E-bike charging guide pro tips for battery longevity

Charging your e-bike properly will help to prolong the life of the lithium battery, which is usually the most expensive part on the bike—ranging from $500 to $900 for a replacement. To keep your e-bike battery in top shape, follow these tips.

What is the best way to charge my battery?

It’s important to always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for charging and storing your battery and use the manufacturer’s power cord and adaptor made specifically for your bike.

Plugging battery chargers directly into the outlet without using power strips or extension cords is the best and safest way to charge your e-bike battery. The battery can be charged while it’s on the bike and some batteries can be removed and charged.

Avoid charging in extreme temperatures—between 60 and 70 degrees is optimal. E-bike batteries are weather-resistant but chargers are not, so it is best to charge the battery inside. Let the battery cool down for at least thirty minutes after charging it before riding your e-bike.

How long should I charge my battery and to what capacity?

In general, it can take up to two hours to charge your bike to 80% capacity and up to five hours for a full charge. You’ll want to avoid charging to 100% as it puts stress on the battery and can damage it. It’s better to charge the battery to 85%. While charging, set a timer as a reminder to check on the battery so as not to overcharge it.

Just as you do not want to fully charge your battery, you also don’t want to completely deplete it. It’s best to charge it when there is 30% to 60% capacity left. This maximizes the life of the battery.

When you store the battery, leave it partially charged between 30% and 60% because over time lithium batteries lose their charge and this can damage the battery if it depletes. If you are not using your e-bike frequently, check the battery every so often to make sure it doesn’t get below 30% capacity.

How long will my battery keep its charge?

A battery charge can be measured in range and lifespan. Range is how many miles the battery will last on a single charge. A single charge can last between 25 and 75 miles depending on the terrain—flat surface or uphill. Lifespan is how many times you can recharge the battery before it needs to be replaced. Typically, e-bike batteries will last for 500 charges or three to five years of normal use.

If you run your battery on motor charge more than in assist mode, your battery will have a shorter lifespan because you are using more power and will have to charge it more.

Now that you know how to safely charge your e-bike, you'll want to consider protecting your ride with a Markel bicycle policy. Your electric bike is an investment, and you want to make sure you have the appropriate coverage for theft or damage to fit your needs. Bicycle insurance may provide coverage where there may be gaps or fine print exclusions in your auto, home and renters insurances.

Markel can offer a stand-alone bike insurance policy starting as low as $100 per year* and offer a variety of coverage levels and deductible options. Each policy can be customized to fit you and your riding style. Coverage may include protection for damage caused by theft, crash, collision, fire, attempted theft, vandalism or hitting another object. Coverage of spare parts, cycle apparel, and rental reimbursement may also be included at no additional cost.

Get your free, no-obligation quote to protect yourself and your e-bike.

* Actual premium may vary based on coverage selected and value of the bike to be insured. Subject to terms, conditions and availability.