How Long Does an Electric Bike Last Compared to Regular Bikes?

People will spend a fortune on daily lattes, but get cold feet over making a smart investment like buying an e-bike. For anyone who's thinking about buying an e-bike but is wondering if it's really worth it, this guide provides valuable insights.

It breaks down how long an electric bike lasts, comparing it to traditional bikes, making it simple to decide.

Understanding Electric Bike Lifespan

How long an electric bike lasts mainly depends on the battery, motor, and frame. High-quality ebike batteries typically last 3-5 years or go through 500-1000 charge cycles, and need replacing most often. Furthermore, high-end LiFePO4 batteries can go up to 6,000 cycles.

Hub motors usually last 10,000 to 15,000 miles. Mid-drive motors can easily go beyond 20,000 miles. And when it comes to frame materials, they're similar to those used in regular bikes.

Market Growth and Future Outlook

The electric bicycle market is really taking off. Europe's e-bike market hit 21.28 billion USD in 2025, and is expected to reach 29.28 billion USD by 2029. Germany is in the lead when it comes to European sales, with 2.1 million e-bikes sold in 2023.

Traditional Bicycle Durability

Standard bikes tend to last longer. A bike frame that's well looked after can easily last 20 to 40 years. That said, experts suggest replacing it every 5 to 15 years.

Frame material lifespans vary considerably:

1. Aluminium frames last 5-10 years.

2. Steel frames typically last 6-10 years but can go up to 20-40 years.

3. Carbon fibre frames usually last 5-7 years and can outlast the others.

4. Titanium frames can, in some cases, last up to 20-40 years.

Classic bikes have one major advantage. And when it comes to frames, steel beats aluminium, and that's why you often see lifetime warranties on steel frames.

Battery Technology: Key to How Long an Electric Bike Lasts

The battery has the biggest impact on an electric bike's lifespan. Typically, lithium-ion batteries lose around 20% of their capacity after 500-1000 uses. Daily riders can usually get 2 to 5 years out of a battery before it needs replacing.

Lots of ebike providers include reliable batteries and back them up with warranties. These companies usually offer a 1-year warranty that covers several problems.

Four things will help your battery last longer:

1. Avoid overcharging whenever possible.

2. Keep your battery in a cool, dry place.

3. Keep the battery level between 20% and 80%.

4. The environment it's in can affect its lifespan.

Cost Comparison: Maintenance and Ownership

Electric bikes tend to be 20-40% more expensive to maintain than traditional bikes. On average, expect to pay £150-200 a year to keep your e-bike in working order.

Electric Bike Maintenance Costs

• Minor servicing: £40-80 a time

• Major servicing: £95-240 a time

• Battery change: £400-640 roughly every 3-5 years

• Motor servicing: £80-160 every now and then

Traditional Bike Maintenance Costs

• Annual upkeep is about £100

• You'll need to replace tyres every now and then - that's £16-48 per tyre

• Brake pads need replacing too, which costs £8-24 per set

• Chains will need to be switched out every 1,000-3,000 miles.

E-bikes work out to be affordable in the long run. They run around £0.008-0.04 per mile, which is a lot less than the £0.096-0.12 per mile it costs for cars.

Component Lifespan Comparison

Maximizing Electric Bike Lifespan

Proper maintenance extends how long an electric bike lasts. To keep your e-bike running well:

1. Store it with some charge left, away from extreme temperatures

2. Keep water and dirt away from the electrical parts

3. Take your e-bike in for a tune-up once a year

Environmental Impact and Sustainability

Electric bikes emit only about 15 grams of CO2 per passenger kilometre, compared to 194 grams for cars. That's more than a 12-fold difference. Using an e-bike can cut your carbon footprint by up to 500 pounds per year.

The environmental benefits include:

1. More than a third fewer emissions

2. No emissions while it's running

3. Less energy is used compared to driving a car

Advanced Maintenance for Longevity

To keep your lightweight e-bike running smoothly, you'll want to have a professional check the sensors and update the motor software. They should also take a closer look at motor components, at least once a year.

Key maintenance practices include:

1. Keep your battery around 50% charged when you're not using it every day.

2. Store electrical stuff away from water and dirt.

3. Get a pro to service your ride each year.

4. Keep the chain regularly lubricated.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your e-bike isn't performing like it used to, it's probably time for a service on the motor. A professional can figure out what's going on. Some newer e-bikes even have built-in systems that can spot common issues.

The Verdict!

So, how long does an electric bike last? Around 5-10 years, with battery life being the limiting factor. They do need more upkeep, but they're a great investment thanks to their perks. Also, batteries are getting better. Solid-state batteries are expected to bring big improvements. These advancements are sure to have a positive effect on how long an electric bike lasts.

Meet The ENGWE Engine Pro 2.0

The ENGWE Engine Pro 2.0 in midnight blue, with its 75Nm of torque, means that climbing hills would not be a problem. The battery also offers a 110km range. Plus, it's got full suspension. Other standout features are the hydraulic disc brakes and the Shimano 8-speed transmission.

But what really stands out is how the foldable e-bike collapses in just 10 seconds. And the quality is excellent, so it's a great combination of performance and convenience.

Take a look at their other bikes too - they have a pretty wide electric bike collection.

BUY ONE NOW

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do electric bike batteries typically last?

With proper maintenance, the batteries in electric bikes usually last 3-5 years or endure 500-1000 charge cycles, affecting how long an electric bike lasts.

Are electric bikes harder to maintain than regular bikes?

E-bikes are generally pricier to maintain, thanks to the added electrical parts.

Which lasts longer: aluminium or steel bike frames?

Steel frames are much more durable than aluminium ones because they can withstand fatigue better.

How often should I service my electric bike?

Get your bike serviced every year. You should also take a look at it every month and have a tune-up about every 500 miles.

What's the main difference in lifespan between e-bikes and traditional bikes?

Traditional bikes are pretty basic and thus can last 10-20+ years, whereas e-bikes usually have a shorter lifespan of 8-10 years but have the upper hand in convenience.