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6 Best Electric Bike Suspension Seat Posts

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REDSHIFT ShockStop Suspension Seatpost

Riding an electric bike makes it easy to traverse 40 or 50 miles daily. With pedal assistance and/or throttle, you can go further than you ever thought possible on a regular bike. But what’s the downside? A very sore backside!

Thankfully, a suspension seat post can relieve the discomfort from vibrations and bumps while riding your electric bike.

Here’s a list I’ve put together of the 6 best suspension seat posts that will fit onto your e-bike:

  • Aventon Suspension Seatpost
  • Cane Creek 3G Thudbuster Suspension Seatpost
  • PNW Coast Suspension Dropper IR Seatpost
  • Bolany Suspension Seatpost
  • Redshift Shockstop Suspension Seatpost
  • Kinekt 2.1 Aluminum Bike Suspension Seatpost

Take a look at the detailed information (and table) of each seat post I provide below. I’ll give you the information you need to make a decision on what suspension seat to put on your e-bike. You’ll be able to choose the perfect one to suit your rear end and your budget.

I’ll also tell you why having a suspension seat on your electric bike is worth the cost and help you explore whether a dropper post might benefit you.

Best Suspension
Seatposts
Diameter (mm)Travel (mm)Max Rider WeightBest for…5-Star Rating
Aventon Suspension Seatpost27.2-30.925mm250 lbs (113 kg)Fits all Aventon e-bikes + has an adapter for any bike up to 30.9mm in diameter4.7
Cane Creek 3G Thudbuster Suspension Seatpost27.2, 30.9, 31.676mm250 lbs (113 kg)Most E-Bike riders who need greater comfort4.5
PNW Coast Suspension Dropper IR Seatpost27.2, 30.9, 31.6100-120mm250 lbs (113 kg)Those willing to pay more for a drop post4.8
Bolany Bike Suspension Seatpost27.2, 31.640mm379 lbs (180 kg)Budget-conscious riders4.4
Redshift Shockstop Suspension Seatpost27.235mm242 lbs (110 kg)Riders wanting a fully adjustable suspension4.9
Kinekt 2.1 Aluminum Bike Suspension Seatpost25.4, 27.2, 30.9, 31.635mm240-320 lbs (109-145 kg)Heavier Riders4.7

What is a Suspension Seat Post?

Most electric bikes come with a standard seat post that doesn’t absorb shock well, which means you feel every bump and jarring motion. Although many e-bikes offer wider seats for comfort, don’t confuse this with having a suspension seat post.

A suspension seat post is built to minimize the impact of bumps while you are riding. It does this by damping vibrations and increasing shock absorption of bumps, holes, and rocks.

Essentially, it makes your ride more comfortable.

Why You Need a Suspension Seat on Your E-Bike

Because you can easily ride 20, 30, 40, or more miles a day on your electric bike, a suspension seat will provide more comfort than any other bike seat, even if it’s fully adjustable and you’re wearing padded bike shorts.

A suspension seat will give you a smooth ride. It’ll reduce the impact of everything you ride over, helping to cushion your behind, allowing you to ride farther, providing better handling of your e-bike by absorbing bumps that can cause you to lose control, and protecting your spine long-term.

Further, riding with a suspension post will make your body feel more relaxed by the end of a long ride, not only because you won’t need to stand up over rough terrain to avoid jarring shocks, but because the pressure on your lower back is lessened.

Finally, you’ll discover that suspension seat posts offer a practical solution being that they are far less expensive than buying a full-suspension electric mountain bike.

There’s no question that it’s worth it to have a seat post with suspension, but naturally, you’ll want to consider price and quality before choosing one.

Suspension seatpost
Aventon Suspension seatpost

What is Travel in a Bike Suspension Post?

In order to properly choose a suspension post, it’s a good idea to understand travel measurement. Basically, travel refers to the amount of distance the seat post can compress before it hits the bottom and you feel it.

A higher travel absorbs more force, making the seat less likely to bottom out. So, naturally, a heavier rider will need higher travel to absorb bumps while seated.

Further, some suspension posts have elastomer springs (rubber cushion) placed where the greatest force hits. This will further reduce unexpected shocks.

6 Best Suspension Seat Posts for Electric Bikes

Here’s what you need to know about each electric bike suspension seat post in detail.

1. Aventon Suspension Seatpost

Price: $120 at Aventon

Aventon suspension seatpost
I added the Aventon suspension seatpost to my Aventure 2 electric bike!

The Aventon suspension seat smooths out jarring bumps on rough terrain or on the road. With 25mm of suspension travel, this seatpost is a definite upgrade to your ride experience, especially during off-road riding.

Although it was made for compatibility with all Aventon electric bike models, it comes with adaptors to fit almost any bike from 27.2mm to 30.9mm in diameter.

Further, it has a maximum extension of 240mm and a total length of up to 350mm.

Check out this sturdy seatpost with size adaptors at Aventon e-bikes.

2. Cane Creek Thudbuster Suspension Seatpost 3G

Prices start at $134 on Amazon

Cane Creek 3G Thudbuster Suspension seat Post

With its parallel linkage technology (patented) and tunability, the long-travel Cane Creek Thudbuster suspension seatpost is one of the most versatile suspension seat posts for the price. It offers a minimum of 27.2mm of suspension travel up to 31.6mm, absorbing force and offering equal compression, without any saddle movement.

What makes the Cane Creek suspension great for electric bikes, is that it protects from bumpy roads while keeping your body in the same comfortable ride position relative to the pedals. It’s perfect for folding e-bikes with small tires that are less forgiving, as well as for long cargo bikes, electric road bikes, and hardtail mountain bikes.

Plus, what makes this one of the best suspension seatposts for the money is the addition of elastomers that provide up to 3″ of fine-tuning suspension.

3. PNW Coast Suspension Dropper IR Seatpost

Price: $189-$199 at Backcountry

Coast Suspension Dropper IR Seat post from Backcountry
PNW Coast Suspension Dropper IR Seat post from Backcountry

Designed with a dropper post (with 120mm of drop travel) for easy dismounting, you can put your feet flat on the ground with a simple push of a button. Then return to the previous saddle height when you continue on your ride. This feature is especially helpful if you are managing a big load or have short legs (or are just generally a smaller rider).

Further, the PNW Coast suspension dropper seat post with air suspension smooths out the bumps from rocks and potholes alike. Additionally, it has 40mm of air suspension making it optimized for just about any riding purpose.

What’s not to like? It’s a little pricier than some options. But the dropper post can make it well worthwhile, especially if you are a stop-and-go rider. Plus, the added expense isn’t that significant if you require a higher suspension due to different rider weights, hardtail mountain bike riding, or are a daily commuter or frequent high-mileage rider (20+ miles).

This seat post is available with internal or external cable routing (but does not come with the cable or lever).

4. Bolany Bike Suspension Seatpost

Price Starts at $29.88 on Amazon

Bolany Bike Suspension Seatpost

If you’re not ready to pay hundreds of dollars for a suspension post but you’d like to relieve your body from bumps and jolts, the good news is that the Bolany suspension seatpost is a great option for under $100.

With a damping coil spring and 40mm travel, you’ll get a solid suspension that won’t do much damage to the pocketbook. This seat post is adjustable to meet your weight and can hold riders up to 397 lbs (180kg) by tightening the screw. However, most electric bikes don’t have that high of a load capacity. So I wouldn’t recommend testing those limits unless your e-bike is also capable of holding that much body weight.

Besides offering two diameter sizes, it also comes in a choice of three colors to best match your electric bike.

5. Redshift Shockstop Suspension Seatpost

Price: $229 on Amazon

REDSHIFT ShockStop Suspension Seatpost

According to customer reviews, this may be the best electric bike suspension seat post you can buy, thanks to its ultra-responsive suspension. There’s also a reason the Redshift shock suspension post is the most highly customer-rated suspension seat post on Amazon.

It has a spring-loaded fully adjustable suspension and two-bolt seat clamp. You can even add a second spring to customize it for your own weight and comfort. Plus, with the removable mudguards, you’ll be able to fit a saddle bag.

Finally, with 35mm of tunable travel, you can expect to dampen vibration and bumps up to 60%, relieving your body from fatigue and improving efficiency.

6. Kinekt 2.1 Aluminum Bike Suspension Seatpost

Price: $279.95 on Amazon

Kinekt suspension seatpost

With preload adjustment, 35mm travel, and swappable springs, the Kinekt suspension seatpost is especially helpful for heavy electric bikes that experience more vibration.

Plus, it’s worth noting that this suspension seatpost is a perfect fit if you’re a heavy rider with between 240 and 320 lbs of body weight. In fact, it was specifically designed for you! So, even though it is more expensive than the other suspension seatposts, it’s a cost-effective way for a large person to ride an e-bike comfortably (rather than buy a full-suspension bike).

Further, it has pretty high ratings from customers who are in the same weight range and who were also looking for an effective suspension system.

Wrap-Up

Even the best suspension seat post can’t claim to replace a full-suspension electric bike or mountain bike if you’re riding on gravel roads or even small bumps. But it can reduce the jarring on your body while riding, improving your ride quality and overall comfort, thus making your rides more enjoyable!

QuietKat vs Biktrix (E-Bike Brands Compared)

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Quiet Kat mid-drive electric bike

There are more choices than ever when it comes to buying the best electric bikes. However, when looking for a high-quality e-bike that rides on the road and off, two electric bike brands find themselves being compared: QuietKat and Biktrix.

Both brands are reputable and make high-quality e-bikes with similar starting prices of $2300 (Biktrix) and $2499 (QuietKat). Both have an extensive product range. QuietKat makes electric bikes that have an off-road focus. On the other hand, Biktrix offers a greater selection of options that are suitable for commuters and urban riders as well.

The good news is that both e-bike brands are quite versatile and not tied to just one type of riding experience. QuietKat’s rugged bikes can be ridden in the city and Biktrix has models that can make easy work of any rough terrain.

So, how do you choose which electric bike brand to purchase? Take a look at this QuietKat vs Biktrix brand comparison. I’ll show you what each brand is best for and help you make a great choice for you.

Make sure to see the e-bike model comparison charts I put together for you below.

Quiet Kat mid-drive electric bike
QuietKat Apex with rear rack

QuietKat Brand Overview

Comparing e-bike brands like QuietKat and Biktrix is not that easy. Each brand has something unique to offer, while there are a lot of similarities as well. At the end of the day, it will all come down to what kind of bike rider you are and what you want from your electric bike. Let’s begin with an overview of QuietKat.

The brand was founded in 2012 in Colorado. And they had one mission. To create an electric bike that is perfect for someone who loves the outdoors. That is why you will see awesome e-bikes for anglers, off-roaders, and hunters.

Their fat tire electric bikes are so cool that they have even started to replace traditional ATVs. After all, they’re smaller and more nimble than ATVs. Here are some standout features for QuietKat e-bikes.

Ruggedness

The build quality of a QuietKat ebike is apparent the moment you get your hands on one. It’s something I would call accessible durability. The brand uses tough materials like stainless steel and aluminum to make high-quality thick frames.

If you are looking for something that can tackle tough terrains, then QuietKat’s offerings will surely impress. Further, the brand is well-known when it comes to off-road fat tire electric bikes.

Ranger Fat Tire E-Bike from Quiet Kat
Rugged Ranger Fat Tire E-Bike from Quiet Kat

Great For City Riding

Although their e-bikes are rugged and strong, that doesn’t mean that they can’t handle normal city roads. Their electric bikes will do just fine for city riding, possibly even giving you more comfort while riding thanks to their typical fat tires. The best part? Riding one will certainly not feel cheap and it’ll be a fun experience, even if you’re using the rear rack for a picnic basket.

So, you get a lot of versatility here. These e-bikes can ride on all sorts of terrains like dirt, mud, snow, sand, and wet roads. Plus, you can also take it for a spin on paved roads in an urban environment.

Blue urban style e-bike from QuietKat
QuietKat Villager Urban E-Bike

Excellent Quality and Accessible to All

Here’s another thing to love about QuietKat. They have a program that makes it easier for everyone to own one of their e-bikes. This means that, even if you can’t afford a high-end bike upfront, you don’t have to settle for a cheap one.

QuietKat has something called ‘Ride Now, Pay Later’. And it is exactly what it sounds like. It’s a helpful financing tool that will make owning an electric bike much easier for you, letting you make monthly payments.

Overall, QuietKat’s electric bikes are great if you love the outdoor trails but also want to be able to ride in an urban environment. Their e-bikes are great for riding on rough terrain, angling trips, and mountain biking. Commuters will love them too!

Pricing

QuietKat prices are quite variable with their lowest model, the Pioneer, costing around $2500 (listed price but may be discounted) and their most expensive e-bike, the Rubicon, going up to over $8000. So, unfortunately, you won’t find any bargains here. But you can count on getting a quality electric bike that’ll last for years.

Check out the lineup of QuietKat electric bikes here.

Biktrix Brand Overview

The Biktrix e-bike brand offers high-performance electric bikes for a variety of riders and riding styles, including e-bike commuters, adventure seekers, and senior riders.

