Would you like to know how long electric bikes last? E-bikes can be a considerable investment for many individuals. An accurate analysis of the costs versus the benefits and the durability of the bike can help you estimate if your money is well spent or if a similar investment will be necessary for the near future.
An electric bike’s lifespan depends on the components’ quality, usage frequency, maintenance, storage conditions, and other factors. On average, electric bikes can last between 3 and 5 years with proper care. However, some high-end models can last up to 10 years.
This article covers the durability of an e-bike and what you can do to extend its lifespan.
What are the most critical parts of an electric bike?
You could think of an electric bike as an organism composed of various parts. Each part has its own durability based on the intended use. All the parts together make up the overall lifespan of the e-bike.
The essential parts of an electric bike are:
- Battery: The battery is the electric bike’s heart, supplying the power that drives the motor.
- Motor: The motor is the source of mechanical power that propels the bike forward.
- Controller: The controller regulates the power flow from the battery to the motor.
- Display: The display shows the bike’s speed, range, battery level, and other vital metrics.
- Frame: The frame provides structural support for the bike and is critical in determining the ride height.
- Suspension: The suspension helps absorb shocks and vibrations, providing a smoother and more comfortable ride.
- Tires: The tires provide traction and stability and play a critical role in the bike’s performance and handling.
- Brakes: The brakes are essential for slowing down and stopping the bike.
- Chain: The chain connects the pedals to the rear wheel, providing the mechanical power to turn the wheel.
- Pedals: The pedals allow the rider to provide additional strength to the bike when necessary.
These parts work together to provide a seamless and efficient riding experience. Therefore, maintaining these parts and ensuring they are in good working order is crucial to the performance and longevity of an electric bike.
RIDE e MTB Pro Tip: With eBikes growing in popularity learning all the terms and definitions can be a bit overwhelming. Let me help with this comprehensive glossary. 👉 eBike Glossary
WHAT’S THE BEST VOLTAGE FOR AN EBIKE? A COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE
Choosing the right voltage for your e-bike can be confusing. This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know, from understanding voltage and…
36V vs 48V eBikes (Pros and Cons)
Cycling has been evolving over the last century, with the latest trend being e-bikes. The introduction of electric bikes has made it easier for…
How to Choose a Charger for an eBike
The charger you use to power up your electric bike is crucial to keeping its battery in good condition. You must ensure that your…
How Long Does It Take to Charge an Electric Bike?
One of the most common questions from eBike owners is often about how long it takes to charge their bike. It is a piece…
Can You Overcharge an eBike Battery
The battery is one of the most expensive components on an eBike. I always advise folks to get the biggest battery that they can…
Is It Better To Have a Removable Battery On an eBike?
E-bikes come with the possibility of having a removable or integrated battery. However, I’ve found that many need clarification about which is better. Both…
What are the factors that determine the longevity of an e-bike?
To estimate how long your electric bike will last or how long a bike you purchase will last, you have to consider several factors. It is not only the quality of the components that make an e-bike last longer.
But maintenance, general care, and other conditions can significantly impact the bike’s durability or some of its parts.
The following are some of the main factors that determine the lifespan of an electric bike:
Quality of components
The components’ quality in an electric bike can significantly impact its lifespan. High-quality components tend to last longer and be more durable than low-quality components, although the price is higher.
Usage frequency
How often you use an electric bike also affects its lifespan. Regular use can cause wear and tear on the components. In contrast, infrequent use can lead to corrosion and other forms of degradation.
Battery life
The battery is a crucial component of an electric bike, and its life span will impact the overall lifespan of the bike. However, batteries have limited charging cycles, and their capacity will degrade after a certain point, regardless of what you do.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance can extend the lifespan of an electric bike. Good care includes keeping the bike clean, lubricating the chain, and checking the tightness of the hardware.
RIDE eMTB Tip: Learn more about the greases and lubricates used on bikes with this article. 👉 Greases and Lubes for Bikes, Bearing, Chains and More
Storage conditions
Storing an electric bike in a dry and protected area, away from extreme temperatures and direct sunlight can help protect it from damage and prolong its lifespan.
