Beginner’s Guide to Electric Bike Batteries | KBO Bike. Ebike frame integrated battery

US7934576B2. Bicycle frame with integrated and detachable battery. Google Patents

Publication number US7934576B2 US7934576B2 US12/530,380 US53038008A US7934576B2 US 7934576 B2 US7934576 B2 US 7934576B2 US 53038008 A US53038008 A US 53038008A US 7934576 B2 US7934576 B2 US 7934576B2 Authority US United States Prior art keywords battery pack frame bicycle bicycle frame multiple chamber Prior art date 2007-03-08 Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.) Active Application number US12/530,380 Other versions US20100133778A1 ( en Inventor Lars Munksoe Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.) Protanium BV Original Assignee Protanium BV Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.) 2007-03-08 Filing date 2008-03-08 Publication date 2011-05-03 Priority claimed from DK200700358 external-priority 2008-03-08 Application filed by Protanium BV filed Critical Protanium BV 2010-01-22 Assigned to PROTANIUM B.V. reassignment PROTANIUM B.V. ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: MUNKSOE, LARS 2010-06-03 Publication of US20100133778A1 publication Critical patent/US20100133778A1/en 2011-05-03 Application granted granted Critical 2011-05-03 Publication of US7934576B2 publication Critical patent/US7934576B2/en Status Active legal-status Critical Current 2028-03-08 Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

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Classifications

  • B — PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B62 — LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
  • B62K — CYCLES; CYCLE FRAMES; CYCLE STEERING DEVICES; RIDER-OPERATED TERMINAL CONTROLS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR CYCLES; CYCLE AXLE SUSPENSIONS; CYCLE SIDE-CARS, FORECARS, OR THE LIKE
  • B62K19/00 — Cycle frames
  • B62K19/30 — Frame parts shaped to receive other cycle parts or accessories
  • B — PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B62 — LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
  • B62K — CYCLES; CYCLE FRAMES; CYCLE STEERING DEVICES; RIDER-OPERATED TERMINAL CONTROLS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR CYCLES; CYCLE AXLE SUSPENSIONS; CYCLE SIDE-CARS, FORECARS, OR THE LIKE
  • B62K11/00 — Motorcycles, engine-assisted cycles or motor scooters with one or two wheels
  • B — PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B62 — LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
  • B62K — CYCLES; CYCLE FRAMES; CYCLE STEERING DEVICES; RIDER-OPERATED TERMINAL CONTROLS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR CYCLES; CYCLE AXLE SUSPENSIONS; CYCLE SIDE-CARS, FORECARS, OR THE LIKE
  • B62K19/00 — Cycle frames
  • B62K19/30 — Frame parts shaped to receive other cycle parts or accessories
  • B62K19/40 — Frame parts shaped to receive other cycle parts or accessories for attaching accessories, e.g. article carriers, lamps
  • B — PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B62 — LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
  • B62M — RIDER PROPULSION OF WHEELED VEHICLES OR SLEDGES; POWERED PROPULSION OF SLEDGES OR SINGLE-TRACK CYCLES; TRANSMISSIONS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR SUCH VEHICLES
  • B62M6/00 — Rider propulsion of wheeled vehicles with additional source of power, e.g. combustion engine or electric motor
  • B62M6/80 — Accessories, e.g. power sources; Arrangements thereof
  • B62M6/90 — Batteries

Abstract

The present invention concerns a bicycle frame, including a number of frame elements, preferably tubes, where the frame elements are interconnected and constitute a construction with so great rigidity that the cycle frame does not change its geometrical shape under usual load, where an electric battery system is at least partly embedded in the frame, including at least one battery pack for storing electric energy for use in connection with equipment, such as comfort equipment and/or safety equipment on a bicycle, including an electric auxiliary motor, where the part of the frame adapted to mounting a battery pack is constituted by a hollow section, the hollow section being a multiple chamber section, where a battery pack is predominantly arranged in a cutout in the multiple chamber section so that at least one chamber in the multiple chamber section is substantially intact. Thus is obtained a cycle frame with a cutout for a battery pack, where the frame has great rigidity.

Description

The present invention concerns a bicycle frame, including a number of frame elements, preferably tubes, where the frame elements are interconnected and constitute a construction with so great rigidity that the cycle frame does not change its geometrical shape under usual load, where an electric battery system is at least partly embedded in the frame, including at least one battery pack for storing electric energy for use in connection with equipment, such as comfort equipment and/or safety equipment on a bicycle, including an electric auxiliary motor.

