First, pay attention to cleaning, especially after encountering water, particularly saltwater in winter (many cities spray saltwater to prevent ice formation after heavy snowfall). Promptly clean the bike to prevent corrosion of metal parts and aging or peeling of paint. Second, adjust the height properly. After riding the new bike for a period of time, it should be inspected and adjusted according to the instruction manual. Tightening and lubrication are essential. Check if any fasteners are loose, and if the transmission components are flexible, and after lubricating the chain, wipe off the excess oil and apply a little oil to the freewheel. The tire inflation should be appropriate to ensure comfortable riding and extend the service life. The brakes are the basic guarantee of safety and should be checked regularly. Any problems should be adjusted or repaired immediately.
- Before using an electric bike, adjust the height of the saddle and handlebars to ensure riding comfort and reduce fatigue. The height of the saddle should allow the rider to touch the ground with one foot (the bike should remain upright), and the height of the handlebars should allow the rider's forearms to be horizontal and the shoulders and arms to be relaxed. However, the adjustment of the saddle and handlebars should ensure that the insertion depth of the seat post and handlebar stem is higher than the safety line.
- Before using an electric bike, check and adjust the front and rear brakes. The front brake is controlled by the right brake lever, and the rear brake is controlled by the left brake lever. The adjustment of the front and rear brakes is appropriate when the brake levers reach halfway and the brakes reliably engage. Replace excessively worn brake pads.
- Before using an electric bike, check the tension of the chain. If the chain is too tight, pedaling will require effort, and if it is too loose, it may vibrate and come into contact with other components. The ideal chain sag is 1-2mm, and it can be adjusted slightly when not pedaling. To adjust the chain, loosen the rear wheel nut, adjust the chain tension by evenly turning the left and right chain adjustment screws, and tighten the rear wheel nut after adjusting the chain tension.
- Before using an electric bike, check the lubrication of the chain. Check if the chain rotates smoothly and if the chain links are severely rusted. If there is rust or lack of smooth rotation, apply an appropriate amount of lubricating oil or replace the chain if necessary.
Before riding an electric bike, check the tire pressure, steering flexibility of the handlebars, smooth rotation of the front and rear wheels, electrical circuits, battery level, motor operation, lights, horns, and fasteners to ensure they meet the requirements for use.
(1) Insufficient tire pressure will increase the friction between the tire and the road surface, reducing the range of travel. It will also reduce the maneuverability and safety of the handlebars. If the tire pressure is low, it should be promptly replenished according to the recommended pressure in the "Electric Bike User Manual" or on the tire surface.
(2) If the handlebars are not flexible, with sticking, dead spots, or tight spots, lubricate or adjust them promptly. Generally, use grease, calcium-based, or lithium-based lubricants for lubrication. When adjusting, loosen the front fork lock nut, rotate the front fork to achieve the required handlebar flexibility, and then tighten the front fork lock nut.
(3) Poor flexibility in the rotation of the front and rear wheels will increase friction and energy consumption, thereby reducing the range of travel. Therefore, if a fault occurs, timely lubrication, maintenance, and repair are necessary. Use grease, calcium-based, or lithium-based lubricants for lubrication. If there is an axle sleeve failure, replace the steel ball or axle sleeve. If there is a motor failure, it should be repaired by a professional maintenance unit.
(4) During circuit inspection, turn on the power switch and check if the circuit is unobstructed, if the connectors are securely connected, and if the fuse works properly, especially if the battery output terminal is securely connected to the cable. Any faults found should be promptly resolved.
(5) Before travel, check the battery level and determine if it is sufficient based on the distance to be traveled. If the battery level is insufficient, it is advisable to use human power assistance and avoid operating the battery in an under-voltage state.
(6) Before travel, check the operation of the motor. Start the motor and adjust its speed, and observe and listen to its operation. If any abnormal phenomena are detected, timely maintenance is required.
(7) Before using an electric bike, check the lights, horn, etc., especially when riding at night. The headlights should be bright, with the light beam generally falling within a range of 5-10 meters in front of the bike. The horn should produce a loud and clear sound. The turn signals should blink properly, indicating the intended direction. The flashing frequency of the lights should be 75-80 times per minute. The instrument display should function normally.
(8) Before travel, check if the major fasteners are securely tightened. Fasteners such as handlebars, seat posts, front and rear wheels, bottom brackets, lock nuts, and pedals should not be loose. If any fasteners are loose or detached, tighten or replace them promptly. The recommended torque for the fasteners is generally 18 Nm for handlebars, seat posts, front and rear wheels, and pedals, and 30 Nm for the bottom bracket and rear wheel.
- It is advisable to avoid zero-starting (starting from a standstill) on an electric bike, especially when carrying a load or on steep slopes. When starting, use human power to ride the bike until reaching a certain speed, and then switch to electric assistance or direct electric driving. This is because when starting, the motor must overcome static friction, resulting in a large current, approaching or reaching the stall current, which can damage the battery and accelerate its deterioration.
- When riding an electric bike, it is advisable to use human power assistance or electric assistance, especially when climbing, carrying a load, riding against the wind, or on rough and uneven road surfaces. This helps to avoid prolonged discharge of the battery at high currents, which can damage the battery. It is beneficial for increasing the range per charge and extending the battery's service life.
- Electric bikes are not suitable for rough and uneven roads or steep slopes (generally ≤8°). If encountering such roads, it is advisable to ride slowly or dismount and walk. Riding on such road surfaces can negatively affect the working environment of the motor, controller, battery, etc., reducing their service life and increasing the risk of damage.
- During electric bike use, avoid frequent braking and starting. Before braking or simultaneously, return the speed control handle to its original position and try to use human power for riding in crowded areas. This helps to prevent damage to the battery from high currents during starting.