Therefore, not only will you find e-bikes that handle well on rugged trails, but you’ll also find capable utility ebikes, cruisers, and hybrid e-bikes.

More Variety of Designs

One strong point of Biktrix is that the design varies from bike to bike. You are not just stuck with one specific bike design when shopping for a Biktrix ebike. So, you can match your taste with the type of e-bike you want or need.

If you want an e-bike that looks sleek with both step-through and step-over versions, Biktrix has you covered. Overall, however, their designs are not all that rugged and utilitarian looking. So, if you’re into that, you might rather go for a tough-looking QuietKat e-bike.

At the end of the day, design is pretty subjective. So, you need to pick the one that suits your style best.

Biktrix Juggernaut Ultra FS Pro 2 E-Bike
Biktrix Juggernaut Ultra FS Pro 2

Customizability

Biktrix also gives you a full range of customizability options, which many other brands don’t offer.

You may be able to build your e-bike by choosing colors, wheelset, and battery capacity. And, on some models, you can even select your motor power, headlight, brakes, and front suspension. That means you can create an e-bike that is tailor-made for you, which is a good reason to buy from Biktrix.

Quality and Durability

Honestly, both QuietKat and Biktrix are a couple of the best electric bike brands. And I don’t think you’ll be dissatisfied with the quality of either of these brands, as both use premium materials and parts.

The customer reviews are pretty good for both brands. It all comes down to what you want from your electric bike. Do you want more ruggedness or do you want something that is more city-focused?

Keep in mind though, that QuietKat may be built for rough terrain but their e-bikes can handle urban roads well too. Some riders may enjoy the rugged look even though they will only be riding it for city commutes. 

Of special note, a few models of Biktrix e-bikes are made with a lightweight frame of carbon fiber, which is not seen on QuietKat models.

Price

You’ll find that Biktrix offers lower-priced options than QuietKat as well as more options to choose from.

Their prices start at around $1500 for city bike styles and go up to nearly $6000 for their 1000W, 160Nm torque Monte Capro Ultra.

Biktrix Monte Capro Ultra

Financing

Where QuietKat has its Ride Now, Pay Later program, Biktrix is right behind. The Klarna program from Biktrix gives you the same luxury of buying the bike now and paying later.

So, you can finance it with relative ease. And the pricing is completely transparent. You will see how much your monthly payment comes to before you make the actual purchase. All in all, Biktrix is a good option for those who want a bit sleeker looks and style with lots of customizability and options. 

Take a look at the entire line of Biktrix e-bikes!

Comparing Popular E-Bike Models from QuietKat and Biktrix

Before wrapping up, I wanted to end with a direct head-to-head comparison of some of the most popular electric bike models each brand has to offer. As I said, what works for you will ultimately depend on your needs and taste.

When comparing QuietKat vs Biktrix, you can’t overlook the numbers. So, here’s a comparison of three e-bike lines from each brand. On the QuietKat side, there is the Apex line, Jeep and Villager Urban. You can check out all the QuietKat models here

As for the Biktrix side, there is the Juggernaut Series, Swift Series, and Monte Capro Series. Take a look at the full Biktrix line-up here.

QuietKat Apex Vs. Biktrix Juggernaut Series

DetailsQuietKat ApexBiktrix Juggernaut Ultra FS Pro 2
Starts From$5499$4199
Watt750W – 1000W1000W
Size5’6”+5’4”+

What I love about the Biktrix Juggernaut Ultra is that it has an impressive range of up to 75 miles on a single charge, even though it’s not a road bike. Instead, it’s an electric bike fat bike with 4″ wide tires. It also comes with both a cadence and a torque sensor, 160 Nm of torque, thumb throttle, and a 330 lb weight capacity. So, not only is it super powerful, it can carry a heavy load quite far.

The QuietKat Apex, on the other hand, offers both a 1000W and a 750W motor, letting you choose to have a Class 1 or Class 2 e-bike. This is important if you want to ride on public lands and roads legally. And if you choose the 750W mid-drive motor, you’ll still get a cool camouflage design, hydraulic brakes, integrated battery, 4.5″ fat tires, and more than enough power to tackle hills, steep terrain, and gravel roads.

Plus, the Apex comes in three frame sizes to better fit smaller riders and tall riders alike. Check out the Apex in this YouTube video:

QuietKat Jeep Vs. Biktrix Monte Carpo Series

DetailsQuietKat JeepBiktrix Monte Capro Ultra
Starts From$7299$5999
Watt750W – 1000W1000W
Size5’6”+5’7”+

The Biktrix Monte Capro Ultra is built for serious mountain bike riders and features a carbon fiber frame, hydraulic disc brakes, cadence + torque sensor, powerful battery (840Wh), and mid-drive motor. You can choose from larger 27.5″ wheels with 3″ tires or 26″ x4.8″ fat tires. For a full suspension electric mountain bike, it certainly isn’t inexpensive starting at $5999.

So it’s a little hard to believe that the QuietKat Jeep full-suspension, fat tire e-bike, with a torque sensor, hydraulic disc brakes, and a mid-drive motor, starts even higher at $7300. They’re both high-end off-road e-bikes with suspension that are clear winners when it comes to climbing the steepest hills and going over difficult terrain.

So, what’s the main difference? For one, the QuietKat Jeep is backed by Jeep Motors, has a full suspension, and comes in three frame sizes to fit most riders. Plus it has a slightly higher load capacity at 300 lbs (compared to 280 lbs) and allows you to opt for 29″ mountain bike tires for greater flexibility. So the added cost might be well worth it, especially if you’re a hunter or will be carrying a large load.

Find out how fast the QuietKat Jeep can go in this article!

Here you can see the Monte Capro Ultra in motion:

QuietKat Villager Urban Vs. Biktrix Swift Series 

DetailsQuietKat Villager UrbanBiktrix Swift Step-Thru
Starts From$3199$2049
Watt500W500W
Size5’6”+5’3”+

The Biktrix Swift series again beats the price of the Villager Urban QuietKat brand. The closest comparison to the Villager, however, is the Swift Step-Thru, which starts at $2049. Both have an upright riding position, step-thru frame, and 500W rear hub motor, perfect for urban riding.

Where the QuietKat again steps ahead is with the wider 3″ tires and 100mm suspension fork, making it the best choice if you’re planning to go off-road or just want an e-bike that’s more fun.

QuietKat Vs. Biktrix: Which E-Bike Brand Is Right for You?

Let’s address the million-dollar question. Which e-bike, from which brand, is right for you? And sorry to disappoint you but the answer is… it depends. There is no single standout winner between QuietKat bikes and Biktrix.

The thing with e-bikes is that they offer tons of features among each model and brand. And not all features and gimmicks will matter to everyone. Thus, you need to pick the one that works for you based on your riding style and needs.

In general, QuietKat is the better brand for off-roading and rugged riding. These e-bikes are built like tanks and can tackle city roads as well. Their camouflage design is clearly geared toward outdoor sports like hunting. Biktrix, on the other hand, is the better brand if you’re looking for a sleeker, more modern design for commuting and everyday e-bike riding.

But again, you might find the perfect Biktrix model for off-roading, or find the best e-bike for city riding at QuietKat, such as the Villager Urban.

Wrapping Up

After reading this article comparing QuietKat vs Biktrix, you should have a pretty good idea about which brand will work the best for you. You might be focusing on the price point or the type of electric bike, but the good thing is that both brands offer great quality to meet all of your needs. Further, you can get more helpful advice on which brand and e-bike you should get by reading customer reviews on their websites.

Being informed is the best way of making sure you choose the right brand for your needs and desires.

You might also like:

QuietKat vs Rad Power Bikes Comparison

Typical E-Bike Battery Problems And Solutions (Listed!)

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Back of an electric bike showing a close-up of the battery

All e-bikes are powered by batteries, and if you own one, you’re likely to run into common issues with the battery pack from time to time. Some problems may occur due to normal wear and tear, but batteries also have a limited number of charge and discharge cycles. Other problems, like failing to charge fully or refusing to turn on, can be fixed by checking the ports and allowing your battery to charge up to 100%.

In general, there are six typical electric bike battery problems that you may face:

  1. The battery fails to fully charge
  2. It swells up or bulges
  3. It’s not running as long as expected
  4. E-bike refuses to turn on
  5. The battery is not holding a charge
  6. Sluggish battery performance

Although many problems have a solution, it’s also possible that you’ll need to replace your battery pack.

So, continue reading… this article will discuss in-depth some of the most common e-bike battery issues while also providing possible solutions for them. Be sure to see the step-by-step diagnoses table as well.

Back of an electric bike showing a close-up of the battery

Typical E-Bike Battery Problems And Solutions You Should Know About

Electric bikes certainly have more problems than regular bikes due to the motor and battery pack. Although problems are not all that common, they can creep up and make your e-bike experience a little annoying. 

However, if you recognize the problems and understand how to deal with them, you can enjoy your e-bike fully. So, in this section, I’ll tell you the six most common problems e-bike owners might face with their batteries. And I’ll show you the possible solutions for each of them.

You can breathe a sigh of relief though. Some of the problems are things you won’t even have to deal with if you take proper care of your e-bike. And later on, I will tell you some best maintenance practices to help you get the most out of your electric bike.

Let’s get started then. There are six typical ebike battery problems to consider.

1. Battery Fails To Charge

One of the most common e-bike battery problems is that it might just fail to charge. Therefore, your electric bicycle motor won’t run at all. Unfortunately, this is also one of the most difficult problems to properly diagnose. 

This is because failure to charge can be caused by a couple of things. You might want to have a checklist of the things you want to test to ensure everything is plugged in the way it should.

How To Fix a Battery That Won’t Charge

There are a couple of solutions to fixing a rechargeable battery that’s not charging. Most of these are just normal troubleshooting steps. First, you need to check whether or not everything is plugged in right. 

Step One- Double-check that the battery terminals are connecting to the electric bike. If they are off just a little (or they’re not clean), then that would explain why the battery pack is not working.

Step Two- Check the voltage that is coming out of both your wall socket and the battery charger. Use a multimeter or voltmeter like these ones on Amazon.

Step Three- Make sure the charger is not at fault. Plug it in and look for the indicators to light up (or attempt to charge your battery completely).

If you determine that the charger voltage is lower than the specified voltage for your ebike battery, then the charger will not be able to pull as much power to charge your battery. You should also try and clean the charger ports as well. Dirt and debris on the battery pack charger port can stop it from making a solid connection.

For help checking your battery voltage, take a look at this YouTube video:

2. Battery Swells Up

If you had a phone for a long time, you might have experienced a swelling-up problem. Modern batteries are made from lithium-ion, and most electric bikes have lithium-ion batteries as well. Although the battery management system in these batteries are pretty durable and can last for up to 700 charging cycles, in some cases, they can also swell up prematurely.

If you see a swollen lithium-ion battery, then the problem is somewhat severe. One or more of the lithium cells could be the problem. Thus, there may not be anything you can do to fix it.

So, what should you do if the battery on your electric bike has swollen up?

How To Fix a Swollen Battery

Well, the only ‘fix’ in this case is to replace and recycle the battery pack. A bulge on the battery should be very noticeable. If you see one, turn your e-bike off and disconnect the battery. It is a huge risk to continue using a swollen battery as it can be very dangerous, leaking hazardous gases and fluid.

Unfortunately, for a swollen battery pack, the best thing to do here is to get a new one, as the entire battery management system has likely been damaged. Stop using it immediately and give it to your local recycling center. 

Then replace the old one with a battery of the same size and voltage. Refer to the electric bicycle brand you purchased from for assistance.

3. Battery Is Not Running As Long As It Used To

The third common problem with e-bike batteries is that they might not hold onto a charge as long as they should. Typically, electric bike batteries have a limited number of charge and recharge cycles. What this means is that there is only a finite number of times you can fully charge the battery and discharge it before it loses its optimum capacity and performance. 

You might have seen Apple tell you the battery health percentage on their iPhones. This number essentially tells you how well the battery is performing. The lower the percentage is, the lower the quality of the battery. A degraded battery will not hold a charge for as long as it used to.

This is the same for an electric bike lithium-ion battery. Even though a high-quality battery should last around 700 charging cycles or more, it will degrade over time and not go far on one charge. If it is degrading, you might even feel some resistance when pedaling.

Further, many e-bikes have advanced features like pedal assist or throttle that provide a speed boost. These will eat away at your battery charge quickly the more you use them.

How To Fix a Degrading Battery

Sometimes, a degrading battery packmight not be the only reason your battery is not holding its charge for long. However, there are things you can do to diagnose the problem and fix it. 

First of all, check whether or not the battery charges fully. If it doesn’t, then that will give you a clear indicator that something is wrong. Second, are you using your battery extensively when riding your e-bike? If so, avoid using the throttle and pedal assist system except when you truly need them, like climbing a steep hill.

Speaking of this, an uphill route can also cause your battery to discharge quicker, as it’s simply more strenuous.

Finally, the wheel bearings should spin freely and smoothly. If they are not, that means that there is something wrong and your battery is working harder than it needs to. Thus, the battery is discharging quicker than it should.

man's hand remvoing ebike battery from bike

4. Electric Bike Refusing To Turn On

Sometimes your electric bike might just refuse to turn on completely. Do not panic though. Yes, there might be a problem, but there is also likely a good solution.