It is commonly known to use battery systems on bicycles for e.g. lamps, but in recent years there is another product which has quietly entered the market, namely bicycles with electric auxiliary motors. These bicycles are provided with an electric motor assisting the cyclist so that less muscular power is to be used for treading the pedals of the bicycle. These bicycles are typically provided with battery systems made up of one or more battery packages which may be disposed at various points on the bicycle. This type of bicycle is not new but has, as mentioned, existed for a number of years, but due to the weight and capacity of batteries bicycles with auxiliary motors have not been particularly attractive as a substitution for a common bicycle. Modern battery technology has, however, made it more attractive than previously, but the fact is still that relatively large and cumbersome battery packages are provided on something which reminds of a usual bicycle.

That a bicycle with an electric auxiliary motor is not essentially different in design from a common bicycle has appeared to be a great wish on the part of the consumers, who want a discreet bicycle, and not the least a bicycle equipped with auxiliary motor without substantially increasing the weight of it.

In order to meet the consumers’ desire for a discreet solution, there are innumerable variants where the battery package or packages are disposed integrated in the frame, either in compartments adapted for the battery packages or directly as a frame part which is to be dismounted for charging or replacement. As bicycles are often parked at train stations and on the street, it is furthermore important that the battery package can be readily dismounted and carried by the consumer, as it otherwise may easily be removed from the bicycle without the consent of the user, or for charging when the user is not using the bicycle.

It is the purpose of the invention to indicate a cycle frame with integrated and detachable battery, where the bicycle can be operated with as well as without a mounted battery. Furthermore, it is the purpose to indicate a solution where the battery is mainly built into the frame from where it may readily be dismounted for charging, replacement or for preventing theft.

The invention concerns a bicycle frame as mentioned in the introduction and as specified in the preamble of claim 1, where the part of the frame adapted to mounting a battery pack is constituted by a hollow section, the hollow section being a multiple chamber section, where a battery pack is predominantly arranged in a cutout in the multiple chamber section so that at least one chamber in the multiple chamber section is substantially intact.

By a cycle frame according to the invention is achieved a rigid frame construction, as at least the hollow section in which a battery pack is arranged is not weakened by a cutout, as at least one of the chambers in the multiple chamber section retains a strength corresponding to the normal strength of the frame part in question. Typically, the battery pack is provided in the lower tube of the cycle frame which is much weakened when using a normal single chamber section in that a cutout is made for a battery pack. However, it is possible to make a frame part made of a single chamber section so that a battery pack constitutes an integrated and structural part when mounted. However, this is not particularly expedient, partly because the bicycle cannot be used without battery pack and partly because such a design will imply a complicated mounting and dismounting of the battery pack. Also, it is required that the battery pack has a strength so that it may form a part of the load-bearing structure.

In a cycle frame according to the invention where the frame part in which the battery pack is mounted, typically in the lower tube or in the saddle post tube, is made of a multiple chamber section, one or more cutouts can be made in the section without the section loosing so much rigidity as to influence the load capacity of the cycle frame. This is due to the cutout only being made in one or more, but not all, chambers of the section. If a double chamber section is thus made where the cutout only is in one chamber, great rigidity is maintained in the section, as there is still one closed chamber which in principle acts as a common hollow section.

A cycle frame may thus advantageously be adapted for mounting a battery pack in a frame element extending from crank to crown tube, or the frame may be adapted for mounting a battery pack in a frame element extending from crank to saddle, where the frame element in which the battery pack is arranged is a multiple chamber section.

In such a cutout in a cycle frame according to the invention, a cutout can be made in at least one chamber in the multiple chamber section, in which cutout means may be arranged for receiving and securing at least one battery pack. These means may e.g. be projections that fit together with corresponding projections on a battery pack which then may be fastened in the cutout in the frame. This positioning and retention can be made in many ways, but a solution where the battery pack may be released rapidly and easily by actuating a button or lever is preferred, so that easy and Rapid mounting and dismounting may occur with a kind of quick release coupling. It is thus easy to dismount a battery pack for recharging or for carrying it, whereby theft may be avoided, or for storing it warm until next time the bicycle and the battery pack are to be used, whereby the discharge of the battery pack will not be so large.

In a variant of a cycle frame according to the invention, in at least one chamber of the multiple chamber section means may be arranged for controlling and regulating an electric auxiliary motor. These means are commonly called a “controller” with the function of regulating how much power to be supplied to the electric auxiliary motor. Such a controller is advantageously provided in a cycle frame as heat is deposited in the unit and which is to be dissipated. The cycle frame may here be used as a cooling surface if the controller is disposed with a suitable contact face onto the frame.

