Every E-bike has a battery, which is an essential part of the bike. The wattage and volts are different between bike models, and some bikes have batteries fitted into their frame, while others simply attach them to the top.
In principle, your E-bike battery should last between two and five years. For this to be the case, you need to take care of it. Specifically, you should avoid the following things that can damage your battery:
Overcharging The Battery
You’ve probably heard stories of lithium-ion batteries catching fire. It’s a real risk, which is why you should carefully check the reputation of an electric bike manufacturer, even if it’s a big name like DiRodi or Yerka or a reputable retailers like NGMobility before you commit to buying.
Batteries tend to catch fire if they are left plugged in for too long. The premium makes have cut-outs that stop the charging process once the battery is full. Without this, the charging will continue.
In the first instance, this leads to overheating, which can damage the battery. If left longer, the overheating can cause a fire.
In short, make sure the battery is unplugged as soon as it is fully charged.
Fully Discharging It
Allowing the battery to become fully discharged also causes damage to the cells inside the battery. In many cases, this damage is irreparable, leaving you with an underperforming battery.
It’s advisable to recharge your E-bike battery as soon as it gets down to 20% charge.
Damage
This is a fairly obvious one. If you damage your battery by dropping it off on the bike, hitting the battery, or any other type of accident, you’re likely to cause structural damage to the battery.
A damaged battery could be dangerous to charge, may provide intermittent power, or may simply stop working.
To avoid damaging it, look after your bike and make sure it is always securely attached to your bike.
High & Low Temperatures
If you ride your bike all year you can’t help but expose your bike to some extreme weather. However, you should be aware that the colder it is the harder the battery has to work to provide power. That will reduce its effectiveness and lifespan.
Extreme heat is worse, as this can cause the battery to overheat and become damaged.
In short, make sure your battery is protected from extreme weather, even if that means covering it while parked in the sunshine.
Using The Wrong Charger
If you can’t find your charger and your friend offers you one, proceed with caution. The charger must have the right connector and it must be the right voltage. If it’s incorrect you’ll damage the battery.
It’s better to order a replacement charger from your manufacturer or carefully check the specs before using any charger.
Summing Up
If you start to notice a decline in performance or riding distance then your battery is likely damaged and reaching the end of its life. It’s advisable to change it sooner and avoid being stranded with a dead battery.
Of course, if you look after it, your E-bike battery can last for years.
