Electric bikes are an environmentally friendly way of getting where you need to go fast. However, you do rely on the motor to get started. So, it can be quite annoying when you’ve misplaced your key or left it at home when you’re about to hit the trail far away.

So, you should know how to get your electric bike started even if you are without the key that came with the bike!

Here are several alternatives to start an electric bike without a key:

1. Connect the ignition wiring.
2. Remove the battery.
3. Use a screwdriver.
4. Try a bump key.
5. Melt a plastic pen to create a replica of your electric bike key.
6. Use a shim.
7. Wait and order a new key.

Each of the above steps can potentially start an electric bike, so you’ll want to give each a genuine try before moving on to the next. Who knows, maybe your bike will start before you even make it to step 7! Let’s cover the steps in greater detail to help you understand what needs to be done in each.

1. Connect Ignition Switch Wires

Connecting the wires of your e-bike’s ignition to the battery will allow you to start your e-bike using the electric starter motor. The process may vary depending on which electric bike you have, so look up instructions for your specific e-bike model if needed.

To connect the ignition wiring, locate the ignition connection on the wiring that goes from the controller to the motor in your e-bike’s battery pack area. It’s easiest to look through the wire casing at about eye level when seated on your e-bike, where you can see both ends of each wire coming out of it. The ignition system is typically located under the key-lock system.

Once you find the connecting wires, you’ll need to cut and connect them together, allowing them to touch. This should start an electric bike but should be used for temporary fixes or short-term trips because it can cause your electric bike to lose power. 

2. Remove the Battery

E-bike batteries are used to supply power to the motor in your bike’s battery pack area. The battery is directly tied to the pedaling action of the electric bike. So when the battery connection is removed, the pedal assist system switches off. 

When you start pedaling your e-bike, the pedals automatically turn the motor on. The battery supplies power to your electrical system (which includes your bike’s motor), allowing for movement around ten mph (15kph). 

Without the battery, you’ll still be able to ride your e-bike manually. The caveat is that you’ll have to settle for manual pedaling. If that’s not too big of an inconvenience, then removing the battery can be a solution for starting your bike when you can’t access the key.

Here’s the problem: To remove a battery, you’ll most likely need the key or a screwdriver to unlock the battery from its mount on the electric bike itself. Unfortunately, you’ll need to either insert the key or screwdriver, disengage the locking system, and pull out your battery.

So make sure to read how to use a screwdriver below!

Caveat: Not All E-Bike Batteries Are Removable

In some electric bikes, the battery is integrated into the frame. These types of batteries aren’t removable. For batteries integrated into the e-bike frame, you’ll need to use one of the other methods for riding your e-bike manually… or order a new key.

In other electric bikes, batteries are attached by screws to their mount on the frame. With these types of batteries, it’s simply a matter of removing the mounting screws with a screwdriver and then pulling out your battery. 

In both cases, check if the key is required to remove your battery from its mount. If so, insert said key or screwdriver into the proper slot and turn as needed to unlock your battery from its power source before removing it from its place on your electric bike.

You may also need to remove or disengage cable locks in order to get to some batteries. If you don’t know how to do this, there should be instructions on your e-bike or in the manual that came with it. 

Battery replacement once the key is found:

1. Locate where your old battery was on the frame of your electric bike.
2. Use a screwdriver or key to lock/unlock the locking mechanism holding it in place.
3. Insert the battery with its positive and negative terminals placed according to your bike’s appropriate placement.
4. Make sure the new battery is secure within its holder before beginning to ride!

Suggestion: Always carry a complete maintenance bike kit with you while you ride… like this one from Amazon:

Or a bike multitool like this:

3. Use a Screwdriver

Using a screwdriver as a replacement key can be effective, especially in older bikes with older types of locks. To do this, you’ll need to find a screwdriver that resembles your e-bike key’s shape and size.

Once you find such a screwdriver, try unlocking your bike in the following steps:

1. Insert the screwdrivers into the slot where your key would normally enter to start your e-bike. Don’t use too much force when inserting the screwdriver; otherwise, it may cause damage to your e-bike. 
2. Once the screwdriver is inside, push it up as you turn left of the slot. While turning the screw left works for most bikes, you might have to turn it the other way if that’s the direction your key usually turns.
3. See if your electric bike is on. If the bike turns on, all that’s left is to remove the screwdriver and ride. 

It’s not recommended to use this method for more than a temporary or one-time solution. Continued use of a screwdriver may permanently damage your battery‘s ignition, costing you more money in maintenance than it would cost to replace your key.

4. Try a Bump Key

A bump key is a flat piece of metal that is cut with a pattern similar to that of a normal key. The difference is that a bump key is designed to use a bit of force. You need to “bump” it into your ignition slot, which is different from the usual insert-and-turn motion you’d use for a conventional key.

Bump keys are designed to fit most standard locks. More often than not, they are universal to specific brands and models. You can buy a bump key online. To start an electric bike with one of these, insert it into your battery ignition slot, slowly bumping each lock pin all the way up until it’s flush with the top part of the steering column.

While this method is successful for many people, you shouldn’t use it regularly because it can potentially damage your e-bike’s ignition system. Like many other tricks discussed above, a bump key is meant to be a once-in-a-while solution.