A preferred variant of a cycle frame according to the invention may be constructed so that the cutout is with terminals which at the mounting a battery pack may interact with corresponding terminals of the latter. Hereby is achieved a ready mounting of a battery pack, as wiring or similar between battery pack and cycle frame does not have to be fitted.

For charging a battery pack remaining in the mounted state on the cycle frame, there may be arranged a connecting point, preferably close to the battery pack, where the point may be used for charging the battery pack. Thus it is possible to charge the battery pack in e.g. a bicycle shed or the like.

In a variant of the invention there may be arranged a connecting point which may be used as power outlet from where external electric equipment can be supplied. Lamps and other electric apparatuses, such as music players, mobile phones or other equipment, may thus be connected, and which are supplied as well as charged in this way.

The battery pack may advantageously be provided with battery cells of lithium polymer type. Such lithium polymer battery cells have a capacity of up to three times the capacity of nickel-cadmium battery cells and have a very low degree of self-discharging. Of course, other suitable types of battery cells may be used if desired. Furthermore, the frame or battery pack may be provided with a capacity indicator on which may be read an expression of how much energy there is left in the battery pack.

A bicycle frame according to the invention includes at least one battery pack for storing electric energy for use in connection with equipment, such as comfort equipment and/or safety equipment on a bicycle. The new feature of a bicycle frame according to the invention is that the exterior of the battery pack is shaped as a part of the cycle frame, where the battery pack at least consists of a number of interconnected battery cells and at least one terminal for connecting to equipment and/or charging the battery. By this solution it is possible to design a bicycle with sufficiently large battery pack, where the battery pack is disposed integrated in the frame in a very discreet way.

beginner, guide, electric, bike, batteries

It is thus possible to make a bicycle with an electric auxiliary motor, where the battery pack is almost invisibly hidden in the cycle frame, and where the bicycle may also be used without mounted battery pack, without deforming the frame.

By such a bicycle frame there is achieved a discreet solution to the positioning of a battery pack on a bicycle, and at the same time is achieved possibility of having a battery package with suitable size without having to mount large and cumbersome battery packages at different places on the bicycle.

A particular version of a battery package according to the invention is with a carrying handle. This provides the user the possibility of transporting the battery package for charging or just preventing that it may be stolen while the bicycle is standing parked.

In FIG. 1 appears a bicycle frame 1, consisting of a crown tube 2 and a crank tube 3 between which a lower tube 4 is located. The saddle post tube 5 extends from the crank tube 3 and upwards, and the back fork 6 is mounted on saddle post tube 5 and crank tube 3, respectively. The shown frame is a classic frame for a lady’s bicycle, where a frame for a classic men’s bicycle will typically be with a top tube mounted between crown tube 2 and saddle post tube 5. In the shown frame 1 there is mounted a battery pack 7 in the lower tube 4 in a cutout 8. This cutout 8 and the battery pack 7 are formed so that on the face of it, the lower tube 4 appears as a common lower tube 4. Thus we are speaking of a discreet solution for positioning the battery pack 7.

In FIG. 2. a frame 1 for a bicycle is also seen, but here shown with a dismounted battery pack 7. On the battery pack 7 there is provided a capacity indicator 9, here consisting of six light diodes. In the cutout 8 in the lower tube 4 as well as on the battery pack 7 there are interacting means 10 for exact disposition of the battery pack 7, and there are securing or locking means 11 for securing the battery pack 7. By dismounting the battery pack, a release button 12 is actuated which is here disposed on the lower tube 4, but which may in principle be disposed on the battery pack 7 itself Internally of the lower tube 4 there is provided a so-called controller 13, and a connecting point 14 is provided for charging or supplying other electric equipment.

FIG. 3 shows how a battery pack 7 can be made up of a number of battery cells 15. On the Figure also appears the unit 16 disposed in the lower tube 4, to which the battery pack 7 is fixed by fastening with the locking means 11, and also where the release button 12, the controller 13 and the connecting point 14 are disposed. By incorporating these elements into a single unit 16, a Rapid and simple mounting is achieved. This unit 16 may advantageously be fastened in the lower tube 4 with glue, screws, clips or the like.

In FIG. 4 appears an example of a lower tube 4 where it is clearly seen that the lower tube 4 is a so-called multiple chamber section. The shown lower tube 4 is with three chambers 17, 18 and 19. As it appears from the Figure, a cutout 8 is made in the lower tube 4. This cutout 8 extends longitudinally of the lower tube and through two of the chambers 17, 18 and 19, namely through chamber 18 and chamber 19. This use of a multiple chamber section means that irrespectively of a cutout 8, great rigidity is maintained in the lower tube 4.

