How to increase the range of your e-bike
Can I influence the range of my e-bike? How far can I go with one battery charge?
These are questions that every e-biker has asked at some point. We have eight tips for you to help increase the range.
1. Don’t forget to change gear!
The faster you pedal, the further you will go. With a pedal frequency of 70 to 80 revolutions per minute, you can optimise the efficacy of the e-bike motor. Extremely slow pedalling, on the other hand, causes the battery to use more energy.
2. Adjust the assistance levels!
Although the highest assistance level provides the most support, it also uses the most energy. For this reason we recommend that you use the lower assistance levels on easy stretches of road.
3. Look after your bike!
Wheels with low tyre pressure have higher rolling resistance, which will cost you in terms of range. The correct tyre pressure combined with an oiled and well-maintained chain will ensure smooth riding and low rolling resistance.
4. Avoid stopping and starting!
Constant stopping and starting requires a great deal of energy. For this reason, you should switch to a low gear when you set off and look ahead when you ride so that you can avoid stopping and starting and ride at a consistent speed.
5. Reach your destination!
The shortest or fastest route is not always the best route. On steep inclines, the motor has to work harder and thus uses more energy from the battery. You might be able to take a short detour to avoid a steep incline or a few stops at traffic lights. The surface also affects rolling resistance, so resistance is considerably lower on a smoothly asphalted road than on a gravel path.
6. Charge the battery!
Make sure that your battery is always fully charged before you set off. If you leave a charger at work, for example, or pack one into your pannier, you will be able to charge your battery at work or en route. If your rides always involve very long routes and extensive tours, we recommend that you purchase a second battery or a FLYER e-bike with a DualBattery.
7. Offload heavy items!
Try to keep the overall weight as low as possible and offload unnecessary heavy items. Only take things with you that you really need en route. The basic rule is that less weight equals a longer range.
8. Watch the wind and weather!
Tailwind is good, but when you are riding into the wind, you may have to switch up a gear to move forwards. However, not only headwind, but also cold temperatures have a negative effect on the range. Read our tips on how to increase your range in winter.
Test the various effects of the different factors in the Bosch Range Assistant or directly en route on your FLYER e-bike.