5. Melt a Plastic Pen to Create a Replica of Your E-Bike Key

The cheapest way to make a working copy of your e-bike key is using a plastic pen or marker, such as an inexpensive BIC pen that melts at low heat. Although this method can have some success, it poses the greatest risk of damaging your electric bike’s ignition system. As such, you should only use it in emergency situations.

Here’s how to go about it: 

1. Find a plastic pen to melt and a heat source. 
2. Remove the ink from the pen, leaving only the outer plastic cover.
3. Hold the plastic cover over a heat source until it becomes hot and pliable.
4. Insert the softened plastic into your ignition until you feel it reach the bottom.
5. Allow the plastic cover to cool and harden.
6. Turn the pen the same way you would your key to start an electric bike.

6. Use a Shim

Using a shim is a method that can be used with both a barrel lock and disc lock. All you need to do is slide the shim in between your ignition, put it into place, and turn. If done correctly, it should start your e-bike with no problem.

Don’t have shims on hand? A universal key that matches your current locks are interchangeable for both types of ignitions (barrels and discs). 

Here’s a YouTube video detailing the steps for using the shim method on a cylinder lock (to give you an idea how to correctly use the shim): 

If this method doesn’t work for some reason, try picking up an exact key duplicate: they’re inexpensive and easy to find online or at most hardware stores. You may also want to check in with your local e-bike shop; most will cut keys on-site needed.

7. Wait and Order a New Key

If you have the luxury of time and another means of transportation, consider waiting to replace your specific key until you’re ready to go out and get a new one. E-bikes typically come with at least two keys. If you have one at home, you might be better off hauling your e-bike on a car rack or any other means of transport available to avoid risking costly damages. 

If you’ve lost all your e-bike keys, purchase new ones from the manufacturer. Keep in mind that manufacturers typically verify your serial number to ensure that you’re the legal owner of the bike before sending you a replacement.

A local bike store can also help in either getting a spare made or finding the correct replacement. Just be sure to provide your receipt and other supporting documentation to demonstrate proof of ownership.

Hiring a locksmith can also be an option. Generally, an e-bike master key doesn’t have the anti-theft technology found in an electric vehicle key system. As such, any skilled locksmith can duplicate one of these the same way they do a house master key. Be warned, though; most locksmiths require proof of ownership beforehand.

How To Avoid Having To Start Your E-Bike Without a Key

Here are some key points that will help you avoid having to use any of these methods to start your e-bike without a key. 

Proper Storage

First and foremost, keep your key properly stored. If you have a detachable battery, then keep it in the key switch of the battery once removed from the bike (the battery should be stored in a cool pace). There will be no electrical power if the battery isn’t attached.

Removing the battery with its key also helps to make your electric bike theft-proof. You’re less likely to have to deal with a stolen bike if thieves can’t get away quickly with electric power.

Assign Your Serial Number to a Tracking App

Tracking by GPS or through other means can be incredibly helpful in locating your e-bike, no matter where it ends up. If you’re using a tracking app, try to use one that works best with the type of phone you have.

Some additional steps you can take to avoid having to use one of the methods on this list include: 

• Make sure that any spare key or replacement keys are kept somewhere safe away from the electric bike, where it can be found quickly in an emergency. Leaving them attached to the lock itself with an electric bicycle is never wise.
• Register and track your bike’s serial number. Registering your electric bike’s serial number allows you to get the police involved if it’s ever stolen.

Observe Safety Guidelines When Riding

Using some common sense safety techniques when riding electric bikes will help you avoid having to use any of these methods in an emergency situation. Some safety reminders when riding e-bikes include: 

• Park in well-lit areas.
• Try to avoid riding late at night.
• Follow all traffic laws.
• Have a cell phone on hand if going for a ride after dark, just in case there’s a problem. 
• Always be aware of your surroundings.

Additionally, make an alternative plan for when something happens to your keys. 

For starters, always let someone know where you’re riding to and at what time they can expect you back. This way, you’re more likely to have someone looking for you when you get stranded. It might also be a good idea to provide them with a means of tracking your location, especially if you’re going for long rides in unpopulated areas.

Most importantly, keep extra sets of keys on hand for emergencies. Then make sure you carry the emergency keys in a different location from the primary key (keeping one on your body and one in your bag perhaps).         

Final Thoughts

That does it for today’s post. Hopefully, one of the above steps will come in handy when you find yourself stranded with your e-bike and no key. 

As you go about trying to start an electric bike without a key, be gentle and avoid letting frustration take over. If a certain step isn’t working, using more force won’t change that. If anything, it’ll make things worse by damaging the ignition system.

Last but not least, be safety-oriented so you won’t have to go through this hassle again. Keep a spare key somewhere important, and try to register and track your e-bike.

For more info on batteries and maintenance, read these:

• Using a Car Battery to Charge your E-Bike
• Charging E-Bikes With Solar Panels: How to Do It!
• 15 E-Bike Battery Charging Tips You Must Know
• Step by Step Maintenace Guide for Electric Bikes

An e-bike battery can typically take you up to 40+ miles on a single charge. However, one struggle you face as an e-bike owner is keeping your electric bicycle fully charged for longer distances or when you don’t have a charging outlet. Having your battery die in the middle of your ride can be not only inconvenient but dangerous.

