Best Fat Tire Electric Bikes 2023. Longest lasting electric bike

Longest lasting electric bike

Electric pedal-assisted bikes, also known as E-bikes or electric bikes, offer a spectrum of benefits for different kinds of rides and riders, and aim to break down barriers that prevent us from taking longer, faster rides. Each E-bike in our lineup has a pedal assist motor that runs on a frame-integrated, rechargeable battery. One question we get all the time is: how long will my E-bike battery last on one charge? The not-so simple answer: It depends. We know, WE KNOW: that’s not that helpful, but hear us out. There are a lot of factors that affect just how far your battery will last, and once you understand them, you’ll be better at estimating how many miles you have before you need to recharge.

But, before you can get a clear picture of how to maximize your E-bike battery life, you’ll need a quick run-down of the technology that goes into making your E-bike… well… go. For everyone’s sanity, we tried to put our tech jargon into simple terms here. Read on for detailed descriptions of each model of battery and motor, and how they interact on your bike.

Liv’s Four Battery Options

Our E-bikes are built with one of three batteries that power the motor: the EnergyPak Smart, the EnergyPak Smart Compact, or the EnergyPak Side Release. Also available is the EnergyPak Plus, a small backup battery. All four rechargeable batteries detach from the frame and can be plugged in either on or off the bike, depending on how accessible your outlet is.

The strength of each battery is measured in watt hours (Wh)—a unit totally different from watts, which many cyclists use to measure their own power output at any given moment as they ride. But mainly: The higher the watt hour of your bike’s battery, the more power it can hold.

The EnergyPak Smart is the highest-capacity battery available for our E-bikes, ideal for long, intense rides where you’ll be using a large amount of pedal assistance or encountering a lot of loose gravel, snow, mud, or other unpaved terrain. The slim, streamlined battery is integrated right into the frame of the bike for a clean look and feel. It comes in three different watt hour (Wh) versions: 625, 500, and 400 (if the bike you buy comes with the 400 or 500 Wh battery, it’s compatible for an upgrade). All three Wh levels of the battery charge from dead to 80 percent in under three hours.

The EnergyPak Smart Compact is our 500 Wh electric road bike battery, which has the sleekest profile designed to help your E-bike blend in with a fleet of non-electric road bikes. Both the EnergyPak Smart and EnergyPak Smart Compact have aluminum casing to help prevent overheating, for both safety and battery-life extension purposes.

The EnergyPak Side Release comes on many of our commuter E-bikes and entry-level electric mountain bikes, shaped specifically to fit into step-through models. It’s available in 500 Wh and 400 Wh and slides into the side of the downtube, rather than removing from the bottom the previous two batteries listed. EnergyPak side release’s waterproof rating is IPX5, slightly less than the rest of Liv’s batteries (IPX6, which can withstand a bit more pressure).

If you’re taking an extra-long trip where you might need extra battery life before you reach a place you can recharge, the EnergyPak Plus, a 250 Wh backup battery, is available. It’s small, lightweight, and can be mounted directly to your downtube to add more miles to your ride. It charges relatively quickly, up to about 80 percent capacity in just two hours, so you can change up your main battery and this one in a single evening.

Liv’s Three Motor Options

Our E-bikes have a motor located near the bottom-bracket that gives you assistance in turning the pedals, also called pedal assist. The three motors were developed in cooperation with Yamaha, and includes the SyncDrive Pro, the SyncDrive Sport, and the SyncDrive Core. All three motors are equipped with multiple sensors that detect even the slightest change in your cadence, power input, and speed. This allows the motor to blend the assistance it’s giving you into your pedal stroke in the most natural way possible; it engages smoothly and gradually, increasing input to match yours. Our E-bikes are designed to emphasize and support your own power and fitness, so there is no throttle you can push to make it go. You have to pedal—but how hard you pedal is up to you.

Our top-end E-bike come with the SyncDrive Pro. It’s the most powerful motor with the fastest engagement, meaning it feels the most touchy of the three, so it’s great for intense bursts of power to get through tricky uphill sections or steep punchy climbs on a mountain bike. The highly sensitive motor engages even if you’re pedaling super lightly and quickly (up to 170 rpm).

The SyncDrive Sport motor comes on most of our mid-priced bikes, and offers a less-punchy engagement than the Pro. Since it’s more conservative with its power, it tends to use less battery over time than the high-powered Pro as well.

