Choosing The Right Electric Bike Tire: A Guide

Electric bikes are similar to regular bicycles in many ways, but there are some key differences when it comes to changing a flat tire. The front tire of an electric bike is easy to remove, but the rear tire is more complicated because of its connection to the motor drive. In this article, we will discuss the steps you need to take to change a flat tire on an electric bike, including how to ensure there is no damage to the electric connections. We will also talk about the different types of tires available for electric bikes and how to choose the right one for your needs.

How to change an electric bike tire

Changing an electric bike tire is a simple process, but it's important to be careful not to damage the LCD console or other components on the handlebar. First, ensure your bike is in the highest gear so that your chain is furthest away from the rear hub. Place your bike on a stand or turn it upside down so it's resting on the handlebars and seat or battery rack.

Next, unplug both sides of the electric motor cable located under the chain guard. You will need to snip the zip ties on either side of the connector. Remove the rubber cap that sits over the bolt holding the wheel to the frame. On the opposite side of the hub, take an allen key and unscrew the two bolts holding the brake assembly in place. Remove the brake assembly and let it hang off to the side.

Now, use a tire lever (or a spoon or similar flat object) by easing it under the wheel rim and levering out the edge of the tire. Once that's done, you can change the inner tube (if it's flat) or the tire if installing studded tires in preparation for winter riding. The rear tire on a Pedego electric bike is different from regular bicycles because of its connection to the motor drive, so it's important to follow these steps to ensure there's no damage to the electric connections.

When you're ready to reinstall the wheel, return to the other side of the hub and take note of where the axle sits in relation to the frame inset. Normally, this will be with the tab on the locking washer butted up against the end of the frame inset. Finally, screw the lever or nuts holding the axle to the frame.

Fat vs thin tires

To order a bike tire for an electric bike, you'll need to know the make and model of your bike. You can then search for the correct tire size and type for your bike. It's important to note that the front tire of most electric bikes is similar to those found on regular bicycles, but the rear tire is often different due to its connection to the motor drive. Therefore, when changing the rear tire, it's crucial to follow specific steps to ensure there's no damage to the electric connections.

Now, let's talk about the advantages of fat vs. thin tires for electric bikes. Fat tires, typically ranging from 2.125 inches to four inches in thickness, offer superior traction on loose surfaces like sand, gravel, or snow. Their wider surface area provides a smoother ride as it absorbs bumps and shocks more effectively, reducing rider fatigue on rough terrain. Fat tires are perfect for off-road adventures, floating over soft surfaces and technical terrain with ease. However, the trade-off is a slight decrease in acceleration and top speed due to the increased weight and rolling resistance of fat tires.

On the other hand, thin tires, usually between 1.5 to 2.5 inches in width, are known for their speed and agility. Their lightweight construction makes them highly manoeuvrable, and the smaller size makes pedalling more manageable, especially when shifting gears. Thin tires are ideal for smooth roads and are easier to adjust, making them a popular choice for riders seeking efficiency and performance.

Ultimately, the decision between fat and thin tires depends on your intended use. If you plan to ride on varied terrain, including off-road adventures, fat tires will provide better stability and comfort. However, if speed and manoeuvrability are your priorities, thin tires might be the better option.

The right tire for your e-bike

The size of the tire is also important. E-bike tires can range from 2.125 inches to 4 inches in thickness. It's important to choose the right size to ensure a safe and comfortable ride.

Another factor to consider is the season. If you plan to ride in winter, studded tires can provide better traction and grip in snowy or icy conditions.

Finally, it's worth noting that changing an e-bike tire can be more complex than a regular bike, especially if it's connected to the motor drive. If you're not confident in doing it yourself, it's best to take it to a professional.

Studded tires for winter riding

If you're looking to order a new tire for your electric bike, you'll need to consider the type of riding you plan to do. Electric bike tires can come in thicknesses of up to four inches, or as thin as 2.125 inches. Thicker tires are better for off-terrain riding and provide more stability, while thinner tires are more manoeuvrable and better for smooth roads.

If you're riding in the winter, studded tires can be a good option. They provide extra grip on icy roads and are especially useful if you live somewhere with long periods of icy weather. Studded tires can make winter riding safer, especially for commuters or road riders who need to navigate bike paths and lanes with patches of ice. They can also be useful if you ride in an area with large temperature swings that cause a freeze/thaw cycle, as you never know which corner might be hiding a patch of ice.

However, studded tires are not necessary in all winter conditions. If you live in an area with dry winters or temperatures that rarely drop below freezing, you may not need them. Studded tires also come with a weight penalty, which can make the bike feel sluggish to accelerate and slow up hills.

When ordering a new tire, it's important to follow the correct steps to ensure you don't damage the electric connections. If you're not comfortable changing the tire yourself, you can always take your electric bike to a professional.

Taking your electric bike to a professional

If you don't want to change your electric bike's tire yourself, you can always take it to a professional. This is a good option if you don't want to get your hands dirty or use a wrench. It's also important to know the basics of changing a tire in case you get a flat while out on a ride.

There are a few things to consider when choosing a new tire for your electric bike. The thickness of the tire will depend on the type of riding you plan to do. Thicker tires, up to four inches, offer better balance and stability, making them ideal for off-road riding. Thinner tires, on the other hand, provide more maneuverability and are better suited for smooth roads.

When taking your electric bike to a professional, be sure to communicate the type of riding you plan to do so they can help you choose the right tire. You should also ask them to show you how to change a tire in case of a flat. This will ensure that you're prepared for any situation while out on a ride.

Frequently asked questions