Claims ( 10 )

A bicycle frame, including a number of frame elements, preferably tubes, where the frame elements are interconnected and constitute a construction with so great rigidity that the cycle frame does not change its geometrical shape under usual load, where an electric battery system is at least partly embedded in the frame, including at least one battery pack for storing electric energy for use in connection with equipment, such as comfort equipment and/or safety equipment on a bicycle, including an electric auxiliary motor, wherein the part of the frame adapted to mounting a battery pack is constituted by a hollow section, the hollow section being a multiple chamber section, where a battery pack is predominantly arranged in a cutout in the multiple chamber section so that at least one chamber in the multiple chamber section is substantially intact.

A bicycle frame according to claim 1. wherein the frame is adapted for mounting a battery pack in a frame element extending from crank to crown tube, where this frame element is a multiple chamber section.

A bicycle frame according to claim 1. wherein the frame is adapted for mounting a battery pack in a frame element extending from crank to saddle, where this frame element is a multiple chamber section.

A bicycle frame according to claim 1. wherein a cutout is made in at least one chamber in the multiple chamber section, and that means are arranged for receiving and securing at least one battery pack.

A bicycle frame according to claim 1. wherein in at least one chamber of the multiple chamber section, means are arranged for controlling and regulating an electric auxiliary motor.

A bicycle frame according to claim 1. wherein the cutout is with terminals which by mounting a battery pack interact with corresponding terminals of the latter.

A bicycle frame according to claim 1. wherein there is arranged a connecting point, preferably close to the battery pack, where the point may be used for charging the battery pack.

A bicycle frame according to claim 1. wherein there is arranged a connecting point which may be used as power outlet from where external electric equipment may be supplied.

A bicycle frame according to claim 1. wherein the battery pack is provided with battery cells of lithium polymer type.

A bicycle frame according to claim 1. wherein the battery pack is provided with a capacity indicator.

US12/530,380 2007-03-08 2008-03-08 Bicycle frame with integrated and detachable battery Active US7934576B2 ( en )

Applications Claiming Priority (4)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DK200700358 2007-03-08
DKPA200700358 2007-03-08
DKPA200700358A DK176497B3 ( en ) 2007-03-08 2007-03-08 Bicycle frame with built-in and removable battery
PCT/DK2008/000097 WO2008106976A1 ( en ) 2007-03-08 2008-03-08 Bicycle frame with integrated and detachable battery

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US12/530,380 Active US7934576B2 ( en ) 2007-03-08 2008-03-08 Bicycle frame with integrated and detachable battery

