Factors that influence the autonomy of an electric bike
Below are some aspects that you can take advantage of to increase the autonomy of your bike:Battery capacity
It is expressed in Wh (watts/hour) and indicates the amount of electrical energy that the battery is capable of producing and sustaining for a certain time. Currently, you can find e-bikes with different battery capacities, depending on the model. Generally, they range from 250 Wh (electric touring or folding bikes) to 900 Wh (long-distance electric MTBs).Battery life
Regardless of its capacity, the autonomy of a battery is reduced by use and charging cycles carried out. Depending on the model, they tolerate between 500 and 1,000 full charges. But after three or four years of continuous use, the battery of an e-bike can suffer a depletion of up to 30%.Weight of the bike
The weight of the bicycle is a decisive factor in calculating the range. This value determines both the power delivery of the motor (expressed in Nm / newton meter) and the capacity of the battery. Both must adapt to the weight of the bike-cyclist set. In recent years, the emergence of lightweight e-bikes (below 20 kg) has meant an increase in autonomy thanks to a better relationship between the weight of the bike and the capacity of the battery.Lightweight e-bikes optimize their autonomy thanks to a better relationship between the weight of the bike and the capacity of the battery.
Engine type
The motor of an approved e-bike must never exceed 250 W. Hence, they all have the same power. They are differentiated by the way in which that power is delivered to assist pedaling at the initial moment of pedaling (the so-called torque). This delivery is expressed in Nm (Newton meter). It is not limited by law and also influences the autonomy of the bike. In addition, the different assistance modes (different power deliveries) and their frequency of use also determine the real autonomy.Efficient use and adjustment of assistance modes is key to not waste autonomy.The energy expenditure pedaling in the economical mode (Eco), with a limited power delivery (approximately 30 to 50%), is not the same as when pedaling in the higher mode (Boost or Turbo, at 100%). On the other hand, the most advanced e-bikes allow adjustments to be made in the power delivery for each mode, through specific software or apps. A high degree of customization that allows you to adapt energy expenditure to your needs.
Tire choice
The tires clearly influence the autonomy of an electric bike. Not in vain, they are the point of contact and friction of the vehicle with the terrain. The greater or lesser contact surface will influence a greater or lesser demand for energy from the battery. The wider and larger the knobs, the more the battery will be drained to compensate for tread friction.Weight of the rider
The weight of the cyclist's own body, added to that of his equipment and accessories, is a factor that clearly affects autonomy. According to data provided by Bosch, a leading manufacturer of motors for e-bikes, each kilo lost by the cyclist translates into approximately 1 km more autonomy.Driving style
The use that the biker makes of the electric assistance system also influences the autonomy. There are those who have enough assistance in the most economical or medium modes. Other cyclists need extra push to overcome the same obstacles, which requires a higher assistance mode. As we have already said before, the use of Turbo modes consume more energy and substantially reduce the nominal autonomy data.Tour/type of terrain
The unevenness and the conditions of the terrain (asphalt, dirt, gravel, stones) are factors that strongly influence the autonomy. Going from a flat or asphalt route to a rough, dirt or gravel route (of the same distance and in the same weather conditions) can cause a reduction in autonomy of approximately 15 to 20 km.Weather conditions
The actual autonomy of an e-bike varies from one season to another due to temperature, environmental humidity, etc. In winter, it tends to last a little less than in summer. The wind also influences, which forces a demand for extra assistance to maintain a constant speed.Tips to preserve the autonomy of your e-bike
Taking into account the factors described, although even more could be added, you can use some tricks to save energy and preserve (and even increase) the autonomy of your e-bike. A saving that will allow you to extend the useful life of the battery and enjoy much longer routes. We share the most relevant ones.Do not overcharge the battery
Do not wait for the battery to drop to 0%, although it always has a safety charge that prevents it from being completely exhausted. Also, do not charge it for longer than necessary, nor do it reach 100%. Between 80 to 100%, charging the cells is more expensive because it must protect its parts from possible overloads. An efficient load would range between 20% to 80%. In this way, the useful life of the battery is extended.
Wait a while to charge the battery
Do not plug in the charger right after finishing the route. Load cells need time to go from the discharging phase to the charging phase. Therefore, wait a few hours for them to cool and adapt to the ambient temperature at rest. But don't wait until the next day to charge it either; especially if you have spent almost all the energy.Check the components of your e-bike (suspensions, tire pressure, chain, etc.)
Before each ride, and as with any other bike, check key elements such as suspension, tire pressure, chain lubrication, etc. They are components that influence battery wear. Adapt the fork and shock absorber to the pressure recommended by the manufacturer and the type of route you are going to do. Keep the chain clean and well lubricated and inflate the wheels with a pressure gauge pump before each ride. They are small details that will allow you to save dozens of kilometers.Take the essential equipment
Do not add more accessories, clothing or food than is strictly necessary. It is important to be well equipped with spare parts and tools; especially, if you go out to the mountains. But you have to find the balance so as not to add more weight to the bike. In this sense, we recommend carrying a compact multitool instead of several loose wrenches or chain breaker. You can also carry the water in a hydration backpack and forget about the bottles, to achieve a better weight distribution.Use a battery extender
Many e-bikes are focused on new horizons and long journeys. More and more models are emerging that are compatible with extra portable batteries that add more capacity and autonomy. If you like to ride for hours and hours on your e-bike, or do multi-day routes, we recommend purchasing an extender. They are usually installed in the bottle cage area, anchored to the seat tube, etc. It is cheaper than an original battery and can be transported without problem in a backpack or carrying bag.
Drive efficiently
It is not advisable to demand the maximum from the assistance system. Riding as a rule in Turbo mode, abusing Walk mode to push your bike while walking, skidding... All of these actions will quickly wear out the battery. Use the assistance modes intelligently: Eco and Trail (30-70% assistance) for flat, steep or slightly technical climbs, and Boost for specific moments of maximum demand (uphill trails, steep slopes, etc.) .). Remember that your e-bike will not free you from pedaling and using your own energy. Remember that we are talking about pedal-assist bicycles, and not mopeds.📺 Easy tricks. In this video from Track MTB, some clues about efficient driving of e-bikes and how to extend the autonomy. [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ha2JeDW581o[/embed]