After all, e-bike batteries don’t just work by themselves, but rather along with the different components such as the motor and controller. The problem could be with other parts of your electric bike not working, rather than simply your battery.

For example, a speed controller sends signals to the battery and the motor, letting them know that it needs to start working. Other components (like a fuse blown) are also pretty important.

How To Fix It

If your battery is not turning on at all, you need to check these things to ensure that they are all okay.

  • The fuse may be blown. 
  • There could have been a short circuit in the wiring (or just degradation over time).
  • The speed controller could be damaged if the electric bike was dropped or suffered water damage.
  • Moisture may have gotten in and destroyed the wiring. A good solution here is to try to force the speed controller to turn on by pressing and holding the power button for 10 seconds or so. 
  • Your charge levels may be very low, not allowing it to turn on (even if the charge level is 5 – 10%, there can be trouble). Charge it till you see at least two to three bars and try again.
Hub motor and battery add a lot of weight to an electric bike
Hub motor and battery on an electric bike

5. Battery Not Holding Charge

As I have mentioned, all batteries have a life cycle. They are not magic and will not run forever.

The reason for this is likely just due to casual wear and tear. Over time battery cells will naturally lose their ability to hold onto charge. This is because as the cells inside the batteries get older, they stop performing at their peak.

So, the problem could just be an old battery or it could be the electric bike itself.

How To Fix An Old Battery

Unfortunately, if the problem is just because of an old battery that has gone through its natural wear and tear. So, there is not much you can do about it. It’s best to get a new battery. Or you might choose to refurbish the battery, if you have experience doing so or are willing to have a bike technician do it.

However, before you head out to the store, there are a few diagnostic steps you can take.

First, try charging your battery to 100%. Just recalibrate it and see how it holds onto a charge. If you have not used your e-bike in a while, charging it all the way can help. Another thing you can try is to charge the battery and take it off your bike.

See how long it holds onto the charge. If it holds onto the charge longer, then the problem might be with your ebike. Your bike might have a short circuit in it that is causing the battery to drain faster. In this case, the best solution is to take it to a shop to be fixed or replace the battery with the same type.

6. Sluggish Battery Performance

A sluggish ebike is no fun. It will feel very dull to ride, almost as if you’re riding a standard bike. When this happens, sometimes the issue can be the battery. This is one of the most common wrongly diagnosed battery problems in an e-bike. However, there are some diagnostic steps you can take to try and fix it. 

How To Fix Poor Battery Performance

Good e-bikes will have a switch. These are located on the front and rear brakes. The switches can fail, causing your bike to move slowly. The first solution is to try pulling both brake levers at the same time. This can free up one stuck brake lever. 

You should check the limit switch as well. That might be faulty. Fixing that should get your bike up to speed in a jiffy.

E-bikes also have different riding modes including pedal assist, throttle only, and other modes. Check to see if you are using the right mode for when you need top speed. In some cases, the problem might not be your battery but rather the mode and the settings.

How to Know if Your E-Bike Battery is Bad

Given all of the potential problems and solutions to a bad battery, your first step should be to diagnose the problem. You’ll need a multimeter or voltmeter for a proper diagnosis.

Here’s a chart covering the general step-by-step diagnosis of your battery problem.

Step 1Make sure you’re using the correct battery charger for your electric bike
Step 2Make sure the battery connectors are lining up with the charging pins
Step 3Attempt to charge the battery fully
Step 4Test the battery charger for its voltage output using a multimeter
(and look to see if the indicator lights are working)
Step 5Test the battery with a voltmeter or multimeter (the e-bike’s display should light up)
Step 6Look for loose wiring: A loose connection may prevent the battery from receiving or
providing it’s full charge capacity

If you can diagnose the problem first, you’ll have an easier time finding a solution.

Need more help diagnosing a bad battery? Take a look at this YouTube video:

How to Take Care Of Your Electric Bike Battery

While some issues are inevitable, like wear and tear, other issues can be resolved. But no matter what the problem is, you don’t want to end up with a dead battery while riding. But, you can prevent this by providing your e-bike with good care. With proper maintenance, you can extend the life cycle of your e-bike battery pack to keep it working as long as it is expected to.

Here are a few battery maintenance tips to keep your battery in good shape. Don’t worry, these are pretty easy to do and won’t take much effort. You just need to be mindful of a couple of things.

  • Store your electric bike properly: Keep the battery in a cool place indoors where it won’t get wet or be susceptible to moisture buildup.
  • Avoid extreme temperatures: Preferably, keep your battery in a place under 100 degrees Fahrenheit and above freezing conditions.
  • Always use the correct battery charger, preferably the one that came with your e-bike.
  • Don’t let your battery overheat. Riding your electric bike will cause it to warm up, which is normal, but you should avoid leaving the battery exposed to the direct sun or in a hot location.
  • Try avoiding deep discharges. That is, don’t let your battery charge fall below 10% when possible. Recharge it as soon as possible, rather than letting it remain without a charge.

Read this article for 15 helpful battery charging tips!

Wrapping Up

Now that you have made it to the end of the article, you should be able to diagnose typical e-bike battery problems and use some of the solutions provided. Be sure to follow the above steps to help you.

In some cases, there isn’t a quick fix and you’ll just need to replace it. But proper maintenance will help you prolong your electric bike’s battery life.

Check out these other articles about batteries and common e-bike problems:

Why Is My Electric Bike Not Working? (Problems & Solutions)

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Male looking over e-bike battery

So you were ready to go on a ride with your e-bike. But as you tried to get going, the electric bike didn’t work.  Or worse, you were out on a bike path or commuting to work when the motor quit! What can you do to get your e-bike working again quickly?

The most likely reason your electric bike is not working is loose or cut-off wiring connections. However, there can also be other reasons like problems with the battery, brakes, speed sensors, motor, controller, display, or even water damage.

If you are in a hurry (which you likely are), here’s a quick chart that will show you how to troubleshoot common electric bike problems:

What To Check:Signs of TroubleProblem:Solution:
Check if power is coming to your e-bike or not.Check the battery voltage: See if you can turn it on or off. Is it fully charged? Does it give uneven battery voltage when checked with a voltmeter? The most probable cause of the issue is the battery.Test the battery by recharging it; if it has gone bad, you may have to replace it with a new one.
If the battery is okay, don’t forget to check the connecting parts and the battery prongs.Do the pins look broken, corroded, or damaged?Then the problem is the connector pins.You have to replace the damaged connector pin with a new one.
Check if the wiring connectors are loose or misplaced in the e-bike.Do the wires look pinched, broken, or loose?Then the wiring connection is the root cause.Try plugging and fitting them tightly if you find any loose connection. And replace the broken or damaged wires.
Check if the magnets on the brakes are aligned properly.Do the magnets of the brakes look shifted?If so, the shifted brake magnets could be the problem.Screw back on the magnets of your e-bike’s brake in their respective position.
Ensure the magnet in the rear part of your e-bike is in its correct position.Is there a missing magnet, or has the magnet been dislodged from its perfect position when the rear wheel turns?The root cause is with those magnets.Ensure the magnet sensors are clean and they are in their correct position. If one is missing, install a new one.
Look if the e-bike is damaged by water or not.Do you notice signs of water in any parts?Then water damage can be the main cause of the issue.Try drying out your e-bike completely and re-start the system.
Check if the motor is damaged.Do the motor parts look dark and give off a strange smell?Then, most likely, the motor is burnt out.You will have to replace the motor with a new one.
Check if the display is damaged.Does the display look burnt, or does it give any error codes?If so, the problem may be with the display.If the display is burnt out, replace it. And if you are getting error codes, search online or in your manual about what to do.
Check if the controller is damaged.Is the controller burnt out?Then, the root cause is the controller.You’ll have to replace the controller with a new one.
Check the throttle connector.Does your twist throttle feel loose when you push it to full throttle?If so, the throttle may be broken.Replace it with a new throttle.
Check the pedal assist system and PAS sensorIs your electric bicycle pulsating?Pedal assist magnets have been dislodgedScrew in the pedal assist disc magnet

Is your electric bike not working? Read the rest of this electric bike troubleshooting guide to learn what can go wrong with your e-bike and how you can fix it in more detail! Discover each problem and its solution in detail below.

Male looking over e-bike battery
Why is My Electric Bike Not Working: Problems with Solutions

1. Problems With the Battery Pack

The very first thing you should suspect if your e-bike isn’t working is the battery pack, as it’s one of the most common problems.

If the battery pack loses power, ask yourself if you charged it completely last night? Was your battery charger plugged in? Even if you think so, you could be wrong. Thankfully, this is an easy fix.

Maybe you connected your bike with the battery charger port, but later the connection was disrupted (maybe your cat pulled it out) and the battery didn’t charge fully. So, first, ensure that your battery pack has been charged after your last ride (most batteries take 4-6 hours for a complete charge).

If the battery power is easily drained or the battery pack isn’t fully charging, there could be some internal damage to the battery management system. Otherwise, the charger is defective. 

Check out how long an e-bike can go in one charge to set the right expectations for yourself.

Solutions:

Check the battery to see if it turns on and off. If there is no problem with the power switch, then check the battery output voltage. For this, you may need a voltmeter or multi-meter. You can check out some of the best voltmeters on Amazon.

But first, find out whether your LCD or LED display is lighting up. If so, you might have a blown fuse or circuit breaker.

If your battery pack is permanently damaged, you’ll need to buy a new one. Beforehand, understand, that e-bike kits are rated for a specific battery voltage. So you need to check whether a new battery can deliver the correct voltage level for your e-bike without causing overheating or other additional problems.

For instance, a 36V electric bicycle would need a battery that can offer the same level of power. Basically, you must know what battery is interchangeable with the dead battery.

If you check the power switch and battery pack and everything looks good, then the problem is not with your battery. Keep reading to apply other troubleshooting tips.

E-Bike Battery Charger
Make sure your battery charger port is fully plugged into both the electrical outlet and your battery pack.

2. Problems With the Battery Connectors

Another common issue is this: even if your battery seems good, that doesn’t mean it is making a good connection to its cradle. 

If the pins that act as connectors are burnt, corroded, or damaged, they may not provide the right connection.

Solution:

Take the battery pack off and carefully inspect the pins at the battery-mounting cradle. Do they look bent or broken? If they do, then you may need to replace them. 

Also, check the connectors of your battery pack. Often with regular and frequent usage, the connecting pins can get damaged. Check if they look broken or burnt. 

If they look burnt or damaged, you must replace the connector with a new one.

Find Out More About Repairing And Rebuilding Electric Bike Batteries

3. Common Problems With Wiring Connections

Wirings connect all the electrical components in your e-bikes. So whenever there are frayed or severely worn cables or loose wiring, you will have trouble running your electric bike. 

Solution:

Start inspecting the wirings and connections that go from the head unit (near your handle) to your motor. See if each wiring is in its proper position or not. 

If some connections seem loose, feel free to inspect more and try to tighten them in their correct place. 

Also, check if the wires aren’t obstructing the operation of any parts. For example, the wires or cables may tangle each other, causing a loose connection. So try to spot any such issues and fix the connection error as much as possible.

If you have a plastic cover, feel free to remove it to inspect frayed or worn cables. If everything looks good, put the cover back in its place and move on to the rear part of your bike. 

Start inspecting the wiring connections, tracking them from start to end. And fix any error that catches your attention. Usually, in most e-bikes, a wire runs from the back of the motor area to the rear wheel region. So ensure to check that as well. 

Sometimes, it can get pinched somewhere in the linkage or tangled anywhere and cause operation difficulty in other parts. So try to inspect and fix if there’s an issue.

For a loose connection, try unplugging, replugging, and tightening. However, you may have to replace badly damaged, broken wires with new ones.

Shows the wire ouputs for an e-bike controller
There are a lot of wires that need to be kept properly connected.

4. Problems With the Brakes

Perhaps the most common cause of an electric bike not working is the magnets of the brake getting misaligned. Do you have a hydraulic disc brake system? Then it is likely that the magnet fell off from its place or just got misaligned. 

The brake cable may also be loose. This might have occurred if your electric bicycle fell and damaged the brake levers. If the brake levers are jammed back, this may also inhibit the motor (see problems with the motor below).

Another ongoing problem is with worn-out brake pads or shoes.

Solution:

First, find out if the brake cable or magnets are out of place. Try to screw the dislodged magnets into their correct position on the brakes and see if that fixes the problem.

If this doesn’t work, check the brake lever and brake cable tension. First, the brake cable adjuster should be tightened on the brake lever. Then loosen each brake cable stopper before pulling the brake cable tight. Then re-tighten the brake cable stopper.

However, if you have worn-out brake shoes and aren’t getting good stopping power, it’s probably time to replace the brake pads with the brakes. You can adjust the brake cable tension at the same time to keep the braking system in good condition.

Read our Step By Step Electric Bike Maintenance Guide here!

5. Problems With the Speed Sensor

Usually, in e-bikes, you can find a small magnet that can be found in the rear wheel. You can most likely find it at the rotor itself or somewhere on the spokes. Now, this speed controller sensor is an important part of your electric bike system. 

