Electric bicycles (electric bicycles) are first of all bicycles. It is like an ordinary bicycle, but with one difference, this is the name of the electric bicycle. It uses the same components, geometry and design as any other bicycle. However, unlike ordinary bicycles, it includes an electric motor. This type of bicycle also has a rechargeable battery that can provide additional power to the bicycle.
As an electric bicycle user, you may be wondering how likely it is to extend the life of the bicycle battery. Most electric bike users are very worried about their battery life. We are sure that you will be no exception. As the only power source for electric bicycles, it is obvious that a good battery is essential to your electric bicycle. In this article, we will explain in detail how to extend the life of electric bicycle batteries. In this way, you can enjoy the pleasure of using the bicycle for many years.
1. Quickly view your e-bike battery
Most electric bicycles use long-life lithium batteries directly from the manufacturer. Over the years, it has been proven that lithium batteries are superior to other types of batteries. They are light and compact (ie, your electric bike will not be much heavier). In addition, the battery can work effectively at any temperature. This allows you to enjoy the bike in different conditions throughout the season.
Using lithium batteries, self-discharge is low (usually about 5% per month). They are easy to charge and non-toxic. Most importantly, if properly maintained, you can extend the battery life of an electric bike up to 1000 charging cycles. Please follow the instructions and guidelines below to extend the running time and service life of the electric bicycle.
The service life of an electric bicycle is a function of the total number of charging cycles. It depends on the number of full charges the battery has experienced (0-100%). This will determine how long it lasts before losing its effectiveness. On average, lithium electric bicycle batteries can travel an average of 30 miles each time they are fully charged. If used properly, your lithium battery can last up to 1,000 full charges.
Each electric bicycle has a maximum total number of charging cycles. This is the total amount of charge cycles that the battery can withstand before it loses capacity. The total number of cycles is written in your user manual. Once the maximum charge cycle is exceeded, performance is expected to decrease. The battery will no longer be able to hold the charge sufficiently.
2. Familiar with your user manual
An important concept you need to consider is your user manual. In order to prolong the service life of the battery, it is very important to make your user manual your friend.
Before you ride for the first time, be sure to read your electric bike manual. Even if you are a bicycle expert, don't think you can solve all problems by yourself. If not handled properly, most batteries can endanger your health.
Electric bicycle batteries usually become less effective after 3 to 4 years of regular use. You need to know the charging and usage instructions of your electric bike. The only way to understand these instructions is to read your manual. Before you ride for the first time, please read the owner's manual correctly and follow its battery maintenance tips.
3. Maintain your electric bike with the correct charging method
Charging is the only way to use your electric bike and its battery. However, there are some ways to do this without affecting battery life. Here are some tips to ensure that you charge and use the battery efficiently:
*On the first ride
Fully charge the battery before before riding a new electric bike for the first time, make sure to fully charge the battery. It may take 4-7 hours to charge the battery for the first time, but it is worth the wait. This will ensure that its service life is extended.
*Don't wait until the battery is dead to recharge
Don't wait until the electric bicycle battery is dead before charging. Waiting until the battery is empty before charging will reduce its charge retention capability. It is best to fully charge the battery of the bicycle. It can be inserted even after a short ride. However, if you run out of battery power in some way, charge it as soon as possible.
*Always use the original charger
Do not match and mix chargers. Each charger has a specific capacity (input and output). In addition, using the wrong charger for your electric bike may cause potential fire and explosion. Therefore, always try to use the original charger of the electric bicycle.
*Create a dry and safe charging station
Recall that if not handled properly, electric bicycle batteries can be dangerous. A good way to extend the life of an electric bicycle battery is to designate a dry and safe place (charging station) to charge the electric bicycle battery. A good option is to empty some space in the garage. Or, if possible, you can charge your bicycle in an enclosed space outside the house. Always make sure that your charging space is dry and safe.
*Try to charge the battery slowly
Everyone likes fast charging. The concept of quickly charging a bicycle battery may be attractive. Nevertheless, electric bicycle batteries are more effective when charging slowly and have a longer lifespan. Whenever possible, use only recommended chargers for charging.
*Familiar with the battery's low voltage cut-off limit
It is important to understand the low voltage cut-off point of the battery. It will help you better understand the behavior of your electric bike battery. Most importantly, it will help you extend the battery life of your electric bike. Generally, the low voltage cut-off differs depending on the type of battery cell. Be sure to find the recommended low voltage cut-off for your bicycle.
*Understand the battery's high voltage cut-off limit
Make sure that the maximum voltage of the charger is the same as the maximum recommended voltage of the battery. If you do not know the maximum charging voltage of the battery, please check the battery user manual. Using a charger that exceeds the recommended limit may cause an explosion. In an emergency, be sure to prepare a fire extinguisher to extinguish the battery fire around the charging station.
Do not match and mix chargers. Each charger has a specific capacity (input and output). In addition, using the wrong charger for your electric bike may cause potential fire and explosion. Therefore, always try to use the original charger of the electric bicycle.
*Create a dry and safe charging station
Recall that if not handled properly, electric bicycle batteries can be dangerous. A good way to extend the life of an electric bicycle battery is to designate a dry and safe place (charging station) to charge the electric bicycle battery. A good option is to empty some space in the garage. Or, if possible, you can charge your bicycle in an enclosed space outside the house. Always make sure that your charging space is dry and safe.
*Try to charge slowly
Everyone likes fast charging. The concept of quickly charging a bicycle battery may be attractive. Nevertheless, electric bicycle batteries are more effective when charging slowly and have a longer lifespan. Whenever possible, use only recommended chargers for charging.
However, if you must buy a new charger, please do not buy a charger with a higher rated current. Purchase a low-current (approximately 2 to 4 amps) charger. Even better, you can buy a smart charger that can effectively switch between fast charging and slow charging.
*Familiar with the battery's low voltage cut-off limit
It is important to understand the low-voltage cut-off value of the battery. It will help you better understand the behavior of your electric bike battery. Most importantly, it will help you extend the battery life of your electric bike. Generally, the low voltage cut-off differs depending on the type of battery cell. Be sure to find the recommended low voltage cut-off for your bicycle.
*Understand the battery's high voltage cut-off limit
Make sure that the maximum voltage of the charger is the same as the maximum recommended voltage of the battery. If you do not know the maximum charging voltage of the battery, please check the battery user manual. Using a charger that exceeds the recommended limit may cause an explosion. In an emergency, be sure to prepare a fire extinguisher to extinguish the battery fire around the charging station.
More charging tips that can extend battery life include:
- Use minimal help as much as possible
- Quickly switch gears according to the terrain and your efforts
- Adhere to the ideal speed of the motor design
-Travel light, no heavy load
- Buy a better battery to increase the range
- Keep the tires well inflated
- Always charge it to more than 80% and don't let the battery drain excessively, which can cause the battery to overheat and expand. Replace the battery every three months. Do not overcharge the battery, which in turn will lead to the loss of its chemical substances.
How to prolong e-bike's battery lifespan?
