Long Story Short: In short, these essential maintenance tips will help you keep your electric scooter, bike, and battery in great shape. From battery care to tyre pressure, we have you covered.
Electric bikes and scooters are now an integral part of everyday life, not just a futuristic idea. The increasing number of electric vehicles shows where things are headed. Like any technology, electric bikes have their own challenges. Many people are still unsure about buying one because they have questions about the future and how to properly care for these vehicles.
In this article, we focus on maintenance tips and explain each one in detail. The battery pack is a big part of an electric bike’s cost, so it’s essential to care for it, just like you do with your phone’s battery. Many of the same rules apply. Think of your electric bike or scooter as a mobile phone you use for travel. Unlike filling up a regular motorcycle with fuel, charging an electric scooter needs more care and attention.
Key Takeaways
- Battery Care is Critical: Always keep the battery charge between 20% and 80%. Avoid frequent full discharges or charges. Use only manufacturer-provided chargers, as these are designed for safety and compatibility. Store batteries in a cool, dry place to extend their life and performance.
- Monitor Tyre Pressure and Weight: Check tyre pressure regularly (at least twice a month in India) and avoid carrying extra weight to reduce strain on the motor and tyres, thereby improving overall efficiency and range.
- Gentle Riding Habits: Ride gently by using the throttle wisely, minimising unnecessary braking, turning off the vehicle when not in use, and avoiding fast charging unless necessary to preserve battery health.
- Regular Maintenance and Cleaning: Schedule annual professional maintenance, gently clean the scooter with low-pressure water, lubricate moving parts, and routinely inspect brakes and mechanical components for safety and longevity.
- Use Manufacturer-Approved Chargers and Updates: Always charge your vehicle with the original or authorised charger, as these are specifically designed for your vehicle’s battery requirements and help prevent possible hazards. Keep firmware and software updated for optimal performance and battery management.
What are the electric scooter & bike maintenance tips for longevity?
1. Avoid extra weight while riding
Try not to carry extra weight when riding, as it puts more strain on the motor and tyres. This makes the motor use more battery and can wear out the tyres faster. Whenever possible, avoid overloading and check your owner’s manual for the maximum weight limit.
2. Keep battery charge between 20% and 80%
Taking care of the battery is crucial to extending the lifespan of your electric bike or scooter. Try to keep the battery charged between 20% and 80%. Avoid letting it drop to 0% or charging it to 100% too often, as overcharging can damage the battery over time.
3. Use manufacturer-provided charger
Always use the charger that comes with your bike or one that is approved by the manufacturer. Avoid charging your bike in extremely hot or cold temperatures, as this can damage the battery and reduce its lifespan.
4. Do not completely drain the battery
Like a smartphone, you should not fully drain the battery, as it will drastically reduce its lifespan. Also, try to avoid complete battery charging, as there is a concept called the battery charge cycle. The idea of a battery charge cycle is that you should not fully drain and then fully charge the battery, as this results in a single charge cycle. A battery typically consists of a certain number of charge cycles after which its life is complete, or it is time to replace it.
5. Be easy on the throttle
Riding aggressively or using too much throttle uses up more energy and reduces your bike’s range. Most electric bikes have different ride modes; using them wisely can help you cover more distance with each charge.
6. Switch off the vehicle when not in use
Always ensure the bike is switched off when not in use; the charge will drop, and reaching zero value will affect the battery life. Also, while in a traffic jam or at a red light, try to conserve energy by switching off the bike. In premium electric bikes, the vehicle features an automatic detection system that switches off the motor, which reasonably improves range.
7. Check the tyre pressure regularly
Check your tyre pressure regularly, because low pressure can wear out your tyres faster and reduce your bike’s range. Try to check at least twice a month, or every week if you ride daily. For tubeless tyres, a monthly check is usually enough, but in India, it’s better to check every two weeks.
8. Avoid unnecessary braking
Braking uses a lot of battery power, so try to avoid hard or unnecessary braking. Use the brakes gently and only when needed. Some riders brake too often, even gently, which can lower the overall range.
9. Take utmost care of the battery
The battery is the most essential part of your electric bike or scooter. Take extra care by getting it serviced regularly, checking for any problems, and always charging it with the correct voltage. Using the wrong voltage can damage the battery. Always follow the instructions in your owner’s manual.
10. Do not use fast charging every time
Fast charging is helpful in emergencies, but using it too often can shorten your battery’s life. Use fast charging only when absolutely necessary.
11. Get regular maintenance
Regular maintenance checks are crucial for identifying potential issues and ensuring the vehicle is in optimal condition. This includes inspecting the scooter or motorcycle for signs of wear and tear, such as cracks, punctures, or worn-out tyres, and replacing any necessary parts. Regular servicing and brake adjustments should be performed to ensure optimal performance.
