Electric bikes are the future. They are faster, more efficient and also better for the environment but how long does an electric bike charge last? There is a range of bikes available in the market today and there is something for everyone.
From improvements in technology to design components, there is a lot to choose from. The design and aesthetics aside, the functional parts of electric bikes attract maximum attention and several people have questions about that and rightly so.
One of the key things that weigh on the minds of most people is how long does an electric bike charge last? Let us answer that question for you. Read on!
How Long Does an Electric Bike Charge Last?
This depends on the brand and each brand will have its specifications. Though the difference and the range won’t be huge, it is difficult to give an accurate and exact number.
You can expect to go anywhere between 25-52 miles on a single charge on your e-bike. Some advanced bikes can also go up to 80 miles. The range is huge and you must check with the manufacturer who will be in the best position to answer this, taking into account the specifications of the bike.
On average, a fully discharged lithium-ion battery usually takes between 4-6 hours to charge. If the battery is not fully discharged, it may take slightly less time to recharge.
Besides, the last hour of charging is usually focused on recharging the cells so it does not make a difference to the overall process. You can charge 90% of your e-bike’s battery in 2.5-3 hours.
How Long Does an Electric Bike Battery Last?
The battery life of an electric bike is calculated in cycles.
This essentially means that electric bikes usually go on for a specific number of charging cycles till their battery depletes out and is no longer useful. In such a scenario, you would need to replace the battery with a new one.
Electric bikes usually undertake several hundred cycles of charge before turning redundant. But what is this number?
This depends on the battery types and how well you care for your bike. Those who maintain their bikes well are likely to see their bike’s battery last longer as with the case with any electrical or mechanical appliance.
Each battery type has its unique battery cycle. This determines the shelf life of your e-bike. Here is a look at some of the most common batteries out there and their shelf-life.
Lithium Batteries
These are one of the most common battery types in e-bikes. A well-maintained lithium-ion battery can go up to 1,000 charging cycles before giving up. For some models, this may be even higher.
Nickel Batteries
These batteries can last up to 500 charge cycles before getting fully depleted.
Lead Batteries
These are the least durable of the three and can last for approximately 300 charge cycles before getting depleted.
Having said this, it doesn’t mean that lithium batteries are the most superior. Sometimes a well-manufactured nickel or lead battery can last longer than a lithium battery as it depends on the manufacturer and also on the maintenance.
You should also go for a battery that comes with a warranty so you have a safety net to fall back on. Besides, you need to keep an eye out for any visible defects or signs that betray a problem with the battery. If your battery gets discharged soon or if there is a leakage of any sort, you need to get it fixed else it will negatively impact the battery life.
What Factors Influence the Battery Life?
A number of factors influence the battery life including the brand and the maintenance. Though a single charge can take you anywhere up to 70 miles, you must bear in mind that the level of assistance you use and the way you ride your bike will also impact the bike’s battery. It may sound strange, but it is true.
How Can You Prolong the Battery Life of Your Electric Bike?
This is a question many people have and this is an important one. If you can prolong the charge of your e-bike with simple tips and tricks, why not try them? They are going to make your bike last longer and also save you money and effort. Here are a few tried and tested tips you can take inspiration from:
The 12-Hour Charging Rule for a New Bike’s Battery
Once you get a new bike, make sure you spend half a day charging its battery. This is important to charge the cells properly and in getting the bike into the groove and prepare it for the time to follow. This long charging duration will ensure that the battery slowly comes to life.
Overcharging Is Counterproductive
Sometimes, you may feel like giving in to the impulse of overcharging your battery. But this is going to be counterproductive for this shelf-life. Unchecked and prolonged charging of the battery may lead to a poor charging cycle and harm the battery.
Hence, you should always time the battery charging cycle and never put it on charge and forget.
Charge Your Bike Regularly
Maintaining consistency and regularity in charging is key to a long battery shelf-life. Most batteries last longer when they are charged regularly.
Never reach a point where your battery is completely exhausted because charging a fully depleted battery will put more pressure on the battery. Instead, aim for a 30-60% rule. Put your battery on charge when it is 30-60% depleted.
Extreme Temperature Exposure Should Be Avoided
Moderate temperatures work best for bikes, especially when you are charging them. Never expose a battery to hot, humid or freezing temperatures during a charging cycle. The ideal temperature at this time should be between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
An Empty Battery Is Not Going to Be Useful
If you want to travel with your bike and want to carry an extra battery, make sure you don’t carry an empty one with you. Take a battery that is 40-60% charged for best results.
Keep It Cool
Never keep a fully charged e-bike battery exposed to elevated temperatures. You should always store your battery outside direct sunlight exposure and when not in use, make sure you store it in a cool, dry place.
How to Maintain Electric Bike Batteries?
Here are a few regular care tips that go a long way in keeping your bike’s battery in good shape and health.
- Use a charger and adapter in tandem while charging the battery so as to avoid short circuits.
- Give the battery some cooling time before putting it to use again. Don’t use it immediately after you finish charging it.
- Even if you don’t intend on taking out your bike for prolonged periods, charge the battery occasionally. This is good for the health of the battery.
- Keep the battery and the bike at a moderate temperature, ideally between 0-20 degrees Celsius, if possible.
- Do not bring water near the battery. If you are planning on cleaning or washing the bike, make sure you remove the battery first.
- A steam pressure washer is best avoided for washing the batteries of your electric bike.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many people are turning to electric bikes and for obvious reasons. This is why they tend to have a lot of questions about the battery life of the e-bikes. We have curated some of the most commonly asked questions just for you. Read on!
Can a Battery Wear Out When Not in Use?
When not in use, a battery self-discharges. This means that it would slowly lose out on the stored energy. Hence, you should charge it from time to time. Charging the battery once a month even when not in use is usually recommended.
Having said that, each manufacturer works differently and will have different recommendations on such situations. Make sure you read your bike’s user manual in such cases and follow it meticulously else you may risk your battery’s life.
What Happens When a Battery Reaches Its Maximum Number of Charging Cycles?
The maximum number of cycles refers to the cycles that a battery can go on without losing a lot of its efficiency. Once it is past that threshold, the efficiency will start depleting slowly.
What may happen is it would need frequent charging and show less power than earlier. It won’t stop working completely, but you may see minor signs of inconvenience or change. You should be the best judge in such a case and decide if replacement is the best possible option for you at the time.
The Final Word
If you ace the art of correctly charging and storing your e-bike’s battery, you are sure to prolong its shelf life saving money, energy and time. A well-maintained battery can last you years while a poorly maintained battery can die in just one season. Hence, make sure you do not neglect your battery at all and give due attention to the recommendations of the manufacturers.