If the electric bike cannot sense that magnet while the back-wheel rotation occurs, it won’t work or will only work for a very short time before cutting out. 

One of the best things you can do is check that the small magnets are in their right place and tight enough. 

If the magnet is loose, it can fall off. And it won’t be a good experience to ride your electric bike without a motor, especially if you are riding steep hills and far from home.

Note: This speed sensor is not the same as the cadence or torque sensor, which is typically mounted on the crank arm or shoe, as opposed to the wheel hub.

Solution:

Check if the magnet sensors are in their place. If not, you will have to put them back correctly. 

And if you can already see one in its place, ensure that the magnet is nice and clean. If you have a spoke-mounted style magnet, check (when the wheel is turning) that the magnet stays within the range of the pickup system of your electric bicycle. 

Also, ensure that the magnet doesn’t slide down/up from its position (specifically, if you have a spoke-mounted version). The magnet should remain in its designated place while the wheels rotate. 

Watch the following YouTube video to get better assistance in troubleshooting this issue:

6. Water Splashed And Damaged The Parts

Generally, e-bikes are considered more water-resistant than waterproof. And the battery is the most likely part that can get damaged by water.

Maybe you just pressure washed your bike (don’t ever do this… instead, read here on how to clean your electric bike)? Or it is also likely that you took a ride through a deep puddle. So if you notice water anywhere on your electric bike motor or battery system, the problem could be the water not letting the e-bike work correctly.

Solution:

Your best bet would be to dry out your electric bicycle and all of the electrical parts

  • First, you can remove all the cables and display parts. 
  • Then, take a dry cloth or tissue and clean the wet parts. 
  • You can also use something like a hair dryer, especially at the battery connections or at the controller contact regions. However, ensure that you have removed your battery from the bike frame and don’t overheat parts.

In general, you can do the cleaning for an hour or so. And after that, reboot the system and see if everything is working normally.

How to clean your e-bike without a pressure wash.
Dry off your electric bike with a soft cloth.

7. Problems With the Display

There can be system errors in the display, which could show some error code. Or it can be that the display has gone bad.

Solution:

If you feel your display has gone bad, try replacing it and see if that fixes the problem. At first (for just checking), you can borrow someone’s bike display and try to connect with yours and see if it works. 

If you are getting any error code, it generally means that the bike has detected some problem with the operating system. It can be related to the battery, battery charger, rear-wheel magnet, or a number of other things. 

So your best bet would be to refer to your particular e-bike’s manual or google the error code to learn what to do.

Electric Bike Controller with LCD Display
A digital controller display can be replaced if damaged.

8. Problems With the Motor & Controller

If all the above-stated troubleshooting methods fail, the problem could be with the rear hub motor connection or a controller issue. 

The rear hub motor may have trouble working if the motor inhibitor switch is stuck in the “on” position. This may have happened if, as discussed above, your handlebar brakes were damaged in a fall. If this is the case, the motor is being kept from working because the handlebar brakes are in the wrong position.

Otherwise, the motor or controller could be damaged or have just gone bad with usage over time.

Solution:

If your controller looks burnt or damaged, you have no choice but to replace it with a new one. Refer to this guide to learn how long e-bike controllers last. Unfortunately, there is typically no quick fix.

You can also take apart the motor and see what’s causing the issue. A common problem is with the motor hall sensor. Do you notice any odd smell or do the motor parts look dark? You may also have a burned-out motor. 

And in that case, you will also have to replace the motor with a new one. Check out this guide to know how long e-bike motors last.

9. Throttle Problems

With a twist throttle, most people have a tendency to use full throttle quickly for sudden speed and then let it go just as quickly. This can damage the throttle, possibly breaking it permanently.

Solution:

When going full throttle, release it slowly rather than letting it snap back into place. This is a simple way of solving a problem before it’s happened. However, if it does stop working, you’ll probably just need to replace it.

10. Pedal Assist System Issues

If you discover that your bike seems to be moving unevenly or jerking, rather than keeping a consistent movement forward, your pedal assist is likely damaged. As pedal assist is the most important feature of an electric bike, you’ll want to get this fixed as soon as possible.

Solution:

You can make some simple mechanical adjustments to the sensors and/or magnets, which are likely out of alignment. You may even be able to just use your hands to push the magnets on the bottom bracket closer to the cadence or torque sensor. If that doesn’t work, a flathead screwdriver should do the trick.

Always make sure you have simple tools with you while you ride. Take a look on Amazon for an all-in-one bike tool kit. Always add a few zip ties to your kit. This will help you keep all of your cable connections tight and in place. Otherwise, you will have a new problem when you need to replace frayed connectors.

Final Thoughts

In short, the battery, battery charger, connections and wirings, brakes, speed sensors, motor, controller, display, and water damage are some likely reasons for an electric bike not working properly.

Ruling out rare cases, you may be able to fix these electric bike problems on your own. What’s the worst that can happen? You’ll have to replace a part if repair is not possible. If you’re not sure how to make the fix, contact a bike mechanic or local bike shop for help.

You should also note that, if you attempt to fix anything incorrectly, your manufacturer warranty claim may be voided! The best way to keep your electric bike in good working condition is to search for valuable information from your bike’s brand before making any adjustments.

But hopefully, after reading this guide, you will be able to pinpoint the problem and its solution so that you can keep on riding without the expense and time it takes to get help. Happy e-biking!

More Recommended E-Bike Resources For You:

Jetson Bolt Electric Bike Review (Benefits and Disadvantages)

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Black Jetson Bolt e-bike with 14
Jetson Bolt Electric Bike Review

Looking for an inexpensive electric bike that’ll get you where you need to go? There are a lot of things to consider before buying a cheap e-bike, even though your first inclination is to save money. After all, you’re still spending a good amount of cash, so you want it to meet your basic needs.

But is the Bolt e-bike just a toy or can it cover some serious ground?

The Jetson Bolt is a compact, folding e-bike that costs under $400, is lightweight at only 40 lbs, and has a maximum range of up to 15 miles. You won’t be able to ride as far as most electric bikes, but, in general, you’ll get an affordable mini e-bike.

Get all of your questions answered and find out what you need to know about the Jetson Bolt in this article.

Scroll down the page to see the table below with all of the Bolt’s specifications, as well as its comparison to the Bolt Pro and the similarly priced Eris electric scooter. Also, take a look at the list of advantages and disadvantages of the Jetson Bolt to determine if it’s the best fit for you.

Black Jetson Bolt e-bike with 14" wheels
Bolt Electric Bike Review

How Fast Does the Bolt Electric Bike Go?

The Jetson Bolt (see it at Walmart) has a top speed of 16 mph, which is lower than the typical electric bike max speed of 20 mph or 28 mph for a Class 2 or 3 pedal assist bike respectively.

Here’s the catch, the Bolt does not have any pedals, so it relies completely on its twist throttle for electric power. Most electric bikes can only go up to 20 mph using throttle only, so it’s not as huge a difference as it first seems. You simply won’t be able to pedal the Bolt to make it go faster.

The biggest disadvantage is that you’ll rely entirely on the throttle to go up a hill. It’ll be slow going if you have lots of steep hills where you’ll be riding, even with its 250W hub motor.

You’ll also want to consider your own weight. The heavier you are, the slower you will go uphill or even on flat ground. Besides, all bikes have a weight limit as well.

Additionally, keep in mind that traveling 16 mph on an e-bike may be plenty fast for you, as not everyone needs or want to go as fast as automobile traffic. Suffice it to say, you should be able to get away with riding it on the sidewalk.

What is the Range of a Jetson Electric Bike?

The maximum battery range is up to 15 miles, which is much shorter than the average electric bicycle. Most e-bikes will go a minimum of 20 miles and many will go up to 60 miles or more. So, this can be a big disadvantage unless you plan on staying close to home.

Of course, your e-bike’s range depends on what factors are working against the battery life. These include your weight, the weather, the amount of use of your LED headlight, hills, terrain, and wheel size.

This last consideration, wheel size, is one of the reasons the Bolt has a short range. With only 12″ wheels and basic rubber tires, the Bolt isn’t designed to go on long rides.

How Long Does the Jetson Bolt Battery Last?

Generally, the Bolt’s battery lasts for two to three years, depending on how often and how far you ride it. The battery was built to charge fully for 300 to 500 cycles.

The battery is a 36V lithium-ion battery which is the minimum standard for electric bikes. However, many e-bikes have 48V and even 52V batteries, which are designed to give you more power and last longer.

Generally speaking, the Jetson Bolt has a maximum speed of 16 mph because both the battery and its relatively low-power motor. Although it has a typical hub motor, it is definitely less powerful than other more expensive bikes.

How Much Does a Jetson E-Bike Weigh?

The Jetson Bolt weighs only 40 lbs. Compare this to most other e-bikes and you’ll find that this is unusually lightweight. Thus, you should be able to lift it fairly easily (especially with its built-in carrying handle).

Add that to the fact that it’s a folding bike, and you’ll find that it’s one of the easiest to carry, especially if going upstairs or onto a bus or train with your e-bike. Commuters who spend a lot of time on public transportation can benefit greatly. Keep in mind that you might need to lower the seat post if you’re folding it to fit in a car trunk or small space.

man riding Jetson Bolt with only legs showing
Jetson Bolt has many benefits as well as some disadvantages

Jetson Bolt Benefits and Disadvantages

There are many benefits of the Bolt e-bike, as well as several disadvantages. Here’s a list of pros and cons for the Bolt to help you decide if it’s right for you:

ProsCons
InexpensiveCan buy a less expensive scooter on Amazon
Foldable (fits in a car trunk)No pedals; throttle power only
LightweightLower top speed
Smaller e-bikeLack of power when climbing hills
Easy to assembleSmall tires; you will feel the bumps
Connects to the Ride Jetson appSome users have had difficulty with the Jetson app
Cruise controlHard saddle
Mechanical disc brakes
Integrated front and rear lights
Includes fenders (debris and puddle protection)
Includes a kickstand
Good e-bike for a Teen

One important benefit to discuss is that the Bolt is extremely easy to put together, by all reports. Most people can put it together in under 30 minutes. All of the tools you need come with your purchase. But do take the time to review the assembly guide before starting so you don’t make an error you have to spend time correcting. For instance, each pedal must go on the right side of the bike.

Another huge benefit is cruise control. This allows you to take a break from twisting the throttle. As long as you can safely stay at the same speed, just set it and go!

Generally, the Bolt is perfect for you if you want a mini electric bike you can easily transport and that gets you where you want to go. But you will need to plan out the distance of your rides carefully so that your battery doesn’t die when you go too far.

As far as the hard riding saddle goes, you can always upgrade to a more comfortable bike seat at a small cost, like the ones you’ll find on Amazon.

Small black Bolt e-bike
Jetson Bolt E-Bike

Jetson Bolt vs Bolt Pro

Now that you know about the less expensive Bolt bike, you might like to know that there is also a Bolt Pro.

The main differences between the Bolt and the Bolt Pro are that the Pro has pedal assist, 14″ wheels, dual disc brakes, an improved frame geometry, and a 350W motor. It also costs around $200 more.

See the direct comparison to the Jetson Bolt Pro here as well as to the Eris electric scooter:

SpecsBoltBolt ProEris Scooter
SpeedUp to 16 mphUp to 16 mphUp to 14 mph
RangeUp to 15 milesUp to 30 milesUp to 12 miles
Wheels12″14″8.5″
Weight40 lbs41 lbs30 lbs
Weight Capacity250 lbs265 lbs220 lbs
Price$399 (Walmart)$599 ($464 on Amazon)$399 on Amazon
Black small Bolt Pro e-bike
Jetson Bolt Pro/Bolt Up

In general, the Bolt Pro lets you ride over twice as far as the Bolt, this being its primary advantage. However, it will also carry a greater load and has other added benefits.

For example, the Pro comes with a 350 Watt motor and a bigger battery, allowing a possible 30-mile range, which is typical of most electric bikes. Plus, although the top motor-assisted speeds are similar between the e-bikes, the Bolt Pro has pedals that allow you to add your own leg power. Not only can you climb hills easier, but you can also go a little faster than the motor will allow.

You might also enjoy sitting a little higher on the 14″ wheels as well as notice overall greater balance and riding agility than with the less expensive Bolt.

Although the Pro version has only a single speed, it does have a chain that needs to be maintained. One other downside is that it does not have Bluetooth connectivity to the Jetson app (but this may not be such a disadvantage since many riders report the app to be difficult to use).

Both bikes charge in 4-5 hours.

Black Jetson Eris Electric Scooter
Jetson Eris Electric Scooter

Jetson Brand

Jetson is an e-mobility company created in 2012 with a variety of electric riding products including small size bikes, scooters, and hoverboards. Their innovative products can be found in the U.S. and around the world.

Typically, they have a 30-day return policy (you must pay return shipping fees) and a one-year limited warranty.

A lot of people compare the Bolt folding e-bike to an electric scooter since it doesn’t have pedals and only moves forward based on electric power from the twist throttle. However, the Bolt has some advantages over an electric scooter.

