Owning an electric bike comes with its fair share of repair and maintenance. Though you can always have it professionally serviced, it pays to know how to perform common fixes. This will save you a lot of money in the long run and show you how to become a responsible e-bike owner.
What are some of the usual problems you’ll encounter with your electric bike and how can you fix them? Is there a way to minimize the number of repairs you’ll need? GIN e-bikes answer these questions and more, including how to pick a good e-bike.
Is it expensive to repair an electric bike?
The cost of repair depends on multiple factors, including the make and model of your bike, how much damage components sustained, if parts require replacement, and so on.
Here are some estimates to give you an idea. If there is damage to the motor, getting it repaired can cost $200 to $800. Meanwhile, getting brake issues checked could put you out $40 to $200. If you require a complete frame replacement, prices start at $1,500!
As you can see, repairs can get expensive quickly. But the good news is, you can DIY several types of repairs using materials and tools you already have in your shed.
Common electric bike issues and how to fix them
Here are some common bike issues with tips on how to repair electric bike.
Flat tires
E-bike tires generally last one to three years. But if you’re constantly driving on rugged terrain without inflating your tires to ensure adequate support, the weight of the battery and motor will soon catch up with you, causing a flat tire.
If your bike has a mid-drive motor, you can carry out the replacement just as you would on a regular bike. But if it has a hub motor, you might need to learn about the process because they’re at the bike’s cranks and thus trickier to nail.
Motor issues
The motor works alongside the battery to get your bike moving. Common motor issues include unnecessary motor noise, overheating, damage from the elements, loose bolts, worn-out gears, and a general loss of power.
If you aren’t getting enough power from the motor, try lubricating the bearings to prevent friction. In addition, check the motor cables and controller for damage and loose connections. If these steps don’t seem to fix the issue, you may need to bring it in for repairs and get certain parts replaced.
Worn out chain
High speeds and loads on e-bikes place high demands on the chain, a critical piece of the drivetrain. This causes friction and leads to a much higher level of wear and tear. Help your chain last as long as possible by cleaning it periodically. Remove debris first before applying a lubricant, then turn the pedals to ensure even distribution. This will also prevent grit and grime from accumulating on the surface. Additionally, you could invest in a go-no-go gauge that will tell you when your chain needs replacing.
Brake malfunction
Electric bikes need adequate stopping power to ensure a safe ride. Regularly inspect the rotor and pads for wear. Promptly replace them when it’s time. This due diligence ensures your safety and the safety of other drivers who share the road with you.
As an extra precaution, adjust the brake tension and caliper alignment.
Battery and charging
The battery provides power to the electric bike. With the right charging habits and a compatible charger-adapter duo, it can last up to eight years. The key is to charge it whenever power is available, but never up to 100%. Doing so can stress its internal components, lower its capacity, and cost you $500 to $900 on a replacement.
If your battery isn’t charging properly, check the battery’s voltage and examine the alignment of its pins. If you’ve made adjustments and your battery still refuses to charge or gets discharged too quickly, a replacement may be in order.
Electrical concerns
Most e-bikes will face electrical and technical issues at some point, which can make riding them unsafe. These are often due to loose connections and wiring, so you might want to inspect the electrical components (motor, battery, throttle, etc.) for signs of damage. Replace blown fuses, if any, to ensure proper functioning.
Controller malfunction
The e-bike controller monitors the speed, power, and other critical components of the vehicle, and uses that information to adjust the power supply to the bike.
If it fails, your bike won’t function efficiently. Should your controller malfunction, turn off the bike, disconnect the battery, and look for signs of water and heat damage as well as loose wiring. Most of these issues can be resolved by reconnecting any disconnected wires and fuse and resetting the circuit.
Issues with functionality
Your electric bike employs one of either two models: throttle and pedal assist.
If you have a throttle model, you can access your throttle via the handlebars, which gives it additional control. But, if you twist it too hard, the wire that connects the throttle to the motor will become worn out. So, if you experience resistance, you might want to watch how you use the throttle or get the wire replaced to restore your bike to its former glory.
Things can get a little tricky if your bike has a pedal assist system (PAS). PAS uses sensors to supply additional power as you ride. If the magnets get displaced or dirty, they can create issues with the bike’s mechanical system—making it work like a regular bike with extra load. To get it up and running again, you need to check the position of the magnets and make sure they align with the sensors.
Sounds like a lot? It can be so don’t shy away from seeking professional help.
Know when to turn to the pros for electric bike repair
It is easy to fix an electric bike—most of the time.
While you can do a majority of the maintenance work yourself, it’s best to consult a specialist with relevant experience handling e-bikes, especially if the issue is related to critical components like the battery, controller, display, PAS, and motor.
It’s highly recommended to schedule an annual check-in with the local supplier. This will cost you around $100 to $300, but it will pay off in the long run. Plus, you get peace of mind and the assurance of a safe ride.
For minimal maintenance, choose a good electric bike
Knowing common issues you may face with an electric bike is a good precautionary measure. But if you want to ensure that repairs and maintenance are minimal, invest in a high-quality e-bike from a reputable provider.
Here are some features to look for when buying an electric bike:
Tires that can handle any terrain
A battery range of at least 65 miles
A quality motor with a long lifespan
Robust brakes that offer efficient stopping power
A comfortable seat for a superior riding experience
The type of maintenance it requires
Weight of the electric bike
While e-bikes are heavier than traditional bikes, weight isn’t an indicator of performance. When you’re shopping for an e-bike, opt for a model with a reasonable weight. It will give you the best ride without affecting your tire’s lifespan.
Drive safe with GIN e-bikes
We hope this guide to electric bike repair has given you an idea of how to troubleshoot common e-bike issues. If you’re looking for an electric bike but have questions about the type of model you need, schedule a free call through our website. We’d love to be a part of your journey.