E-bike maintenance and safety

Always read the manufacturer’s instructions before charging or riding your e-bike for the first time. Proper maintenance is key to your safety and the performance of your e-bike. Consider a tune-up once a year, or more often if you ride a lot. Regular maintenance helps keep your bike running smoothly and avoids costly repairs.

Do an ABC quick check before every ride

Air: Tires lose air over time. Make sure they’re properly inflated for good traction and to avoid flats.
Brakes: Check that your brakes work before you ride. The brake lever should stop about an inch from the handlebar. If it pulls all the way to the bar, get help from a bike mechanic.
Battery: If your e-bike has a removable battery, make sure it’s securely installed and locked. Check that it has enough charge for your ride.
Chain/Belt: Turn the cranks to ensure the chain or belt runs smoothly. Oil a squeaky chain and get a mechanic to check it if it’s damaged or not tracking well.
Quick release: If your wheels have quick release axles, make sure they’re tight and closed. Check the quick release on your seat post too.
Final check: Do a final check to ensure nothing feels loose or wobbly. No cables should be rubbing on moving parts. Take a short, slow ride to make sure everything works.

Key maintenance items

Between annual tune-ups, keep an eye on these critical bike parts and set up a maintenance schedule:
Brakes: E-bikes are heavier and faster than regular bikes, so brake pads and rotors wear out faster. Keep them in good working order and replace them when needed. Check with your bike or brake manufacturer or local bike shop for service intervals.
Tires: Regularly check your tires for wear and damage. Worn-out tires reduce traction and increase the risk of flats. Look for bulges, cuts, or worn tread. Tires should feel firm when pressed with your thumb. The inflation range is on the tire sidewall.
Chain/Belt: Dirt and grime wear out chains, so clean and lubricate them regularly. Use a brush or chain cleaning tool, inspect for damage, and reapply bike chain lubricant. Wipe off excess lubricant to avoid attracting dirt. Belt drives last longer and need less maintenance, but dirt buildup shortens their lifespan. Clean a dirty belt with a brush and water, and ensure it’s properly tensioned

Get more maintenance help

  • Your local bike shop: Check to see if your local shop offers classes on maintenance.
  • The League of American bicyclists: bikeleague.org/ridesmart/bike-maintenance/
  • Bicycling Magazine repair resources: bicycling.com/repair/

E-bike battery safety

E-bikes use lithium-ion batteries, similar to those in your cellphone or laptop, but bigger. Batteries can be fixed to the bike or removable. They come in different sizes. Choosing the right battery and caring for it properly can help you maximize its life. If not used or stored properly, or if damaged, these batteries can be a fire hazard. Here are some tips to keep you and others safe.

Charging basics

  • Read the instructions that come with your e-bike.
  • The first charge is super important. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
  • Use the charger that came with your e-bike. If you need a new one, get it from the manufacturer.
  • Don’t leave your battery unattended while charging.
  • Don’t charge your bike in front of a doorway or exit.
  • Plug the charger into the wall first, then into the battery (unless the manufacturer says otherwise).
  • Avoid extreme temperatures when charging or storing your battery. Keep it out of direct sunlight.
  • Unplug your battery once it’s charged. Don’t leave it plugged in all the time.
  • Plug your charger directly into the wall, not into an extension cord or power strip.
  • If your battery is damaged, don’t charge it

Battery care

  • Good habits can extend your battery’s life.
  • If your battery is external, remove it before transporting your bike to avoid damage.
  • Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for charging and storage.
  • Don’t modify your battery.
  • For long-term storage, keep your battery between 30-70% charged. Don’t store it fully charged or fully depleted.
  • If your battery is damaged, bulging, or overheating, don’t use or store it.

Recycling and disposal

Safety basics

  • Follow traffic laws and ride predictably.
  • Ride predictably and follow the rules to keep everyone safe. People riding bikes and e-bikes follow the same rules as people driving do.
  • Stick to the right side of the road unless there’s a bike lane. Follow all traffic signs.
  • Use hand signals when you plan to turn or stop.
  • Stay focused and alert
  • Keep control of your e-bike. Always ride with both hands on the handlebars, except when signaling.
  • Don’t use your phone while riding.
  • Stop in a safe spot before using your phone.
  • If you use your phone for navigation, either stop to check directions or get a handlebar phone mount.
  • Wear a helmet where required
  • Make sure your helmet fits well and is securely fastened.
  • Helmets should fit snugly and cover your forehead down to about an inch above your eyebrows. You should see the brim of the helmet when you look up.
  • There should be no more than half an inch of space between your chin and the strap.
  • The best helmet is one you enjoy wearing, so try on a few to find a comfortable one.
  • In many places, you need to have a tail light. It’s also a good idea to use a headlight so you can see better and others can see you, whether they’re coming toward you or from the side.
  • Wearing safety vests and bright or reflective clothing can make you feel safer. You don’t have to wear these by law, and drivers should still be careful and watch out for everyone on the road, no matter what they’re wearing.
  • Wheel lights or reflective tape can also help you be more visible.
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