One alternative charging option may be to use a car battery to charge your e-bike.

You can use a car battery to charge an e-bike battery safely, as long as you have the correct tools. You can charge your electric bike with an inverter and 12V car socket.

Let’s talk more about charging your e-bike and why an inverter and the right voltage are so important when using a car’s battery. Keep reading to learn of the dangers of electric bike battery charging using car batteries and how to do it safely.

Using an Inverter to Charge an E-Bike Battery is Vital

An inverter is vital for charging an e-bike with a car battery because it regulates the flow of electrical power from the car battery to the e-bike battery. The inverter will convert direct current electricity to alternating current electricity, allowing less voltage to pass through. 

When you charge your e-bike with a car battery, it is important to understand that it has a lot more power than you need. The voltage produced is too high for the battery voltage of an e-bike. 

Higher voltage can pose a huge risk to your electric bike’s battery. 

Dangers of Too Much Voltage

There is a lot of risk with charging a battery using too much voltage. 

In the case of using a car battery for your electric bicycle, it typically has too much voltage for the e-bike. This means that there would be too much voltage passing into the e-bike without an inverter, which can damage the charging cord or the battery of your e-bike. 

The best-case scenario for using a battery with a voltage that is too high to charge your e-bike is that the cord may get fried. If this happens, you will need to replace the cord to charge your e-bike. 

However, a fried cord certainly isn’t the worst thing that can happen. Using a car battery without an inverter can cause permanent damage to your electric bike battery (read how to repair and rebuild an e-bike battery). If the battery voltage is not identical, then it can affect the ability of your battery to charge. 

It can also reduce battery life, causing your battery to die faster than normal as it can wear out the battery over time. 

Overloading your battery with too much voltage or the incorrect amount can also completely fry the battery causing it to no longer work. This means that you would need to replace the battery or even your e-bike altogether. 

So, using a pure sine wave inverter with the battery is very important for the upkeep and care of your electric bike battery. 

The Inverter Controls the Voltage

The inverter helps control the flow of voltage from the car battery to your e-bike, so it won’t overload your e-bike but simply charge it and get you back to pedaling in no time. 

Inverters work by converting direct current power to alternating current power. There are a few major differences between the two types, but we’ll focus on the difference it makes for your e-bike. Direct current doesn’t lose power except over long distances, while alternating current changes to higher or lower voltage. 

So, the inverter is vital for this process because it allows the battery to only provide the amount of voltage necessary to charge your electric bicycle. This means that it can charge safely without worrying that it will fry the cord or the bike battery. 

Charging Without an Inverter

If you don’t have an inverter, then you may still have hope yet. When you want to charge your e-bike and all you have is your car, you may be able to use an outlet available inside the car. These power outlets usually carry a smaller voltage to ensure that phones and other electronics are not overloaded with power and do not drain the car’s battery too much. 

To ensure that your e-bike battery is safe, you will need to check the voltage on the electrical outlets in your car and how much power they give out. Any outlet that you choose should have 12 volts of power, which will ensure that your battery can charge safely. 

If your car does not have any power outlets with the appropriate voltage, then make sure you do not use the plugs to charge your electric bicycle. If needed, you can consult with a mechanic to have 12-volt outlets put into your vehicle for charging convenience. 

Otherwise, an inverter is your best bet for ensuring your battery charges safely. However, since even e-bike batteries are not universal or interchangeable, you should also consult with an electric bike technician and/or a professional experienced in how much power is required.

What Size Inverter Do I Need to Charge My E-Bike Battery?

Typically, you need an inverter with 1000W of power or more to charge your bike battery. Get an inverter with at least as much total wattage as your electric bike battery and preferably more.

Check your e-bike’s total Watt-hours (Volts multiplied by Amps). So, a bike with a 48V 14 Ah battery will have 672 Wh. Thus, a 1000W inverter will be powerful enough to charge it, while a 500W inverter will not.

Recommended Inverters

Here are the recommended inverters found on Amazon and their wattage and price comparison:

Inverters get more expensive with higher wattage. However, the price difference might be worth it because:

• You can use it for other things that might require a higher inverter wattage
• When your battery dies in the future (and you upgrade it), you’ll still be able to use the inverter without purchasing a new one

Can You Use a Car Battery for an Electric Bike?

Generally speaking, a car battery is too big and heavy to fit onto an e-bike frame, it’s built differently than a lithium-ion e-bike battery, and it has 12V of DC power, as opposed to varying AC wattage.

This discussion is different from the above where we were talking about using the car battery to charge your electric bike battery. Although you may be able to do that, you can not simply replace your bike battery with a car battery because:

• It won’t fit on a bicycle frame easily- A battery from a car is typically a different size and shape, not to mention much larger than e-bike batteries.
• Car batteries drain much more quickly- The car engine alternator charges a 12 V deep-cycle battery with the car’s engine to keep it running. This is why your battery drains quickly when you are not running the car but simply listening to music with the key in the ignition.
• Voltage does not match– E-Bike batteries are typically 36V to 48V and only charge while connected to a standard charger. Thus, you’ll be decreasing your range by using a car’s deep-cycle battery.
• E-bikes typically have li-ion batteries- They last longer and can be fully charged an average of 1000+ times, lasting you 5-7 years or more depending on your riding style (the more pedal assist or throttle you use, the greater the reduction in battery life).

