Owning an electric bike in this time of environmental concern is a good option for anyone who wants an economical and enjoyable way to get around town. No matter which model you choose, you won’t get far without it being charged.
But you might be wondering how to charge an electric bike. Thankfully, it is a straightforward process, even if you have never had one before. There are multiple ways to charge an e-bike. Keep reading to learn more about what you need to do and how long you can expect your battery to last.
E-Bike Battery Charging Tips
When charging the electric bicycle battery, you must follow proper procedures to maintain its health and longevity. Overcharging or undercharging (not to mention charging in extreme temperatures) can severely shorten the life and efficiency of the battery.
Charging an E-Bike Battery for the First Time
When charging your e-bicycle battery for the first time, read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. The first charge will take longer than subsequent charges. If the battery is not charged to 100 percent at the first charge, it will impair its ability to acquire a full charge in the future. On the other hand, overcharging can permanently damage the battery.
To charge the e-bike battery, remove the battery from the battery bay on the bicycle and switch the power off. Attach the charger cable to the charging port on the bike battery before plugging the charger into a regular electric outlet. There will usually be a red light indicator to let you know the battery is charging and a green light to indicate when it has achieved a full charge.
Promptly disconnect the battery from the charger when the light indicates a full charge. Then, put the battery back into the bike and switch the power on to get ready for your first ride.
Should I Charge My E-Bike After Every Ride
Once your e-bike battery is charged, it will be good to go for a while, usually the full length of your ride. The rate at which the battery gets depleted depends on terrain, speed, and how much pedal assistance you give during your ride. Hilly terrain will deplete the battery faster, as will higher speeds, wind resistance, and similar factors. Usually, a charge will carry your bike between 40 to 100 miles, depending on these factors.
Luckily, batteries have undergone massive improvements over the years. The lithium-ion battery in your bike does not have a memory, so it will not harm it to recharge the battery after every ride. Ideally, the battery should be charged when it is depleted to about 30 percent until it reaches about 90 percent.
When the charging cycle gets above 95 percent, the battery begins to discharge small amounts until it reaches about 90 percent. Then, it resumes actively charging. The continual discharging and charging of small amounts can shorten the battery life.
Charging the battery after each ride will ensure you won’t be pedaling for the home stretch. As an additional safeguard, consider carrying an extra battery for the ride. Otherwise, you could find yourself looking for a charge along the way.
How Long Does It Take To Charge an E-Bike Battery?
The first time you charge your e-bike battery, expect it to take longer than it will usually, up to 12 hours. After the initial charge, unless your battery is completely drained, a full charge will usually take from two to six hours. That will depend on how depleted it is and the battery’s size.
Charging stations provide a faster charge than you will get when charging your e-bike at home. They are designed to provide a fast charge for convenience. However, it is better for the battery’s health if it gets a longer, slower charge from a regular outlet in your home.
How To Charge an Electric Battery Without a Charger
One of the most common queries that get asked alongside the question “how to charge an electric bike” is what your options are if you don’t have a dedicated charger.
After all, you might have forgotten yours at home, or it may have stopped working. Whichever is the case, you would need to find an alternative option. Fortunately, there are solutions out there. However, you must do your research as some methods could potentially damage the expensive battery in your e-bike, leaving you still without a ride.
A safe option is to utilize a designated charging station. As electric vehicles of all types become more and more popular, charging stations are becoming more prevalent across the country.
If you can find an e-bike charging station on your ride, the e-bike can be plugged in for a quick charge, at least enough for the return home. An adapter for your bike may be necessary, though, depending on what kind of e-bike you have.
Another option to gain up to ten percent battery power is to use a braking method called regenerative braking while riding. This technique applies the brake for extended periods, such as when going downhill. The braking charges the battery as it is applied. This type of charging is only possible in e-bikes with a direct drive hub motor and should not be counted on for a full charge.
Charging an Electric Bike From a Car Battery
Have no fear if you find yourself away from home looking for a way to charge your e-bike. A good rule of thumb is to carry your charger with you. If you are traveling or visiting a friend with a car, you can plug your charger into the car charger and charge your e-bike battery from it.
You will need an inverter you can plug the charging cable into unless you have a charging cable with a lighter adapter. The inverter plugs right into the cigarette lighter port in the car. Remember that charging the battery this way could blow the lighter port’s fuse, especially when charging larger batteries.
How Long Will My E-Bike Battery Last?
The life of the typical lithium-ion battery runs anywhere from 500 to 1000 or more full charges. Most batteries will be guaranteed for two years. To get the longest possible life from your battery, follow the manufacturer’s instructions on caring for your e-bike battery.
Keep the bike out of extreme temperatures by storing it in a climate-controlled area. Don’t expose it to temperatures below freezing or above 104 degrees. Moreover, do not store a dead battery. If you find it necessary to store one for a while, make sure it has a charge of between 30 and 60 percent. Batteries that sit for extended periods without a charge may not be able to charge again.
Final Thoughts
Now you know how to charge an electric bike. While the standard method is the best approach, you have alternative options. You don’t even have to rely on a charge if you find yourself in a situation where you don’t have access to one. Remember to care for your battery no matter how you charge your bike, so you can be confident you’ll get where you want to go.
