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How Long Do Electric Bikes Last


Man changing electric bike battery

If you’re considering purchasing an electric bicycle as a greener mode of transport, you may wonder how long an e-bike will last and whether it is worth the investment. On average, e-bikes last around 10 years. However, the lifespan of an electric bike varies widely based on how often you ride, how well you care for the battery and motor and whether you have a regular maintenance schedule.


How Long Do E-Bikes Last?

Investing in an e-bike is an important decision, so it’s essential to understand the longevity of individual components on your bike, such as the gears, battery and brakes. The general lifespan of these elements depends on your bike’s type of motor, normal wear and tear and if you perform routine maintenance. 


Battery

The battery is the heart of an e-bike, providing the power needed to propel the bike forward. The lifespan of an e-bike battery depends on various factors, including the battery type and how you ride your e-bike. On average, lithium batteries last around 500 charge cycles at peak performance before losing effectiveness and 1,200 charging cycles until needing replacing.


To extend the life of your lithium-ion battery, keep it charged and avoid letting it run out completely. Don’t overload the bike’s maximum weight capacity (including both the rider and cargo) and plan your route to avoid extremely steep inclines, which drain the battery.


Motor

The motor is responsible for turning the wheels and providing the power to move the e-bike forward. There are two types of e-bike motors: hub and mid-drive. Direct drive and geared hub motors can last up to 10,000 miles; a mid-drive motor has a higher power output and a slightly shorter lifespan due to the additional wear and tear on the drive chain, sprocket and derailleur system.


You can help your electric city bike motor reach its full potential by avoiding riding in extreme temperatures, which can cause damage to the battery and motor.




Chains and Sprockets

An e-bike’s chains and sprockets transfer power from the motor to the wheels. Over time, they can wear down due to friction. Your bike’s chain needs to be replaced at around 3,000 miles, while sprockets can last a long time, often up to 10,000 miles, with proper maintenance.


You can get the most out of your e-bike’s smaller components by storing your e-bike in a dry, cool place to avoid dust accumulation and moisture damage. You should also keep your e-bike clean and well-lubricated to avoid unnecessary friction. 


Tires

The lifespan of e-bike tires depends on the tire construction and how often it is used. On average, e-bike tires can last between 1,000-3,000 miles. Mountain bikes, fat bikes and hybrid tires have a thicker tire wall and deeper tread to handle rough terrain; these tires typically last longer than city or road bike tires. 

Tire maintenance is critical to ensure your tires reach their maximum lifespan. Check the tire pressure regularly and avoid riding on flat tires.


Brakes

Brakes are essential for stopping an e-bike safely, especially on all-terrain options like an electric mountain bike. The lifespan and maintenance of e-bike brakes differ from those on regular bikes because e-bikes generally use disc brakes, similar to those on cars or motorbikes.  

A good quality brake system can last between 1,000 and 6,000 miles. To ensure your brakes last to their full potential, check them every 300 to 600 miles and replace them when the pads become worn out or you hear a squeaking or scraping sound when you use your brakes.


Purchase Your E-Bike Today

An electric bike is a worthwhile investment that can last you for many years. Taking proper care of your e-bike can help extend its lifespan and ensure that it continues to provide you with a reliable mode of transportation. 

If you are considering purchasing an e-bike, Upway has plenty of options. We offer high-quality, refurbished options like city, mountain and folding electric bikes at up to 60% off buying new. Investing in a pre-owned option can save money while still getting a reliable and high-performing bike.

Ready to choose?

Upway offers the widest range of certified pre-owned electric bikes, reconditioned by professional mechanics. Thanks to Upway, you'll get a great electric bike at a price that's 20-60% off retail, with a one-year warranty!