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US20060000655A1 ( en ) 2002-05-16 2006-01-05 The Electric Cycle Company Frames for electric motor driven cycles
US20040163870A1 ( en ) 2003-02-13 2004-08-26 Hsueh-Chin Liao Electrically powered bicycle
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US8881857B2 ( en ) 2009-03-20 2014-11-11 Thomus Veloshop Ag Bicycle frame for receiving a battery unit and associated battery unit
US20100237585A1 ( en ) 2009-03-20 2010-09-23 Binggeli Thomas Bicycle frame for receiving a battery unit and associated battery unit
US20130233634A1 ( en ) 2010-11-18 2013-09-12 Kawasaki Jukogyo Kabushiki Kaisha Electric Motorcycle
US8789640B2 ( en ) 2010-11-18 2014-07-29 Kawasaki Jukogyo Kabushiki Kaisha Electric motorcycle
US9550539B2 ( en ) 2011-06-10 2017-01-24 Campagnolo S.R.L. Bicycle on-board device and related support and mounting method
US8408349B1 ( en ) 2011-09-22 2013-04-02 Faraday Bicycles, Inc. Electric bicycle
US8960702B2 ( en ) 2011-09-22 2015-02-24 Faraday Bicycles, Inc. Electric bicycle
US9580140B2 ( en ) 2012-03-16 2017-02-28 Specialized Bicycle Components, Inc. Bicycle with battery mount
US20130241170A1 ( en ) 2012-03-16 2013-09-19 Specialized Bicycle Components, Inc. Bicycle with battery mount
US8979110B2 ( en ) 2012-03-16 2015-03-17 Specialized Bicycle Components, Inc. Bicycle with battery mount
EP2759465A1 ( en ) 2013-01-23 2014-07-30 Denso Corporation Battery assembly and human-powered vehicle having the same
US9969455B2 ( en ) 2014-11-28 2018-05-15 Samsung Sdi Co., Ltd. Frame for bike and electric bike having the same
US9502702B2 ( en ) 2015-02-27 2016-11-22 Shimano Inc. Bicycle battery holder, bicycle battery, and retaining member for bicycle battery
USD764411S1 ( en ) 2015-03-09 2016-08-23 Pacific Storm, Inc. Bike battery box
US10513310B2 ( en ) 2015-03-31 2019-12-24 Shimano Inc. Bicycle battery holder and bicycle battery unit
US9550542B2 ( en ) 2015-04-17 2017-01-24 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Electric cycle
US9815520B2 ( en ) 2015-04-17 2017-11-14 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Electric cycle
US9580141B2 ( en ) 2015-06-26 2017-02-28 Specialized Bicycle Components, Inc. Bicycle frame with improved battery mount
US11364970B2 ( en ) 2015-06-26 2022-06-21 Specialized Bicycle Components, Inc. Bicycle frame with battery mount
US20180148128A1 ( en ) 2015-06-26 2018-05-31 Specialized Bicycle Components, Inc. Bicycle frame with battery mount
US10696355B2 ( en ) 2015-06-26 2020-06-30 Specialized Bicycle Components, Inc. Bicycle frame with battery mount
US9745019B2 ( en ) 2015-09-14 2017-08-29 Far East Electric Bicycle Company Limited Battery container and bicycle using the same
US9950602B2 ( en ) 2016-01-04 2018-04-24 Aima Technology Group Co., Ltd. Installation structure for lithium battery box of electric vehicle
US9902457B2 ( en ) 2016-04-13 2018-02-27 Astra Engineering Co., Ltd. Bicycle frame with a hidden battery pack
US11024917B2 ( en ) 2016-07-28 2021-06-01 Robert Bosch Gmbh Retaining element for use on an accumulator, and associated retaining device
US10343747B2 ( en ) 2016-08-10 2019-07-09 BH Bikes Europe, S.L. Electric bicycle frame and electric bicycle
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US10850804B1 ( en ) 2017-08-04 2020-12-01 Shimano Inc. Bicycle
US10850805B1 ( en ) 2017-08-04 2020-12-01 Shinmano Inc. Bicycle
US11643166B2 ( en ) 2017-08-04 2023-05-09 Shimano Inc. Bicycle
US11572132B2 ( en ) 2018-05-07 2023-02-07 Trek Bicycle Corporation Bicycle battery assembly
US11511824B2 ( en ) 2019-05-02 2022-11-29 Trek Bicycle Corporation In-tube cavity and storage
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USD932380S1 ( en ) 2020-01-24 2021-10-05 Super 73, Inc. Motorbike power source enclosure
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EP2134592A1 ( en ) 2009-12-23
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DK176497B3 ( en ) 2018-06-18
TWI424934B ( en ) 2014-02-01
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TW200900311A ( en ) 2009-01-01

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Beginner’s Guide to Electric Bike Batteries | KBO Bike

The lifeblood of an ebike is the powerful battery system that powers the electric motor for assisted riding and cruising. Powerful batteries will give you extra performance and assist you when faced with difficult uphill riding situations. When looking at battery descriptions for electric bicycle products, there are often many electrical technical terms you will need to navigate in order to find the right product that suits your needs. Just as in our guide for electric bicycle classification. we want to break down the information so it is easier to understand and can help you make the proper decision when you are choosing the right ebike.

Key Features of a Powerful Battery

As pedal-assist and fully battery-powered bicycles become more popular, there are some key features to keep an eye out for to determine what type of battery system is first-rate and which are not worth it. Below, you will find the main characteristics of an ebike battery that will last many charges and provide you with the power that you need to conquer your commutes. We will explore and define some of the main battery features like battery capacity and power output that influences an electric bike’s range and top speeds.

Battery Voltage, Amps, and Watt Hours

To assist you properly choose your next ebike, it is important to know what each of these terms mean to make the most informed purchasing decision. To help you out, we have defined the terms in the following section.

Electrical Bike Battery Terms Defined

Question: What does volts v on batteries mean?

Voltage, indicated as (v), refers to the passage of energy, known as horsepower, that pumps electricity into the bike’s motor. Typically, higher voltage equals more power for the motor. It is important to choose the right voltage that is suitable for the motor included in the bike.

beginner, guide, electric, bike, batteries

Example: The KBO Breeze Commuter Bike has a battery pack measured at 48 volts. The combination of the 500-watt motor and 48 volt ebike battery outperforms the ebike industry standard of other bikes using 36 volt batteries.

