Introduction
You're riding amongst beautiful scenery, with the sun shining and nature in full bloom…. Until you start to worry about exactly how much range your e-bike has left for the journey.
Summer heat and common riding habits can drain your e-bike range quickly without you realising, which is the last thing you want when you're venturing out to enjoy the weather and longer days.
Here's how to extend your e-bike range this summer with a few simple tweaks!
What are the top mistakes that reduce your e-bike range?
Some of your habits might unknowingly be impacting your e-bike's range.
Carrying too much weight
When you're riding your e-bike, every extra pound of weight makes the motor work harder, which in turn drains the battery faster, especially adding hills into the equation!
How to fix it: Only pack what you need for each ride, or opt for a lightweight e-bike model to start with less deadweight.
Ignoring tyre pressure
Riding on under-inflated tyres can increase the amount of rubber in contact with the ground, creating more rolling resistance and requiring the motor to pull more power to keep your e-bike moving.
How to fix it: Use a proper pressure gauge at least once a week.
Riding with a dirty chain or dragging brakes
If your chain is grinding instead of gliding, or you're noticing brake drag, the motor has to work even harder due to the excess friction.
How to fix it: Keep the chain clean and lubricated, or opt for a belt-drive e-bike for easier maintenance without friction. Spin each wheel to check for brake drag (scraping noises).
Stopping and starting frequently
Starting and stopping are part and parcel of city riding, but dead stopping can also result in a spiked motor current, which drains the battery faster.
How to fix it: Anticipate red lights, coast in steadily, and avoid full stops. Start in a lower gear to reduce motor strain and keep your pedalling steady and calm — it'll make a difference even in low assistance!
Ignoring battery temperature and charging habits
Summer heat can degrade Li-ion batteries, and storing the battery at 0% risks a deep discharge that some batteries won't recover from.
How to fix it: Keep batteries out of direct sunlight or high temperatures. When you aren't using your e-bike for a few weeks, check the charge level. If it’s dropped below 30%, charge the battery. Alternatively, opt for the most reliable batteries that have BMS systems to avoid overheating, overcurrent, or overcharging.
You've got everything you need to ride through summer with ease
It's not about buying new parts and panicking on every single journey. The battery isn't the issue; it's how you ride and maintain your e-bike.
By pedalling more, dropping the assist down by one level, slowing your cruising speed slightly, and checking your tyre pressure before the next ride, you can transform your range.
Your next adventure is around the corner! Why not opt for a TENWAYS e-bike to get you there?
