August 17,2023
August 17,2023
On an e-bike or electric bicycle, autonomy is a key issue to define the limits of your machine and the type of routes you can face.
Here are some tips to help you maximize battery charge.
Contents
Factors that influence the autonomy of an electric bike
Here are some aspects that you can take advantage of to your benefit to increase the autonomy of your bike:
Battery life
Regardless of its capacity, the autonomy of an ebike battery is reduced by the use and charge cycles carried out. Depending on the model, they tolerate between 500 and 1,000 full charges. But after three or four years of continuous use, the battery of an electric bike for adults can suffer a loss of up to 30%.
E-bike weight
The weight of the bike is a decisive factor in calculating range. This value determines both the delivery of engine power and the capacity of the battery. Both must be adapted to the weight of the bike-cyclist set. In recent years, the advent of light e-bikes (under 20 kg) has meant an increase in autonomy thanks to a better relationship between the weight of the bike and the capacity of the battery.
Type of motor
The motor of an approved e-bike must never exceed 250 W. Hence, they all have the same power. The difference is the way in which that power is delivered to assist pedalling at the initial moment of it (the so-called motor torque or torque). This delivery is expressed in Nm (Newton meter). It is not limited by law and also influences the autonomy of the bike. In addition, the different assistance modes (different power delivery) and their frequency of use also determine the actual autonomy.
Efficient use and adjustment of the assistance modes are key to not wasting autonomy.
Tire choice
The covers clearly influence the autonomy of an electric bike. Not surprisingly, they are the point of contact and friction of the vehicle with the ground. The greater or lesser contact surface will influence a greater or lesser demand for energy from the battery. The wider and larger the studs, the greater the battery drain will be to compensate for tread friction.
Rider weight
The weight of the cyclist's own body, added to that of his equipment and accessories, is a factor that clearly affects autonomy. According to data provided by Bosch, a leading manufacturer of motors for e-bikes, each kilo the cyclist loses translates into approximately 1 km more autonomy.
Driving style
The use that the biker makes of the electrical assistance system also influences autonomy. There are those who have enough assistance in the most economical or medium ways. Other riders need extra oomph to get over the same obstacles, forcing a higher assist mode. As we have said before, the use of Turbo modes consumes more energy and substantially reduces the nominal autonomy data.
Meteorological conditions
The real autonomy of an electric bike varies from one season to another due to temperature, environmental humidity, etc. In winter, it tends to last somewhat less than in summer. The wind also has an influence, forcing the demand for extra assistance to maintain a constant speed.
Tips to preserve the autonomy of your e-bike
Taking into account the factors described, although even more could be added, you can use some tricks to save energy and preserve (and even increase) the range of your e-bike. A saving that will extend the useful life of the battery and enjoy much longer routes. Magicycle shares the most relevant.
Do not rush the battery charge to the maximum
Do not wait for the battery to run to 0%, although it always has a security charge that prevents it from running out completely. Do not keep it longer than necessary charging it, or reach 100%. Between 80 to 100%, charging the cells is more expensive because you must protect your parts from possible overloads. An efficient charge would range from 20% to 80%. In this way, the useful life of the battery is extended.
Check the components of your e-bike (suspensions, tire pressure, chain, etc.)
Before each ride, and as with any other bike, check key elements such as suspension, tire pressure, chain lubrication, etc. They are components that influence the wear of the battery. Adapt the fork and shock to the pressure recommended by the manufacturer and the type of route you are going to do.
Keep the chain clean and well-lubricated and inflate the tires with a manometer pump before each ride. These are small details that will allow you to save tens of kilometres.
Essential equipment
Do not add more accessories, clothing or food than is strictly necessary. It is important to go well equipped with spare parts and tools; especially if you go out to the mountains. But you have to find the balance so as not to add more weight to the bike. In this sense, we recommend that you carry a compact multi-tool instead of several wrenches or loose chain tools. You can also carry the water in a hydration backpack and forget about the bottles, in order to achieve a better distribution of weights.
From efficient riding techniques to smart battery management, these tips ensure that your adventures last longer. Embrace these practices and get ready to ride further, explore more, and make the most of your e-biking experiences. Happy riding!
