How Long Do Electric Bikes Last? Check the Basics!

Introduction

Before investing in an electric bike, you must know the worth of your investment, especially regarding how long does ebike last. Thankfully, electric bikes are built of good quality, so even a little care and maintenance can contribute to their extended lifespan and give you the worth of many years. 

Usually, ebikes last for roughly ten years, but the year count can be low or high depending on several factors. Often you can consider replacing gears, tires, chains, brakes, etc., and may even replace the battery or motor for extended optimal performance. 

This post answers the question on how long do electric bikes last and discusses some common factors that can affect the lifespan of your electric bikes, like battery, quality and durability, maintenance, and environmental factors. Let us look.  

Factors That Affect the Lifespan of an Electric Bike

Check the list of factors that contribute extensively to the extension of your e-bike's battery and see how you can maintain proper care to ensure your bike's optimal performance. 

1. Battery Life

The most important factor affecting an electric bike's lifespan is its battery. Nowadays, generally, all ebikes work on lithium batteries and give peak performance for 500 charge cycles. 

Typically, ebike batteries last for around 800 to 1000 charges and work for roughly three to five years. After that period, your ebike will still hold power, just its efficiency will be reduced. However, in many cases, if your ebike is in perfect condition, your ebike battery can even last up to 8 years. 

Electric bikes usually come with a 48-volt or 52-volt battery, but the difference lies in their performance and power, where the latter performs better. The higher the voltage, the higher the battery efficiency; even a 52 V battery tends to last longer. Moreover, when the battery is half discharged, you may notice a drop in the power with a 48V battery, whereas this might not be the case with a 52V battery.

2. Maintenance

How long do electric bikes last? The quick fix to this question also lies in the maintenance of your ebike. For instance, you must practice proper maintenance and care for electric bikes and ensure running the battery completely flat at least quarterly to keep the max charging capacity high. Proper maintenance adds life to your electric bikes, eventually extending their lifespan.

Everyday maintenance tasks also include maintaining a high-quality motor. You must use rear-hub motors as they are sealed and protected against corrosion. If needed or in case of a motor failure, go for a replacement.

 

Also, chains and tires do not last longer than 1000 to 3000 miles. Consider replacing them afterward and maintaining regular cleaning and lubricating to increase the lifespan; if riding bikes on rugged terrains, consider replacing them more often. 

In addition, gears also contribute to your bike's longevity. Gears near the front cog and the ones that hold the chain in place are more vulnerable and may last only three to four years. Since they are inexpensive, you can consider replacing them when needed. 

3. Quality and Durability

For the unversed, even the quality and durability of an electric bike have an impact on its lifespan. As a matter of fact, higher quality and more durable electric bikes tend to last longer. For instance, cheap electric bikes may cut down on prices and might not ensure the said durability due to a lack of features and sturdy components. 

So before investing in an ebike, you must assess the quality and durability of an electric bike through its style and design, ergonomics, performance/torque, range and efficiency, braking performance, weight, serviceability or spare parts and costs, available accessories, transportability and storage, transmission readability, controls, and monitoring and component grade. 

Generally, the ebikes that rank high on these points are more inclined towards the notion of good quality and ensure durability. 

4. Environmental Factors

Definitely, environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and exposure to the elements can affect your electric bike's battery and have a severe impact on its lifespan. 

You must be careful to protect your electric bike from environmental damage in each season, or else your bike may not deliver optimal performance as rusty parts wear down faster. 

For instance, during rains, often clean your bike by hand (avoid pressure washing not to damage connections) to protect your ebike components and safeguard the battery from dirt once the ride is complete. Then dry it thoroughly before removing the battery to store/recharge.

Similarly, in winter, ensure storing or charging the battery inside. Or better, remove it if unused. Make it a practice to park your ebike in the shade and avoid the scorching sun, rain, or hailstorm to protect it from severe damage. 

How to Prolong the Life of Your Electric Bike/ Conclusion

These factors combine primarily and affect an electric bike's lifespan. You can extend your bike's life by following some routine practices such as taking good care of your battery, being mindful during your ride, and ensuring to avoid the place of dust, debris, and moisture. And, of course, getting regular maintenance checks. Also, keep your tires inflated for more remarkable performance. Though the ebikes are designed to withstand all the elements and seasons, a little care can extend your bike's lifespan. So have a happy and joyous ride!

FAQs / People Also Ask 

How long does a fully charged electric bike last?

It solely depends on your ebike type, its battery capacity, the ambient temperature, and of course, the usage. Additionally, rider fitness, riding style, and terrain are also responsible. While flattish roads and trails require no assistance, hilly terrains are likely to call the motor for help. 

Is it OK to charge the ebike every day?

Ebikes don't require to be charged every day or after every ride. Doing so can reduce your battery capacity more quickly. For instance, if you are going long without riding the bike, you can check the ebike battery charge monthly. You can even partly recharge once the battery drops below 30 percent. Depending on your bike usage and the miles you travel, you can charge it once every three-to-four days. 

Are electric bikes hard to maintain?

Maintaining an electric bike is not at all problematic. But it would be best if you were careful to keep it in good condition and extract the best performance in every ride. For example, clean it often, consider parking the ebike in cool places, and lubricate it properly to reduce friction between moving parts. Also, ensure to care for your ebike battery and never let it drain out. 

Can electric bike batteries be repaired?

Old, worn-out, or used electric bike batteries have a chance of repair and replacement, provided they are not damaged beyond 80 percent. Typical companies offer cell revival and voltage balancing services, generic repair, and building custom or new universal batteries. 

Before visiting an ebike repair center, you must find an electric bicycle repair near me and confirm their working hours for any ebike issue.