Question: What does Amps Ah on batteries mean?

Amps, indicated as (A), is the measurement of force output from the battery. This is a standard measurement of electrical current moving out from the battery.

A battery’s Amp-hour rate, indicated as (Ah), is displaying the battery’s maximum capacity. Battery capacity defines the range of an e-bike.

Example: In order to get long-range battery riding capabilities, our KBO Breeze Step-Thru Commuter ebike uses a 16 Amp (Ah) battery.

Question: What does Watts Wh on batteries mean?

Watts, indicated as (W), is a measure of the rate of power consumption. This measurement is commonly found in the description of an ebike’s electric motor

Measuring watt-hours (Wh) is simple now that you know what volts and amps are. Simply multiply a battery’s voltage (v) by the same battery’s amp-hours (Ah) to get the total watt-hours.

Example: The KBO Breeze commuter electric bicycles have a 48v 16Ah Samsung battery. Given these numbers, then the total watt-hours (Wh) is equal to 748Wh. That provides up to 55 miles of battery range on a single charge!

Battery Performance Wrap-Up

Bikes with a 48v battery will go much faster than a bike with a 36v battery. However, higher speeds will require more energy and drain the battery life faster. Having a balanced battery with high voltage and good amp-hours will ensure that you can ride faster for longer, conquer big hills, or cruise with no worry of a low battery.

Battery Brand and Quality Control

Similar to all types of products, when we are making a purchase, we want to be sure that we are choosing a reputable brand to buy from. Reputation in quality and performance are key indicators of a quality product. This is certainly the same when looking at batteries for electric bicycles.

With the ever-expanding catalog of electric bikes to choose from, you might need to weed through various bikes with batteries from untrustworthy manufacturers.

KBO chooses only the highest quality batteries from Samsung to ensure that all of our ebike’s have quality batteries that last.

What Makes a Good Quality Battery?

When looking at batteries, brand reputation is key. Part of this comes from one aspect of battery production: quality control.

Choosing batteries from a company like Samsung ensures KBO that each battery pack will be made up to our premium manufacturing standards. These batteries are built to last through over 900 charge cycles and have overcharge protection.

By choosing quality batteries, we can ensure that your KBO ebike performance holds up over time and reduces the cost of long-term maintenance.

What Makes a Poor Quality Battery?

Just as good quality control and brand reputation leads to good batteries, poor quality control and bad reputation can lead to poor battery production. Choosing a bad battery can seriously reduce the performance of your electric bicycles and even cause serious damage.

If you come across other bikes with poor-quality battery packs, you might risk the chance of:

  • Battery fires from charging/overcharging
  • Rapid loss of battery life
  • Rapid physical battery wear
  • Poor charge cycle ratings, leading to higher maintenance costs.

Battery Pack Design

Finally, we will look at the key physical aspect of a good ebike battery, the battery pack design. In modern e-bikes, we see two major designs; frame-integrated batteries and removable battery packs. We can look at both of the battery pack designs and observe the pros and cons of each battery style for an ebike.

Frame-Integrated Battery Pack

A battery pack that is integrated into the frame is often found on higher end ebikes due to the cost of manufacturing and the advanced designs that come with this battery setup. If you want a minimal electric bike design, something that strikes visually while looking like a traditional bike. then an integrated battery pack is probably the ideal choice for you.

In order to charge this type of battery, you will have to hook the charge up directly to the bike wherever you may charge it. Oftentimes, integrated battery packs can shave off some weight of the bike as well.

Removable Battery Pack

The removable, or detachable, battery pack is a commonly found design for many different types of e-bikes. Because of its nature, removable battery packs can be fit onto any bike type or retrofitted onto traditional bikes for electric upgrades.

At KBO, we have already outfitted our bikes with mounting tools in the ideal location for the removable Samsung battery pack. A removable battery is great because you can lock/unlock it to the frame and take it off when it is time to charge. This way, you can take the battery home without having to move the entire bike with you.

As an added benefit, removable batteries sometimes include a USB outlet for you to use the e-bike battery to charge your phone or other electrical devices.

As with the best step thru electric bike. KBO has engineered a low-profile removable battery that actually appears as part of the frame. This is a combination of the outstanding benefits of both battery pack designs.

Conclusion

Now that you are more familiar with some of the standard terms used to define and measure e-bike battery performance, you should feel confident in making your next purchase. The whole point of buying electric bicycles is to harness the battery power in order to assist with riding in challenging scenarios, such as uphill riding, or to help you zip around town with minimal effort required.

