How long does a battery last on an electric bike?

Electric bike batteries are one of the most important components of an electric bike. after all the battery is one of the main things which make it able to fulfil its purpose. Think of your electric bike battery as your fuel tank. The bigger the fuel tank the wider range you can travel on your e bike.

In this article, we are going to discuss what an electric bike battery is actually made of. How long do e bike batteries last? and all of your other electric bike batteries-related questions.

Factors affecting the lifespan of a electric bike’s battery

• brand and type of e bike battery
• ebike batteries age
• how many times the e bike battery has been charged throughout its life span

What is an electric bike battery and how does it work?

An electric bike battery is an energy storage and management system. the e bike battery is built to ensure they deliver the optimal wattage to the e bikes motor.

Electric bike batteries are made up of small battery cells. within the battery industry, there are many popular companies that provide cells, some of the wells know cell makers are Panasonic and Sony.

E-bike batteries are commonly made up of lithium ion cells, lithium ion batteries are popular as a mobile energy source for commercial products such as electric bikes. This is mostly because they are able to hold a high amount of energy, due to their high cell voltage.

Types of electric bike batteries

E-bike batteries come in many different sizes shapes and forms, listed below are some alternative ebike batteries that have been used in the past. They are not as popular as Lithium ion batteries but can also be used to power a ebike.

Nickel metal hydride batteries : In terms of power output Nickel batteries are similar to e bike Lithium batteries but have a faster self-discharge so commonly last up to 500 charge cycles before needing to be replaced.

Lead batteries, it is all most guaranteed that your bike battery will not be a lead battery, but they also can be used to power an electric bike. unlike a lithium ion battery lead has a very low recharge cycle of 300.

So which electric bicycle battery type is best?

Unlike other forms of energy storage and battery types, lithium batteries are cheaper making them a great choice for electric bike manufacturers.

Why does this matter to you? Well choosing a lithium battery will inevitably save you money as other battery types carry a higher cost, and are more readily available in the scenario you need to find a replacement.

How long does an electric bike battery last on a bike ride?

The amount of charge your electric bike is able to take you on single-charge cycles varies on a wide range of factors, and also the battery type the electric bike distance can range on average, 25-70 kilometers.

Things such as peddle assist mode terrain, battery health, and age or all prominent factors which can impact the travel distance of an ebike battery.

Most manufacturers provide estimates with electric bike travel distances so that you are able to get a rough estimate. Although do takes these with a pinch of salt as they are just estimates.

How long do electric bike batteries last : During your daily ride ?

From my experience, most electric bikes last towards the lower end of the scale, so around 25 KM, but depending on how well you manage your ebike battery and the electric assist mode you are using this could be much higher.

Even if you are not using your electric bike, it is recommended that you charge the battery at least once a month to ensure optimal performance, for when you are ready to get back on the road.

What happens when a battery reaches its maximum charge cycle?

Depending on the battery type as mentioned before, the amount of recharges or charge cycles of an electric bike can vary, the best practice is to check directly on the manufacturer’s site, or the bicycle’s user manual.

Electric bikes with lithium batteries usually last up to 1000 charges. although this can vary depending on how well you maintain your electric bikes. A 1000 charge cycle would mean that your electric bike battery will last 2-3 years on average.

when the electric bike reaches the end of its life span, you may experience, loss of performance, fluctuations in voltage and also slow or delayed response times from your ebike. your e bike may also show signs of temperature fluctuations by getting hotter than usual, these are all clear signs that you may need to start looking for a replacement battery.

How long do electric bike batteries last before they need replacing?

As mentioned before a ebike battery usage and maintenance can affect its life span, and there is no specified number of recharge cycles, only estimates. Lithium ion batteries last between approximately 1000 charges. in contrast, batteries made from lithium polymer can operate for 1000 – 2000 cycles.

You will commonly need to replace your e-bike’s battery every 2-3 years, many electric bike retailers offer 2 years warranty on their Ebike batteries so you are covered if your battery dies within that period.

How Much Does It Cost To Replace An Ebike Battery?

Due to lithium ion batteries being the most popular electric bicycle battery type we will use it as a pricing point. on average, the cost to replace an electric bike battery ranges from £260 -£350. Although this may vary depending on the brand, wattage and amp. However, lithium polymer can be even more costly due to its better quality and efficiency because of this the battery’s life is extended.

Which battery should I choose for my electric bike?

When deciding on a battery for your electric bicycle, first it is important to check compatibility, as some brands are made specifically and cannot be interchanged.

a rule of thumb is to replace the battery directly from The manufacturer or a certified reseller, some battery’s may look similar but may not be the same quality, and this can affect the battery life forcing you to get a replacement sooner than expected.

Also, Batteries must be charged from the plug socket so ensuring that you purchase a battery with all the correct certifications and safety procedures is key.

If you do not currently own an electric bike and are stuck on deciding which type is best, the safest choice, is I lithium ion battery as they are great value.

Best way to keep your ebike battery healthy?

• One of the most important ways to ensure your battery is kept healthy is due to the way it is stored. An ebike’s battery must be kept in a cool and dry place.
  This rule is universal no matter which type of battery is being used.
• Avoid overcharging your battery, as this can reduce its battery life. Overcharging batteries can be dangerous and also damage the cells within the battery,
  ensure that the battery is charged only for the recommended time.
• The battery’s should be kept out of direct sunlight, sun exposure can drain your bike’s and reduce your battery life.
• Do not fully drain your battery before charge cycles, also it is key to note do not to leave your e-bike uncharged for long periods of time.
• Keeping your battery away from a direct heat source.
• Manufacturers usually recommend that users charge their bicycle batteries before first use.
  When charging your ebike straight away after purchasing can give ensure your batteries has a healthy start. this can also be helpful in remaining the battery range.

Should I charge my ebike after every ride?

• Charging your electric bicycle between each ride is a great way to ensure you are always ready for your next ride.
• Regular charging of your electric bicycle is good for keeping the battery healthy.

How far can an electric bike go on a full charge?

• Most batteries last around 20 miles before running out of power, depending on the battery’s age, level of peddle assist, and terrain.

How far can electric bikes go without pedalling?

A good rule is to only use the electric bicycles peddle assist when you need to as support.

Due to the UK regulation, electric bicycles only provide peddle assist which means that you must peddle first in order for the electric motor to kick in.

However, the range of distance you can use your electric bicycle without peddling will vary as a traditional non-electric bicycle would.

Such as terrain, whether you are going uphill or downhill, however, UK electric bicycles do not provide users with a throttle-only mode.

Extra tips for a long-lasting battery life

• Tip1 : one way to ensure that your bike always has charge is by carrying a spare battery this can help ensure you can ride for a long period without interruptions.
• Tip 2 : When using your electric bicycle don’t use more power than needed, use your ebike as efficiently as possible.

If you would like to find out more ways to keep your electric bike healthy please read our ‘How do I check my eBike battery health?’ Guide.