Types of Ebike Batteries and Five Tips to Keep Them Alive
Pedaling on a bicycle can be exhausting. Fortunately, with electric bikes, you no longer have to bother about this. These devices have motors that run on a battery to make pedaling easier. However, e-bikes are not the same as motorcycles; they only assist in making commuting easier.
With your bike, you can enjoy the outdoors, save money on gas, and even protect the environment from carbon emissions. The bikes are also efficient and run smoothly.
It is important to note that because bikes run on batteries, caring for them is crucial. This article discusses the types of e-bike batteries and five tips for keeping them alive.
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Types of Electric Bike Batteries
Electric bike batteries come in different types and are made from several materials. They all have different capabilities for storing and delivering energy to power your bike. The material the batteries are made from also affects their weight, lifespan, and capacity.
The most common types of e-bike batteries include;
- Lithium-ion batteries
- Lithium-polymer batteries
- Nickel-metal hydride batteries
- Lead-acid batteries
Let us look at these battery types in detail, including their pros and cons.
Lithium-ion (Li-ion) Batteries
These are the most popular types of electric bike batteries. This type of battery is primarily made from lithium, and they come in different configurations to fit your eBike battery pack
Pros
- Popularly used batteries
- High energy density
- Low self-discharge
- No memory effect
- Lightweight
- Durable
- Low maintenance
- 300 - 500 charge cycles
Cons
- Require a battery management system (BMS)
- High cost
- High environmental impact
- Safety issues
Lithium-polymer (LiPo) Batteries
LiPo batteries are similar to Li-ion batteries. The main difference is that LiPo batteries are made from the electrolyte of the lithium polymer.
Pros
- Lightweight and flexible. Can fit different bike designs
- High power and lower internal resistance
- High energy density
- Low self-discharge
- Charge fast
- 300 - 500 charge cycles
Cons
- High cost
- High fire risk
Nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) Batteries
This type of battery consists of a nickel cathode and a metal hydride anode. NiMH batteries are older battery types, but they are much cheaper. They are also primarily used in low-end or older bikes. You can also keep them as backup batteries.
Pros
- High safety
- Lower environmental impact
- Long shelf life
- 500 - 1000 charge cycles
Cons
- Heavy and bulky
- Low energy density
- Generates high heat when charging
- High self-discharge
Lead-acid (PbA) Batteries
PbA batteries are the oldest and cheapest battery type for your bike. This type of battery has a lead cathode and an acid-based electrolyte.
Pros
- High power
- Lower cost
- Easily available
Cons
- Heaviest type of ebike batteries
- Low energy density
- High self-discharge
- Slow charging
- 200 - 500 charge cycles
How To Choose The Right Battery For Your Electric Bike
Now that you know the different types of batteries for your bike, you may want to know how to choose the right one. Before selecting a battery for electric bike, you have to consider several factors, including;
Bike Specifications
It is ideal to check your bike specifications before purchasing an e-bike battery. These specifications include motor, power, current, voltage, and controller type. Considering your bike's specifications helps you get a battery that is compatible with the device.
Consequently, you don't have a battery that may damage your bike or cause a fire or accident.
Your needs and preferences
Your needs and wants are also crucial when considering a battery for your bike. You should consider how fast you want your bike, your commute distance, and how often you want to ride the bike. The amount you will spend on a battery also matters - some storms are more expensive.
All these will influence your battery's type, size, and capacity. They also affect the features and accessories you will need for your ebike. For example, if you want a fast ebike with a long-range, a high-capacity and high-voltage Li-ion battery may suit your needs. However, ebikes that use this type of battery may need a more sophisticated and expensive charger.
On the other hand, if you want a cheap and straightforward ebike, low-capacity batteries like NiMH or PbA batteries may work. However, you may have to compromise on the speed and range of your ebike. You may also need to maintain and change the battery frequently.
Brands
Comparing different brands that manufacture ebike batteries can also help you make an informed decision. You can do this by reading online reviews, watching videos, visiting forums, or asking your fellow ebike riders.
You can also visit local ebike shops or dealers and test different ebike models and batteries to see how they perform and feel. Looking for a storm with the best quality, performance, durability, and price balance is best. The battery should also have a warranty, a user manual, and efficient customer service.
5 Tips For Keeping Your Ebike Battery Alive
Regardless of the type of battery you use for your ebike, keeping it alive is crucial. The longer your battery lasts, the more you can get out of your bike. The following are tips to help you keep your battery alive:
1. Avoid Extreme Temperatures
Batteries, just like humans, are sensitive to heat and cold. Exposing your ebike battery to excessively high or low temperatures can make it drain faster and shorten its lifespan. The best temperature for storing and riding your ebike should be moderate, between -20 °C and 45°C (-4 °F and 113°F).
But you may need help maintaining this temperature in a hot or cold climate. In this case, you can invest in a thermal cover for your battery or bring the bike indoors when not in use. You can also avoid overheating your ebike’s battery by keeping it away from sunlight or heat sources.
2. Charge Smartly
Smartly charging your ebike’s battery can significantly affect its lifespan. You don’t need to wait for your battery to die or reach 100% before you charge or unplug it. It is ideal to charge when necessary, depending on your usage. Also, if you charge to 100%, ensure you use the bike and do not keep it at full capacity while it is idle.
Some ebikes also come with enhanced features like “adaptive charging.” This feature lets you set a charging schedule or a maximum charge level. This way, your battery is not constantly stressed or overcharged.
Another way to charge smartly is to use the original charger that came with your bike. You can also use a compatible one that meets the specifications. Avoid using a faulty or wrong charger, as it can damage the battery and even cause a fire.
3. Use The Right Battery
As we have discussed earlier, there are different batteries for ebikes, and the best one for you will depend on the specifications of your bike. Hence, always check the power and speed requirements of your ebike before getting a battery. Using the wrong battery can damage the battery and your bike’s electric motor.
If the battery that came with your ebike develops issues, it is best to use a replacement approved by the manufacturer or a reputable dealer.
4. Remove Batteries from Rarely Devices
If you are not using your ebike long, remove the battery and store it in a dry and cool place. This prevents the battery from losing charge or getting damaged by corrosion, moisture, or dust.
In addition, do not store your battery fully charged or fully discharged. It is best to charge it to 75% before storage. A fully charged or discharged battery can lose its capacity and become unstable.
You should also check the battery periodically and recharge it to keep it in good condition.
5. Calibrate your Battery
The final tip we will discuss in this article is calibrating your battery. Over time, your ebike battery may lose accuracy and not show the remaining charge. So, the storm may show inaccurate readings or have unexpected shutdowns.
Calibrating the battery occasionally can reset its internal circuit and improve performance. You can check the ebike manual for instructions on calibrating the battery.
It is important to note that although calibrating a battery may improve its performance, it can also wear out the storm. Hence, do it sparingly. It is best to calibrate your ebike battery once every few months.
Buying The Best Ebike Battery From Our Store
We hope this article has helped you learn more about the types of ebike batteries and how to choose the best one for your needs. We hope the tips discussed help you get the most out of your battery.
Remember, charging your battery smartly, calibrating it, and avoiding extreme temperatures can keep it alive longer. Also, using suitable batteries for your ebike and removing them when the bike is not in use can prevent damage.
You can get the best battery for your ebike from our store. We offer a comprehensive catalog of electric bike accessories, including batteries. You can go through our online store to get the best battery for your needs within a reasonable price range.