Whether you’ve just purchased an e-bike or are looking after a second one, you will want to ensure you take the necessary steps to keep your ride in tip-top condition. There are a few things to remember, including how to clean your electric bike and keep your battery charged. In addition, you should make sure your drivetrain is well-lubricated.
Lithium Ion Batteries are Low Maintenance.
Whether you’re new to electric bikes or looking to replace your old battery, it’s essential to know how to care for your electric bike battery properly. Proper care will ensure you get the most out of your battery and avoid unnecessary breakdowns or malfunctions that would require you to visit an electric bike shop.
Lithium Ion batteries are generally low maintenance. They have high energy density and are very lightweight. They also offer low self-discharge. But they do have some drawbacks.
First, lithium batteries prefer to be partially charged. The best way to charge them is to set a charge level at about half to two-thirds. This will ensure the batteries are kept at a comfortable temperature and slow their aging process.
Second, lithium batteries can become damaged and explode if they overheat or catch fire. If you see signs of damage, you’ll want to replace them immediately.
Third, lithium batteries should not be stored in direct sunlight. Leaving them in the sun will cause them to shorten their life. They should be stored in excellent, dry conditions.
Keep your Drivetrain Well-Lubricated
Keeping your drivetrain well lubricated is essential to maintaining your electric bicycle. It improves the performance of your bike and helps prevent corrosion. It also prevents wear and tear.
A well-oiled drivetrain is easy to pedal and provides a smooth ride. This is especially important for e-bike owners who often ride off-road. It also prevents squeaking, which can be a nuisance.
Keeping your drivetrain well lubricated should be a regular maintenance routine. This is especially true during winter when your bike is often left outside. You also must ensure your brakes are working correctly and have the correct air pressure in your tires.
Remember that you must choose the best lubricant for your specific situation. You should use mild spray oil to lubricate cables and brake pads. You can also lubricate your drive chain with quality chain oil.
Another good idea is to clean your chain with a degreaser. This will help free up dirt and grime, which is sometimes hard to remove. It also helps the lubricant get to those hard-to-reach places.
Clean your E-bike Regularly
Keeping your electric bike clean is an essential part of maintaining its performance. It helps prevent dirt from interfering with the bike’s electronics and can also help prevent scratches. It may also increase your battery’s life span. Keeping your bike in top shape will save you money in the long run.
For optimal cleaning performance, use an electric bike cleaning tool, such as a specialized soft-bristled brush. Using a low-pressure hose can be helpful, too. However, use caution when cleaning near the motor. Use an air compressor to blast away any water droplets that have built up.
Another helpful cleaning tool is a bicycle work stand. This allows you to wiggle parts while you are cleaning. It is also a good idea to use a clean, dry towel to absorb any visible traces of water.
It’s also essential to clean your e-bike’s drivetrain. Drivetrain components are subject to more force than other components and require special attention. The drivetrain has several parts, including the cranks, the chain, the pedals, the derailleur, and the brake pads.
Charge your Battery Regularly.
Whether you’re storing your electric bike or like to ride, you need to charge your battery regularly. Batteries last a long time if you properly maintain them. Here are some tips to get the most out of your battery.
The best way to charge your battery is to use a smart charger. The intelligent charger will indicate that it’s fully charged and then shut off after complete charging. This helps keep the battery stress levels low.
The battery may hold a partial charge for hours, so you’ll want to avoid leaving it plugged in for that time. You should also avoid leaving the battery in hot or cold weather for long periods. This can reduce the battery’s ability to hold a charge and the chemistry inside.
The battery may also last for longer than you think. Most batteries will last for about three to five years if you take care of them.
Updating Firmware
Updating your firmware is essential because it can fix software bugs and improve performance. It can also help your bike extend its life. You can find firmware updates for your bike on the manufacturer’s website or your connected app. Having your bike’s firmware updated automatically through a bike shop is also possible.
Most e-bike brands use Bosch or Shimano drives. They feature motor drives, onboard computers, and hi-tech batteries. The manufacturers update these components with firmware to fix bugs and improve performance.
Some e-bike brands have proprietary apps that customize your performance, log ride statistics, and more. You can also use an e-bike diagnostic tool to automatically update the firmware on your bike and check for problems. The tool will also provide step-by-step animations and a list of system components.
Aside from updating your firmware, the app can also allow you to customize the settings on your bike. It can show your total mileage and your distribution of riding modes. You can also customize your power settings to reduce battery consumption.
