[HNaTTY]

$500 worth of batteries, $500 worth of motor, $500 worth of bike, and $2500 worth of R&D/marketing/CEO salary expenses.

Batteries have come down in price significantly, just in 2016, I'm sure due to the demand from electric cars. When e-bikes become more popular, and competition increases, the price will come down further. Right now, your best value for an e-bike is a DIY kit.