Everything you need to know about e-bike (electric bicycle) batteries

E-bikes (bicycles with pedal assistance) have become extremely popular in recent years, and one of the most important parts of an electric bicycle is of course: the battery. The battery not only determines how far (range) you can ride, but also the performance (power) that your e-bike can deliver. In this article we discuss the advantages of good quality e-bike batteries, provide maintenance tips and answer the most frequently asked questions.

​

A good quality e-bike battery offers several advantages:

• Longer range
  Modern batteries of good quality now have a range of over 200 kilometers, of course depending on the driving conditions such as many hills and/or a lot of headwind.

• Cost savings
  Compared to a car or scooter, the charging costs of an e-bike battery are much lower.

• Sustainability
  Electric bicycles are more environmentally friendly than vehicles that use fossil fuels.

• Flexibility
  Batteries can be easily charged and often changed, so you never have to be without power. For example, a charger is easy to take with you, so you can recharge the battery (even if only partially) on the road, which of course greatly increases your range.

• Reduction of physical exertion
  For people who, for whatever reason, have less strength in their legs, an e-bike is of course a godsend. With a charged battery you can cover long distances without much effort, ideal for commuting or recreational trips.

​

Maintenance tips for a longer lifespan

To maximize and optimize the lifespan of your e-bike battery, good maintenance - as with so many things - is of course essential!

So here are some tips:

• Charge the battery regularly
  Do not use the battery until it is completely empty, but charge it when the capacity is still around 20-30%!

• Store the battery at the right temperature
  Extreme heat or cold will not only significantly reduce performance (which may be a luxury problem in itself), but it will also significantly reduce the lifespan of the battery. And that only costs (unnecessary) money of course! So preferably store the battery between 10 and 20 degrees Celsius.

• Use the right charger
  Always use a charger with the correct voltage to prevent damage to the battery!

• Avoid long-term full charging
  Do not try to keep the battery 100% charged all the time, but charge it to about 80-90% to reduce wear (which charging inevitably entails).

• Clean the battery terminals
  Keep the contact points clean and dry to ensure a good connection.

• Use the battery regularly
  Batteries that are not used for a long time can lose capacity. If you do not use the e-bike for a long time, charge the battery to about 50% and store it in a dry place.

​

Frequently asked questions about e-bike batteries

• How long does an e-bike battery last?
  On average, an e-bike battery lasts between 3 and 5 years, depending on use and maintenance.

• How can I (significantly) increase the range of my e-bike?
  Ride in an energy-efficient mode (eco), actively pedal as much as possible, avoid unnecessary luggage and make sure the tires are properly inflated. The softer the tires, the greater (of course) the rolling resistance.

• Can I leave my e-bike battery in the bike during the winter?
  No. As discussed in the tips above, it is better to store the battery indoors at a mild temperature to prevent damage from extreme heat or cold.

• How do I know when my battery needs to be replaced?
  If you notice that the range decreases significantly or the battery no longer charges properly, it may be time for replacement.

​

By properly maintaining your e-bike battery and using it wisely, you can extend its lifespan enormously and thus enjoy your electric bike optimally and for much longer!