An e-bike has many practical advantages in everyday life, above all the fact that it allows you to cover longer distances almost effortlessly. But how long do e-bikes actually last? After all, there are several mechanical and electronic wearing parts that a regular bike does not have. The good news is that the lifespan of e-bikes has steadily increased in recent years.
If you also focus on proactive maintenance and proper handling, you can significantly increase the mileage of your e-bike.
Which Factors Influence the Lifespan of an E-Bike?
How long e-bikes last, depends on the model, workmanship, and handling by the rider. In this regard, it’s no different from a bicycle. However, there are a few more aspects to consider due to the additional components.
The following factors ensure a longer e-bike lifespan:
- High-quality workmanship and the use of robust materials.
- Modern motor from a well-known manufacturer
- Powerful battery with the latest technology
- Careful handling on all routes
- Proactive maintenance and care
Ideally, of course, all factors are in place to ensure that your e-bike lasts as long as possible. Nowadays, many manufacturers are using more robust parts and materials that can meet the increasing demands.
How Long Do E-Bike Motors Last?
One of the most important components is the e-bike motor. The power of modern pedelecs is limited to 250 watts and a maximum of 25 km/h (approximately 15.5 MPH) pedal assistance, but this means that they do not require a driving licence, insurance, or licence plate. The motor is quite sufficient for fast acceleration, for everyday use and even for sporty applications.
When it comes to the question of geared hub versus direct drive, the e-bike community swears by the geared hub drive and Ampler Bikes is no exception. All Ampler models are equipped with a geared hub drive via a brushless hub motor in the rear wheel, developed by Ampler itself. This drive is especially efficient and has no wearing parts that might need replacement.
So, how long do e-bike motors last, you may ask. This, in turn, also depends on various factors. Having no wearing parts greatly helps and if you avoid riding through water and mud and predominantly shift gears at low load, you will help to protect all parts. In this way, you can ensure that your e-bike motor has a life cycle of 20,000 km (approximately 12.430 miles) or more. With proper care and timely maintenance, as well as inspections, this can be increased even further.
How Long Do E-Bike Batteries last?
Naturally, an electric motor needs electricity, which it receives from a powerful battery. Here’s the e-bike battery explained in a nutshell: it’s generally agreed that a lithium battery is best and these days, 48V systems are favoured as they provide a very efficient power distribution throughout and optimise engine accessories.
The technology has become increasingly reliable and efficient over the years. With large batteries from 300 Wh capacity, ranges of up to 100 km (approximately 62 miles) are possible, which should easily cover all daily requirements. With a good battery, a lifespan of at least 500 full charging cycles can be achieved.
Depending on the model, the e-bike battery life cycle can be more than 40,000 km (approximately 18.640 miles) at optimal capacity. But this does not mean that the battery is then defective, merely that the capacity will be reduced to around 70%. So, a lot more mileage might be possible, and with proper battery care, you can continue to ride without problems even after 500 full charging cycles.
E-Bike Lifespan and Eco-Balance: an Important Topic
The issue of how long e-bikes do actually last has a significant influence on the eco-balance. After all, raw materials are consumed and exhaust gases are released during production and transport. A frame made of aluminium, for example, is indispensable for a low e-bike weight, but is rather energy-intensive in processing. On the other hand, the material is relatively easy to recycle afterwards.
This means that the longer your e-bike lasts, the better it is for the eco-balance. At Ampler Bikes, we have a two-pronged approach by aiming to reduce our own carbon footprint in production and logistics and by continuously increasing the lifespan of Ampler e-bikes. We achieve the latter by using high-quality, robust materials and durable components.
4 Tips to Extend the Lifespan of Your E-Bike
With a few practical tips, you can significantly increase your e-bike’s life cycle. In this way, you make an important contribution to environmental protection and improve your own eco-balance.
1. Regular Cleaning and Good Maintenance
Water and mud are usually no problem for a modern e-bike. Nevertheless, regular cleaning is crucial to remove impurities that could otherwise block mechanical parts. However, you should refrain from using high-pressure cleaners at close range.
2. Do Not Completely Discharge the Battery During Everyday Use
Some manufacturers recommend completely discharging the e-bike battery during the first two to three charging cycles and then fully charging it again. This is supposed to help with calibration, but in everyday use, this will no longer be required. You do not need to charge the battery after every ride, but only when necessary. Please refer to our detailed tips on battery care.
3. Store Your Bike Correctly During Extreme Temperatures
Normally, an e-bike can cope with all weather conditions. But on bitterly cold winter nights, it is better for the battery if you store your bike inside, or at least above 0 °C (32 °F). This is particularly important when charging. Additionally, permanent exposure to sunlight should also be avoided.
4. Don’t Neglect Inspections and Maintenance
An annual inspection can help to detect wear and tear at an early stage and prevent expensive repairs.
Therefore, it’s advisable to have your e-bike inspected regularly by a professional; in principle, these costs can be regarded as a sensible investment.
The Bottom Line
There are some significant factors that determine how long e-bikes last. High-quality and robust materials and durable parts play a vital part, but proper care, careful handling and proactive maintenance are also essential. The modern Ampler Bikes impress with their particularly high mileage. We rely on flawless workmanship and integrate our powerful batteries directly into the frame. This looks smart and also provides additional protection against adverse weather conditions and theft. In addition, our specially developed Ampler motor has a long lifespan and low maintenance requirements.
Schedule a test ride today and see for yourself, or contact us with any questions you may have.
