How to maintain your e-bike

Maintaining an e-bike is essential to ensure its longevity, performance and safety. Regular maintenance will also help you enjoy a smooth and trouble-free riding experience. Here are some of our tips on how to maintain your e-bike.

1. Read the manual:

 

Not one of the most enjoyable activities, but a necessary one. Familiarize yourself with the manufacturer’s guidelines and instructions for your specific e-bike model. These will provide valuable information on maintenance procedures and safety precautions.

 

2. Keep it clean:

 

Regularly clean your e-bike to prevent dirt and debris from accumulating. Use a soft brush or cloth to remove dirt from the frame, chain/belt and other components. Avoid using high-pressure water as this may damage electric components.

 

3. Check the tires: 

 

Inspect the tires for any signs of wear or damage on a regular basis. Maintain the recommended tire pressure as it will impact your e-bike’s performance, efficiency and the radius of your battery.

 

4. Check the brakes:

 

Ensure that the brakes are working correctly. Adjust brake pads if necessary, and replace them when they are worn out. Properly functioning brakes are crucial for your safety.

 

5. Inspect the drivetrain:

 

Whether your e-bike has a chain or a belt, always check both and keep them clean. Clean and lubricate the chain to prevent rust and wear. This will help improve pedaling efficiency and extend the lifespan of the drivetrain.

 

6. Battery care:

 

This point might actually be the most important of all because without a working battery an e-bike is useless. Follow the instructions for charging and storing the battery. Avoid exposing the battery to extreme temperatures, and charge it regularly to keep it in good condition. If your e-bike has a removable battery, make sure it is properly secured during rides.

 

7. Check electric components:

 

Inspect the wires, connectors, and display console for any signs of damage. If you notice any issues, consult a dealer about repairs. Don’t attempt to repair things yourself as this could make your warranty invalid.

 

8. Inspect the frame:

 

Once in a while, check the frame for cracks, dents or other damage. If you notice any structural issues, contact your dealer for an assessment and possible repair.

 

9. Suspension maintenance:

 

If your e-bike has suspension components, follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for maintenance and adjustments. Keeping your suspension in good condition will improve riding comfort and handling.

 

10. Keep it stored properly:

 

Taking care of your e-bike also means that you have to store it in a dry and secure location. If you store it for an extended period, for example in the winter or when you are on vacation, remove the battery and store it in a cool and dry place.

 

11. Regular servicing:

 

We would advise you to take your e-bike to a professional bike mechanic / dealer for regular servicing and maintenance at least once a year. They can identify and address any underlying issues and take care of the software updates. A dealer ensures that your e-bike remains in top condition.

 

 

See our dealer locator for your closest dealer: https://www.flyer-bikes.com/en/find-a-dealer

How to take care of the battery

 

E-bike batteries are expensive. Make sure you take good care of them. After an e-bike has been stored over the winter, some owners get a nasty surprise when they find out that they did not take good care of their battery, which, unfortunately, has died over the winter. With these tips, your battery will not only make it through the winter, but will also maintain its capacity.

  • Use the manufacturer’s chargers:

Your e-bike always comes with its own charger. Always use a charger recommended by the manufacturer to avoid damage. Using incompatible chargers can damage the battery or lead to suboptimal charging.

 

  • Charge at room temperature:

Ideally, you should charge your battery in an environment with a moderate temperature (around 20 – 25 degrees). Extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, can affect battery performance and lifespan.

 

  • Avoid discharging:

Try not to fully discharge your battery before recharging it. Lithium-ion batteries are best kept at a partial charge when not in use. It’s generally recommended to recharge the battery when it reaches 20-30% capacity rather than letting it become entirely empty.

 

  • Charge after each ride:

If possible, get into the habit of charging your battery after each ride, even if the battery is not fully empty. This helps maintain the battery at an optimal level and ensures you’ll have sufficient power for the next ride.

 

  • Don’t overcharge:

Most e-bike batteries are designed to stop charging automatically once they reach their full capacity. However, it is still good practice to unplug the charger as soon as the battery is completely charged to prevent any potential issues.

 

  • Avoid charging for too long:

While, generally speaking, it is safe to charge your battery overnight, it is better not to do this on a regular basis. Frequent night charging might lead to slight overcharging, which can affect the battery’s long-term health.

 

  • Check battery connections:

Ensure that the battery is securely connected to the charger and the charging port on your e-bike or battery. Loose connections can lead to inefficient charging or damage to the charging port. If, for whatever reason, you drop your battery from a significant height, go to your dealer and have them check the battery for damage before using it.

 

  • Monitor charging temperature:

During the charging process, the battery may become slightly warm, which is totally normal. If you notice excessive heat or any unusual smells, disconnect the charger and allow the battery to cool down. When cooled, seek advice from your nearest dealer.

 

  • Store the battery properly:

If you are not going to use your e-bike for a longer period, store the battery in a cool and dry place with a charging level between 40-60%. Avoid storing it full or empty for long periods.

How to store your e-bike during the winter

Storing your e-bike properly during the winter months is crucial for maintaining its performance and will ensure that you are on the road sooner when the weather starts to get better. We would recommend you carry out the following steps to store your e-bike over winter.

  1. Clean the bike.
  2. Inspect it for any damage.
  3. Remove the battery and store with a capacity of 40-60%.
  4. Deflate your tires a little to reduce the pressure on the sidewalls during storage. This helps prevent unnecessary stress on the tires and maintains their shape.
  5. Lubricate the chain.
  6. Find a suitable storage location, don’t leave your e-bike outside.
  7. Store the e-bike at a height, if possible. Use a bike stand or hang the e-bike to keep it off the ground. This prevents the tires from resting on a cold surface and potentially developing flat spots
  8. Cover the bike with a breathable bike cover or old bedsheet to protect it from dust and moisture.
  9. Check on it periodically. Check the tire pressure and inflate if necessary, and check if the battery is still between 40-60% capacity.

How to prepare your e-bike for spring

If your bike has been stored over winter and the weather starts to get warmer, it is time to get your bike out of storage and prepare for your first spring ride.

 

Remove the dust, check the brakes and the drivetrain, and inflate the tires to the recommended level. Charge the battery and check whether the electric components are still in good condition.

 

Having your e-bike checked by your dealer ensures it is in top condition and ready for the season – and lots of kilometers.

by Nancy Floris
21 September 2023