- The standard load capacity of an electric bike is 75 kilograms, and it is best to avoid overloading. If riding with an overload, use human power or human power-assisted mode.
- When using an electric bike in cold weather, it is advisable to use human power or electric assistance for riding. Pay attention to the battery's charge level and voltage indicator. In cold weather, the charging capacity and discharging capacity of the battery decrease. It is recommended to reduce the depth of discharge in cold weather and avoid riding in an under-voltage state. This is because cold weather can reduce the battery's performance and service life.
- Electric bikes are not afraid of rain or snow. However, when encountering standing water, the water level should not exceed the lower edge of the electric wheel hub bearing seat to prevent water from entering the motor and causing damage. After riding in rainy or snowy weather, wipe the bike clean as soon as possible. If electrical components are immersed in water, they should be dried with a hairdryer to prevent corrosion of metal parts and electrical faults such as leakage or short circuits.
- When riding in rainy or snowy weather, reduce the speed appropriately, increase the braking distance, and avoid skidding and making sharp turns to ensure personal safety.
- Electric bikes should be stored in a cool, well-ventilated, dry place away from corrosive liquids and gases. When storing, keep the bike upright and ensure proper tire inflation. Do not load heavy objects on the frame. Batteries should be stored separately.
- When charging the battery, use a matching or manufacturer-specified charger and avoid mixing chargers. During charging, the battery and charger should be placed in a ventilated and cool area, stored securely, and kept away from heat, moisture, water, and flammable substances. Do not cover the battery with objects, and keep it out of reach of infants and children. First, confirm that the grid voltage and frequency meet the requirements of the charger, then connect the battery to the charger output, and connect the charger input to the power grid. After charging is complete, disconnect the power grid connection first, and then disconnect the charger from the battery. Lead-acid batteries generally require 6-8 hours of charging.
- If the battery reaches an under-voltage state, stop using it and recharge it promptly. Avoid using the battery until it reaches the recovery voltage. It is also prohibited to discharge the battery deeply or excessively. It is best to charge the battery as needed, keeping it in a fully charged state. It is recommended to charge the battery at least once a day.
- When storing the battery, place it in a cool, well-ventilated, and moderately humid area. The battery should be kept upright. For long-term storage, ensure the battery is fully charged and regularly replenish the charge, preferably charging it once a month. For long-term storage of lead-acid batteries, a few drops of distilled water can be added to compensate for evaporation and reduce plate sulfation.
- When using an electric bike for the first time, carefully read the "User Manual" to understand the performance of the electric bike. Do not lend the electric bike to someone unfamiliar with operating it.
- Electric bikes are prohibited for use by individuals with mental illness, alcoholism, or other disabilities that make riding unsafe. Individuals with heart disease, epilepsy, color blindness, and other conditions should exercise caution when riding.
- Electric bikes are classified as non-motorized vehicles. When riding, adhere to traffic regulations and ride in non-motorized lanes or designated lanes, as per local regulations.
- Electric bikes should be stored in a cool, well-ventilated, dry place, away from corrosive liquids and gases. When storing, keep the bike upright, ensure proper tire pressure, and do not load heavy objects on the frame. The batteries should be stored separately.
Battery Maintenance
As electric bikes have become a popular means of transportation, many people have noticed that the battery capacity significantly decreases in winter or becomes difficult to charge, or even fails to start. In many cases, this is due to neglecting battery maintenance during winter. Journalists visited several electric bike repair shops in the capital city to learn about battery maintenance for electric bikes.
A maintenance staff member from an electric bike repair shop in Saihan District told the reporter that the optimal operating temperature for batteries is between 15 degrees Celsius and 40 degrees Celsius. Outside this temperature range, the normal operation of the battery is affected, and its lifespan will be shortened. A normal lead-acid battery can ensure a maximum travel distance of 50 kilometers. However, due to the principle of thermal expansion and contraction, when the ambient temperature is -10 degrees Celsius, the battery cannot discharge its full capacity. Therefore, in winter, the range per charge is significantly reduced compared to summer. Therefore, battery maintenance is crucial.
First, in terms of charging, it is necessary to charge the battery every time after returning home, regardless of the duration of use. This ensures that the battery is always in a fully charged state when in use. Occasionally not fully charging the battery has little impact, but frequently not fully charging it will lead to a "memory effect," affecting its range and reducing its lifespan. When charging, first connect the battery plug, then connect the power plug. After charging, disconnect the power plug first, then disconnect the battery plug.
Second, when starting an electric bike, avoid high-current discharges and reduce the use of the vehicle for carrying passengers. It is best to use human power to push or use electric assistance when climbing. Otherwise, it will cause significant damage to the battery. If the vehicle is parked outdoors or in cold storage for several weeks without use, remove the battery and store it in a relatively warm room to prevent freezing and damage to the battery. Also, in low-temperature conditions, try to shorten the duration of electric bike use and charge it promptly. If you do not plan to use the battery-powered bike in winter, do not wait until the following year to charge the battery. Instead, charge the battery every month to maintain its capacity and prevent acid overflow and damage. The maintenance staff member emphasized the importance of frequent charging and using electric assistance more often.
After using an electric bike for about six months, it is advisable to take it to a repair shop for battery maintenance. This may involve replenishing the battery's electrolyte, adjusting the specific gravity of the electrolyte, and checking the battery's charge retention. It is important to maintain the specific gravity of the battery's electrolyte and increase the number of charging cycles if necessary. Additionally, clean the battery terminals and apply specialized grease for protection. This ensures the reliable starting of the electric bike and extends the battery's lifespan.