How Do You Charge an E-Bike Off-Grid or While Camping?

If you intend to ride off-grid or take your e-bike camping, you may require an alternative charging station for your electric bicycle battery, as you won’t always have access to a power outlet. Fortunately, there are options for a different power supply, but they do require advanced planning. These include:

• Solar panels- Solar charging can be quite handy if there is lots of sun where you’ll be riding. And you can actually attach them to your e-bike! Find out more about using solar panels in this article.
• Generator- With the right generator power supply, charging with one can work great while camping or traveling. Learn more about using a generator to charge your e-bike here!
• Wind turbine- Although this can be done, setting up the right equipment can be costly. However, it is a green alternative.
• Inverter- Using a car battery with an inverter is a viable battery charging idea with the right equipment.
• Add a second battery in Parallel- Consider adding an additional battery to your bike so that your range is double what you’d have with one battery. Everything you want to know about adding a second battery in parallel can be found in this article.

How Can You Help Your E-Bike Battery Last?

You can help your e-bike battery last by not allowing it to die fully or letting it overcharge. Another way to ensure the battery lasts is to not store the bike in extreme hot or cold temperatures. 

Let’s break down how you can help your e-bike battery last longer and what makes them each effective. 

Not Allowing Battery To Die

It is important not to let your e-bike battery fully die. It was once a common belief that allowing your battery pack to die fully was good for it, which was the case when batteries were made of nickel. 

However, this is not relevant anymore with the growth of lithium batteries. 

Now that we use all lithium-ion batteries let’s talk about what works for them. It is not best to allow your electric bicycle battery to die completely as we thought it to be with nickel batteries. Instead, you should try to avoid that if possible. 

Allowing your battery to fully die before recharging is actually not good for it. 

This can be difficult at times since the traditional electric bike does not have a gauge within the charging station to let you know when the battery is getting low. The best way to ensure your e-bike fully charges is to measure how much you are using it. 

Most e-bikes have a distance or amount of time that a new battery will last, so you’ll want to measure the number of miles you go to ensure it doesn’t die. Further, plug in the charger to a wall outlet to get a full charge before riding.

Don’t Overcharge

Another important part of caring for your e-bike battery is to ensure it does not overcharge. Leaving your e-bike battery on the power station for an extended period is not recommended as the battery can overheat and get damaged. 

In fact, an overheated battery can harm your e-bike entirely, so you may be stuck replacing the whole thing. 

Overheating is the main concern when it comes to overcharging as it may cause damage, but overcharging can also make your battery begin to wear out faster than it normally would. Don’t leave your e-bike battery charging for too long as it can be bad for your battery. 

Extreme Temperatures

Storing your battery in extreme hot or cold weather can be bad for the battery as well. Even though your battery will not be running, extreme low or high temperatures are not good for it. In fact, extreme temperatures can affect the chemistry of your battery, making it die faster. 

So make sure you are storing it somewhere dry with temperatures that don’t get too high or low. 

Final Thoughts

Overall, it is safe to use a car battery to charge your e-bike as long as you have an inverter and a 12V power outlet. However, there are a lot of considerations, as discussed in this article, so prepare ahead of time.

Most importantly, don’t use the battery from a car without an inverter, as it can cause damage to your electric bike battery.

Read more on electric bike batteries here:

• Can I Charge My E-Bike Battery Overnight Safely?
• Should I Charge My Battery After Every Ride?
• How Far Can an E-Bike Go on a One Charge?

On an e-bike, a rider pedals just as on a regular mountain bike, but the motor propels the rider, assisting them in powering the bicycle. Electric bikes make navigating trail systems and rough terrain more manageable. But are they good for mountain biking?

The pros of an e-bike for mountain biking include durability, reduced effort, the ability to travel further on rough terrain, easier rides, and a wide range of models. Cons include safety concerns, shorter range, weight, battery life, specialized parts, and a learning curve.

This article examines the pros and cons of using an e-bike for mountain biking. Read on to find tips for improving your mountain biking experience with an electric bicycle.

The Pros of Using an E-Bike for Mountain Biking

Electric bikes are no longer an obscure niche product. From 2019 to 2020, e-bikes sales rose by 145%, while in 2022, fuel prices helped spike e-bike sales even further. It’s safe to say that many people find these bikes beneficial. In this section, we’ll look at several reasons why using an e-bike for mountain biking can make the experience more enjoyable.

Electric Bikes Are Durable

Because they require more internal components, electric bicycles weigh more than traditional mountain bikes. Most e-mountain bikes (e MTB) feature a strong frame, thick, tough tires, and a large chassis. Not only do these parts increase durability, but they also allow the e-bike to carry more weight. 

With an electric bike, you can bring along all of your hiking gear without fear of the bike collapsing under the weight of you and your equipment.

You Won’t Sweat as Much on the Trail

Many trail bike riders invest in moisture-wicking garments (Amazon) to prevent uncomfortable sweat build-up while hitting the trails. For others, they’d rather avoid profuse sweating entirely. Fortunately, with e-mountain bikes, you won’t sweat as much when you’re navigating the rugged terrain.

