Over the last two years, nearly 10% of all new bicycles sold in the UK were e-bikes. To compare, ten years ago, only about 1% of bikes sold were electric. E-bikes are everywhere, and the surge in sales is obvious.
But here’s the catch: many riders aren’t looking after their investments properly. Skip the upkeep, and your shiny e-bike could quickly turn into a pricey problem. So, how do you keep it running smoothly, for years?
Here, we’ll cover the essential maintenance routines, sharing some practical tips from Ben Mercer of Leisure Lakes Bikes, the UK’s leading electric bikes supplier, to keep your e-bike in top condition – without overcomplicating things.
Treat your battery right
Mercer highlights: “The battery is the heart of your e-bike, but it’s surprisingly easy to damage. With a monthly average of 6,600 online queries made to Google in 2024, it seems that UK e-bike owners are seeking to gain a better understanding of how to make the most of their bike’s battery and maintain it better.”
“Think of it like a smartphone battery,” Mercer says. “Don’t drain it completely or leave it fully charged all the time. Aim for that 20% to 80% sweet spot.”
Temperature matters, too. Batteries hate extremes. Too hot or too cold? That’s bad news. Mercer advises storing your battery at around 50% charge if you’re taking a break from riding. And yes, your garden shed probably isn’t the ideal spot. “Cool, dry places work best,” he adds.
What about charging after every short trip? Forget it. “It’s unnecessary and can cause more harm than good,” he explains.
Keep the moving parts moving
It’s easy to focus on the motor and forget about the basics, but your e-bike’s mechanical parts need attention too. Chains, for example. “A dry or grimy chain puts extra strain on the motor,” Mercer notes.
“Bike chain maintenance is something many bike owners struggle with. Last year saw a monthly average of 9,900 online searches made for “bike chain” by UK cyclists. Regular maintenance of your bike chain is important. Clean it regularly and use a bit of lubricant. But don’t overdo it—too much just attracts more dirt,” Mercer advises.
Then there are the tyres. Under-inflated tyres make rides harder and stress the motor. Check them weekly, and don’t ignore small cuts or worn treads. “They’re warning signs,” Mercer says.
What about brakes? If they squeak or feel off, don’t wait. “Worn brake pads can lead to more expensive fixes,” Mercer warns. Safety comes first.
Cleaning done right
A clean bike is a happy bike, but pressure washers are a big no-no. “It’s tempting,” Mercer says, “but the water can seep into sensitive electronics.” Instead, stick to a damp cloth and some mild soap. Focus on the drivetrain and areas where grime builds up. And always dry your bike thoroughly afterwards. A tiny bit of silicone spray can help repel dirt, but don’t go overboard.
Smart storage solutions
Where you store your e-bike matters more than you might think. “A damp shed invites rust and corrosion,” Mercer points out. Instead, find a dry, ventilated spot. If space is tight, wall-mounted racks can be a lifesaver.
If your bike has a removable battery, take it out when storing the bike long-term. That will help to keep the battery healthier for longer while also reducing the risk of theft.
Catch problems early
Little issues can snowball if you’re not paying attention. Is your motor noisier than usual? Are the gears slipping? Does the battery drain faster than it used to? “These are red flags,” Mercer says. “Get them checked early. Small fixes now can save you big repair bills later.”
Don’t forget about software updates, either. Many e-bikes rely on updates to stay efficient. Check with your manufacturer to keep everything running smoothly.
An e-bike isn’t just a piece of tech – it’s your ticket to the open road, the trail, or the commute that feels less like a grind. Look after it, and it’ll look after you, delivering more miles and more smiles while sparing you costly repairs. It’s not rocket science, but it makes all the difference. A bit of TLC goes a long way!