Bolt E-Bike Advantages Over an Electric Scooter

The primary advantage the Bolt has over an electric scooter is the seated riding position. If it’s hard to stand for long periods (with one foot in front of the other) or to balance standing up, then you’ll prefer the Bolt bike to the scooter.

Additionally, the Bolt can go a little faster, has a slightly longer range, and has a higher weight capacity.

The disadvantages of the Bolt e-bike are that it is 10 lbs heavier than the Eris electric scooter and somewhat larger when folded, even though the handlebars fold as well.

Should I Buy a Jetson Bolt Electric Bike?

There are many reasons to buy a Jetson Bolt e-bike. You should buy one if you:

  • Are looking for an entry-level electric bicycle
  • Don’t have much money to spend
  • Don’t want or need to go ridiculously fast
  • Are a young rider
  • Are a smaller rider
  • Need to go relatively short distances
  • Need to carry or lift your e-bike often
  • Are a commuter or need to transport your bike regularly
  • Want to ride across campus quickly.
  • Just want to have some fun

Look for the Jetson Bolt and the Bolt Pro (also called the Bolt Up) on Walmart and Amazon for the best prices, fast shipping, and free returns.

Are E-Bikes Good for Seniors: Pros and Cons

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Receiving a proper amount of exercise a day can definitely be a struggle, especially as we grow older and our physical abilities or motivation may diminish. However, it’s very important for seniors to keep their bodies and minds healthy and fit. Are e-bikes good for seniors?

E-Bikes have many benefits for seniors. The pros are that riding one helps older adults get the daily exercise they need to stay fit, improve cognitive function, and fight disease, among other benefits.

However, there can be cons to riding electric bikes for seniors as well, which this article discusses.

Overall, electric bicycles are a great, environmentally friendly way for seniors to stay fit, both mentally and physically. 

But do take a look at the possible cons of riding an e-bike if you’re an older adult so that you make sure it is right for you.

E-Bike Pros for SeniorsE-Bike Cons for Seniors
Riding can help prevent diseaseRequires more work to put together
Riding stimulates the mind and improves cognitive functionE-Bike size and weight
Safer and more eco-friendly than a car Need to keep track of battery charge
Customizable for comfort Pricier than a traditional bike 
Electric power assistance without pedalingPotential for injury
Choose an e-bike that fits your needs and body
Riding an E-Bike Pros and Cons for Seniors

The Pros of Riding E-bikes For Seniors

There are plenty of pros when it comes to owning an e-bike as a senior citizen. 

1. Riding Electric Bikes Helps Prevent Disease

Getting a sufficient amount of daily physical activity and cardio as an elderly person is extremely important and can help prevent cardiovascular diseases like diabetes, cancer, and heart problems.

Taking an e-bike out for even a short ride can get your heart pumping and blood flowing.  This makes e-bikes an easy and efficient way to manage existing conditions as well. 

Read the fitness guide to learn everything you need to know about staying fit with an e-bike.

2. Stimulates the Mind and Improves Cognitive Function

Being out in nature and fresh air is a great way to improve your mental health and clear your mind. As you age, you might feel it’s simpler to stay indoors and lack the motivation to go outside or exercise. However, going out and experiencing life on an electric bike is a ton of fun and a great way to stimulate your mind and enjoy other health benefits.

The more active you keep your body, the better you may feel mentally and emotionally as well. 

And, according to a study by PLOS One, e-biking outdoors may be better for seniors when it comes to boosting their brainpower and enhancing cognitive function. 

Here’s the study: A team of U.K. researchers from Oxford Brookes University came up with an experiment to test this on 100 adults from the ages of 50 to 83. 

After separating these individuals into three groups, they directed one group to ride an average bike three times a week for roughly 30 minutes a day for eight weeks. The second group was directed to complete the same task, but with electric bikes instead of traditional bikes. The final group didn’t ride anything at all during the eight weeks. 

By the end of the experiment, the first two groups who rode either type of bike showed a big improvement in their planning, organizing, and task-completion abilities. Although the research team had originally expected the traditional bike riders to achieve better results, this was surprisingly not the case.

Senior citizens women whose happy to ride her e-bike.

3. Electric Bikes Are Safer and More Eco-Friendly Than a Car

If you aren’t able to or don’t feel safe driving a car, this is a great replacement option. They are much easier to manage than a car but faster and smoother than a traditional bicycle.

Many e-bikes can go up to 28mph, but you can ride at any lower speed that you feel comfortable with. While it may take a bit longer to get somewhere on an e-bike, you won’t have to worry about stopping to get gas in your car or missing your stop as you could when riding a bus.

Plus, e-bikes are a completely environmentally friendly means of transportation as there is no gas or fumes being released from them. You can help keep the environment clean for future generations!

4. Seniors Can Customize Their E-Bikes

You can adjust or completely replace specific parts like the seat, pedals, or handlebars if they are worn down or just not the right fit but still have the electric motor to help you out.

You can also add baskets to carry things in for a quick trip to the grocery store or to bring your small dog along, which is easy and fast to do on an electric bike.

Along with this, the power of the speed settings is customizable, as you can choose how much pedal assist power you want. But if you want to work hard and get more exercise, you can pedal without any help from the motor, just like a regular bike.

And because maintaining good posture is even more important as you grow older, then you can upgrade the bike seat to one that feels more comfortable and has better shock absorption. 

5. Electric Power Assist Without Pedaling

If you are struggling to make it up a large hill on your own, many e-bikes have an electric assist booster, or throttle, that’ll allow you to ride without pedaling at all!

This is often a twist throttle that will help you propel forwards at a speed you choose and is a perfect tool to use if your legs just need a break. 

Take a look at the following article for more information on using pedal assist and a throttle…

Learn more about riding an e-bike with a throttle:

How to Ride an E-Bike Without Pedaling: Pedal Assist vs Throttle

6. You Can Choose an E-Bike That Fits You

There are many different models of electric bikes for seniors available to choose from when purchasing. Getting one with a less powerful motor, say 250-500 Watts, will probably be quite satisfactory if you’re not interested in going crazy fast.

Another thing to consider is that some might be bulkier than others with wide tires, which is good for stability but may be more difficult to maneuver.

A step-through frame bike will be a great fit for older adults and the elderly alike. Also called a “low-step” bike, you can get on and off the e-bike without swinging your leg and hips over a high bar. This is essential when it comes to electric bikes for seniors. And this makes it much easier to get off the bike quickly if needed.

Since the fear of falling is more of a concern as you get older, this type of low-step electric bike is really a great option. And senior riders with back issues or joint problems in the hips, ankles, legs, or knees, will especially appreciate a step-through bike… it’ll make all the difference in the enjoyment of riding your e-bike.

Aventon Pace 350 Step-Through with integrated battery
Aventon Pace 350 Step-Through is one of the best electric bikes for older riders

And here’s a really nice option: You can even find an e-tricycle that has three wheels for extra safety and stability (read more below).

Electric bikes for seniors should be comfortable and meet their very specific needs. So it’s a good idea to try riding several of the best electric bikes before purchasing one. Senior riders can even consider renting a few electric bikes for the day.


The Cons of Electric Bikes for Seniors

While there are many pros, of course there are a few possible cons to keep in mind. 

1. E-Bikes May Require More Work to Put Together

Electric bikes will have a few parts that need to be put together manually, usually including the wheels, handlebars, and pedals. They are also fairly heavy when removing the bike from the box it’s delivered in, and this could prove quite difficult if you lack strength or are a small person.

Find Affordable E-Bike Options for Small Women Here:



However, the overall instructions are fairly straightforward and you can always invite someone else over to help put it together. Additionally, many companies offer a service to deliver and put together your e-bike, for an added price of course.

2. Electric Bikes Are Typically Cumbersome in Size and Weight

E-bikes are quite a bit heavier than standard bikes, and often bulkier if they have big tires. In fact, they can be up to 50% heavier than standard bikes and easily weigh 45-70 pounds, depending on the bike. This is partly because the motor and the battery add considerable weight already.

And because they’re heavy, they’ll require more arm strength to move around or lift. If you have back problems or knee problems, this could prove to be especially difficult. You may need help to get it into a car if you want to take it to the shop for maintenance or ride it somewhere far away.

E-bikes may also take up a bit more space than a regular bike. This could be a problem if you don’t have room in your living space to store it. But, the good news is that they can be safely stored anywhere that’s consistently above 32 degrees Fahrenheit and dry.

Because of the size and weight, it’s helpful to have someone around to help you move it.

3. Need to Keep Track of Battery Charge

Watch out for running out of battery power while riding up a large hill or if you are far from home!

While you don’t have to worry about battery power for traditional bikes, e-bikes (depending on the model you buy) can only last for roughly 22-50 miles on a single charge.

Even if you don’t think you’ll be going that far on a single ride, you can still get stuck if you don’t remember to charge the battery in between rides. Keep in mind that it takes about 3-6 hours to fully charge the battery!

However, if you are conscientious about charging the bike after each use, this shouldn’t be too much of a problem. 

4. Pricier Than a Traditional Bike

E-bikes can definitely be fairly pricey.

Most e-bikes made with quality parts start in the $1000 to $2,000 range and go up to $8000! Although more and more e-bikes are being manufactured at a lower price, in the $400-$800 range, the quality of the parts used to make these is questionable. 

So, then you’ll have the concern about your e-bike, especially the electrical components, breaking down while you’re out riding. Further, these low-priced bike parts just won’t last as long in general and you’ll likely be spending money to replace parts, or the bike itself, more often.

Read More About Buying A Cheaper E-Bike Here:

Top 12 Things to Know Before Buying a Cheap E-Bike

5. Potential for Injury

Although e-bikes are great for improving certain physical problems, seniors also need to be especially careful when riding an electric bike as they are larger and more powerful than a regular bike.

It’s easy to find yourself at a higher speed than you expected, and breaking too fast downhill may be hazardous.

Keep in mind that the same safety precautions apply when riding an electric bike as when riding a traditional bike. Wear a helmet at all times and watch out for other people or objects in your path! 


Are Three-Wheel Bikes Good for Seniors?

Three-wheel electric bikes, or tricycles, are a great option for seniors who want to ride an e-bike. There are several reasons an electric trike might be better for you as an older adult rider:

  • Stability: Removes the need to balance on two wheels
  • Less chance of losing control and thus less risk of injury
  • You don’t need to have one foot on the ground when stopping
  • Steady riding going up and down hills
  • More comfortable- Wider seats and many come with seatbacks
  • Often able to carry more cargo than two-wheel bikes
  • Don’t need to know how to ride a regular bike

Although there are many good reasons to ride an e-trike, there are a few possible downsides. One is that they are heavy and will be hard, if not impossible, to lift. Also, some adult trikes are not as visible in traffic due to begin particularly low to the ground, especially recumbent electric tricycles. In this case, you should attach a tall flag to the back of your bike, especially if you’re riding in the road.

Take a look at some of the best brands of electric trikes for adults and seniors include:

3 wheel cargo e-trike with front basket and rear rack and cargo area
AddMotor Motan Trike M- 350 P7 with front basket and rear rack and cargo area

Conclusion: Are Electric Bikes Good for Seniors?

E-bikes are a great way for seniors to fight disease, manage existing conditions, and improve mental health and cognitive function. But, it’s always a good idea to keep both the pros and cons in mind when making a big purchase or considering doing anything physical you haven’t done before.

Riding an e-bike clearly has many benefits for seniors, but the cons are also worth noting. They’re heavier, require more care, can cause injury, and are quite expensive.

Related Questions:

Do You Get Any Exercise on an E-Bike?

The Best E-Bikes for a Small Woman: 5 Affordable Low-Step Options

Best Electric Trike Brands Made in USA (for Adults)

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3 wheel cargo e-trike with front basket and rear rack and cargo area
AddMotor Motan Trike M- 350 P7 with front basket and rear rack and cargo area

Does anyone even make electric trikes for adults? Compared to regular electric bikes, this list is small. Surprisingly, however, there are quite a few good e-bike brands that build them.

In this article, we’ll take a look at the best electric trike brands made in the USA. I’ll give you a list of companies that offer e-trikes and tell you what you need to know about each brand and their best electric trikes, including location, features, cost, and what makes them special.

What are the best electric tricycle brands made in the USA? Here are the companies that made the list:

E-Trike BrandLocationBest Feature/sElectric Trike Cost
AddMotorCalifornia4 electric trikes to choose from$3399-$3599
SixthreezeroCaliforniaBest Value; battery pack fits under the rear rack$2199
Buzz BicyclesOhioMid-Drive motor; best priced full-size tricycle$1699
Liberty TrikePennsylvania“Active” mobility scooter/small wheel trike$1598
Zize BikesMassachusettsHolds up to 550 lbs; built for large riders$5100
Emojo BikeCaliforniaIn stores all over the United States$3199-$2999
Outrider USANorth CarolinaDesigned with adaptive features for disabled$6700-$16000

Find out more below about the models of tricycles each USA brand offers. Take a look at their design, features, and cost, as well as discover which electric trike brand is the best overall.

No matter the reason for choosing to buy an electric trike, the best electric tricycles are the high-quality ones worth their price, which you can learn about on this detailed list.