When riding an electric mountain bike, your heart rate stays lower (around ten beats per minute lower) than if you were on a regular bike — but you’ll still be getting an adequate workout.

The reason e-bikes require less effort to ride is their pedal assist motor. It allows you to do less work when climbing steep hills or riding along particularly bumpy ground. Some electric bikes even allow you to forego pedaling altogether (with the help of a throttle)!

E-Mountain Bikes Allow You To Travel Further

Non-electric mountain bikes require more effort to cover a certain range than electric mountain bikes. For example, the effort needed to travel ten miles on a conventional bike is closer to twenty miles on an electric bicycle.

Over the past several years, the range of electric bikes significantly increased thanks to better battery technology. With a minimum range of around 20 to 30 miles (32 to 56 kilometers) and top ranges reaching over 45 miles (72 km), a rider can cover more ground on an electric mountain bike in a shorter time—even without using electric assistance throughout the entire ride.

You Can Tackle More Obstacles

Not only can you cover more ground on e-mountain bikes because of the range and power, but you can also explore more areas, including those that you cannot access on a conventional mountain bike.

You can explore more deeply, and when you ride along rugged terrain, the electric bicycle designed for mountain trails delivers more torque, has a solid down tube, and has better suspension performance, allowing for a smoother ride and better experience overall. No longer do riders have to worry about riding uphill—with an e-mountain bike, you can zoom right up, push through headwinds with little effort, and ride over other obstacles with ease.

What’s even better is that you won’t end up feeling as worn out as you would if you were riding a standard bike, depending on your riding style of course.

Electric Bikes Are Great for Those With Mobility Issues

Those who experience certain disabilities or mobility issues may have newfound freedom after investing in an e-bike. Electric bicycles may allow a former bike rider to ride again, even if they’re a senior rider with mobility issues.

For example, an elderly woman who once enjoyed mountain biking can no longer pedal up large hills but does just fine on flat trails. An electric bike could assist her through the areas that she otherwise couldn’t pass, and she could pedal regularly on flat surfaces.

In addition, e-bikes make it easier for people of different fitness levels to ride together. It reduces the likelihood that a rider has to speed up or slow down to stay with their friends. With an electric bike, friends and families with children can ride together without the inconvenience of starting and stopping.

There’s a Wide Selection of E-Bike Brands, Types, and Models

A decade ago, the selection of electric bicycles was very limited. As popularity increased, so did the range of types and models available in the bike industry. Today, the selection of e-bikes is practically the same as the range of conventional bicycles. There are many categories, including the best electric mountain bikes (also known as E-MTBs) and fat tire bikes that can be ridden on mountainous terrain.

Because of their ever-growing popularity, there’s a good chance that your favorite bicycle brand offers the best electric mountain bike for you. Just head on over to their website to check for yourself!

The Cons of Using an E-Bike for Mountain Biking

Despite the many benefits of electric bikes for mountain biking, they’re not for everyone. There are cons to consider before diving right into using an e-bike on trails.

Electric Bikes Have Some Safety Concerns

Riding an electric bike is similar to riding a regular bike, but the speeds can be higher. Although not drastically higher, the difference is quite noticeable once you’re actually riding.

As such, the risk of serious injury goes up. Always wear a helmet and safety gear — no exceptions. Even those used to riding an e-bike may accidentally hit the throttle when getting on or off their bike—and this can cause severe injury or even death if the rider falls and hits their head.

It’s important that all electric bike owners familiarize themselves with their bicycles. It’s best to practice riding your e-bike in a soft, open area, such as a field or grassy patch. With time, you should become more comfortable and used to the features and how fast you can go.

Finally, while uncommon, there is the possibility that the lithium-ion battery in an electric bicycle could catch on fire. There were 75 e-bike fires in New York City in 2021, causing 72 injuries and three deaths.

Electric bike owners may reduce this risk by taking the following precautions:

• Never purchase aftermarket batteries — only buy from qualified laboratories.
• Follow all manufacturer instructions when charging or storing your e-bike battery.
• Do not use aftermarket chargers or cords.
• Keep batteries away from direct sunlight and flammable materials.
• Dispose of batteries that change shape, smell odd, or leak.
• Never leave the e-bike or batteries charging while unattended.
• Dispose of a lithium-ion battery at a proper facility.

E-Bikes Have a Shorter Range

While riders can typically cover more ground on an electric mountain bike versus a conventional mountain bike, the range still remains shorter than a standard bike once you consider battery life.

The battery lasts, on average, around 3 to 5 hours—but the rugged terrain and high speeds drain batteries even quicker.

In short, an electric bicycle might not provide enough battery life to sustain a full day’s ride. It’s not a wise investment for those who prefer spending a full day riding in the mountains or along backwoods trails unless you carry a second battery.

With that said, you can still ride an e-bike once the battery dies. However, since it’s heavier, it will be more difficult, especially on rough terrain. Always check out your battery capacity before you reach the trail access!

Electric Bikes Are Heavier Than Standard Mountain Bikes

E-bikes have more components and a sturdier build than conventional mountain bikes, which makes them heavier. However, there are lighter electric bike options (usually made with aluminum frames).

