Need advice on buying an e-bike kit

[puddleglum]

Hi all,
here's the deal. I talked to a guy today about a used E-bike kit. Turns out he has two. One is a front drive Wilderness Energy 500w motor and 36/48v controller. The other is a Crystalyte 400w rear motor with a multispeed cluster and a 36/48v controller. He couldn't tell me the model of the controllers or hubs. I'm wondering which would be the better choice. I've read a rear wheel motor is safer, but never tried either. Is one more reliable than the other? Also, I've read that both companies made brushed and brushless motors. What is the easiest way to tell the difference, and should I stay away from it if it is brushed? The Crystalyte is newer, but was repaired once under warranty he said. Any advise or things I should be looking for would be helpful.
Thanks

[Frank Lee]

I have a Bike Bug two stroke front drive. There is nothing scary about a front drive bicycle assist- at least at low power levels.

[Grant-53]

The best thing is to first check the manufacturers' websites. They can tell specifications and whether the parts are still available. Once you have some model numbers you can search the web for reviews. With any machine consider where and when will you use it. What might be the average annual costs over the expected life of the unit? Do you ride on dirt or pavement? Do you use panniers or a trailer? Is the steering geometry very responsive or laid back? Will you have to rebuild the wheel to use the hub? Is the gearing right for you if you need to ride home on a low battery? Does the controller allow for regenetive or dynamic braking? Is there enough room on the handle bars for everything to fit comfortably? How will you charge the batteries between trips? What state laws apply to your vehicle? I don't mean to be a bore but you will come out ahead if you do some homework first. Any fairing or streamlining you can do will improve your range. Enjoy!