Do I have to use Aluminum rims?

[Patriot]

Another thread came up asking a similar question.

I have an old Peugot I want to convert to Electric.

Do I have to get rid of the Rigida Chrome Steel rims?

Do I have to add Canti-lever or Disc brakes?

Everyone says the braking isn't as good, and not safe, because the rims have no inner bead lip.

Somehow, I think it will work, even with the old Mafac Racer brakes. If I use some Avid Flat Bar brake levers, I can put alot of force on them to stop.

Why is all this such a big deal?

[cerewa]

Having good brake performance is a big deal. With an e-bike, you will need it.

You may be able to get your steel rims and old-school calipers to work well, especially if you are using good brake levers. Using good brake pads (Kool stop is a brand I know is good) is also important. It's also critical to have your brakes adjusted carefully by someone who's capable of doing it right. Adjusting the brakes every month may also be necessary.

Many steel rims brake very badly when wet. Kool Stop salmon pads might solve the problem, though. (I've only used Kool stop salmon's in dry weather.)

A problem with kool stop salmon pads is they don't work as well above about 100 degrees F. Going down a mountain in hot weather (especially) with 'em seems like a bad plan to me. If 100deg. is a problem for you, you could try one salmon pad on the front brake and one on the rear.