Weight isn’t much of a concern for most mountain bikers, but it can cause issues when traveling with the bike or if the battery dies on a particularly difficult uphill climb. And, when you add in rider weight, you’ll most likely prefer consistent power delivery.

To avoid getting into this situation, always pay attention to battery life when riding.

E-Bike Batteries Can Be a Hassle

When you’re traversing along in the woods or on a mountain trail, it’s highly unlikely that you’ll have access to a charging station—so if the battery dies, you’re out of luck.

Fortunately, there’s a way to extend battery life by alternating between modes. Some electric bikes offer full-throttle, pedal-assist, and pedal only.

When riding uphill, you could use full throttle, but on flat surfaces, you could switch to pedal-only mode. Pedal assist is best reserved for smaller hills or rugged terrain that’s otherwise easily passable. This mode basically allows you to use less force when pedaling.

Some e-bike models offer swappable batteries, which means you can always have a backup ready to go. However, electric bicycle batteries take a long time to charge—anywhere from three to six hours. While there are quick-charging bicycle chargers available, they use higher amps, and higher amps are hard on the battery.

E-Bikes Require More Specialized Parts

When you look at an e-mountain bike and a standard bike, they look about the same—and the majority of the parts are the same. It’s the extra parts that make electric bikes more expensive.

These complex, specialized parts are unique to motorized bikes. They’re harder to find, making them more difficult and expensive to repair when the need arises.

Not only that, but most electric bike owners use their e-bikes more often, riding for longer distances at higher speeds. This increases the mileage on the bike, which, in turn, wears down the parts. When parts wear down, you have to perform maintenance more often.

The most common components that need to be regularly replaced include tires, chains, and brake pads. It sounds simple enough, but the chains are thicker and stronger to account for the torque of the electric motor. Tires, too, are specialized. They are thicker and provide more traction than standard tires, and they must be rated for higher speeds.

All of these components can quickly increase the cost of ownership.

Slight Learning Curve

The phrase, “It’s like riding a bike,” means that once you learn how to do something, it’s difficult to forget. However, when it comes to e-bikes, there is a slight learning curve.

It’s easy to hop on and ride without issues when treating it as a standard bike and using the pedal-only mode, but when it comes to the speed capabilities, things can get startling. When using pedal-assist, there’s a “kick” that can catch you off guard if you don’t expect it. Also, the added weight due to the extra components may require riders to readjust themselves for balance.

Also, there are more controls on an e-mountain bike versus a standard mountain bike. Riders must learn to use the throttle and be mindful during shifting to avoid damaging the chain and gears. 

How To Improve Mountain Biking With an E-Bike

As you can see, there are many pros and cons to using e-bikes for mountain biking. If you’re still interested in obtaining an electric bicycle for your mountain biking adventures, here are some tips for improving the experience.

Choose an E-MTB

There is a multitude of electric bikes on the market, but the best electric mountain bikes for mountain biking are E-MTBs.

E-MTBs differ from standard e-bikes in that they have flat handlebars, tires with better traction, and a better suspension system for rugged terrain. They’re safe and comfortable for rides on roads, gravel, and mountain trails and come in hardtail or full suspension.

These specialized e-bikes provide better climbing power, delivering torque faster and more efficiently when spinning the crank arms at a higher cadence. Not only does a higher cadence make the motor power more efficient, but it also extends the battery life.

Because electric mountain bicycles are heavier, the tires form better to the ground, allowing the rider to roll over bumps, nooks, and roots that they otherwise would have bounced over on a standard bike. Not to mention, the extra traction makes skidding less likely.

While an electric mountain bike is a great tool for any backpacker, it’s important to remain aware when you’re out on the trails. A higher cadence means more downstrokes, which could put you in a potentially hazardous situation. Coast with both pedals at the same height to avoid catching rocks or roots.

Save Battery Power

When riding an electric mountain bike, be mindful of the mode you’re riding in. Don’t make the bike do all of the work, all the time. Select the level of assistance that’s adequate for the terrain in order to increase the battery range on the e-bike.

Also, avoid stopping and starting again and again. This quickly reduces battery life, as it requires a lot of juice to regain speed from a stopped position.

When riding bikes downhill, turn the motor system off. Also, if your e-bike came equipped with the regenerative braking feature, utilize it here to give your battery a little extra juice.

Always Ride Safely

Safety is essential when riding an electric bicycle. When you know that you’re riding safely, you’ll feel more confident, meaning you’ll be more able to enjoy the experience as you traverse along mountain paths.

Before heading out on your mountain bike adventure, ensure that the suspension on the electric bike is adjusted to your weight, plus the weight of your gear and equipment (including knee and elbow pads, helmet, and backpack).

Check the tires to ensure they’re running on the proper PSI (check the manufacturer’s website to find the recommended air pressure).

Opt for Flat Pedals

If you’re new to riding e-bikes in the mountains, it’s best to start with flat pedals. Not only does this increase the safety of your electric bike, but it also provides a much smoother ride when you’re working on your riding technique.

When feeling unbalanced, it’s easy to quickly pull the feet away from flat pedals, but clipless pedals increase the likelihood of becoming stuck. 

