Ebike Hack: Increase Ground Clearance on a Bafang BBSHD Giant Talon Bike

How to Increase Ground Clearance for Your Bafang BBSHD Motor on Your Bike

Abbas from Golden Motor demonstrates how to increase ground clearance when installing a Bafang BBSHD mid-drive motor on a bike, especially useful for aggressive or trail riding.

For many riders—such as commuters, casual gravel riders, or light trail enthusiasts—motor ground clearance is usually not a major concern. The motor is well protected and positioned to avoid hitting obstacles.

However, for riders tackling heavy trails, jumping off rocks, or doing technical riding, maximizing motor clearance is important to prevent damage.

In this example, Abbas is installing a Bafang BBSHD on a 27.5-inch medium frame bike. Initially, the motor hangs about 7.5 inches (approximately 19 centimeters) above the ground, which is generally okay but could be improved.

To gain more clearance, the bottom of the bike frame near the motor mount can be shaved down slightly using tools such as a Dremel or an angle grinder. Even removing 2 to 3 millimeters of material can significantly increase clearance and reduce the risk of impacts.

Abbas opts to use an angle grinder for this task. He emphasizes safety first, including wearing a helmet and protective gear before grinding.

The process involves carefully grinding away material on the frame's bottom to allow the motor to sit slightly higher, thus increasing overall clearance.