The SyncDrive Core is the lightest-duty motor that comes on many of our E-commuter, and entry-level E-mountain bikes. It offers the smoothest engagement with the most gradual increase of assistance, so it is the most battery-conserving option of the three. And—bonus—it’s also the quietest.

Best Fat Tire Electric Bikes 2023

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Electric Bike Report aims to help consumers find the right electric bike for their needs. When you buy a product we recommend, we may earn a commission.

Fat-tire electric bikes are a dime a dozen nowadays, but which are the best?

From stable and user-friendly bike path cruisers to high powered bruisers built for hunting and heavy off-road use, e-bikes with fat tires are having a bit of a moment right now. Whatever your reason for wanting a fat tire e-bike, the Electric Bike Report staff of experts and bike geeks have tested some of the best money can buy. And while there are many worthy competitors, we wanted to showcase our choices for the best fat tire electric bikes of 2023 based off of our extensive testing and riding.

Birthed from Alaskan snow and New Mexican sand, the ancestors of modern fat bikes first came about in the 90’s as a means to explore (and race) in terrain unkind to your typical bicycle tire. Think mud, deep sand and soft snow. They’ve had high-points of popularity in recent years, but it wasn’t until the rise of the electric bike that we saw the masses rolling around on fat tires. Motors made the heavy, relatively inefficient bikes more friendly to ride and people seem to like the big tires because they give you a feeling of confidence and stability — not to mention many think they just look cool. Their popularity has exploded, and fat tires have been adopted into nearly every category of e-bike.

So which fat tire e-bike is best for you? That’s a tough question with an answer that differs from person to person. We’ve compiled this list of our picks for the best fat tire electric bikes to help you suss out your best bike based on your specific needs.

While this list is comprised of e-bikes that check in with no less than 3” wide tires, you can also check out our picks for the best overall electric bikes of 2023 if you want a little more variety in tire size.

Aventon Aventure 2

The Best Class 3 Electric Fat Bike, 2023

A disruptive model when it first came into the fat-tire e-bike world, the Aventon Aventure set a new high bar for what consumers could expect from a sub-2,000 electric fat bike when it first entered the market, and the followup Aventure 2 built upon that legacy. While many of its contemporaries have caught up in certain aspects, the Aventure 2 still stands out.

It’s not just the 750W Bafang rear hub motor or the 720Wh fully-integrated battery that have us so enamored with this electric fatty, it’s also that Aventon managed to chock it full of little features and extras that are still somewhat uncommon on many e-bikes in this category. It’s got a torque sensor which both allows for a more natural feel, and also gives it better battery efficiency making you go further without a larger, heavier battery. Throw in a full-color LCD display, metal fenders, a full Shimano Altus drivetrain, Tektro hydraulic brakes and, to top it all off, it’s just a really nice riding bike. The handling is sporty without being overly athletic and, though it is a bit heavy, it handles light doubletrack surprisingly well.

It also comes available in a step-over and step-through frames with a selection of good looking colors to choose from (a standout feature in a sea of black and white fat bikes).

The Aventure ships as a Class 2 e-bike, but like most of the bikes on this list it’s easily convertible to Class 3 through an app that paris to your bike, which gives it a top pedal-assisted speed of 28 mph. We’ve tested and even compared this bike head-to-head against some of its biggest competitors, and the results don’t lie: It’s a new breed of affordable electric fat bike.

To put it short, we’re really big fans of the Aventure and we think you would be too which is why it leads off our list of the best fat tire electric bikes of 2023.

Pro’s

• Unlocked to Class 3, this is an extremely fast and torquey e-bike.
• The full-color LCD display is great and features a percentage based battery readout
• The 720Wh battery is efficiency used for great range thanks to the torque sensor
• It’s got a unique styling for a fat e-bike that reminds us of another Aventon we really liked, the Level.

Con’s

• At 77lbs (we reviewed a large with the optional front and included rear racks), the Aventure is slightly heavier than many of its peers.

The Mokwheel Basalt

This beast of an e-bike has the brawn to carry its rider just about anywhere witha strong motor and 450 lbs payload capacity, and can be accompanied by some seriously impressive optional accessories.