Riding conditions
The conditions in which you ride an electric bike, such as terrain and weather, can also affect its lifespan. For example, riding in rough terrain or inclement weather can cause more wear and tear on the components.
How long does an electric bike motor last?
The lifespan of an electric bike motor can vary significantly based on the quality of the engine, the frequency and intensity of use, and maintenance. For example, an electric bike motor can last between 2,000 and 5,000 miles (ca. 8,047 km) or up to 3–5 years of regular service. However, some motors can last even longer with reasonable care and maintenance.
RIDE eMTB Tip: eBikes come with two types of motors. Hub Drive Motors and Mid-Drive Motors 👈 I’ve linked to the articles for both. 🚵♂️
How long does an e-bike battery last?
On average, most e-bike batteries can last between 500 and 1,000 charge cycles, which equates to 1–3 years of regular use.
However, high-quality e-bike batteries, with proper care, can last even longer, up to 5 years or more. Factors such as temperature, storage conditions, and use can all impact the battery life.
RIDE eMTB Tip: The battery on an eBike might be the single most expensive component. A couple tips for making it last. 1. Don’t ride it until dead. 2. Don’t expose to temperature extremes, Finally if you can charge the battery to 80% you might be able to double it’s life.
How long does an electric bike chain last?
A well-maintained electric bike chain can last 1,500 to 3,000 miles (ca. 4,828 km). Therefore, the number of years you can use the chain without replacing it depends on how many miles are traveled each year.
However, this can vary greatly depending on factors such as the terrain, the rider’s weight, and the type of electric bike.
In addition, regular lubrication and cleaning can help extend the life of an electric bike chain.
How long does an electric bike frame last?
On average, an electric bike frame can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years or more, depending on the materials used and how well it is maintained.
High-quality electric bike frames made from durable materials such as aluminum or carbon fiber can last longer. In contrast, lower-quality frames may have a shorter lifespan.
How long do electric bike brakes last?
The brake pads of most electric bikes can last anywhere from 500 to 6,000 miles (ca. 9,656 km). Comparably, this is typically several months to a year of regular use, depending on the type of brake pad, the intensity of use, and the conditions under which you use the bike.
Generally, the brake disc, if made of high-quality materials, can last many years or more.
How long do electric bike gears last?
High-quality electric bike gear can last numerous years or, on average, 2000 miles (ca. 3,219 km). However, factors such as the rider’s weight, the type of terrain, and the frequency and intensity of use all affect the lifespan.
It’s also vital to replace worn or damaged gears as soon as possible to avoid further damage to the bike’s drivetrain.
Did you Know You Can Convert a Regular MTB to Electric?
Bafang a leader in DIY electric bike conversions has a mid-drive kit that will fit on most regular bikes. I’d recommend the BBSHD kit, it’s a complete setup with a huge capacity battery and a 1000 watt motor. Why this setup?
- Heavy duty 1000 watt motor (built for cargo bikes)
- +50 volt 17.5 Ah battery for speed and distance
- Easy installation with provided tools.
If you’re considering a conversion, do what I’m doing get the BANFANG BBSHD 1000w eBike Conversion with Battery
15 Tips to Increase Your eBike Lifespan
Adjusting certain habits or taking care of a few details when dealing with an e-bike can significantly increase durability or lifespan. It is not necessary to spend a lot of money or even spend a lot of hours to get results.
Here are some tips and tricks you can use to extend your e-bike lifespan:
- Store the bike in a dry place, out of direct sunlight, and away from extreme temperatures.
- Keep the bike clean, especially the drivetrain, to prevent dirt and debris from causing wear and tear.
- Regularly lubricate the chain, gears, and other moving parts to keep them in good condition.
- Check and tighten bolts, nuts, and screws periodically to ensure the bike remains securely assembled.
- Keep the battery charged, but avoid overcharging it, which can shorten its lifespan.
- Don’t store the battery in extremely hot or cold conditions, affecting its performance and lifespan.
