If you're considering getting an electric bike, one of the first things you'll probably want to know is how long the battery lasts. It's a good question to ask. The battery is one of the most significant (and expensive) parts of any e-bike, after all.

If you live in Adelaide and ride your bike to work or on weekends, or if you're new to e-bikes, knowing how to charge, care for, and use the battery can help you get the most out of your investment. You should know this.

How long does a battery for an electric bike last?

How long do batteries last in years and charge cycles

Depending on how you use and care for it, an electric bike battery normally lasts about 5+ years. However not looking after the battery can dramatically decrease the life of the battery. Manufacturers measure how long a battery lasts in charge cycles and years. Most e-bikes use lithium-ion batteries, which can take between 500 and 1,000 full charging cycles before they start to lose their capacity.

• 500 cycles: Batteries suitable for recreational riders

• 1,000+ cycles: Batteries that are mid- to high-end. Suitable for daily riders.

To put this in context:

If you drive 20 kilometres per day and charge your battery every two days, it will last about 180 cycles in a year. Depending on the model and how you ride, it means your battery might last anywhere from three to six years.

Things That Affect How Long a Battery Lasts

There are a number of elements that can affect how long your electric bike battery will last:

1. Battery Quality & Brand

Higher-end models like Bosch usually last longer because they have better battery management systems (BMS) and are built with a lot of technology inside them. Even if you charge and ride the same way, cheaper batteries may wear out faster. We work hard to only stock quality ebikes with quality batteries.

2. Riding Conditions

• Hilly terrain and using maximal pedal-assist modes (such as turbo or sport) may drain the battery faster.

• Extreme heat or cold can make the battery last less long.

• Batteries last longer when they are driven at steady speeds on open roads than when they are stopped and started.

• Bitumen is more efficient then gravel riding.

3. Charging Habits

Too much charging or letting your battery run out too often can hurt the cells.
Charging at 80–90% instead of 100% every time can make the battery last longer.

It is very important to use the proper charger, which is usually the one that came with the device.

How far can you go on one charge?

This depends on the battery size (measured in watt-hours, or Wh), the type of terrain, the weight of the rider, and the power mode. This is a general guide:

Size of the battery and estimated range

• 400Wh (40–80km)
• 500Wh (50–100km)
• 625Wh (60–120km)
• 750Wh+ (70–150km+)

In Adelaide, a mid-range battery (500–625 Wh) typically suffices for multiple daily commutes before requiring recharging.

Bosch Smart System even gives you the ability to use maps and set up range control which is handy to help control your power and help make it to a location. 

How to Get the Most Out of Your Battery

Want to keep your battery in excellent shape for as long as you can? Here are some things you can do:

Store it Right

• Keep your battery inside, where the temperature is between 10 and 40 degrees Celsius. (Ideally 20 degrees)

• Don't leave it in a hot car or in the sun for too long.

Ride Thoughtfully

If you are wanting to increase your range:

• For most of your ride, use either eco or standard assist mode.

• When going uphill, pedal more instead of depending on the motor to do all the work.

• To avoid short bursts of tremendous power, keep your speeds stable in the right gear with a nice cadence (pedaling speed).

• Check your tire pressure. The higher the pressure the better the rolling resistance. You can normally find your MAX PSI on the side wall of your tyre.

• The more work you are doing the less the motor is drawing for the battery.

How to Know When Your E-Bike Battery Is About to Die

Lithium-ion batteries don't just quit working; they slowly lose power. Here are several signs that your battery is getting close to the end of its life:

• A noticeably shorter range means you can't travel as far on a full charge.

• Power outages happen a lot, especially on hills.

• The battery won't charge past a certain point.

If you're having any of these issues, it may be time for a new battery. We can help you source the right battery.

Best Ways to Charge Your Battery

Here's a short list of things to do to charge your battery more intelligently:

• Use the charger that came with your e-bike.

• Charge it where it can be monitored throughout the charging process.

• Charge where it won't become wet or dusty.

• After a ride, wait 15 to 20 minutes before plugging it in to let the battery cool down.

• Make sure you see it start charging before you walk away from the battery.

• Never leave the charger plugged in all night.

• Unplug it after the battery is fully charged.

• Store the battery at a charge level of about 30–60% for longer-term storage

• Add more power to the battery every one  to two months if you want to keep it for a long time.

Frequently Asked Questions about Battery Maintenance

Is it okay to ride my e-bike in the rain?

Yes, most e-bikes can handle water, but don't put the battery in the water or leave it in heavy rain for lengthy periods of time. If traveling with the bike on the car. It is recommended to remove the battery and cover the bike in the rain.

Is it possible to change the battery on an electric bike?

Of course. Most models can get new batteries. Depending on the brand and battery shape, prices might be anywhere from $500 to $1,200.

Should you buy an extra battery?

Having a second battery is a terrific idea if you're going on lengthy bike rides or using your e-bike to make deliveries. It's not usually needed for people who ride for fun or work and don't go far. If you don’t use that second battery often remember it ages quicker from sitting around not being used.

Are you ready to ride smarter?

We are more than just a business at Electric Bikes Superstore Adelaide. We are the best in South Australia when it comes to e-bike technology and servicing. Our crew is available to help you with anything from checking your battery to replacing it to giving you advice on how to charge it.

We also have Adelaide's only mobile e-bike workshop, so we can come to you. You don't have to put your bike in a car or stand in line at a store.

Call us for professional help with your e-bike battery, or come by our store to see the largest selection of electric bikes in South Australia. You can book a service or mobile checkup at Electric Bikes Superstore Adelaide or call us on 08 8166 7571.