Rad Power Bikes RadRover 6 Plus

The Best Class 2 Electric Fat Bike, 2023

We’ve long been fans of Rad Power Bikes’ RadRover line and many e-bikes on this list owe some thanks to the Rover for helping popularize fat tires into the mainstream. While there was plenty to appreciate with past iterations of the Rover, the RadRover 6 Plus is a marked upgrade over its predecessors in such a way that it demands to be seriously considered among anybody’s list for the best electric fat tire bikes.

There is a noticeable aesthetic overhaul compared to previous models that is largely credited to the new semi-integrated battery housed in a more modern, angular frame. There is also a unique dual display in the center and left of the cockpit that’s functional and just plain different.

But looks aren’t all that’s new here. Rad also added hydraulic disc brakes with 180mm rotors to bolster the stopping power and keep riders more in control when needing to come to a stop.

In a category of e-bike that’s often singularly-focused on speed and raw power, the Rad Power Bikes RadRover 6 Plus takes a different, more measured approach. It’s got a 750W rear hub motor that’s very similar to what you’ll find on many other bikes on this list of the best fat tire e-bikes, but the power delivery from that motor is much more gentle, particularly at low speeds. What this does is give the bike a very predictable and controllable power delivery that’s friendly to new riders or those who want a bike that’s easy to ride, all while still being plenty torquey to help you summit hilly areas.

If you want easily-controllable power from a bike that’s backed by an industry-leading e-bike company, the RadRover 6 plus may be the best choice for you.

Pro’s

• The 750W motor feels refined – it’s got plenty of torque but it delivers it smoothly.
• The 672Wh battery delivers impressive range even for its size.
• The hydraulic disc brakes performed very well in our testing, and they added it to the newest Rover model while keeping the price relatively affordable.
• While it may be subjective, we really love the new look of the redesigned RadRover.

Con’s

• The LED screen on the left is noticeably less bright than the center one.
• The cable management feels a bit messy.

The Blix Ultra

With speed, power, and a myriad of options to add versatility, the Blix Ultra is practical and completely fun to ride.

Lectric XP 3.0

Best Ultra Affordable Electric Fat Bike, 2023

The Lectric XP 2.0 already stood out by proving to be a quality folding bike with a solid spread of features at a very reasonable price. The combined package of integrated features such as the rear cargo rack, lights, suspension, and fenders is something you would only expect to see on more expensive models. Now Lectric has raised the bar even further by packing the new XP 3.0 full of upgrades and new features, while keeping the bike at the same price of around a thousand dollars.

The new Lectric XP 3.0 features a motor with increased peak wattage and torque for better hill climbing, a better gear ratio for ease of pedaling, larger brake rotors for better stopping power, an improved suspension for a more comfortable ride, and optional accessories for increased passenger capacity.

All of that capability on a bike that can fold up and fit behind a seat or in a trunk made it easy to choose the Lectric XP 3.0 for the best fat tire e-bike of 2023!

Pro’s

• The XP 3.0 only adds to the already great value of the previous model. For the same price, the 3.0 offers upgrades to the baseline integrated features and even adds new ones.
• While the motor on the XP 3.0 is still a 500W rear-hub, it now features an increased 55Nm of torque and 1000W peak output.
• An improved gear ratio and larger high gear result in a more efficient application of rider input.
• Increased brake rotor size – now 180mm instead of 160mm – gives more responsiveness and efficiency braking despite being mechanical instead of hydraulic disc brakes.
• The 3.0’s suspension fork has an increased travel distance at 50mm, making for a smoother ride on- and off-road.
• The weight capacity of the rear rack has doubled to a max of 150lbs, allowing for additional passenger capacity.

Con’s

• We’d have loved to see the option to operate the XP 3.0 without its key in the bike, but that is one upgrade Lectric has not yet made.
• While the 3.0’s grips are improved, we still would prefer something a bit softer.

The Velotric Nomad 1

With sleek design, excellent range, and plenty of power for speed and uphill travel, the Nomad 1 offers solid value for its price.

Mokwheel Basalt

The Best Fat Tire Electric Bike for Camping, 2023

Half the fun of camping is exploring the area visited. E-bikes offer campers the opportunity to go farther, see more and not be wiped out at the end of the day. The Mokwheel Basalt is unusual among e-bikes in that not only is it well-suited to off-road exploring, but it can serve as a valuable resource thanks to some of its unusual accessories. As a Class 3 e-bike with a maximum speed of 28 mph, it is terrific for getting around most anywhere.

