheel

Next, position the front wheel in front of the bike frame, ensuring that the axle fits securely into the fork dropouts. Depending on the specific design, you may need to insert any quick-release skewers or through-axles provided with the bike. If the front wheel uses quick-release skewers, make sure to tighten them adequately to secure the wheel in place. There are 3 different types of wheels, with a different way to set  up for each of them :

Option 1: Through Axle

Definition: Front wheels with a through-axle require a different installation approach. Begin by aligning the wheel axle with the fork dropouts and insert the through-axle into the hub. Slide the axle through the fork dropouts, ensuring it is fully seated. Depending on the design, you may need to tighten the axle using a compatible tool, such as an Allen key or torque wrench. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the specific torque specifications.

Through Axles

Watch Collin, Bike Mechanic at Upway, explaining how to install a thru axle wheel: 

Option 2: Bolt On

Definition: Also called “Nut and bolt”, some front wheels utilize a traditional nut and bolt system for installation. Align the wheel axle with the fork dropouts and insert the axle through the hub. Secure the axle in place by threading nuts onto the exposed ends of the axle. Use an appropriate wrench to tighten the nuts securely, ensuring the wheel is firmly attached to the fork.

Bolt on

Watch Collin, Bike Mechanic at Upway, explaining how to install a bolt-on front wheel:

Option 3: QUICK RELEASE

Definition: This type of front wheel features a quick-release skewer mechanism. To install, align the wheel axle with the fork dropouts, ensuring it seats fully. Insert the skewer through the axle, ensuring it passes through both fork dropouts. Tighten the skewer nut on the opposite side until snug, then close the lever to secure the wheel in place. Ensure the lever is in the closed position and properly tightened to prevent any wheel movement.

Quick release

Watch Collin, Bike Mechanic at Upway, explaining how to install a quick-release wheel:

Step 3: Setting Up the Fender (if applicable)

If your e-bike includes a fender to protect against mud and water splashes, you'll need to attach it at this stage. Align the fender with the designated mounting points on the bike frame or fork. Secure the fender in place using the provided bolts or screws, ensuring a tight fit. Adjust the position of the fender as needed to ensure proper coverage and clearance from the tires.

Step 4: Attaching the Pedals

Lastly, locate the pedals and identify the right (marked "R") and left (marked "L") pedals. Align the threads of each pedal with the corresponding crank arm, ensuring they are threaded in the correct direction. Typically, the right pedal screws in clockwise, while the left pedal screws in counterclockwise. Use a pedal wrench or an adjustable wrench to tighten the pedals securely, but be careful not to over-tighten them to prevent damage.

Once all four steps are completed, double-check all connections and adjustments to ensure everything is properly assembled and secure. Your 85% e-bike is now ready for a test ride and further adjustments as needed. If you notice something wrong or need help for any of this step please feel free to reach out our support team.