How to stay on top of common electric bike problems you can run into

Covid is pushing the e-bike adoption curve forward, picking up speed at an unprecedented rate. Commuters prefer its safety and convenience in a pandemic-driven world. E-bike demand has surged the sales across Europe and the US. If you haven’t bought an e-bike yet, there’s a chance you will, in the future, and if you already own one, you are likely to use it more often now. So, familiarising yourself with it is a skill you will thank yourself for. We want to talk about common electric bike problems. While an e-bike doesn’t require much maintenance, to keep it in top shape, you need to know the fixes that get it going like new.

The battery is the power station

The indication that the e-bike battery is working comes from the lights. The LED lights and display screen should light up when the power is on. Make sure that you have a fully charged battery. If you charged the battery, but there’s no power, test the battery by hooking it up to a voltmetre.

If the reading you get is half or lesser of the battery capacity, the fault lies in the battery. Losing the charge too quickly or battery not charging requires battery maintenance or replacement. If you haven’t charged your battery for more than 6 months, batteries can turn defective. Charging your battery now and then, even when you do not need the bike, keeps the battery functioning.

Battery prongs not aligning correctly can disrupt the electricity flow from the charger to the battery. Check the alignment to realign. A dysfunctional pedal-assist system caused by maladjustment or misalignment can result in power cut-offs too. Adjust the pedal-assist magnet position and push the disc closer to the sensors.

Your electric bike’s lithium-ion battery has 300-700 charge cycles. The battery gradually degrades after this threshold. It is a fact to keep in mind when determining the cause of your frequently draining battery.

Charger issues

If the indicator lights don't turn on or blink when you plug the battery charger into the wall, it is a sign of a faulty charger. You can test the output voltage of your battery charger by using a multimetre or voltmetre. The voltage reading has to be few volts higher than the rated voltage of the battery charger. A defective charger has a zero or a lower output than the battery charger’s rated voltage.

Tyres

One of the most common problems with e-bikes is tyres not being pumped to the recommended pressure. You can find the recommended pressures embossed on the tyre walls. For optimum functionality of an electric bike and its battery, the tyres should have sufficient inflation. You can use a pump fitted with a gauge to make sure. You put less strain on the bike and yourself when the tyres are at their maximum recommended pressure. It takes more power to propel underinflated tyres.

Controller

The controller activates the electric components of the bike. If it doesn't function in the “on” position or only works intermittently, it can be a failed controller. Disruption to the internal power supply, weather damage, or poor contact with the wiring can cause malfunction.

Wiring and connections

Loose wiring can thwart signals between the battery and the controller. Inspect the rear hub motor wires that are likely to overheat and cause short circuits shutting off power. Check for damaged, pulled back, or jammed brake levers. If your e-bike took a fall or collision, and the handlebars were affected, you will need to inspect the brakes. Handlebars pulling on the brake levers put your motor inhibitor switch in a constant “on” position. Replace any damaged or worn-out brake shoes and pads. If they are in good condition, tighten the brake cable adjuster until you have a more responsive brake.

If you ride an electric bike regularly to work or for everyday commute, learning to diagnose and troubleshoot problems makes you a proficient rider. Buy Britain’s smartest electric bikes from Mini Bikes Off Road for an enjoyable and trouble-free riding experience.