[qq4]

I strapped a no-name Chinese kW hub motor kit and a nice battery on a $100 steel mountain bike I grabbed off Craigslist. I've ridden in downpours, through snow and ice you name it. The bike kicks butt and was way cheaper than a car, not to mention quiet and super easy maintenance. I'm not surprised they're getting more popular. I hope small electric vehicles take over.

[edub]

Tip for anyone else planning on doing a conversion, milesvp mentioned in a thread a few months ago that other parts of the bike may likely need to be upgraded as well (brakes, suspension, ect): https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=28270121

[qq4]

I would suggest a steel frame with disc brakes. Suspension is a nice bonus. If it can carry a fat person it can carry a healthy person with battery and motor.