12. Disable unnecessary electronics when not in use
Many modern electric scooters come equipped with features like Bluetooth and smart navigation, which you may not always need. Turn off any electronics you’re not using while riding to conserve battery and increase your range.
13. Firmware & software updates
Keep your vehicle’s firmware and software up to date. Manufacturers release updates that can help your battery last longer and improve the performance of your scooter or bike.
14. Proper battery storage
Store your battery in a cool, dry place to avoid damage. Before putting it away, charge it to about 50%. Avoid exposing the battery to extremely hot or cold temperatures, as this can cause it to wear out more quickly.
What are the potential risks of using a non-manufacturer charger for my electric bike in India?
Suppose you use a charger that isn’t from the manufacturer for your electric bike in India. In that case, you risk damaging your battery and affecting its safety and lifespan. The main risks are:
- Battery Damage: Non-manufacturer chargers may supply improper voltage or current, leading to overvoltage or undervoltage conditions. This can permanently damage the lithium-ion battery cells, reducing their lifespan and performance. Overcharging can cause battery swelling or overheating, while undercharging may result in incomplete battery cycles and reduced capacity.
- Safety Hazards: Incompatible or faulty chargers increase the risk of short circuits, electrical shocks, and even battery fires. Using chargers not designed for your specific battery system can cause overheating and thermal runaway. This potentially hazardous condition can lead to fire or explosion. Many such incidents have been reported worldwide, including in India and China, underscoring the importance of using certified chargers.
- Warranty Voidance: Most electric bike manufacturers specify that using chargers other than the one provided or approved voids the battery warranty. This means that damages caused by non-certified chargers will typically not be covered, which can result in increased repair or replacement costs.
- Charging Efficiency and Battery Health: Non-manufacturer chargers may not have the critical battery management system protocols (like temperature cut-offs, automatic shut-off) embedded in original chargers. This lowers charging efficiency and can accelerate battery degradation due to improper charge cycles.
- Environmental Suitability: Indian weather conditions, especially during monsoons, require chargers to have proper water-resistance and insulation standards. Non-original chargers may not meet these standards, which can increase the risk of damage to your EV when charging in humid or wet conditions.
To stay safe, keep your battery healthy, and maintain a valid warranty, always use the charger that comes with your electric bike or one approved by the manufacturer. Avoiding third-party chargers helps prevent battery damage, fire risks, and expensive repairs, ensuring your electric vehicle remains reliable for an extended period.
FAQ related to essential electric scooter & bike maintenance tips for longevity
1. How should I charge my electric scooter or motorcycle to extend battery life?
To extend the life of your battery, use the charger that came with your bike and unplug it once the battery is fully charged. Try to keep the battery between 20% and 80% to avoid deep discharges, which can shorten its life.
2. What are the best storage practices for electric scooters and motorcycles?
Store your vehicle in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. If you won’t use it for a while, charge the battery to about 50-70% before storing it to help keep it healthy.
3. How can I identify battery issues in my electric scooter or motorcycle?
If your battery doesn’t last as long, charges slowly, or won’t hold a charge, these are signs of a problem. If you notice any of these issues, it may be time to replace the battery or seek professional assistance.
4. How important is tyre maintenance for electric scooters and motorcycles?
Keeping your tyres at the correct pressure is essential for a smooth ride and optimal performance. Check the pressure with a gauge and fill them according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Look for worn tyres and replace them when needed.
5. How should I care for the brakes on my electric scooter or motorcycle?
Check your brake pads often and replace them if they look thin. Adjust the brake cables to ensure they function properly, and test your brakes at various speeds to verify their effectiveness.
6. How can I keep my electric scooter or motorcycle clean without damaging it?
Wipe down your vehicle with a damp cloth to keep it clean, but avoid using high-pressure water, as it can damage the electrical components. Pay special attention to the wheels, deck, and handlebars.
7. What are the key points to consider for lubricating moving parts?
Apply lubricant to moving parts, such as hinges, folding mechanisms, and bearings, to ensure everything operates smoothly. Be careful not to get any on the brakes, so they continue to work well.
8. How can I care for the electrical components of my electric scooter or motorcycle?
Use a cover to protect the electrical parts from moisture and dust. Verify that all connectors and wires are secure and free from rust.
9. What should I do if I notice unusual noises or performance issues?
If you hear strange noises, such as grinding or clicking, it may indicate a problem. Inspect the motor for any debris that may be stuck in it and ensure the engine is securely attached. If the problem persists, seek help from a professional.
10. How often should I perform regular inspections and servicing?
Check your vehicle regularly for any unusual noises, vibrations, or changes in its performance. Plan to have it professionally serviced at least once a year to catch problems early.
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Conclusion
We’ve covered the key maintenance tips every electric scooter and bike owner should know. If you have questions, feel free to email us at bikeleague2017@gmail.com or leave a comment below. We’re always happy to help. You can also connect with us on our social media platforms.