Batteries are the core of the performance of an e-bike, and help distinguish a quality bike from those that are not suitable enough.

If you are looking for further battery explanation or want to learn more about the powerful, yet efficient battery setups in KBO bikes, do not hesitate to contact us with your questions. Our goal is to help you make the best choice and find an e-bike that will suit your individual needs.

EEB Full Suspension E-Bike Frame

The EEB Full Suspension E-Bike Frame is a dedicated full suspension, steel Ebike frame. The EEB makes a great basis for a high power ebike. There is a very large battery enclosure, full suspension, with strong and wide rear dropout (~155mm) with integrated torque arms. The frame is not super light, at ~10kg, but it is strong and built to accept high power ebike parts and be stable at high speeds. It is also very reasonably priced and really looks nice, once some nice chunky parts have been fitted to it.

We will be offering packages and custom built batteries for this frame in the near future. I can honestly say, that i am very excited about this frame, it is a pleasure to ride. Once you have a few KW of power driving that rear wheel, it is so fun and it really feels rock solid and soaks up those high speed bumps so well, even with the fairly low end suspension components our demo bike is running. At 500USD plus shipping etc. it makes a a very compelling argument, compared to buying, then modifying a middle to higher end regular bike.

EEB Full Suspension E-Bike Frame: Product Description

The EEB frame was planned from the outset to be a High-Power E-bike frame. It combines a strong structure, with high strength pinching dropouts for high power hub motors. It offers the comfort and stability of long travel full suspension and a large enclossure to house a very large battery. Whilst the frame could be used as pedal assist type ebike, it was primarily intended to be strong enough and have the stability to deal with the speed and abuse that a multi-KW hub-motor system requires.

The Frame’s design goals are:

– versatility in the selection of bicycle components;

– maximum space for the accommodation of batteries;

EEB Full Suspension E-Bike Frame: What’s Included?

One frameset includes: main frame structure (including plastic covers, fittings etc), swingarm with integrated pinching torque arms, headset, 100mm bottom bracket, seatpost platform, plus all bolts washers and accesssories to assemble these parts together.

EEB Full Suspension E-Bike Frame: What’s NOT Included?

The frameset does not include: Seat post, seat, bars, suspension components, crank, chainwheel, gearset, wheels, motor or any electrical parts.

EEB Full Suspension E-Bike Frame: Key Points

Weight – 10kg with all bolts and plastic (shipping weight 12.7kg, equivalent volume weight is ~20kg).

Materials – 2mm Q235A steel tubes, 4mm ABSPMMA plastic, high strength steel bolts and aluminum anodized bolts for side covers.

Colour options – Black frame with Red Anodised Bolts, or White Frame with Black Bolts.

beginner, guide, electric, bike, batteries

Battery Compartment – 140mm internal width, 148mm external width. Detailed internal dimensions can be seen in additional images. Max recommended battery weight is 17kg.

EEB Full Suspension E-Bike Frame: Bike Info

Rear Shock – Compatible with rear shocks with length of 190-240mm (axle to axle), but recommended length is 220mm. Recommended coil spring, 650-750lbs (for riders 90kg, 200lb plus, consider the 750lb spring). 240mm shock length is best only used for smaller wheels (such as 17-18 inch moto). Shock mount width is 24mm.

Front fork – A strong Mountain Bike Fork with 130-200mm travel is recommended. Compatible with tapered and non-tapered steering tube. Headtube length 130mm.

Rear Brake – Standard bicycle IS mount. Can be used with 160-225mm brake disc.

Derailleur – Standard M10x1 threaded hole for installation of a standard derailleur.

Seat – Recommended Seat Post diameter is 31.6mm.

Headset – Headset is included. High Quality semi-integrated, sealed bearing, original Taiwan VP Components J305AC(S) headset, compatible with standard bicycle 1,1/8 and also tapered forks (two different bottom rings included).

Bottom Bracket – Square Taper 100/145mm BC-63 VP Components BB included (standard bicycle 34mm thread, 100mm width, as used on Fat Bikes).

Dropout – 156mm Dropout width. Can be be used with motors from 135mm, up to 155mm axle width. Spacers can be added to motors with shorter axles to fill the dropout. When doing this, consideration to the appropriate spacing for the freehweel (if freewheel is too inboard, the deraileur will not be able to reach the lowest gears), disc alignment with the caliper and keeping the rim centred. It would be necessary to add disc spacers, as well as axle spacers, to make this work.

