I’m a big fan of removable batteries since they offer more options for charging, along with the advantage of swapping in a spare battery to extend the range. Most electric bikes have a removable battery so a majority of bike manufacturers and riders must agree with me. However, a non-removable battery is definitely not a deal breaker.
Removable vs. Non-Removable Batteries: What’s the Difference?
Written by: Rémy Rossi | November 23, 2024 | Time to read 5 min
Bike batteries got you baffled? Get the full scoop on the differences between removable and non-removable batteries on electric bikes.
More about the Author: Remy Rossi
Rémy Rossi is a bike writer, mechanic, and educator who got his start in community-based bike shops and co-ops. With a decade in the industry, he still wrenches on bikes when he can and plays bike polo on a fixie.
You can customize and swap out nearly all the parts on an electric Bike, but one thing you can’t change is the battery. E-Bikes have frames that are built around carrying the large (and expensive) battery, whether it’s mounted externally or housed inside the frame. Most models have removable batteries for extra convenience while other e-Bikes feature fully integrated batteries.
In this article, I’ll lay out the differences between removable and non-removable batteries, including their respective advantages. Make sure that your new bike is set up just how you like it because you can’t change the battery design later on!
In this article, I’ll lay out the differences between removable and non-removable batteries, including their respective advantages. Make sure that your new bike is set up just how you like it because you can’t change the battery design later on!
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Which battery design is best?
If you’re looking for a quick and dirty opinion from yours truly, I’ll oblige just this once. I think riding an electric bike with a removable battery is far and away the better idea. The easy removability gives you much more flexibility regarding charging and battery storage.
However, don’t let a non-removable battery be a dealbreaker if you love the bike. High-quality models like the Specialized Vado SL and Cube Cross Hybrid Pro save weight and have a more streamlined look because of their fully integrated batteries. Remember that both these styles of battery are removable in the literal sense— integrated batteries can still be removed in case of full replacement or servicing, though it’ll require professional help.
You may be wondering how long do electric bike batteries last, but the removability of a battery won’t have much of an effect on its capacity. But if you’re chasing ultimate battery life, a long range e-Bike will get you where you need to go with plenty of charge left. Upway sells brand-new and reconditioned electric bikes of all types, complete with a one-year warranty. One of our most popular MTB models, the Specialized Vado SL, features a fully enclosed battery for weight savings and a sleeker profile.
However, don’t let a non-removable battery be a dealbreaker if you love the bike. High-quality models like the Specialized Vado SL and Cube Cross Hybrid Pro save weight and have a more streamlined look because of their fully integrated batteries. Remember that both these styles of battery are removable in the literal sense— integrated batteries can still be removed in case of full replacement or servicing, though it’ll require professional help.
You may be wondering how long do electric bike batteries last, but the removability of a battery won’t have much of an effect on its capacity. But if you’re chasing ultimate battery life, a long range e-Bike will get you where you need to go with plenty of charge left. Upway sells brand-new and reconditioned electric bikes of all types, complete with a one-year warranty. One of our most popular MTB models, the Specialized Vado SL, features a fully enclosed battery for weight savings and a sleeker profile.
What is a removable e-Bike battery?
As you can probably guess, removable batteries are designed to be easily taken out of an e-Bike. But just because they can be removed, doesn’t mean you need to— it’s totally fine to keep the battery sitting inside its cozy spot on the bike.
Removable batteries fit into the downtube of the frame or are placed somewhere along the outside of the frame, secured with a locking mechanism. Riders can quickly remove the battery with a turn of a key and wriggle the battery out of the bike. You’ll likely find a recreational bike or commuter e-Bike with this style of battery that’s easy to swap out for a fresh battery pack.
Removable batteries fit into the downtube of the frame or are placed somewhere along the outside of the frame, secured with a locking mechanism. Riders can quickly remove the battery with a turn of a key and wriggle the battery out of the bike. You’ll likely find a recreational bike or commuter e-Bike with this style of battery that’s easy to swap out for a fresh battery pack.
Benefits of a removable battery
- Convenient charging: There’s no need to bring your heavy e-Bike all the way to the power source. Bring the battery with you and leave your bike downstairs or in the shed. This is ideal for people who leave their bikes in a shared bike room or entryway.
- Instant recharge: Charge your e-Bike in seconds by simply swapping the battery for a fully charged one.
- Extended e-Bike lifespan: Your battery is almost certainly going to fail before the rest of your e-Bike, so you can replace the removable battery and continue enjoying your bike for many more years.
- Appropriate long-term storage: Bring your battery inside to protect it from extreme hot or cold temperatures that can damage the battery, such as non-climate-controlled garages or outdoor sheds.
For the longest-running e-Bikes, check out these long-range models:
What is a non-removable battery?
Non-removable batteries are designed to stay inside the bike at all times. On many models, this is an intentional feature that allows for sleeker integration and a more natural-looking frame. The permanent design can also help an e-Bike shed a few grams here and there, as is the case with the lightweight Specialized Turbo Vado SL. There can be additional room for bottle cage mounts on the frame and more space for a larger battery with a longer range.
Sometimes these non-removable batteries are referred to as integrated batteries or hidden batteries, but I think those terms are confusing. Many removable battery designs cleverly hide the battery inside the frame. Let’s stick with the removable vs. non-removable battery dichotomy.
Sometimes these non-removable batteries are referred to as integrated batteries or hidden batteries, but I think those terms are confusing. Many removable battery designs cleverly hide the battery inside the frame. Let’s stick with the removable vs. non-removable battery dichotomy.
Benefits of a non-removable battery
- Seamless integration: Sleeker downtube and more natural-looking frame. Be ready for questions like, “Whoa, is that really an e-Bike? I didn’t even notice!”
- Lightweight design: Some models are able to save weight by designing the bike around the fully enclosed battery.
- More space: Fully optimizing the space around the battery means more room for bottle cage mounts and a larger battery that holds more juice.
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Final Thoughts
You won’t be able to choose between having a removable or non-removable battery when purchasing an e-Bike, but it’s a good idea to know what you’re getting yourself into. The extent of each design’s benefits comes down to your priorities and lifestyle.
Removable batteries offer unmatched convenience for charging, storage, and long-term use, making them a practical choice for many riders. On the other hand, non-removable batteries deliver a sleeker, lighter, and more integrated design, ideal for those who prioritize aesthetics and weight savings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it better to have a removable battery on an electric bike?
Should I remove my e-Bike battery when not in use?
For short-term storage, it’s encouraged to leave the battery on the bike where it’s designed to be. For long-term storage, take it out and keep it at room temperature. Modern chargers are designed to prevent overcharging, but keeping it at 100% charge levels still puts extra stress on the battery.
