10 tips to keep your electric bike in top shape

Your bike has probably become your primary mode of transportation. Over time, it may start to give you some problems, although this is something you can avoid. In what way? Our advice is to maintain it well. In this article we give you some recommendations to keep your electric bike always ready.

How to maintain an electric bicycle

1. Be careful with chargers and spare parts.

When a part breaks down, a very common practice is to buy imitation parts over the Internet. The same is true for chargers, which tend to deteriorate over time. However, these are of poor quality and do not have the programming that only the manufacturer can formulate.

To avoid the above, our advice is to always use the charger and spare part provided by the brand. In case you need to replace them, you can purchase a new one directly from the manufacturer.

2. Store the electric bicycle in a suitable place.

Where do you leave your electric bike when you are at home? Abroad? This is the most frequent option, however, it can be dangerous. It is often said that the sun damages the paint, and it is true. However, the main risk is related to the battery, which should never be exposed to too low or too high temperatures.

You should also keep an eye on where you park it when you are at work, which is one of the most often forgotten aspects. If you don’t have many options, we’ll give you a tip: it’s better to leave them in a warm place than in a cold one.

3. The load, as balanced as possible

When charging, avoid keeping it plugged in when it reaches 100%. Nowadays, the main models have a system that prevents overloading, but even so, it can be harmful in the long term. If you tend to plug it in at night, we recommend that you buy a time programmer for the socket.

On the flip side, running out of battery power is not good either. Not only because it can leave you stranded at an inopportune moment, but also because it deteriorates over the long term. When the level is less than 30%, put it back on charge.

4. If you use it rarely, be more careful

An urban electric bicycle is prepared to be used continuously. On the other hand, it is not good for it to be out of operation for long periods of time. To prevent the power supply circuit from degenerating, we recommend that you store it with a battery level above 50%.

What you are interested in is to keep the current charging cycle in good condition. Otherwise, it will lose its qualities and could have a knock-on effect on those that follow.

5. Washing should be gentle

No special precautions are necessary for cleaning, as the battery is well protected. However, you should avoid pressurized water, which can penetrate the motor and cause a short circuit. It is best to use a cloth or even wash it with a hose, but always without applying too much force.

Of course, the battery is prepared for external contact with water. Otherwise, we would not be able to take it out when it rains, and such a restriction would be unthinkable.

6. Check the brakes

There are several different brakes, and precautions should be in accordance with the one you use:

• Disc brake: The tensioners must be adjusted to prevent extreme friction from wearing out the disc.
• Brake with hydraulic pads: They should be changed periodically and, once a year, the fluid should be changed.
• Mechanical brake shoes: It is essential to change the brake shoes to reduce the braking distance.

Keeping in mind what we said at the beginning of this article, remember that new parts must be brand new.

7. Screws, always securely fastened

If the bolts come loose, this is not only a safety issue, but also puts the service life of the bicycle at risk. Don’t forget that a mismatch can lead to a chain effect that ends up forcing the other elements. Therefore, you must correctly attach the saddle, cranks, pedals and pannier rack.

Obviously, you do not need to check the screws every day, but you do need to check them periodically. Once a month is a good time frame, even better if you change them every few years.

8. Pay attention to changes

The gears on your electric bike are essential for adapting it to the terrain, but they can be the source of a major breakdown. While driving, it is essential that you pay attention every time you enter one. If it jumps or inserts too abruptly, it is a sign that they are not as fluid as they should be.

From time to time, it may be necessary to adjust the derailleur, which is located at the rear. This will regulate the gears and settle the sprocket system. The chain, on the other hand, may have its own deterioration, so it should also be checked.

9. Make frequent loading cycles

Every one to two months, it is vital that you do a full charge cycle. This will optimize the battery and allow you to regenerate it to a large extent, especially if you use it intensively. On the other hand, it is essential even if you use it occasionally, such as once a month.

We suggest that, periodically, you let it download completely. When it has reached 0 %, charge it until it reaches 100 %.

10. Use storage accessories

Previously, we explained where you should keep it stored, now we will see how you should do it. Our recommendation is that you purchase a wall mount, so that it is away from moisture on the floor or accidental bumps.

A cover is also a great option to keep out the cold. Consider buying it before autumn and winter arrive, but remember that during the rest of the year it can also rain.

In short, getting your electric bike up to speed requires daily precautions. The maintenance of your bike is very important for maximum enjoyment and safety. Follow our tips to always keep your electric bike in the best conditions. Discover our products!