The Mokwheel Basalt may not look all that unusual at first glance. It features a 750W brushless hub motor that can turn 90Nm of torque, making it suitable for riding steep hills, whether paved or not. The 110mm-travel suspension fork improves control on bumpy terrain and the 7-speed Shimano drivetrain helps both uphill and down. Hydraulic disc brakes offer terrific power even on steep downhills and Chaoyang 26 x 4-in. tires provide the necessary cushion and traction for exploring the backcountry.

What really sets the Mokwheel Basalt apart is its massive 940Wh battery that can power a 1000W power inverter that has the ability to run such essentials as phone chargers, coffee makers, electric grills and laptops. Planning to be gone more than a day or two? Mokwheel also offers a solar charger to keep the juice running to those essentials.

Riders can also choose between a traditional frame and a step-thru design. Because it has a 450-lb. payload capacity, campers who want to go bag dinner can carry it back to camp as well. This is ideal for anyone planning to go camping but still wants electricity.

Not only is it the best fat tire electric bike for camping, it’s just a good fat option period.

Pro’s

• 750W brushless hub motor has the power and torque necessary to climb hills and deliver riders to a maximum assisted speed of 28 mph for spirited riding
• Comes in both a traditional frame and a step-thru to fit a broad range of riders
• Can power a number of electric appliances while camping with the help of the optional 1000W power inverter
• 4-in.-wide tires and a front suspension fork make for a very comfortable ride
• 450-lb. payload capacity makes it terrific for hunters wanting to bring home their game

Con’s

The Aventon Sinch

With its low step-thru frame, big tires and suspension fork, this is a comfortable and easy to ride e-bike perfect for accompanying you on road trips and outdoor adventures.

Himiway Cruiser

Best Long Range Electric Fat Bike, 2023

If any bike on this list has earned a cult following, it’s the Himiway Cruiser.

Loved for its sheer power and massive 840Wh battery, the Cruiser is the brute of the fat-tire e-bike category. While many 750W bikes curb power at low speeds (like when you’re starting from a stop) and roll it on as you accelerate, the Himiway seemingly gives you access to all 750W from the gun. If you’re looking for speed, this bike is a lot of fun.

Backing up that power is a larger-than-average 840Wh battery that gives this bike a great range on a single charge. To be clear: you can find larger batteries on other fat tire e-bikes (even on this best fat tire e-bike list). Heck, some even have dual battery setups. But most of those larger standard batteries will run the price of the bike over 2,000, so the Cruiser hits a sweet spot for us in terms of value and providing long rides. Our Max PAS range test yielded a 44 mile ride before the battery gave out which is a pretty impressive number.

The Cruiser also comes spec’d with a Shimano Altus drivetrain, Tektro Aires mechanical brakes and a fender and light package that’s comparable to other bikes in this category. It does also come stock with a rear rack, which is a nice feature if you’re looking to lug some cargo, and it’s backed up by a 2-year warranty.

Like most others, this bike ships as a Class 2 e-bike but can easily be adjusted to Class 3. If you’re in the market for a rocket ship of an e-bike the Himiway Cruiser might be worth a look.

Pro’s

• The 48V 17.5Ah battery provides plenty of range. Even for a bigger, stronger e-bike, you can expect many miles on a single charge.
• Super powerful e-bike that you feel the moment you start pedaling. If you are someone who likes power, you are going to like this e-bike.
• The fat tires smoothly roll over surfaces with ease.
• The bike was very stable, even at high speeds and we had high levels of traction on nearly every surface.

Con’s

• Slight delay in pedal assistance when you start pedaling. There is about a one second motor lag.
• PAS has a lot of power and gets you up to speed quickly, but we would have liked a little more variation in how much speed you get amongst the different assist levels.

The Denago Fat 1

With its 750W motor and huge 921.6Wh battery, this speedy newcomer has proven that it can go the distance.

Velotric Nomad 1

The Best Fat Tire Electric Bike for E-Bike Newbies

For those new to the world of e-bikes, making a purchase can be intimidating. For most consumers, getting the most bang for your buck is essential, especially when it comes to versatility, performance, and quality. Fortunately, the folks at Velotric seem to understand this struggle and have accounted for the balance of those three considerations with their latest release.

Having entered the e-bike market in 2021 through a crowdfunding campaign, Velotric had to make a bold statement in order to stand out. Its first bike, the Discover 1, was a respectably-specced, visually appealing e-bike with good performance geared towards commuters. For their second entry, the Nomad 1, Velotric has retained the Discover’s attractive geometry and flashy colors while opening up the bike’s possibilities with off-road capability.

