Electric bikes come with cutting-edge components that completely change your riding experience. But unlike the mechanical components of a bike, the battery deteriorates gradually. It usually goes unnoticed until the battery can no longer power the bike. At this stage, battery replacement is the only option. However, e-bike batteries can be expensive. Knowing when bike batteries deteriorate can keep your e-bike battery lasting longer.
In this article, we have discussed the signs of battery deterioration, tips to extend the life of your bike's battery, and more. Read it carefully to stay informed about any potential issues.
Understanding Bike Battery Lifespan
The life of e bike batteries varies depending on the type. The following points will help you understand bike battery lifespan easily:
Why Bike Battery Longevity Matters
A premature battery failure can directly impact the bike's long-term value. However, it is not just about the e-bike's value. The performance of a bike also drops with a degraded battery. Instead of enjoying the rides, you start stressing over how far the bike will go. Therefore, it is important that the battery keeps delivering its best range for a long time.
Different Types of
Many of the best e bikes have lithium-ion batteries. They can store a higher amount of energy in a smaller size and weight, and hold their charge longer when not in use. These batteries also have a longer life.
Some older or cheaper bikes may have lead-acid and nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) batteries. They are usually heavier, have a low range, and also have a shorter life.
Factors Affecting Bike Battery Deterioration
There are many factors that cause battery deterioration. Below are some important points to help you understand when do bike batteries deteriorate. First, we will explain how long e-bike batteries last:
E-bike batteries have a life of 500 to 1000 full charge cycles. A "charge cycle" means you have used 100% of the battery, which can happen in one go or over small usage periods.
A battery's life ends when it has lost about 70-80% of its capacity from the original, new condition. The huge difference between 500 and 1000 cycles depends on how you treat the battery.
Charging Habits
Full charging or discharging can quickly reduce the lifespan of a battery. Fully charging the battery causes higher internal voltage and heat build-up. On the other hand, deep discharge puts significant stress on the cells.
The safest range of charge is 20-80%. This will slow down degradation. It is also important to use the right charger. A lower-quality charger can damage the battery.
Temperature and Storage Conditions
Leaving an e-bike in the sun for long periods or storing it in a hot garage can cause parasitic chemical reactions that reduce capacity.
In cold temperatures, the real threat is charging. When you charge a battery without warming it up to room temperature, it can damage the cells.
Frequency of Use and Riding Style
Batteries are designed for regular use. When left too long at rest, batteries may experience calendar ageing. It is the degradation due to the slow breakdown of electrolytes. For example, a battery stored at 100% for 6 months would suffer more degradation than one that is cycled lightly each week.
Riding style also matters. A rider who always uses the highest pedal assist level demands a heavier current draw from the battery. This creates more internal heat, which can damage the cells. A measured, smooth riding style that does not demand high current draws from the battery keeps it working well for a long time.
Age of the Battery
Chemical ageing is unavoidable. No matter how perfectly a battery is stored, it will degrade over time. Even proper care does not prevent battery ageing. However, it enables the battery to age gradually and reach its maximum lifespan efficiently.
Signs Your E-Bike Battery is Deteriorating
Over time, batteries start showing signs of deterioration. Knowing what those signs are can help you take the right steps. Here are some common signs to watch out for:
Decreased Range
A drop in range is the most notable sign of battery deterioration. If a battery that once provided 60 kilometres now offers only 45 kilometres under similar conditions, this is a sure sign of the battery's reduced capacity.
Longer Charging Time
As batteries grow older, their internal resistance increases and they accept charge less efficiently. You may see that a battery that used to take three hours to charge is now taking two extra hours to fully charge. This is a classic sign of cell degradation.
Power Drops During Riding
A more serious situation is a voltage sag while under load. This is an abrupt loss of power that happens when the old battery cannot produce the current needed to keep up with the motor's demand. This is actually the battery management system cutting off the power to protect your bike's electronics.
How to Extend the Life of Your Bike Battery
Premature battery degradation can be frustrating, but it’s possible to avoid it. E-bike batteries can last for several years with the right treatment. Here are some useful tips that can help extend the life of your bike’s battery:
Regular Maintenance and Care
Charging a warm battery could cause unnecessary thermal stress on its cells. Let the battery cool down after a long ride before charging it again.
The physical contacts on the battery and the bicycle should be clean and dry as well for a good connection.
Check the battery case for signs of bulging. A swollen battery is a serious hazard and should be replaced immediately.
Store Your Bike Battery Correctly
Proper storage can help minimise calendar ageing when the battery is not in use for a long period. During long-term storage, the preferred charge state is 40-60%. A fully charged state can put extra stress on the cells, while leaving it fully flat can cause the voltage to drop too low and damage the electronics.
Avoid Overcharging and Deep Discharge
Although modern chargers and battery management systems can detect overcharging, it is still a good habit to avoid keeping your battery plugged into the charger when it is 100%. On a daily basis, simply avoid a 100% charge or discharge to keep the battery in its comfort zone. For those using fast chargers, do not use them regularly, as they can damage the battery. Use the standard charger for daily charging and the fast charger only when you are in a rush.
Conclusion
The deterioration of an e-bike's battery is a slow, chemical process. Knowing when do bike batteries deteriorate can help you stay in control of your battery's health. While natural ageing cannot be avoided, the right information will help you reach the endpoint in the most efficient manner possible.
Remember that a healthy battery keeps your rides stress-free. Take care of it properly for the best experience.
FAQs
How long does an e-bike battery last?
If you avoid overcharging and deep discharge, store it at a stable temperature, and keep it between 20-80% charge, the battery can last for several years.
Do e-bike batteries degrade if not used?
Yes. It is called calendar ageing, which happens due to the slow breakdown of electrolytes. Keep the battery in use or follow proper storage practice to minimise degradation.
How do I know that my e-bike battery needs replacing?
A drop in range, sudden power loss, extra charging time, and swelling are some common signs of a worn-out battery. When you notice these signs, your only option is to replace it.
