Wondering, what’s with the electric bike obsession? The answer is the battery! The mighty invention of electric bikes is a fantastic choice for bike lovers, as the batteries do all the work for you while you put all your energy into enjoying your rides and adventures. Hence, the popularity!
This makes the battery the most crucial feature of an electric bike. This makes the battery the most crucial feature of an electric bike and electric unicycle. Needless to say, every electric bike owner should ensure that they take proper care of it too.
Scroll down to learn how to take care of your electric bike and keep it fit and fine.
Steps For Proper Maintenance Of Your Electric Bike
Firstly, don’t stress about the e-bike’s battery mount on the frame – it’s waterproof! It still means that you have to put in the effort to ensure that all the parts that are in contact with the battery are dry and clean.
If you compare a conventional bike with an electric bike, you’ll know that reviews for multiple bike owners suggest that they are similar in many ways. However, electric bikes require special cleaners as it is better to use them to clean the particular parts of the electric bikes. Moreover, you want to use the right agents and steps to ensure that your bike is in its best form to prevent surface damage.
1. Cleaning Agents
Among all the available cleaning products, spray cleaners are known to be more practical than others. This is because you can easily use it to get into the rusty dirt on the chain, including the larger areas, by soaking it and wiping it off afterwards.
E-bikes are far more stable and solid, which indicates that the lifespan on these are far more, given you are following the right steps for taking care of them regularly.
2. Pole Grease over Lubricants
Keep in mind that the plug area should be clean at all times. You can use mechanical vaseline or pole grease for this matter. If you are more comfortable using lubricants, you should be gentle as the brake discs and the sprocket does not get damaged in the process.
3. Service Cleaning Frequency
Once you have crossed over 300 kilometers, you should get it cleaned by a professional cleaner. Repeat this step every time you have covered this distance for your bike’s optimum durability. While it’s being serviced, it’s also a good idea to get the chain lubrication checked.
For riders who like to go on adventures with your e-bikes, this is particularly essential as salt water or extreme weather conditions may impact the bikes special parts. Mud, and other dirts can dry up and interfere with the bikes functionality. Hence, chain lubrication is vital.
During winter, if your e-bike is exposed to snow or ice, use a salty spray to get rid of the snow after every use. Make sure you allow it to dry thoroughly.
It’s important to consider that some of the important parts of your electric bike can collect particles of dirt over time. To prevent it from damaging the components of your bike, you should check them frequently. If required, clean it yourself when necessary.
4. Charging the Battery
Ideally, the most secure way to charge the electric bike battery is to connect it to the charger before you plug it and switch it on. This ensures that there’s no arcing when the battery is being charged. Disconnect it when the battery is full. Do not leave it charging overnight.
5. Charging the Battery After Every Ride
Charge it after every use if you are a regular user, and travel long distances with it. However, we do not recommend charging it right after use. Wait at least 30 minutes for the battery to settle and cool down before you plug it in for a recharge.
If you own an expensive electric bike, we highly recommend it to be disconnected before it reaches 100% battery life. The reason is, the BMS (battery management system) in your E-bike is likely to overcharge it, which can interfere with the lifespan of your bike.
This practice protects the battery health and cells. It’s also important to pay attention to the voltage range on your LCD while charging it to prevent damage.
6. Off-Season
During your hibernation period, don’t abandon it. Store the batter inside if you are not actively using it for a certain period, such as winter. But, ensure that the battery has a minimum of 50% charge before putting it away. If it goes below, please remember to recharge it even if you are riding your bike.
7. Transporting Your E-bike
Electric bikes are an excellent travel companion, especially for adventures on holidays. When you are on a truck bed or a rack, you should carefully remove the battery from its frame while it’s being transported. Any exposure to water can be damaging to your electric bike’s components. Use a waterproof bike cover at all times.
8. 80/20 Rule
Here’s another maintenance tip for your battery’s optimal health. Follow the 80% battery life, and 20% voltage rule. This is strongly recommended by e-bike enthusiasts and experts and verified by the voltage vs percentage charge. As mentioned earlier, you can monitor the voltage and electricity rates on your LCD screen to determine the power levels when you charge it.
FAQ:
1. How often should I charge my electric bike’s battery?
Answer: It’s recommended to charge your electric bike’s battery after every use, even if you’ve only used a small amount of the battery’s capacity.
2. What kind of maintenance does an electric bike require?
Answer: Like any bike, an electric bike requires regular maintenance, including keeping the chain lubricated, checking the brakes and tires, and ensuring the frame and components are clean and free of debris.
3. Can I ride my electric bike in the rain?
Answer: Electric bikes are generally designed to be weather-resistant, but it’s always a good idea to avoid riding in heavy rain or standing water. If you do ride in wet conditions, be sure to dry off your bike afterward and check for any signs of corrosion or damage.
4. How can I extend the lifespan of my electric bike’s battery?
Answer: To extend the lifespan of your electric bike’s battery, avoid storing it in extreme temperatures, such as in direct sunlight or freezing temperatures. Additionally, avoid fully discharging the battery whenever possible, and try to keep it charged between 20% and 80% capacity.
Conclusion
The set of tips discussed above applies to everyone who owns an e-bike or is contemplating purchasing one. Whichever it is, it needs your love and care, especially the heart of your e-bike, the battery. Trust us; it will love you back. If you want to indulge in more miles, follow these useful tips to take care of your electric bike and prevent any range loss. We hope you and your electric bike have the longest and happiest relationship. Have fun riding!