While some of the Nomad 1’s components are unfamiliar to us, the core elements of the motor and battery bear the mark of quality. Both feature some remarkable boosts in efficiency thanks to Velotric’s team of highly experienced engineers, allowing the Nomad 1’s 750W motor and relatively standard 48V, 692 Wh battery to work together to provide plenty of uphill power and truly impressive range.

With a simple and straightforward interface, both step-thru and high-step frame styles, and a nice spectrum of integrated features, the Nomad 1 offers functionality for a wide range of riders and provides great value while doing so.

Pro’s

• The Nomad 1’s angular design and refreshing variety of six color options split between its two frame styles go a long way in making this stylish e-bike stand out from the crowd.
• We were surprised and impressed by the Nomad 1’s range, a feature granted by Velotric’s efficient tuning of the motor and battery systems.
• The bike’s PAS provides measured increases in assistance at lower levels for casual riding, but kicks up the power in higher levels when you need more speed or assistance on inclines.
• The Nomad 1’s proprietary 750W motor is beefy enough to push the bike up just about any hill with limited input from the rider.
• The bike’s fat tires and suspension fork provide stability and traction for travel on dirt and paved surfaces alike.
• With its price tag in the neighborhood of 1500, the Nomad 1 provides the features and performance of similar e-bikes closer to the 2000 range.

Con’s

• While it does the job of relating the battery’s charge level, the bar-style readout on the Nomad 1’s display is less reliable and accurate as percentage-based versions we have come to appreciate.

The Rad Power RadRover 6 Plus

The RadRover 6 Plus offers a full complement of reliable components and solid performance, making it a great choice for new e-bike riders.

Blix Ultra

The Best Fat Tire Electric Bike for Dual Battery Needs, 2023

Whether you need to travel extreme distances, haul a fair amount of cargo, bring along an additional passenger, or all three simultaneously – you’ll need the battery power to do it. No other fat tire e-bike is going to cover these bases better than the Blix Ultra, thanks to its dual battery capability.

The Blix Ultra can hold two 48V, 672 Wh batteries for a claimed range of up to 80 miles, which our testing supports. Dual batteries are not uncommon in the world of e-bikes, though they do usually appear on models that are more dedicated to one kind of functionality (such as cargo bikes). Even among Blix’s lineup, the Ultra shares its dual battery capability with two of its more specialized siblings, but it stands apart from them due to its greater adaptability and versatility.

Fat tire e-bikes in general aim to be more all-purpose machines thanks to their ability to travel on rougher surfaces just as well as paved paths. The Blix Ultra raises the bar with a range of optional accessories that expand its cargo and/or passenger capacity, without changing the core elements of the fat tire design. On its own, the Ultra’s 750W motor and PAS system make it a speed demon, but also give it the power and tuning to effectively haul additional weight.

The Ultra’s ability to hold two batteries equals greater range and lasting assistance from the motor even under load. That’s why this e-bike is our only pick for this category!

Pro’s

• Customizability is the greatest feature of the Ultra, with the ability to double its range by connecting two batteries, or adding racks for added cargo/passenger capacity.
• The Ultra connects to the Blix Bike app through Bluetooth, allowing a phone to function as a secondary display, and making it easy to switch from Class 2 to Class 3 mode.
• The 750W motor and PAS system is designed to support additional weight, and can bring the bike up to top speeds quickly even at low settings.
• Unlike other dual battery-capable e-bikes, the Ultra’s suspension fork and fat tires make it possible to travel off-road easily.
• To complement its cargo hauling capabilities, the Ultra’s top tube is functionally a hybrid between high-step and step-thru designs. It gives the bike a more aggressive look appropriate for its speed and power.
• The Ultra’s cockpit is arranged well, so that all of its controls are easily accessible.

Con’s

• While it helps to keep the cockpit layout compact, the Ultra’s tiny display is not able to display a full scope of information simultaneously.
• The Ultra’s extended wheelbase (for a fat tire bike) increases stability for cargo hauling, but it also makes turns more difficult.

