Servicing Your Electric Bike: A Step-By-Step Guide

Electric bikes need regular maintenance to keep them running smoothly, efficiently and safely. This includes cleaning, lubricating the drivetrain, and inflating the tyres. It's also important to regularly service the motor, as dirt will accumulate on the inside and eventually ingress into the electrical connections. In this article, we'll cover the basics of how to service an electric bike, including what to do if there's a fault.

Cleaning your electric bike

To clean your electric bike, start by gathering the necessary tools and supplies. A bike cleaning kit can be helpful, as it includes all the brushes and tools you'll need, as well as a cleaner and bike spray for protection. You'll also need a lubricant for the chain, wheels, and brakes. Make sure to use a lubricant that is suitable for the conditions you'll be cycling in—a wet lube for wet conditions or a dry lube for summer.

When cleaning your electric bike, pay particular attention to the drivetrain, which includes the cranks, chain, cassette, and freehub. These components are subject to greater forces and increased wear, so it's important to keep them well-maintained and lubricated. Use a brush to remove any dirt, debris, or grime from the drivetrain and other parts of the bike. Be careful not to get lubricant on your brake discs, blocks, or wheel rims when servicing your brakes.

In addition to the drivetrain, it's important to keep the motor clean. However, you should never attempt to take the motor apart for maintenance or to fix a problem. Instead, visit the store where the bike was purchased or take it to a reputable dealer for servicing. They will be able to remove the motor, clean it, and service it properly. Regular servicing of the motor is important to ensure that it is running smoothly and efficiently.

Lubricating the drivetrain

Make sure your chain, wheels and brakes have sufficient lubrication. When servicing your brakes, be careful not to get lubricant on the brake discs, blocks or wheel rims. The type of lubricant you use will depend on the conditions you'll be cycling in. If you're cycling in wet conditions, use a wet lube. If you're cycling in summer, use a dry lube.

It's also important to keep your electric bike clean and well-maintained in general. Washing your ebike regularly will help to remove dirt and debris, which can quickly take a toll on expensive components. This is especially important if you're riding off-road, as dirt and debris can accumulate more quickly. Keeping your bike clean and well-maintained will help to ensure it runs smoothly, efficiently and safely, and can contribute to a longer lifespan for the bike and its battery and motor.

In addition to lubricating the drivetrain, you should also make sure to keep your tyres properly inflated. This will help to ensure a smooth and comfortable ride, and can also help to improve the efficiency of your electric bike. By following these simple maintenance tips, you can help to keep your electric bike in good condition and ensure it provides you with many miles of enjoyable riding.

Servicing the motor

The motor of an electric bike should be regularly serviced. Although most e-bike motors are designed to be maintenance-free, dirt will inevitably accumulate on the inside and eventually ingress into the electrical connections. This can increase the pressure and temperature of the motor, which can lead to overheating. Therefore, it is important to clean the motor regularly, both inside and out. You can use a clean, lint-free cloth and mild detergent to clean the various components of the drivetrain. Make sure to dry the parts after to minimise the risk of corrosion.

If there is a fault with the motor, never try to take it apart or fix it yourself. The motor is in a factory-sealed unit and attempting to open it could cause further damage. Instead, visit the store where the bike was purchased or take it to a reputable dealer. A good bike shop will remove the motor in a service and give it a clean and service. It is also worth getting the electrical components inspected at least once a year. Some e-bikes have recommended maintenance cycles programmed into the bike's computer, so consult your owner's manual for suggested service levels.

Maintaining the battery

Firstly, it is important to keep the bike clean, as dirt and debris can quickly take a toll on the battery and other components. Regularly washing your electric bike will help to prevent the build-up of dirt and keep your bike in good condition.

Secondly, make sure that the drivetrain (cranks, chain, cassette and freehub) is well-maintained and lubricated. This is because these components are subject to greater forces and increased wear, which can impact the battery life.

Thirdly, it is recommended to get the electrical components, including the battery, inspected and serviced at least once a year. A good bike shop will remove the motor and give it a thorough clean as part of a service.

Finally, some electric bike insurance policies cover loss or damage to the battery, so it may be worth considering this if you want extra peace of mind.

By following these tips, you can help to maintain the battery of your electric bike and keep it running optimally.

Tyre inflation

To check your tyre pressure, you will need a tyre pressure gauge. This can be purchased from most bike shops or online retailers. Simply attach the gauge to your tyre valve and it will give you a reading of your current tyre pressure.

The correct tyre pressure for your electric bike will depend on a few factors, including the weight of the rider, the terrain you are riding on, and the type of tyre you have. As a general rule, the tyre pressure should be higher for heavier riders and for riding on rough terrain. You can find the recommended tyre pressure for your specific tyre model by checking the manufacturer's website or the sidewall of the tyre itself.

To inflate your tyres, you will need a pump with a pressure gauge. Attach the pump to your tyre valve and inflate to the recommended pressure. Be sure to check the pressure regularly, as tyres can lose air over time, especially in cold weather.

Frequently asked questions