Your e-bike’s battery is the heart of your ride, and knowing how to properly maintain and extend its life is key to getting the most out of your electric bike. Batteries are an expensive component, so taking care of them ensures you get the best performance and longevity.
1. Charging Habits: Keep It Topped Up or Fully Drain?
A common question for e-bike owners is whether to keep the battery topped up or let it drain fully before recharging. The short answer? Avoid letting it drain completely. Lithium-ion batteries, like those found in most e-bikes, perform best when kept between 20% and 80% charge. It’s good practice to charge your battery after every ride, even if it’s only partially drained. By avoiding a full discharge, you can help maintain the battery’s capacity over time.
2. Store Your Battery Correctly
When not using your e-bike for an extended period, such as during the winter, make sure to store the battery correctly. Keep it in a cool, dry place, ideally between 10°C and 20°C. Storing it fully charged isn’t advisable; aim for around 50% charge. This reduces stress on the battery and helps preserve its lifespan.
3. Monitor Temperature and Riding Conditions
Extreme temperatures can degrade your battery faster. During colder months, try to store your e-bike indoors or at least the battery itself in a warmer place. In high heat, avoid leaving your e-bike in direct sunlight for extended periods. Also, on rough or hilly terrain, your battery will drain faster. Try to use eco mode where possible and adjust your riding habits to extend the range and battery life.
4. Use the Right Charger
Using a charger not specifically designed for your e-bike can be detrimental to the battery’s health. Ensure you’re using the manufacturer’s recommended charger and keep an eye out for any signs of wear or fraying on the charger cable. Consistent overcharging is generally not an issue with modern e-bikes as they have in-built safeguards, but it’s good practice to unplug once fully charged if your model lacks this feature.
5. Regular Maintenance Checks
Regularly checking for corrosion on connectors and inspecting your battery for any physical damage can go a long way in maintaining its lifespan. Dust and moisture can sometimes cause issues, so clean the battery and its connections gently with a dry cloth if needed.
Always remember if you are in need of some extra help, don’t hesitate to give us a call on 0191 300 1590 or email us at [email protected].
Alternatively you can book your bike into our workshop via our online booking service – Click here to book