Learn How To Navigate Tricky Situations

Climbing and riding along downhill curves on an electric bicycle is a little different than doing so with a traditional bike. Knowing how to navigate these situations increases rider confidence and makes the mountain biking experience more exciting.

Here, I’ll give you a step-by-step on how to navigate three different situations riders may encounter while mountain biking on an e-bike.

Climbing Hills

1. Switch to low gear with a consistent cadence (about 80-90 RPM).
2. Sit in the saddle for better rear-wheel traction.
3. Lean forward on particularly steep sections to shift your weight.
4. Bring your shoulders in towards the handlebars, with elbows at the sides.
5. Pull the handlebars back and down to prevent the front wheel from rising.

Braking

1. Always check the brakes before heading to the trails.
2. Shift the center of gravity higher when braking.
3. Stay strong during braking; “cowering” down may cause you to slide.

Taking a Downhill Curve

1. Pull yourself down — head and shoulders — keeping the center of gravity over the center of the bicycle.
2. Push the bike into the curve.
3. Look beyond the curve as you enter it.
4. Apply the rear brakes right before the turn.
5. Accelerate very slowly in the curve to generate more traction.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the advantages of e-bikes for mountain biking outweigh the disadvantages. It doesn’t matter whether you’re a novice or experienced rider, it’s hard to beat the experience of an electric bicycle on a rugged mountain trail. I hope this article helped you dive into the world of electric bikes and mountain biking.

Are you concerned about your e-bike’s battery temperature increasing? Do you get random shut-downs when the battery’s hot and wonder what the reason is? I’ve got you covered. 

E-bike batteries do get hot sometimes, and they naturally generate heat when in use. This increased heat can happen due to multiple reasons such as overusing the battery, degradation, and hot weather over 80 degrees Fahrenheit.

However, there’s a lot more to understanding your electric bike battery if you want to stay safe and have a long-lasting battery.

Read on to discover why your electric bike battery gets hot, what you can do to avoid overheating, and how to extend battery life. 

Batteries Get Hot (The Causes)

As most e-bikes are equipped with a battery management system that uses a lithium battery, I’ll outline why these types of batteries get hot. 

Environment

In summer, electric bicycles are a great form of entertainment. No matter if you’re riding by the sea with your friends or cruising some of your favorite lunch spots, you’re likely to be on two wheels a lot during summer. 

Hot weather and direct sunlight will increase your e-bike’s temperature and you’ll end up with a warmer battery. Temperatures above 45 °C (113° F) aren’t favorable for lithium-ion batteries. It may tolerate up to 50 °C (122 °F), but 45 °C (113 °F) is the maximum tolerable temperature in many cases. 

However, some have a battery cover that protects them from extreme weather. It will prevent accidents and save the battery from degrading. You need to take special care of lithium-ion batteries against heat because they’re prone to explosion and swelling. 

Chemical Reactions or Electrical Resistance

During electrochemical reactions inside the battery, heat is generated. When lithium ions travel from the anode to the cathode (and the other way around while charging), this movement generates heat. That means batteries always have some degree of heat while charging and discharging. 

This is also a concern when attempting to charge your battery with a car battery.

Degradation

Lithium batteries naturally heat up when the device is in use and e-bike batteries are no exception. This heat, in turn, reduces the battery performance. 

When your battery wears down and loses efficiency, it will need more energy to power your electric bike over the same distance. As a result, it will heat up even more. 

Can Electric Bike Batteries Overheat?

E-bike batteries can overheat just as any lithium batteries can. Overheating has a greater chance of happening if you are using an old or damaged e-bike battery that is also exposed to high temperatures.

As heat is generated naturally by using the battery, any amount of degradation can increase the heat and cause further damage, leading to a battery explosion.

However, this really isn’t that common in modern electric bikes. And there are ways to protect your e-bike battery from overheating and exploding as you’ll see below.

How To Extend Your E-Bike’s Battery Life

A lithium-ion battery will degrade over time and will lose battery capacity. Rebuilding your electric bicycle’s battery is probably the best way to increase its range, but it isn’t the only method. You can do many other things to make your e-bike battery long-lasting. 

1. Choose a Trusted E-Bike Brand

The quality of the electric bike battery is one of the most important things you should consider before purchasing an electric bicycle. A battery’s quality will determine how long it lasts. Therefore, buying an electric bike from a well-established electric bike company (Rad Power Bikes is the largest North American brand, and it’s where I got my e-bike) that offers high-quality batteries should always be your first option. 

Some electric bike companies even send two batteries with each bike, which is ideal. 

2. Read the Owner’s Manual

There are always some key points you might not know about lithium-ion batteries, so consider actually reading the manual. Don’t fully depend on your experience and knowledge, as you may have never heard of some of these cautions (e.g., Li-Ion batteries can catch fire if misused or paired with the wrong charger). 

There’s also information about battery charge cycles in the manual, so your battery will last longer if you follow the instructions. Understand your charger and battery. Make sure you read your electric bike owner’s manual and any warning stickers on it. For more information, ask your local bike dealer or the electric bike brand you purchased from.

3. Create the Best Environment

As mentioned, the surrounding environment can greatly affect the performance and life of electric bike batteries. Your battery cycle life will last longer in a better environment. 

