The most expensive component of your new electric bike is the battery and motor. Most of the price involved in buying a ready to go e-bike is the size of the bikes storage unit, the lithium-ion battery pack. These batteries are now used in all types of applications. So it’s no surprise to find them powering electric bikes. What you will discover, more expensive e-bikes have higher-tech batteries that are lighter, charge quickly, and last longer. Batteries degrade over time, holding less charge as they age.

The quality of an electric bike battery makes a difference

The better the battery is will help you maximize the distance (range) you expect to achieve, so look for a reputable named battery manufacturer. Then make sure the warranty covers the battery for at least two years. Conservatively lithium-ion batteries are typically said to last for 1,000 full charge cycles. That’s about three years of daily use five to seven times a week. With careful use, the battery can survive longer, so you should get at least 2,000 half-charge cycles. In practice, a battery life of several years is quite easy to achieve depending on how often you charge and store the battery.

A center post battery unit for an electric bike

To maximize the life of your electric bike battery

• Ride your bike a lot and charge it often
• If your bike comes with a smart-charge, faithfully disconnect the charger within 24 hours
• When not in use, for a week or more, charge the battery to only 40% to 70% of its capacity
• Then store the battery or bike and battery in a cool dry place, above freezing, Checking and charge every two to three weeks to keep it in that range.

For more information

Be sure to mark your calendar for the E-bike Challenge Minneapolis or visit a local bike shop in your area that sells and services electric bikes.