As our customer support team frequently receives inquiries related to e-bike batteries, we thought it would be beneficial to share some insights into how to properly maintain your electric bike's power source. We've previously covered topics such as testing the battery, a beginner's guide, and optimizing your e-bike's performance.

How to Charge an E-Bike Battery

When purchasing a new electric bike, one of the first things you might want to know is how to correctly charge the battery. Start by removing the battery pack from your e-bike. Ensure the battery switch is turned off before connecting the charger. Simply attach the charger to the battery pack and plug it in. With lithium-ion batteries, which are commonly used in today's rapidly expanding e-bike market, it's perfectly safe to unplug the charger before the battery is fully charged. During charging, the process occurs in two stages: the first stage charges around 80-90% of the battery quickly. Thus, even if you stop charging half an hour early, your battery will still be mostly charged.

Some customers wonder if the battery can be replaced. The answer is yes—battery replacement is possible at any time and typically won’t affect the bike's overall performance.

How Long Does It Take to Charge an Electric Bike?

Most electric bike chargers feature a red LED indicating the battery is still charging, switching to green once the bike is fully charged. Charging time varies depending on the battery size, but it generally takes between 2 to 6 hours to reach 100%. For instance, if your e-bike has a range of approximately 40 miles and charges fully in about two hours, you can expect to gain roughly 20 miles of range per hour of charging.

Can You Charge While Pedaling?

Some e-bikes allow you to recharge the battery while riding. This can add around 5-10% of additional battery range, though it might increase the cost of the bike and make pedaling feel heavier. If you're concerned about running out of battery while cycling, rest assured knowing you can always recharge at home.

Charging Your E-Bike Battery at Home: Key Tips

1. Regularly charge your e-bike battery, even if you don't plan on using it for a while. Unlike traditional bikes, e-bikes require more attention, especially during long-term storage. Proper maintenance involves cleaning the bike, charging the battery, and ensuring it remains functional. If you follow these steps, storing your e-bike becomes straightforward.

2. Avoid extreme temperatures. When you get a new e-bike, it's wise to fully charge the battery within the first 12 hours. This initial charge ensures all cells receive adequate current and prepares the battery optimally. Batteries perform best under moderate conditions, so avoid exposing them to extreme heat or cold, whether in use or during charging. Never charge your battery in freezing temperatures; bring it indoors until it's warm enough to charge safely. Both cold and hot conditions can degrade the battery's lifespan.

3. Don't overcharge your e-bike battery. Leaving the battery connected to the charger for extended periods—days or weeks—can lead to inefficiencies. Overcharging can deplete the battery prematurely and trigger a cycle of unnecessary small charges. Instead, set a reminder on your phone to disconnect the charger after charging is complete.

4. Fully charge a new battery pack within 12 hours. This initial charge helps ensure proper activation of all battery cells.

5. Avoid storing an empty battery. If you need to leave your e-bike for a while—perhaps due to travel or cold weather—don't store the battery fully discharged. Aim for a charge level between 40% and 70% for optimal storage.

Remember, the conditions in which you store your battery significantly impact its longevity. At Delfast, we offer a 2-year warranty on the battery and a lifetime warranty on the bike frame. Additionally, flexible credit options are available globally to make purchasing an e-bike more accessible and enjoyable. For more details, contact our team on our website.