Keep the Temperature Average

Whether it’s freezing outside or hot as an oven, you need to keep the battery cells at a stable average temperature. 

Battery capacity will significantly reduce in extreme temperatures because some power components are sensitive to heat and cold. To protect your battery from temperatures and extend its life, keep it away from direct sunlight and warm places. 

Remember that your car isn’t a good place for leaving your battery during summer. Lithium batteries work better in cool temperatures. The best temperature to store a Lithium-ion battery is in a normal range between 50-77 °F (10-25 °C). 

Store your electric bike battery indoors at room temperature in cold weather and only attach it to the bike when you’re about to leave. 

Use higher electric assistance levels. As a result, the battery will work harder, helping it remain warm in cold temperatures. 

Keeping your battery inside is typically the best solution.

Don’t Ride in Extremely Hot Weather

You should avoid riding your e-bike when it’s above 113 °F (45 °C) to keep the battery healthy and maintain its significant range. 

As with most electronics, e-bikes may shut themselves down when they’re overheated. That’s because the battery cells want to protect themselves from degrading. If this happens while riding, don’t be scared. Move the bike to a cool place and wait for an hour before turning it back on. 

Keep the Battery Dry

Researchers suggest keeping your Li-ion e-bike batteries in dry places as humidity can adversely affect them. During manufacturing, exposure to moisture could cause the lithium battery to lose quality, resulting in: 

• Reduced battery life 
• Reduced capacity, causing problems in performance 
• Raised chances of explosion 

Lithium is highly reactive with water, creating a flammable substance that can catch on fire. 

Here’s a video of a lithium battery catching on fire after being dumped into the water: 

4. Charge the Battery Properly

It’s essential to know how to charge the battery properly since it directly affects the battery’s life. 

Fully Charge Before Your First Trip

Before your first ride on an e-bike, make sure the battery is fully charged. Refer to the e-bike owner’s manual for how-to instructions. It may take four to eight hours to charge the battery fully. Remember to unplug the charger once the battery’s full, and don’t keep it charging for a long time. 

Use the Bicycle’s Own Charger

The chargers for different battery types will vary based on their voltages and amps (or Watts). Most electric bikes have lithium-ion batteries, which are 36 Volts or 48 Volts with 2 to 7 amps. 

Use the charger that comes with the battery because it’s the most suitable one for your e-bike. You should never mix and match chargers because it may cause an explosion if the voltages are different. Further, if you replace or add a second one, make sure it is a fully interchangeable battery.

Read the manual to understand your charger’s specifications and look for any possible caution. 

Don’t Fully Discharge

Discharging the battery to 0% is also harmful and should be avoided. According to a study, excessive discharge can result in capacity degradation and internal short circuits. 

While it’s okay if it happens from time to time, avoid deep discharging the battery regularly. 

Don’t Store an Empty Battery

If you leave the e-bike battery uncharged for a while, it will wear down and damage the battery peformance. Remember to charge the battery before storing it for weeks or months at a time. Additionally, don’t leave the battery empty. Charge the battery to a half-filled state (40-70%). 

Use Light Timers

Lithium-ion batteries are better pulled out at 80-90% instead of fully charged. That doesn’t mean you should sit for hours and watch your battery get charged, though. You can get a light timer and set it for two or three hours. Most batteries reach 80-90% within that time. 

5. Check Tire Pressure

Your e-bike battery range also depends on the proper tire pressure. It’s because your battery uses less energy when your tires are maintained at their maximum air pressure rating. Thus, riding on hard surfaces with low tire pressure can lead to battery overheating, which will cause degradation over time. 

Therefore, you should always keep track of your e-bike’s tires. 

6. Inspect Your Battery

Beware of corrosion on the battery terminals, which appears as green dust or film, and make sure the battery is only warm to the touch when charging and not hot, which indicates damage. 

Make sure the battery is securely attached to the frame before you ride. 

If your battery needs to be replaced, make sure the new battery is the same brand and version as your old one. If you switch it up and use third-party batteries or chargers, you might overcharge the battery or damage its capacity. 

7. Put It in Pedal Assisted Mode

E-bikes usually have three modes of riding: 

• Cycling mode: This is 100% powered by a human, the same as a regular bike. 
• Pedal assist (eco mode): This type of cycling uses a little bit of power to boost your riding. 
• Fully electric; throttle: This is using 100% electric power by use of a throttle. Using electric mode continuously puts more strain on the battery than eco mode. Still, it’s perfectly acceptable to do this at times.

Frequently using the cycling mode will leave your battery idle, while continuously using the all-electric mode will drain your battery. 

Typically, you should use assisted cycling mode as often as possible. Doing so helps regulate battery use; you get the most use from the battery without overusing it or sucking it dry.

You should also consider your physical condition when selecting the driving mode. 

Do E-Bike Batteries Get Hot: Bottom Line

As we’ve learned by now, electric bicycle batteries get hot for a variety of reasons, mostly environmental, and it’s best to keep your battery cool. However, the best way to keep your battery safe and efficient is to maintain a battery care routine. 

The more time you invest into battery maintenance, the longer it will last, and the fewer heating problems you’ll come across. 

Finally, if you want more information about maintaining a long-lasting battery, you can always contact experts and manufacturers online or talk to your local battery supplier.