Rad Power Bikes RadExpand 5

The Best Electric Fat Bike for Smaller Riders

Finding an e-bike that fits you isn’t just important when it comes to color, riding style, or personality. Proper size and proportion is important to ensure that the mechanics of the human body are used effectively in concert with those of the bike, and use does not result in pain or injury. For smaller riders, finding an appropriately-sized e-bike can be challenging due to the abundance of large, full-size frames on the market, and in some cases, options that do fit may sacrifice features or functionality.

Enter the Rad Power Bikes RadExpand 5. This compact, foldable e-bike evolved from the RadMini 4 in some surprising ways, leaning into the fact that it is an e-bike first, and a folding bike second. In addition to a rad-(get it?)-ically different frame design, the RadExpand features quality components, a stout frame, a respectable 672Wh battery with good range, a powerful 750W rear hub motor for speed and hill-climbing, and even a solid rear cargo rack, all at a great price.

For riders within the 4’10” to 5’10” height bracket, this means you won’t have to make sacrifices. The RadExpand 5 is a fully functional e-bike in a fun size, and the fact that it folds for transport or storage is just one additional feature to appreciate.

We do wish the RadExpand had held on to the RadMini 4’s LCD display instead of eschewing it for a simplified indicator panel, but the change doesn’t have any effect on the bike’s actual performance. Bottom line: the RadExpand is a great choice for those looking for a smaller e-bike.

Pro’s

• Instead of the narrow, somewhat shaky handlebar system on the old model, the RadExpand 5 has a great BMX-style setup that is wider, sturdier, and still able to fold down.
• While it is still relatively heavy for a folding bike, its 62 lb frame does collapse down to a manageable size for storage and transport.
• As a Rad Power bike, you know you’re purchasing a quality product with reliable components.
• The RadExpand features great specs for the price. Its component package of a 672 Wh battery, 750W motor, 7-speed drivetrain, and effective brakes (though they are mechanical) is a good deal on a bike from a tried and tested brand.
• The bike’s handling is responsive, nimble, and smooth, making it great for experienced riders and novices alike.
• As with other Rad Power bikes, the motor input is gradual and intuitive, allowing the bike to always feel under your control.

Con’s

• The velcro strap included with the RadExpand effectively holds its two halves together when folded, but we’d love to see a more permanent feature installed on the frame.
• While the light-based indicator panel works fine for showing PAS level, lights, etc., we can’t help but feel that a full LCD display would have been better.

The Blix Dubbel

With a rider height range of 5’ 0” to 6′ 2”, the Blix Dubbel offers lots of versatility to a wide range of riders including some on the smaller end of the spectrum.

Himiway Cobra

The Best All-Terrain Electric Fat Bike, 2023

While many fat tire e-bikes are labeled and marketed as all-terrain machines, few actually come with the equipment to back that up. The Himiway Cobra, however, boasts a full four-bar linkage suspension and coil suspension more akin to something you’d find on a true mountain bike. This allows it to handle larger bumps and rougher terrain that would be jarring and difficult for riders on other fat tire bikes with just a front suspension fork.

The Himiway Cobra comes with all the features you’d expect for off-road capability; a torquey 750W rear hub motor with torque sensors for more intuitive control, a massive 20 Ah battery for extended range, 4.8” CST tires for loose terrain, and 180mm hydraulic disc brakes for effective stopping power.

With that said, the Cobra sits at a great price for what it brings to the table, but it’s important to remember that it is a hybrid sort of design and will not compare with a high-end dedicated mountain bike with top-shelf parts. The Cobra is meant as a “gateway” to off-roading, allowing its rider to approach exploring and adventuring worry-free. Think Jeep trails, double-track and fire roads.

As a fat tire e-bike with this extreme capability and affordable price tag, the Himiway Cobra is somewhat in a league of its own, which is why it’s our top pick for this category!

Pro’s

• For its price of around 2500, the Himiway Cobra offers off-road performance comparable to more expensive, more dedicated e-bikes.
• Even with Himiway’s first attempt at a four-bar suspension, the Cobra is surprisingly functional on more technical surfaces.
• We appreciate seeing the upgrade from the mechanical disc brakes on the Himiway Cruiser to the hydraulic brakes on the Cobra.
• The Cobra performs great on doubletrack and feels comfortable in rougher, off-road environments.
• The 750W motor’s torque sensors make it appropriately responsive and precise for the bike’s natural habitat.
• The (extra) fat 4.8” tires feel super stable when engaging with loose or slippery ground.
• We really can’t say enough about the Cobra’s value!

