Electric bikes are pretty much maintenance free, however a small amount of maintenance will ensure your ebike is running efficiently. Putting aside the electric part of your ebike, your bike itself, needs a little bit of attention from time to time. These are simple but effective and can all be done at home. Below is my top tips to maintain your ebike and keep it in good working order:
- Keep the Bike Clean: Regularly clean your e-bike to remove dirt and grime. Use a gentle soap and water, and avoid spraying water directly on the motor or battery. Wipe down the bike after cleaning to prevent rust. Always disconnect the battery before cleaning your ebike’s electrical components.
- Always Check Tire Pressure: Dealing with low tire pressure once your on the move is the last thing you want to do, eg: stop and take the time to inflate your tires… Check the tire pressure regularly and keep the tires inflated to the recommended level. Low tyre pressure can cause the bike to handle poorly and can increase the risk of having a flat tire.
- Lubricate your Chain or Drive: Keep the chain well-lubricated to prevent wear and improve shifting performance. Use a bicycle-specific lubricant and apply it to the chain according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Check your Brakes: Test the brakes regularly to make sure they are functioning properly. Adjust the brake pads and cable tension, if necessary, and replace worn brake pads. Same for either discs / pads and or calipers.
- Check All the Cables and Bolts: Inspect the cables and bolts regularly to make sure they are tight and secure. Loose bolts can cause the bike to handle poorly, and frayed cables can affect the shifting or braking performance.
- Take the eBike for a Test Ride: If not riding regularly, before heading out on a long ride, take the bike for a quick test ride to make sure everything is working properly. Check the brakes, shifting, and motor assist to make sure they are all functioning as expected.
- Professional Service: Periodically about every 12 months or 50 hours of riding, take your ebike to a professional bike mechanic for servicing. They can do a deep-check of elements you might miss, such as testing the motor, torque, and controller functions and inspecting items, otherwise unaccesible to you at home.
Maintenance is crucial in fostering the longevity, reliability and your ebike is safety to ride. Regular maintenance not only can save you money over the long run, due to replacing damaged parts but also ensures that your eBike always delivers optimum performance.
Always remember, ebike maintenance isn’t a ‘one-size-fits-all’ and depends on your specific bike. Every ebike is different, each ebike manufacturer is also different, although similar in its application. So, always refer to the maintenance practices and guidelines set out in your specific owner’s manual. Routinely riding and also checking your ebike will lead to a happier, smoother and more efficient riding experience.