3 wheel cargo e-trike with front basket and rear rack and cargo area
AddMotor Motan Trike M- 350 P7 with front basket and rear rack and cargo area

AddMotor Electric Tricycles

The AddMotor Brand began in California, back in 2011, thus being an established electric bike brand. From the beginning, their goal has been to design top-quality e-bikes that anyone can ride. Thus, the creation of four different electric trikes that are accessible to seniors, disabled adults, and anyone who can’t ride a two-wheel bike or doesn’t want to.

Brand Features and Benefits

There are several things that make this one of the best e-trike brands, besides the fact that they offer four models whereas most electric bike companies only offer one. Here are the benefits:

  • Best price guarantee (they’ll match it if you find a lower price)
  • Free shipping (to the contiguous 48 states)
  • 80% pre-assembled trikes
  • Financing
  • Multiple color options on most bikes
  • Free gifts with purchase

Electric Trike Models

With four great options, all with 5 levels of pedal assist, it can be hard to choose from the best electric trikes. So here’s a breakdown of each:

  1. M-360 Semi-Recumbent Electric Trike Super popular for people who are disabled or have back pain, the semi-recumbent tricycle allows you to sit in a strong upright position without having to reach forward for the handlebars. Plus, it has 750W of electric power and the ability to roll smoothly over uneven terrain.
  2. At the lowest cost of the four models, the M-330 P7 even comes with a rear basket and fenders at no additional charge, making this trike an excellent value. Plus, it still has the powerful motor, long range, and huge load capacity of the other models. The possible downside: It only comes with a black frame.
  3. The brand new 2022 M-340 e-trike with a sturdy frame, powerful 750W rear hub motor, up to 55+ mile range, and a total payload capacity of up to 450lbs. Plus, its thick, padded saddle has a backrest for total comfort.
  4. The Addmotor MOTAN M-350 P7 is a stable, agile trike built for urban riding in comfort. It has a wide saddle, 80mm travel front suspension, integrated lights, and a free rear basket liner as a gift. Additionally, it has 4.0″ fat tires to get over even rougher terrain.

Cost

With great value for the price, electric trikes start at a regular price of $3399, with only $200 more for three out of the four models (check here for discounts).

Sixthreezero

Sixthreezero began way before the electric bike trend did. Although the company was formed in 2005, the owners formed a love of bike cruising in the beach city of Hermosa Beach long before then. Their ongoing love of comfortable cruiser bikes translates into their goal of designing fun, quality electric cruising bikes that’ll last.

Brand Features and Benefits

Although they only have one electric tricycle, they stay true to their cruiser model. Here’s what you can expect overall:

  • Free shipping within the U.S. (Discounted shipping for Alaska and Hawaii)
  • Free return shipping if dissatisfied
  • 90-day test ride
  • 80% pre-assembled
  • Financing available
  • Height and weight calculator + “Body Fit” quiz to make sure the fit is right

E-Trike Model

The EVRYjourney Tricycle has a 250W and comes in 4 cool colors. It can go up to 28 mph in pedal assist mode (Class Three) and up to 15 mph with throttle only. Narrow 1.95″ tires make it agile and can take you up to 60 miles with one battery charge.

Plus, the ergonomic frame, upright seating, and wide seat make this e-trike ultra-comfortable. An added benefit is that the pedals are moved forward a bit more than traditional bikes, so you can easily extend your legs for a comfortable ride. Generally speaking, the EVRYjourney fits riders from 5 feet to 6 feet tall, but be sure to take their Body Fit Quiz.

Cost

Priced at $2199, it certainly beats out most other electric trikes and certainly offers the best value of any USA brand e-tricycle. Plus, you get a rear folding basket with your purchase.

Buzz Bicycles

Combining almost 125+ years of experience in the cycling industry, Buzz electric bikes offer quality e-bikes and e-trikes at affordable prices. Part of the United Wheels brand, Buzz bikes has access to large manufacturing which keeps their prices down, even on their electric trike.

Located in the U.S. heartland in Dayton, Ohio, they offer the Buzz Across America promotion that awards small businesses with one of their e-bikes.

Brand Features and Benefits

Thanks to their focus on community, Buzz creates electric bikes that are accessible to more people. They have great benefits including:

  • Comprehensive warranty: 2 years limited warranty on electronics, 10 years on frame
  • Free Shipping in the continental United States
  • 30-day return policy
  • Financing
  • Gift Cards

Electric Tricycle

The Cerana T electric trike matches the specs of the Buzz Cerana e-bike, but with three wheels. The oversized tires (larger in the front than in the back) and wide padded saddle offer comfort and a smooth ride.

What makes it particularly unique is its mid-drive motor that responds quickly to your actions. With 350W, it can take you up to 20 mph using pedal assist. And you can ride up to 40 miles with the 4 pedal assist levels and 7-speed gears.

Plus, you get a headlight, rear foldable rack, front basket, and a USB port to charge your phone… all included.

Cost

At just $1699, you can have it shipped directly to you, with your choice of gloss white or matte blue.

Liberty Trike

With its main warehouse located in Pennsylvania, Liberty Bikes is a USA company through and through. as a part of Electric Bike Technologies, they’ve actually been making bikes and industrial trikes for over 125 years! This makes them one of the oldest bicycle makers in the United States who is still manufacturing and delivering to consumers.

What’s really interesting is that the first Liberty Trike was introduced through Indiegogo and Kickstarter crowdfunding campaigns in 2015.

Red Liberty Trike with rear basket
Liberty Trike

Brand Features and Benefits

This company has expanded its line-up from bikes and mobility trikes to an electric trike that offers more than just standard mobility. It’s intended to give you access to do more, see more, and be more active overall. When you buy from them you should expect the following:

  • Pay $40 flat rate shipping (only shipped to the contiguous U.S.)
  • Direct to consumer only
  • Financing available
  • Industrial strength

Electric Trike Models

Calling it an “active mobility” trike, the Liberty Trike is not just a mobility scooter for seniors or the disabled. It has a 750W motor that climbs steep hills, although pedaling along with it is recommended. It has a top speed of 12 mph and a range of up to 20 miles, which is twice that of mobility scooters.

Unlike other electric tricycles, its narrow frame and smaller wheels can traverse even grocery store aisles (if they let you, that is). So, even though this trike is for anyone, seniors who want to ride e-bikes should take a look at it.

Cost

At a price of only $1598, this is a more affordable e-trike, especially if you are retired or disabled.

Zize Bikes

Zize Bikes was founded in 2005 by Joan Denizot. Joan’s unique goal for her e-bike company is to make electric bikes that are sturdy enough for people over 200 lbs. She recognizes that e-biking is a great form of exercise for heavy people as it puts less pressure on your joints. This unique brand is based in Boston, Massachusetts, USA.

Zize 3 wheel trike built to hold a lot of weight
Zize Semi-Recumbent Tricycle

Brand Features and Benefits

An important feature of this brand is that they have three frame sizes for their e-bikes, all made for larger people. Since these electric bicycles are made for heavy cyclists, it’s important to note that the “Small” frame will only fit people who are 5’8″, while the largest one fits cyclists 6’3″ and taller. But, when it comes to their electric tricycles, there is only one frame size that fits just about everyone from 4’11” to 6’4″.

The benefits of buying an electric trike from Zize are:

  • Free shipping within the continental U.S.
  • Worldwide shipping
  • Limited Lifetime frame warranty
  • 60-day return policy
  • 100% money-back guarantee
  • Bike financing
  • Bike sizing guide

Electric Tricycle

There’s just one electric trike to choose from but it has a weight capacity of 550 lbs and should fit just about anyone 4’11” and taller.

Supersized Personal Activity Vehicle Tricycle E-Bike– At $5100, this is a huge price jump from their non-motorized tricycle ($2800). Simply put, a front hub motor and lead-acid battery were added to their regular tricycle. So, it still has Kevlar-reinforced tires, with slightly larger ones in the rear (24″ x 2.125″ as compared to the single front tire at 20″ x 2.125″).

Besides being built for strength, it’s designed for comfort. So it includes a large, padded “high-back captain’s seat” on a sliding rack that can be adjusted for the best fit. Plus, it comes with a rear basket and rear fenders.

Cost

The general cost is $5100 and you get your choice of 5 bright colors.

However, plan on spending up to a few hundred dollars more: Zize requires your electric tricycle to be professionally assembled; otherwise, it will void the warranty.

Emojo Bike

Another California electric bike brand, Emojo has dedicated itself to a green lifestyle that meets the desires of its customers. Their goal is to reduce the use of cars and provide e-bikes and e-trikes for recreational and commuting purposes.

Red Emojo Caddy PRO Tricycle
Emojo Caddy PRO Tricycle (best price on Amazon)

Brand Features and Benefits

  • Free shipping (to the contiguous 48 states)
  • 7-day return policy
  • Financing
  • Fat tire bikes

Electric Tricycles

With two versions of the same electric tricycle model to choose from, it’s just a matter of deciding if two hundred dollars more is worth it for the Pro version.

The Emojo Caddy and Caddy Pro (Amazon) both have a 500W motor, a 35-mile range, and 7-speed gears. The major difference is that the Caddy Pro has hydraulic disc brakes, as opposed to regular mechanical disc brakes. This makes it easier to operate and stop thanks to the more powerful brakes. Both come with front and rear baskets, but only the Pro comes in a choice of three colors.

Cost

The Caddy Pro costs $3199 (regular price) as compared to $2999 for the basic Caddy.

Outrider USA

Outrider USA is certainly special at the core. Their electric tricycles are hand-built to accommodate disabled individuals with injuries, neurological disorders, and other medical concerns as well as riders who just want to keep up with traffic speed for their own safety.

Located in North Carolina, this unique electric bike brand began in 2009 and to this day assists in making biking accessible for a variety of physical abilities.

Outrider USA Adaptive Trike
Outrider USA Adaptive Trike

Brand Features and Benefits

Outrider lets you decide what you need from the start. So, you choose your own motor (from 1000 watts and up) and battery (giving you a range of up to 50 miles or 100 miles) as well as accessories such as headlights, cargo racks, and much more. They also offer:

  • Extended rentals allow for test rides
  • 2 year limited warranty
  • Financing
  • Adaptive hunting ATVs

Electric Tricycles

Since they have a variety of hand-built models, which you help create, I’ll focus on the features of the least expensive model, the Transition (Mid-Duty Road) Electric tricycle (priced at $6700).

This electric trike is built to order and features ergonomic seating, excellent handling on wet and dry roads, a high-powered electric motor, and a long-range battery. It’s lightweight and adjustable for both big riders and small e-bike riders.

One important thing to know about this electric trike as well as the other models, is that it’s not legally rideable on most public roads or in many places. This is due to the 1000W and up motors included. Thus, you need to look into the location in which you’ll be riding to determine the laws and where you can ride it legally. Read more about the classification of electric bikes and follow the laws in your state and city.

Cost

The price of these adaptive electric trikes is prohibitive in many cases, due to their unique qualities and being built to order. That’s why they sell as high as $16000. You may have to get creative in paying for one of these or use the company’s own financing.

Who Makes the Best Electric Trike in the United States?

A majority of electric bike companies either outsource the build to other countries, especially China and Taiwan, or may use components primarily designed and manufactured in China. The electric tricycle brands listed here were founded and primarily designed and built in the USA, with components often sourced from other places.

That being said, the best electric tricycle made in the U.S. is the sturdy Addmotor M-340 with its solid step-through frame, powerful electric motors, long-distance battery range, and comfortable seat. For a more affordable price, Buzz Bike’s Cerana T, with a mid-drive motor, is a great option.

As always, the best electric bike or trike is the one that meets your needs. So, I hope this list of the best electric tricycle USA brands and models has helped you decide which one to buy.

How To Start Your Electric Bike Without a Key in 7 Steps

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hand turning key in e-bike battery

Electric bikes are an environmentally friendly way of getting where you need to go fast. However, you do rely on the motor to get started. So, it can be quite annoying when you’ve misplaced your key or left it at home when you’re about to hit the trail far away.

So, you should know how to get your electric bike started even if you are without the key that came with the bike!

Here are several alternatives to start an electric bike without a key:

  1. Connect the ignition wiring.
  2. Remove the battery.
  3. Use a screwdriver.
  4. Try a bump key.
  5. Melt a plastic pen to create a replica of your electric bike key.
  6. Use a shim.
  7. Wait and order a new key.

Each of the above steps can potentially start an electric bike, so you’ll want to give each a genuine try before moving on to the next. Who knows, maybe your bike will start before you even make it to step 7! Let’s cover the steps in greater detail to help you understand what needs to be done in each.

hand turning key in e-bike battery

1. Connect Ignition Switch Wires

Connecting the wires of your e-bike’s ignition to the battery will allow you to start your e-bike using the electric starter motor. The process may vary depending on which electric bike you have, so look up instructions for your specific e-bike model if needed.

To connect the ignition wiring, locate the ignition connection on the wiring that goes from the controller to the motor in your e-bike’s battery pack area. It’s easiest to look through the wire casing at about eye level when seated on your e-bike, where you can see both ends of each wire coming out of it. The ignition system is typically located under the key-lock system.

