Maintenance

Keeping your machine humming along

Apedal-assist machine is first and foremost still a bicycle, so it requires many of the same maintenance procedures as any regular bike. It should get a thorough tune-up at least once a year, which is what I recommend for all bikes. You should find a shop or mechanic who is well-versed in ebikes. Also, follow specific maintenance intervals that pertain to your make and model.

For the most part, motors are virtually maintenance free. You should inspect and replace some wear-items, such as the bearings in hub or mid-drive motors. The systems are managed by head units or apps on your phone. Keep firmware up to date with a smartphone via Bluetooth or with the help of an ebike-versed shop.

Batteries, on the other hand, require a little extra care to keep them running well for as long as possible. Most current ebikes come equipped with a lithium-ion battery.

Its chemistry gives it a longer lifespan than other battery types, and makes it more durable. Always try to keep the battery fully charged when in-use during the season. When storing your bike for the off-season, charge the battery to between 50 per cent and 70 per cent. If you can remove the battery, it’s best to do so and store it indoors in a warm environment. Cold temperatures wear on a battery, so do your best to store it – whether on the bike or not – around room temperature. Take extra care when removing and re-installing the battery to prevent damage. If one of the connections gets damaged, it could cause dangerous levels of heat. Always follow your specific brand’s recommendations for battery care, storing and charging.

An ebike’s motor and battery make it much heavier than an “analog” machine. That weight, combined with the speeds you’ll hit on an ebike, will have an effect on the brakes. Inspect the pads and rotors for wear more often than you would on a standard machine. Replace parts right away if they are worn.

Ensure you have a good set of tires on your ebike. Check and inflate them every ride to the recommended pressures. When it does become time to replace your tires, always replace with an ebike-rated tire or what your manufacturer recommends. Many of the common tire brands make ebike tires. These have thicker sidewalls and better puncture resistance to deal with the extra weight and power of the pedal-assist machine. Make sure you learn the ins and outs of removing the ebike’s wheels to fix a flat. Changing the tire and tube is the same as a regular bike, but removing the rear wheel with a rear-hub motor will mean disconnecting some electrical components.

Like the brakes, the chain will see higher levels of stress. Clean and lube it regularly. Check it often for wear. It’s best to invest in a chain-wear indicator tool to monitor the part. Replace it before it’s completely worn. Try to use the same model of chain that came with the bike, which is likely ebike-rated.

As with an all-human-powered bike, the ebike needs some tlc. With that care, you and the bike will be riding smoothly.

“When storing your bike for the off-season, charge the battery to about 60 per cent.”