Wheels – Intended for 26″, but can also be used with smaller bicycle wheels (24″ wheels with 3″ tyres looks really cool), or even 17-19 inch motorcycle wheels. Up to 3″ wide tyres (varies depending on the wheel size).

Can’t decide between a fixed or a detachable ebike battery? We’ve got you

Story by

Cate Lawrence

Cate Lawrence is an Australian tech journo living in Berlin. She focuses on all things mobility: ebikes, autonomous vehicles, VTOL, Smart ci (show all) Cate Lawrence is an Australian tech journo living in Berlin. She focuses on all things mobility: ebikes, autonomous vehicles, VTOL, Smart cities, and the future of alternative energy sources like electric batteries, solar, and hydrogen.

So you want to buy an electric bike. You’re confronted with an eye-wateringly large market and are not really sure whether to go for a bike with a detachable/swappable battery or with one that’s fixed permanently to the bike?

Don’t worry, folks, we’ve got you.

The case for a fixed battery

Tickets are officially sold out

But there might be some last-minute spots available

Ebike manufacturers speak:

Ampler Bikes

Our bikes are built for the purpose of daily urban commuting and we feel that an integrated battery is favored. This has enabled us to build one of the lightest and most efficient urban commuting ebikes in the world that are fun and safe to ride. Our customers value the benefits such as lightweight, reliability, and the look of a regular bicycle.

We also understand that our bikes don’t fit everyone’s needs, but we have also seen many customers overcoming the charging block by charging their bike at work, for example. Also, as the range of the battery is more than enough for daily rides, you might only need to charge the bike only once or twice a week.

— Ardo Kaurit, CEO Co-founder of Ampler Bikes.

For the Delta ebike, we choose a non-removable battery because we want to make our e-bikes as light as possible. Removable batteries are generally bulkier and heavier, and also the frame needs extra reinforcements and parts like a lock and connector which make it heavier.

From a design perspective, the non-removable batteries are also easier to integrate in a way that is (almost) invisible to the user.

–Tom Schiller, co-founder and CEO of Mokumono.

The case for a detachable/swappable battery

Ebike manufacturers speak:

At Dance, our goal is to make it easier to choose an ebike over other travel every single time. One of the ways we can incentivize ebike usage is by designing products to fit our customers’ lifestyle; we want the customer to charge however is best for them.

That’s why we chose a removable battery: we want our customers to be able to easily charge their ebikes; not everyone has the ability to park near an outlet inside.

Though the Dance One is lighter than other ebikes, some may live on the third floor of an apartment building, for example.

With more than one battery you can recharge your bike in seconds. It’s a huge advantage for the customer.

I would say that eventually all micromobility vehicles will have removable/swappable batteries.

— JT Burke, head of hardware, Dance

Rad Power Bikes

At Rad Power Bikes, we believe in practical and accessible ebikes built for everything and everyone. Our bikes are designed intentionally for ease of use and maximum functionality. The choice of a semi-integrated battery was rooted in that design philosophy. It offers a streamlined look while celebrating that it is an ebike and maintaining ease of access and maintenance that our customers love about our bikes.

This design means the battery can be charged on or off the bike and that our riders can bring along additional batteries that can be swapped out for longer rides making our bikes a great option no matter where your destination lies.

— Arno Saladin, European Business Director, Rad Power Bikes

The elephant in the room is weather

Before you choose your choice of ebike, consider the climate or where you ride. One of the biggest factors in battery health is protecting your battery against the weather. Some general tips:

Temperatures below 5-10 degrees Celsius (40-50 degrees Fahrenheit) affect the battery’s performance. It’s advisable to bring your battery inside whenever practical. It’s also not advisable to charge the battery in areas where the temperature is below freezing.

Conversely, warmer temperatures can wear down the components that are used to generate power for your ebike, effectively leading to premature capacity loss. Storing your battery/bike in the shade in hot weather is a good idea.

Rad Power Bikes suggests you should always charge in a safe area that is dry, indoors, between 50 °F–77 °F (10 °C–25 °C), and away from direct sunlight, dirt, or debris. Logistics matter: Arrange the bike, battery, and charger to eliminate the potential for trip hazards, damage to the bike, battery, or charger.

Boxer Cycles advise that while most ebikes are water-resistant they shouldn’t be submerged in water, outdoors during heavy showers, or ridden through ridden deep puddles.

Store your bike out of the rain and make sure the battery is kept dry as much as possible.

Whatever you choose, an ebike is a long-term investment. You want a bike that can continue to serve you as battery innovation accelerates over time. And, yep, the next generation of batteries will be even better.

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