Once you find the connecting wires, you’ll need to cut and connect them together, allowing them to touch. This should start an electric bike but should be used for temporary fixes or short-term trips because it can cause your electric bike to lose power

2. Remove the Battery

E-bike batteries are used to supply power to the motor in your bike’s battery pack area. The battery is directly tied to the pedaling action of the electric bike. So when the battery connection is removed, the pedal assist system switches off. 

When you start pedaling your e-bike, the pedals automatically turn the motor on. The battery supplies power to your electrical system (which includes your bike’s motor), allowing for movement around ten mph (15kph). 

Without the battery, you’ll still be able to ride your e-bike manually. The caveat is that you’ll have to settle for manual pedaling. If that’s not too big of an inconvenience, then removing the battery can be a solution for starting your bike when you can’t access the key.

Here’s the problem: To remove a battery, you’ll most likely need the key or a screwdriver to unlock the battery from its mount on the electric bike itself. Unfortunately, you’ll need to either insert the key or screwdriver, disengage the locking system, and pull out your battery.

So make sure to read how to use a screwdriver below!

Caveat: Not All E-Bike Batteries Are Removable

In some electric bikes, the battery is integrated into the frame. These types of batteries aren’t removable. For batteries integrated into the e-bike frame, you’ll need to use one of the other methods for riding your e-bike manually… or order a new key.

In other electric bikes, batteries are attached by screws to their mount on the frame. With these types of batteries, it’s simply a matter of removing the mounting screws with a screwdriver and then pulling out your battery. 

In both cases, check if the key is required to remove your battery from its mount. If so, insert said key or screwdriver into the proper slot and turn as needed to unlock your battery from its power source before removing it from its place on your electric bike.

You may also need to remove or disengage cable locks in order to get to some batteries. If you don’t know how to do this, there should be instructions on your e-bike or in the manual that came with it. 

Battery replacement once the key is found:

  1. Locate where your old battery was on the frame of your electric bike.
  2. Use a screwdriver or key to lock/unlock the locking mechanism holding it in place.
  3. Insert the battery with its positive and negative terminals placed according to your bike’s appropriate placement.
  4. Make sure the new battery is secure within its holder before beginning to ride!

Suggestion: Always carry a complete maintenance bike kit with you while you ride… like this one from Amazon:

23 Piece Bike Tool Kit Conversion Repair

Or a bike multitool like this:

All the tools included in a bike multitool

3. Use a Screwdriver

Using a screwdriver as a replacement key can be effective, especially in older bikes with older types of locks. To do this, you’ll need to find a screwdriver that resembles your e-bike key’s shape and size.

Once you find such a screwdriver, try unlocking your bike in the following steps:

  1. Insert the screwdrivers into the slot where your key would normally enter to start your e-bike. Don’t use too much force when inserting the screwdriver; otherwise, it may cause damage to your e-bike. 
  2. Once the screwdriver is inside, push it up as you turn left of the slot. While turning the screw left works for most bikes, you might have to turn it the other way if that’s the direction your key usually turns.
  3. See if your electric bike is on. If the bike turns on, all that’s left is to remove the screwdriver and ride. 

It’s not recommended to use this method for more than a temporary or one-time solution. Continued use of a screwdriver may permanently damage your battery‘s ignition, costing you more money in maintenance than it would cost to replace your key.

4. Try a Bump Key

A bump key is a flat piece of metal that is cut with a pattern similar to that of a normal key. The difference is that a bump key is designed to use a bit of force. You need to “bump” it into your ignition slot, which is different from the usual insert-and-turn motion you’d use for a conventional key.

Bump keys are designed to fit most standard locks. More often than not, they are universal to specific brands and models. You can buy a bump key online. To start an electric bike with one of these, insert it into your battery ignition slot, slowly bumping each lock pin all the way up until it’s flush with the top part of the steering column.

While this method is successful for many people, you shouldn’t use it regularly because it can potentially damage your e-bike’s ignition system. Like many other tricks discussed above, a bump key is meant to be a once-in-a-while solution.

5. Melt a Plastic Pen to Create a Replica of Your E-Bike Key

The cheapest way to make a working copy of your e-bike key is using a plastic pen or marker, such as an inexpensive BIC pen that melts at low heat. Although this method can have some success, it poses the greatest risk of damaging your electric bike’s ignition system. As such, you should only use it in emergency situations.

Here’s how to go about it: 

  1. Find a plastic pen to melt and a heat source. 
  2. Remove the ink from the pen, leaving only the outer plastic cover.
  3. Hold the plastic cover over a heat source until it becomes hot and pliable.
  4. Insert the softened plastic into your ignition until you feel it reach the bottom.
  5. Allow the plastic cover to cool and harden.
  6. Turn the pen the same way you would your key to start an electric bike.

6. Use a Shim

Using a shim is a method that can be used with both a barrel lock and disc lock. All you need to do is slide the shim in between your ignition, put it into place, and turn. If done correctly, it should start your e-bike with no problem.

Don’t have shims on hand? A universal key that matches your current locks are interchangeable for both types of ignitions (barrels and discs). 

Here’s a YouTube video detailing the steps for using the shim method on a cylinder lock (to give you an idea how to correctly use the shim): 

If this method doesn’t work for some reason, try picking up an exact key duplicate: they’re inexpensive and easy to find online or at most hardware stores. You may also want to check in with your local e-bike shop; most will cut keys on-site needed.

7. Wait and Order a New Key

If you have the luxury of time and another means of transportation, consider waiting to replace your specific key until you’re ready to go out and get a new one. E-bikes typically come with at least two keys. If you have one at home, you might be better off hauling your e-bike on a car rack or any other means of transport available to avoid risking costly damages. 

If you’ve lost all your e-bike keys, purchase new ones from the manufacturer. Keep in mind that manufacturers typically verify your serial number to ensure that you’re the legal owner of the bike before sending you a replacement.

A local bike store can also help in either getting a spare made or finding the correct replacement. Just be sure to provide your receipt and other supporting documentation to demonstrate proof of ownership.

Hiring a locksmith can also be an option. Generally, an e-bike master key doesn’t have the anti-theft technology found in an electric vehicle key system. As such, any skilled locksmith can duplicate one of these the same way they do a house master key. Be warned, though; most locksmiths require proof of ownership beforehand.

How To Avoid Having To Start Your E-Bike Without a Key

Here are some key points that will help you avoid having to use any of these methods to start your e-bike without a key. 

Proper Storage

First and foremost, keep your key properly stored. If you have a detachable battery, then keep it in the key switch of the battery once removed from the bike (the battery should be stored in a cool pace). There will be no electrical power if the battery isn’t attached.

Removing the battery with its key also helps to make your electric bike theft-proof. You’re less likely to have to deal with a stolen bike if thieves can’t get away quickly with electric power.

Assign Your Serial Number to a Tracking App

Tracking by GPS or through other means can be incredibly helpful in locating your e-bike, no matter where it ends up. If you’re using a tracking app, try to use one that works best with the type of phone you have.

Some additional steps you can take to avoid having to use one of the methods on this list include: 

  • Make sure that any spare key or replacement keys are kept somewhere safe away from the electric bike, where it can be found quickly in an emergency. Leaving them attached to the lock itself with an electric bicycle is never wise.
  • Register and track your bike’s serial number. Registering your electric bike’s serial number allows you to get the police involved if it’s ever stolen.

Observe Safety Guidelines When Riding

Using some common sense safety techniques when riding electric bikes will help you avoid having to use any of these methods in an emergency situation. Some safety reminders when riding e-bikes include: 

  • Park in well-lit areas.
  • Try to avoid riding late at night.
  • Follow all traffic laws.
  • Have a cell phone on hand if going for a ride after dark, just in case there’s a problem. 
  • Always be aware of your surroundings.

Additionally, make an alternative plan for when something happens to your keys. 

For starters, always let someone know where you’re riding to and at what time they can expect you back. This way, you’re more likely to have someone looking for you when you get stranded. It might also be a good idea to provide them with a means of tracking your location, especially if you’re going for long rides in unpopulated areas.

Most importantly, keep extra sets of keys on hand for emergencies. Then make sure you carry the emergency keys in a different location from the primary key (keeping one on your body and one in your bag perhaps).         

Final Thoughts

That does it for today’s post. Hopefully, one of the above steps will come in handy when you find yourself stranded with your e-bike and no key. 

As you go about trying to start an electric bike without a key, be gentle and avoid letting frustration take over. If a certain step isn’t working, using more force won’t change that. If anything, it’ll make things worse by damaging the ignition system.

Last but not least, be safety-oriented so you won’t have to go through this hassle again. Keep a spare key somewhere important, and try to register and track your e-bike.

For more info on batteries and maintenance, read these:

The Best Electric BMX Bike (Competition Listed!)

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Best Electric BMX Bike-Zooz Ultra Urban 1100

Recently, there’s been talk of electric BMX bikes, but there hasn’t been a lot of information on what this means and where BMX e-bikes are headed. Are there truly bikes that are e-BMX? And which electric bike is the best BMX bike?

The best electric BMX bike is the Ultra Urban 1100 from Zooz Bikes, which has 3 BMX-style e-bikes. Zooz has managed to build an electric motor and battery into a BMX frame. There are a couple of other brands that claim to have an e-BMX as well.

Below, you’ll find out what you need to know about the Zooz electric BMX bikes and other brands that carry them… and why you just have to have one. But, first, is there a difference between regular electric bikes and BMX e-bikes?

Best Electric BMX Bike-Zooz Ultra Urban 1100
Best Electric BMX Bike-Zooz Ultra Urban 1100

What Is an Electric BMX Bike?

You might be wondering if it’s even possible to build a BMX-style bike with electric components. This is a real challenge, and perhaps the reason there are so few offered in the electric bicycle market.

In general, a BMX electric bike has a frame similar to a regular BMX bike but with a motor and battery added to it. It can perform tricks, jumps, and aerial stunts with some limitations as compared to a regular bike.

Limitations in how high you can jump and twist are not surprising given the added weight of a lithium battery and hub motor. Still, companies are working to figure out how to combine BMX bikes and e-bikes to make the best e-BMX.

Best Electric BMX Style Bikes: Brands and Models

If you’re looking for an electric BMX bike, then you’ll be considering a small list, especially as compared to the ever-growing list of e-bikes.

Here are the best electric BMX bikes and their key specs:

BMX E-BikeMotorTop
Speed
RangeBike
Weight
Load
Capacity
Price
Zooz Ultra Urban 1100750W/1600W
Rear Hub Motor
33 mph25-40 miles62.2 lbs330 lbs$2895
Zooz Ultra Urban 750600W/1200W
Rear Hub Motor
26 mph25-40 miles55.7 lbs250 lbs$2395
GT Power Performer250W Hub-Drive20 mphCheck siteCheck siteCheck site$2600
Enki Original Billy E-Bike500W Hub Motor20 mph41 mile (65km)54 lbs (24.5kg)300lbs (136kg)$2490
EINS Stealth250W/500W
Mid-Drive Motor
28 mph32+ miles41 lbs300 lbsCheck site for availability
Urban Drivestyle UNI MK Classic250W Hub-Drive Motor20 mph62 miles (100km)73 lbs (33kg)330+ lbs$3100+

Ultimately, the best BMX bike will give you endless thrills, especially when combining it with electric power. This is why Zooz Bikes doesn’t have much if any, competition. Take a look…

Chrome Looking Zooz Ultra Urban 750 Electric BMX Bike
Zooz Ultra Urban 750 Electric BMX Bike

Zooz Electric BMX

Zooz Bikes set out with the intent to create the “best electric urban bike.” Now, their e-bikes can be found throughout the world in several of the biggest cities including Los Angeles, New York, London, and Dubai.

Why Zooz Has the Best Electric BMX Bikes

Clearly, the urban meets BMX look of their electric bikes is the first thing that stands out! It’s almost hard to believe that you can have a BMX-style bike that’s electric, high-performance, and practical. Not only will it get you where you’re going, and fast, you’ll have a ton of fun along the way. Plus their unique saddles are built to house the battery and carry a second rider.

The Zooz Ultra Urban 1100 is on the top of the charts. It has a 750W motor with 1600W peak power and a 52V/19.2Ah Li-Ion battery, making it super powerful and fast. For true thrill-seekers, this is the ultimate BMX e-bike. Although it’s a Class 2 e-bike, it can be modified to get a top speed of 33 mph, which is way faster than the average e-bike speed of 20 mph.

When comparing the Ultra Urban 1100 to the Zooz Ultra Urban 750, the only physical differences you’ll see are the sizes of the battery and motor. Naturally, they’re a bit larger on the Urban 1100 to pack in greater power. But the truth is that all of their models are fast and exciting to ride.

Zooz Brand carries the best e-BMX bikes for several reasons:

  • Multiple Versions– Three models with different top speeds, motor power, and payload capacity to choose from
  • Powerful Battery– The Ultra Urban 1100 has the most power with a 52V/19.2Ah Li-Ion battery
  • Hydraulic Disc Brakes– All models have them… the 1100 model, however, has the heaviest-duty F/1203mm R/180mm brakes
  • Steel Frame– Patented design made from Chromoly steel
  • Brand Name Tires– Maxxis 24×2.5 tires on the 2 most powerful models
  • Throttle and Pedal Assist– Included on all three bikes

Zooz Bikes are here and ready to purchase… take a look!

