The battery is the powerhouse behind any great e-bike; even the most top-spec motor can’t function without the driving force of an equally impressive battery. Contemporary electric bike batteries are typically highly durable and long-lasting, but they’re not all made the same.
The following guide will help you make an informed decision when choosing your next electric bike, and provide some basic tips for keeping an e-bike battery in the best shape for as long as possible.
Battery Basics: Key Areas to Check When Choosing an E-bike
Materials
Whilst some highly regarded but older e-bike models have nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) or nickel-cadmium batteries, most modern electric bikes feature a lithium-ion (Li-Ion) battery. By a country mile, lithium-ion batteries are most efficient in terms of range and durability. They’re lightweight, and only lose around 5% of their charge each month. In comparison, NiMH batteries typically lose around 20% in the same period.
Capacity
When looking at e-bike batteries, you’ll most likely see their capacity listed in Ah and/or Wh:
- Ah stands for amp-hours, and it tells you how much useable energy current the battery can deliver per hour.
- Wh stands for watt-hours. This is a more helpful and widely used measure of capacity calculated by multiplying the battery’s Ah by its voltage (usually 24v, 36v, or 48v). Wh is the best figure to look at for an overview of the battery’s capabilities, as it takes into account both current and voltage.
Components
The detailed chemistry of a lithium-ion battery doesn’t matter a great deal, but look for batteries with components produced by reputable electronics companies like Samsung, Sony, and Panasonic. For example, the E-movement Thor Mountain Electric Bike features a great 36v-10Ah Samsung battery.
How Long do E-bike Batteries Last?
E-bike batteries last around five years on average, but factors like quality, usage, maintenance and storage can reduce or extend this timeframe dramatically. Everything from how you ride to the weather and routes you take can impact how many miles you’ll get from a single charge.
5 key Factors That Affect E-bike Battery Range
- Terrain. Riding over uneven or hilly terrain will reduce an e-bike battery’s range. This is why mountain e-bikes often have higher capacity batteries than those intended for road use. For example, the Neomouv Cronos Mountain Electric Bike features a strong 468Wh battery.
- Speed. Naturally, riding at higher speeds means using more pedal assistance, and this will drain your e-bike’s battery faster than riding conservatively. It’s worth noting that stopping for frequent breaks can cause the battery to run down faster, too.
- Load. The heavier the rider and cargo, the higher the gross weight of the e-bike. More weight leads to more pedal assistance being required, ultimately putting greater strain on the battery and reducing range. Some e-bikes are designed to accommodate heavier loads, though. For example, E-movement’s Troy Pro Step Through Electric Bike is crafted to carry up to 100kg in gross weight, and its powerful 480Wh battery is more than capable of supporting it.
- Tyre Pressure. Low tyre pressure leads to higher resistance, meaning the e-bike battery has to do more heavy lifting.
- Environmental Factors. E-bike batteries tend to perform better in the summer months. When an e-bike battery gets cold, it stores and releases less energy, leading to noticeably shorter range. Sub-zero temperatures and frost can be particularly problematic, and prolonged exposure can lead to permanent damage or safety issues. A thermal cover is a great way to protect your e-bike battery during particularly chilly spells.
How to Care for Your E-bike Battery for Increased Longevity
Thankfully, your e-bike battery’s performance and lifespan are not all down to chance; there’s plenty you can do to keep it working efficiently for as long as possible. Below are a few of the most important basics – and most of them are pretty simple.
Cleaning and Basic Maintenance
E-bike batteries are durable and can withstand a lot, but it’s always best to remove them when cleaning your electric bike. If the battery itself needs cleaning, it can be carefully wiped down with a damp cloth after being removed from the e-bike. This can be a great time to check the battery for any signs of wear and tear. If you spot anything, stop using the battery and consult an expert for advice to prevent further damage.
Charging, Storage and Transportation
To preserve its longevity, try not to keep your e-bike battery plugged in after it has reached full charge. Avoid using unapproved chargers, too, as this could damage the battery and even invalidate your warranty. E-bike batteries should be stored in a dry, room temperature location away from direct sunlight. Generally, it’s recommended to keep the battery charged to around 30-60% while in storage to extend its lifespan; don’t let the power fully drain.
Choosing and Maintaining E-bike Batteries: An Overview
Selecting the Right Battery
When looking for your perfect e-bike, batteries are just one piece of the puzzle, and newer electric bike models generally feature high-performing and long-lasting batteries. There’s no need to worry about it too much, but check the following three areas to get an overview of whether an e-bike’s battery is suited to your needs:
- Is it a lithium-ion battery? Most e-bike batteries are, and this is almost always the best option.
- What is the battery’s capacity? Is it high enough for your intended usage?
- What companies are the components made by? Can you see any reputable brands?
Handy Checklist for Maintaining Your E-bike Battery’s Range and Health
- Remove the battery from the frame when cleaning your e-bike
- Clean the e-bike battery carefully with a damp cloth as needed
- Don’t keep the battery plugged in after it reaches full charge
- Only use approved chargers for your e-bike battery
- Store the battery in a dry, room temperature location away from direct sunlight
- Keep the battery at 30-60% charge when in storage
- Protect the e-bike battery with a thermal cover in cold weather
E-Bikes Express’ experts are ready to help you find an e-bike with the perfect battery to accommodate your needs, and can offer tailored advice on proper electric bike battery care and maintenance. Call us today to find out more.