- Regularly check the tires for proper inflation and any signs of wear, and replace them as needed.
- Have worn or damaged parts, such as brake pads or gears, replaced as soon as possible.
- Please don’t use the bike in extreme conditions, such as riding it through deep water, mud, or sand.
- Avoid excessive stress on the bike’s components, such as carrying heavy loads or making sudden stops.
- Avoid overloading the bike, as this can strain the frame and other components.
- Use a quality lock to secure the bike when not in use to prevent theft or vandalism.
- It would be best to have your bike serviced regularly by a professional mechanic to keep it in good working order.
- Avoid riding the bike in wet conditions, as water can accelerate rust and corrosion.
- Keep the bike from sitting unused for extended periods, as this can cause the components to deteriorate.
RIDE e MTB Tip: Are you thinking about building an eBike? It isn’t very hard – Heck I’ve got step by step instructions with videos along with all the tools. Check it out 👉 How to Build a Mid-Drive Electric Bike
What is the most reliable e-bike motor?
The reliability of an electric bike motor can depend on the quality of the engine and the manufacturer, as well as proper maintenance and use.
However, some brands are known to be reliable and durable compared to others. Some of the most reliable electric bike motor brands include:
- Bosch is a well-known and trusted brand in the electric bike industry, known for its high-quality motors that offer a smooth and reliable performance.
- Shimano is a Japanese manufacturer specializing in bike components, including electric bike motors. Their motors are known for their reliability and smooth operation.
- Bafang is a leading electric bike motors manufacturer and offers a range of reliable and efficient engines for various types of electric bikes.
- Brose is a German manufacturer specializing in high-quality electric bike motors, known for their smooth and silent operation.
I’ve got a group of articles explaining why eBikes are Awesome Check Them Out Below 👇
- I love riding eBikes, want to learn why? Read 👉 What Are The (Great) Features of Electric Bikes?
- Are you weighing the Pros and Cons of getting an eBike? Let me help 👉 Electric Bike Pros and Cons
- Interested in how it “feels” to ride an eBike? Awesome 👉 What Does it Feel Like to Ride an eBike?
- What is “Pedal Assist? Let me explain it in this article. 👉 What is Pedal Assist and How Does it Work?
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will a Bosch ebike motor last?
On average, a Bosch electric bike motor can last between 3 and 10 years with regular use. Bosch also offers a warranty on their electric bike motors, which can provide added peace of mind and protection for several years.
How long do electric mountain bikes last?
Electric mountain bikes can last between 3 and 5 years with regular use. However, electric mountain bikes are typically subjected to more stress and wear and tear than other electric bikes due to their use on rough terrain and off-road riding.
How long do electric bikes last on one charge?
Most electric bikes can travel between 20 and 60 miles (ca. 97 km) on one charge, with higher-end bikes offering a more extended range. However, factors such as the rider’s weight, the intensity of use, and the terrain can all impact the capacity of an electric bike. You can read more about the “Range” in this article. 👉 MTB eBike Range
Hi David Humphries here the guy doing all the pedaling behind the scenes with this blog. I’ve been in the MTB world for a while and recently started getting into eMTBs. You can check out more about me HERE and on my other passion project – DIYMountainBike.com
Resources:
1. Pirelli.com, “The main components of an e-bike,” https://www.pirelli.com/global/en-ww/road/the-main-components-of-an-e-bike, last accessed February 8, 2023
2. Nakto,“ Everything You Should Know About The Lifespan of Electric Bike Components,” last accessed February 8, 2023
3. Electricrideowner.com ”How long e-bike break pads last ?,” https://electricrideowner.com/how-long-ebike-brake-pads-last-we-tested-97-electric-bikes/,last accessed February 8, 2023
4. Ebiketips, “Best electric bike motors,” https://ebiketips.road.cc/content/advice/buyers-guide/best-electric-bike-motors, last accessed February 8, 2023
5. Bikinguniverse.com, “how-long-do-ebike-batteries-last,” https://www.bikinguniverse.com/how-long-do-ebike-batteries-last/, last accessed February 8, 2023