How Long Does it Take to Charge an Electric Bike?

If you are considering purchasing an e-bike, knowing how long it takes to charge is essential when planning your commute. A fully charged electric city bike can provide a range of around 20 miles to 40 miles on average on a single charge, making it an ideal choice for longer journeys. More adventurous machines like electric mountain bikes can boast battery life and range of double this. However, to ensure that your e-bike is always ready when needed, it's helpful to understand the charging process and how long it takes to charge your battery.

How Long Will it Take to Charge My E-Bike?

The time it takes to charge an electric assist bike battery depends on a few factors, such as the battery's capacity, charger power output, and current charge level.

Most e-bike batteries have a capacity between 400Wh and 500Wh; the higher the capacity, the longer it takes to charge fully. A typical e-bike battery takes around 3 to 6 hours to charge the battery from empty to full, depending on its capacity and the charger's output.

For example, a folding electric bike may have a 300Wh battery and take about 4 hours to charge. Alternatively, a cargo bike with a heavier load and a 500Wh battery may take around 6.5 hours to charge fully. If you'd like to explore a little further afield on your electric bike, one solution might be to carry a spare second battery with you, thus doubling your autonomous range (the distance you can travel without needing to charge again). This is mostly relevant to riders heading off for a multi-day adventure and planning to camp in the wilds, where nighttime charging is not an available option. Not all bikes have a removable battery, however, so it's good to know this info ahead of time.

How to Charge an E-Bike?

The best way to charge an e-bike is to follow the specific model and manufacturer instructions regarding battery care. Regardless of the model, general steps for charging an e-bike include:

1. Locate the charging port on your e-bike, typically on the bike's frame near the battery.

2. Remove the battery from the bike if necessary.

3. Plug a compatible charger into a power outlet with the necessary voltage.

4. Securely connect the charger to the charging port on your e-bike battery.

5. Turn on the charger by pressing a power button or flipping a switch, depending on the type of charger you're using.

6. Wait for the battery to charge.

7. Disconnect the charger from the battery and power outlet once fully charged.

8. Reinstall the battery if necessary and use your bike as normal.

How Many Charges Can You Get Out of a Battery?

Most e-bike batteries are lithium-ion, which provides a minimum of 500 full charge cycles before the battery drops to 80% of its original capacity. Recharging the battery when it is only 50% counts as only ½ of one charge cycle. If you combine electric power and pedal power in the pedal-assist mode, you can expect a range of between 10,000 and 30,000 miles before replacing your electric bike battery.

Tips for Efficient Charging

To get the most out of your e-bike battery and extend its lifespan, implement a few of the following tips for efficient charging:

Charge the battery after each ride. Charging the battery ensures it's at full capacity and ready for your next ride.

Use a high-quality charger. Invest in a high-quality charger that is specifically designed for your e-bike battery. A cheap or low-quality charger can damage your battery and reduce its lifespan.

Avoid completely draining the battery. Lithium-ion batteries work best when they are charged before reaching 0% capacity.

Charge at the right temperature. Charge your battery at room temperature to avoid overheating and reducing its efficiency and lifespan.

Store the battery properly. If you're not using your e-bike for an extended period, such as during the winter months, store the battery at a room temperature of 55-75°F and keep the charge at 50-75%.

Get a Refurbished Electric Bike

Upway has what you need. Affordable electric bikes with varying battery capacities to match your charging preference. Shop our options today to find a high-quality brand name bike certified by professional mechanics and guaranteed for one year.