Zooz-UltraLight-Urban-250-e-BMX
Zooz UltraLight 250 e-BMX had a smaller battery and motor.

Additional BMX E-Bike Models

GT Power Performer Electric BMX

The Power Performer is styled and built for durability like a BMX but has an aluminum frame and 29″ wheels, making it a bit higher off the ground than regular BMX bikes. The tall wheels plus its hub driven pedal assist, 9-speed levels, and “floating” seat gives you the practicality of an electric bicycle with the excitement of BMX riding.

This will make a great BMX e-bike for a tall person.

See it for yourself!

GT Power Performer BMX Style E-Bike
GT Power Performer BMX Style E-Bike

EINS

The Stealth electric bike is a German-designed, crowd-sourced wonder. With its Chrome-plated, Chromoly steel frame, unusually small, hidden battery, and mid-drive motor, it’s an electric bicycle with true BMX style.

It’s easy to carry, weighing only 41 pounds, and includes special features like a premium leather crash pad, GPS tracking, and an LCD display.

Check it out here (but be prepared to wait)!

Enki Cycles – Original Billy E-Bike

Being called the “fat” BMX electric bike, the Original Billy ebike has unique styling with a polished aluminum frame, hydraulic disc brakes, and a rear swing arm to give you precise adjustment. The 20″x 4″ fat tires put it in an e-BMX class of its own.

What’s particularly surprising about this e-bike is that it has a Gates carbon belt drive with an 18K mile warranty. And since a belt drive isn’t too common, it’s no wonder this bike is hard to get!

If you’re willing to wait for it, you can find it here.

*If it’s the fat tires that get you excited, take a look at the ultimate list of the best fat bikes!

Urban Drivestyle UNI MK Classic

The UNI MK Classic is the perfect electric bike to ride just about anywhere, as its 250W motor meets legal standards in Germany as well as just about any country or city. One of the coolest things about it is the extra-large “motorcycle” headlight on the front.

Although customers have compared this e-bike to their childhood BMX, you’ll find it to be a practical bike that’s also good for typical urban adventures. After all, it fits many needs, including an extra-long seat to carry a child in the front.

White Urban Drivestyle UNI MK Classic BMX Style
Urban Drivestyle UNI MK Classic BMX Style

Electric BMX Kits

If you’re considering converting your own BMX bike to an electric bike, you may have trouble finding the right size conversion kit. If your bike has 20″ wheels, then it’s best to use a 20″ rear wheel kit. The same holds true for other wheel sizes. You may have a hard time finding 24″ rear wheel kits, for example.

However, you should be able to do an e-bike conversion on your BMX to electric pretty easily if you’re looking for a rear hub motor kit and can find the correct wheel size and if you are satisfied with a 250W motor. If you expect a more powerful bike, you might wish to consider getting one of the bikes listed above.

Check out the 250W kits on Amazon.

Are Conversion Kits Worth It?

Here’s the dilemma… should you use a kit to convert your BMX to an e-bike or buy a new BMX e-bike? Undoubtedly, using a conversion kit will save you money. However, BMX-styled electric bikes are built from the ground up to handle the extra electronic weight and ride quality.

In this case, a conversion kit may not be worth it if you are particular about your ride quality or if you aren’t an experienced bike technician.

Final Thoughts

In the electric bike world, electric BMX bikes aren’t yet very common. So, if your heart is set on taking a thrilling ride every day, to anywhere you wish to go, The Zooz Ultra Urban 1100 is the best BMX bike thanks to its power, top speed, and availability.

If you want to cut costs and don’t need so much speed and power, then the Zooz 750 model is a great choice, as it’s still more powerful than the other bikes listed.

Other articles you might be interested in:

Can You Use a Car Battery to Charge an E-Bike Safely? (Inverter Charging)

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ORagne and black car charger inverter
Ampeak 2000W Car Inverter 12V

An e-bike battery can typically take you up to 40+ miles on a single charge. However, one struggle you face as an e-bike owner is keeping your electric bicycle fully charged for longer distances or when you don’t have a charging outlet. Having your battery die in the middle of your ride can be not only inconvenient but dangerous.

One alternative charging option may be to use a car battery to charge your e-bike.

You can use a car battery to charge an e-bike battery safely, as long as you have the correct tools. You can charge your electric bike with an inverter and 12V car socket.

Let’s talk more about charging your e-bike and why an inverter and the right voltage are so important when using a car’s battery. Keep reading to learn of the dangers of electric bike battery charging using car batteries and how to do it safely.

Using an Inverter to Charge an E-Bike Battery is Vital

An inverter is vital for charging an e-bike with a car battery because it regulates the flow of electrical power from the car battery to the e-bike battery. The inverter will convert direct current electricity to alternating current electricity, allowing less voltage to pass through. 

When you charge your e-bike with a car battery, it is important to understand that it has a lot more power than you need. The voltage produced is too high for the battery voltage of an e-bike. 

Higher voltage can pose a huge risk to your electric bike’s battery. 

Dangers of Too Much Voltage

There is a lot of risk with charging a battery using too much voltage. 

In the case of using a car battery for your electric bicycle, it typically has too much voltage for the e-bike. This means that there would be too much voltage passing into the e-bike without an inverter, which can damage the charging cord or the battery of your e-bike. 

The best-case scenario for using a battery with a voltage that is too high to charge your e-bike is that the cord may get fried. If this happens, you will need to replace the cord to charge your e-bike. 

However, a fried cord certainly isn’t the worst thing that can happen. Using a car battery without an inverter can cause permanent damage to your electric bike battery (read how to repair and rebuild an e-bike battery). If the battery voltage is not identical, then it can affect the ability of your battery to charge. 

It can also reduce battery life, causing your battery to die faster than normal as it can wear out the battery over time. 

Overloading your battery with too much voltage or the incorrect amount can also completely fry the battery causing it to no longer work. This means that you would need to replace the battery or even your e-bike altogether. 

So, using a pure sine wave inverter with the battery is very important for the upkeep and care of your electric bike battery. 

Is it safe to charge an e-bike with a car battery inverter? 1000W Power Inverter, Amazon

The Inverter Controls the Voltage

The inverter helps control the flow of voltage from the car battery to your e-bike, so it won’t overload your e-bike but simply charge it and get you back to pedaling in no time. 

Inverters work by converting direct current power to alternating current power. There are a few major differences between the two types, but we’ll focus on the difference it makes for your e-bike. Direct current doesn’t lose power except over long distances, while alternating current changes to higher or lower voltage. 

So, the inverter is vital for this process because it allows the battery to only provide the amount of voltage necessary to charge your electric bicycle. This means that it can charge safely without worrying that it will fry the cord or the bike battery. 

Charging Without an Inverter

If you don’t have an inverter, then you may still have hope yet. When you want to charge your e-bike and all you have is your car, you may be able to use an outlet available inside the car. These power outlets usually carry a smaller voltage to ensure that phones and other electronics are not overloaded with power and do not drain the car’s battery too much. 

To ensure that your e-bike battery is safe, you will need to check the voltage on the electrical outlets in your car and how much power they give out. Any outlet that you choose should have 12 volts of power, which will ensure that your battery can charge safely. 

If your car does not have any power outlets with the appropriate voltage, then make sure you do not use the plugs to charge your electric bicycle. If needed, you can consult with a mechanic to have 12-volt outlets put into your vehicle for charging convenience. 

Otherwise, an inverter is your best bet for ensuring your battery charges safely. However, since even e-bike batteries are not universal or interchangeable, you should also consult with an electric bike technician and/or a professional experienced in how much power is required.

What Size Inverter Do I Need to Charge My E-Bike Battery?

Typically, you need an inverter with 1000W of power or more to charge your bike battery. Get an inverter with at least as much total wattage as your electric bike battery and preferably more.

Check your e-bike’s total Watt-hours (Volts multiplied by Amps). So, a bike with a 48V 14 Ah battery will have 672 Wh. Thus, a 1000W inverter will be powerful enough to charge it, while a 500W inverter will not.

Recommended Inverters

Here are the recommended inverters found on Amazon and their wattage and price comparison:

InverterWattsPrice
Maxpart Power Inverter 12v 1000W$59+
Ampeak Inverter with Dual AC Outlets1000W$63+
Ampeak Inverter 12V to 110V Power Inverter2000W$159+

Inverters get more expensive with higher wattage. However, the price difference might be worth it because:

  • You can use it for other things that might require a higher inverter wattage
  • When your battery dies in the future (and you upgrade it), you’ll still be able to use the inverter without purchasing a new one
rechargeable-car-battery-12v-accumulator-with-abstract-label-white-background-3d-rendering
Car batteries are too big to put on your e-bike

Can You Use a Car Battery for an Electric Bike?

Generally speaking, a car battery is too big and heavy to fit onto an e-bike frame, it’s built differently than a lithium-ion e-bike battery, and it has 12V of DC power, as opposed to varying AC wattage.

This discussion is different from the above where we were talking about using the car battery to charge your electric bike battery. Although you may be able to do that, you can not simply replace your bike battery with a car battery because:

  • It won’t fit on a bicycle frame easily- A battery from a car is typically a different size and shape, not to mention much larger than e-bike batteries.
  • Car batteries drain much more quickly- The car engine alternator charges a 12 V deep-cycle battery with the car’s engine to keep it running. This is why your battery drains quickly when you are not running the car but simply listening to music with the key in the ignition.
  • Voltage does not match– E-Bike batteries are typically 36V to 48V and only charge while connected to a standard charger. Thus, you’ll be decreasing your range by using a car’s deep-cycle battery.
  • E-bikes typically have li-ion batteries- They last longer and can be fully charged an average of 1000+ times, lasting you 5-7 years or more depending on your riding style (the more pedal assist or throttle you use, the greater the reduction in battery life).

How Do You Charge an E-Bike Off-Grid or While Camping?

If you intend to ride off-grid or take your e-bike camping, you may require an alternative charging station for your electric bicycle battery, as you won’t always have access to a power outlet. Fortunately, there are options for a different power supply, but they do require advanced planning. These include:

  • Solar panels- Solar charging can be quite handy if there is lots of sun where you’ll be riding. And you can actually attach them to your e-bike! Find out more about using solar panels in this article.
  • Generator- With the right generator power supply, charging with one can work great while camping or traveling. Learn more about using a generator to charge your e-bike here!
  • Wind turbine- Although this can be done, setting up the right equipment can be costly. However, it is a green alternative.
  • Inverter- Using a car battery with an inverter is a viable battery charging idea with the right equipment.
  • Add a second battery in Parallel- Consider adding an additional battery to your bike so that your range is double what you’d have with one battery. Everything you want to know about adding a second battery in parallel can be found in this article.
woman on e-bike in mountains touring with camping gear
Touring with Camping Gear- How far can she go on a single charge?

How Can You Help Your E-Bike Battery Last?

You can help your e-bike battery last by not allowing it to die fully or letting it overcharge. Another way to ensure the battery lasts is to not store the bike in extreme hot or cold temperatures. 

Let’s break down how you can help your e-bike battery last longer and what makes them each effective. 

Not Allowing Battery To Die

It is important not to let your e-bike battery fully die. It was once a common belief that allowing your battery pack to die fully was good for it, which was the case when batteries were made of nickel. 

However, this is not relevant anymore with the growth of lithium batteries. 

Now that we use all lithium-ion batteries let’s talk about what works for them. It is not best to allow your electric bicycle battery to die completely as we thought it to be with nickel batteries. Instead, you should try to avoid that if possible. 

Allowing your battery to fully die before recharging is actually not good for it

This can be difficult at times since the traditional electric bike does not have a gauge within the charging station to let you know when the battery is getting low. The best way to ensure your e-bike fully charges is to measure how much you are using it. 

Most e-bikes have a distance or amount of time that a new battery will last, so you’ll want to measure the number of miles you go to ensure it doesn’t die. Further, plug in the charger to a wall outlet to get a full charge before riding.

Don’t Overcharge

Another important part of caring for your e-bike battery is to ensure it does not overcharge. Leaving your e-bike battery on the power station for an extended period is not recommended as the battery can overheat and get damaged. 

In fact, an overheated battery can harm your e-bike entirely, so you may be stuck replacing the whole thing. 

Overheating is the main concern when it comes to overcharging as it may cause damage, but overcharging can also make your battery begin to wear out faster than it normally would. Don’t leave your e-bike battery charging for too long as it can be bad for your battery. 

Extreme Temperatures

Storing your battery in extreme hot or cold weather can be bad for the battery as well. Even though your battery will not be running, extreme low or high temperatures are not good for it. In fact, extreme temperatures can affect the chemistry of your battery, making it die faster. 

So make sure you are storing it somewhere dry with temperatures that don’t get too high or low. 

Final Thoughts

Overall, it is safe to use a car battery to charge your e-bike as long as you have an inverter and a 12V power outlet. However, there are a lot of considerations, as discussed in this article, so prepare ahead of time.

Most importantly, don’t use the battery from a car without an inverter, as it can cause damage to your electric bike battery.

Read more on electric bike batteries here: