The electric bike has become an extremely popular mode of transport across Australia. It’s easy to understand why. They are cheap to run, bypass traffic jams, are better for the environment, and allow you to travel greater distances while using less effort.
It’s not surprising that, according to reports, by 2022 there were 193,000 electric bikes in Australia. That number continues to grow.
Although e-bikes are cheaper than cars, they can still be a sizeable investment. You need to understand how long electric bikes last, and what you can do to extend their lifespan.
Length Of Life
It’s impossible to say exactly how long any electric bike will last, there are simply too many variables.
The general consensus is that an e-bike will last between three and ten years. That’s a significantly shorter time than a traditional, non-electric bike.
There are two reasons for this, the battery and the motor. An electric motor has moving parts. Riding places a strain on these parts, ultimately causing them to wear out. In general, an electric bike motor should last for 10,000 miles.
Their lifespan is dictated by the quality of the parts, how much the bike is used, and how it is treated.
Crucially, most electric bike batteries will last for 500 charges before you start to notice a difference in charging times and performance. At one charge a week that means the bike could last ten years. Of course, five charges a week and the bike may only last two years!
The good news is, that battery technology is constantly evolving and improving. In the future, you can expect better performance and a longer lifespan.
Replacing The Motor & Battery
In most cases, it’s possible to switch the existing electric motor and replace it with a new one. You are likely to need help from a professional to do this.
It’s an effective way to extend the life of your electric bike. After all, the traditional components of your bike are likely to last for many more years. The battery can also be replaced, in many cases this is an easy swap.
However, before you commit to this path, you should consider the expense of replacing a motor and battery versus the cost financially and environmentally of purchasing a new electric bike.
Extending The Lifespan Of An E-Bike
Naturally, there are several things you can do to maximize the lifespan of your electric bike.
Choose A Quality Brand
If you want quality components and the longest possible lifespan without incident, you need a quality bike brand. Some of the best are DiroDi and Honbike. Investing a little extra in a quality brand will help to ensure your electric bike lasts as long as possible.
Undertake Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance is as simple as keeping your bike clean. Dirt and debris can reduce performance and foul the motor. Both increase the strain on your bike.
In addition, make sure the bike is regularly maintained, it will ensure issues are found and resolved before they become a problem.
Be Consistent When Charging The Battery
It is best to let your battery run low before recharging. Ideally, recharge when it gets to between 10-20% and recharge fully at least once a week.
This approach places less strain on the battery and helps to extend its lifespan.
Summing Up
Investing in an electric bike is a good idea. With a little care, you can expect it to last up to ten years without any major incident. You’re almost certain to want to upgrade it before then!