Con’s

• We felt the faux leather handlebar grips to be ill-suited to the bike’s need for precise control in more demanding environments.
• A throttle is always a great feature on an e-bike, but we would prefer to see a lever instead of a twist control to avoid accidental activation.

The QuietKat Jeep

With the option for a massive 1,000W motor, and a beefy suspension, this higher end all-terrain bike truly lives up to its Jeep branding.

Aventon Sinch Step-Through

The Best Folding Fat Tire Electric Bike, 2023

While some of the other fat tire e-bikes on this page have also had the ability to fold, the Aventon Sinch does it just a bit better, making it a slightly more well-rounded machine. For this reason, it remains as our top pick in this category for the second year in a row.

Aventon’s Sinch is one of the more accessible e-bikes you’ll find on the fat tire market. The low stepover height of the frame and 20” diameter wheels don’t make it as intimidating for smaller riders to try out compared to many beefier fat tire bikes, but even 6’ riders will find joy on this bike too. The fact that it folds down and can be tossed in the back of most vehicles is a serious bonus.

We’re always hesitant to list aesthetic reasons for consideration on a best list as it’s easily the most subjective thing that varies from person to person, but both the green and red frames paired with the tan wall tires help the bike pop without being too flashy so you’ll have pride in riding around on a good looking bike.

But on e-bikes we know that looks fade while performance sustains and we like what the Sinch has under the hood as well. The 500W motor and 672Wh battery pair well to deliver 30-50 miles of range, the 20” X 4” fat tires are versatile enough for fire roads and paved riding alike, and the 45mm RST fork is sturdy while helping absorb some road vibration.

Now since this one is taking home the prize for best folding fat bike, let’s talk about the frame. Its overall construction is solid, and the miles we’ve logged on the Sinch have given us no concerns about the hinge that connects the front and rear half of the bike. Sometimes we see a little more flex there than we like, but that’s not been the case so far with the Sinch. The fact that this feels like a full-sized bike, but is capable of being fairly compact if you need to tuck it away in a corner will be a huge plus for many riders.

Introduction: Electric Bike (Ebike) Range Calculator

One of the most common questions we get is how to calculate the geographic range of an electric bike. Basically,

• How far will my ebike go before it runs out of battery power?
• What is the range of my ebike?
• How far can I go per charge?

There are many factors that affect an electric bike’s range, including the type of bike you’re riding, as well as the battery capacity, terrain, and the level of pedaling effort you as the rider put in.

If you have a Bosch motor system, then you should probably use the Bosch ebike distance calculator. But for all other ebikes, our Range Calculator is the most sophisticated online today.

The truth is that most ebikes come with a Bafang motor system or its equivalent, since they are the largest ebike motor manufacturer in the world, and have an exceptional reputation. Our ebike range calculator has been designed based on the performance of the Bafang electric bike system.

For a more precise estimate of electric bike range, we have developed a detailed ebike range calculator which has 16 Separate Inputs and Over 100 Variants. Try it now, and start keeping track of your actual range to help us refine the system. If you want to learn all the details about how far electric bikes can go, and how to get the most range from your ebike battery, skip the calculator and continue reading the rest of this article.

Average speed for the duration of your ride, including regular pedaling and use of pedal assist and throttle.

Amount of pedal power you supply to reach the average speed. 0 = Throttle Only, 9 = Eco Mode.

• 0 Throttle Only
• 2 Turbo Mode
• 4 Sport Mode
• 6 Tour Mode
• 9 Eco Mode

Total weigh including bike, battery, rider, and any cargo you are carrying on the bike or in a trailer.

• 100 lbs
• 125 lbs
• 150 lbs
• 175 lbs
• 200 lbs
• 225 lbs
• 250 lbs
• 300 lbs
• 325 lbs

On average, how many times do you make one full rotation per minute when pedaling?

• 10 rpm
• 20 rpm
• 30 rpm
• 40 rpm
• 50 rpm
• 60 rpm
• 70 rpm
• 80 rpm
• 90 rpm
• 100 rpm
• 110 rpm
• 120 rpm

Where is the motor located on your electric bike?

NOMINAL MOTOR OUTPUT (Watts)

What is the nominal motor output rating of your ebike? For dual drives, enter the combined total wattage.

What is the voltage of your electric bike system?

BATTERY CAPACITY (Amp-Hours)

What is the capacity of your ebike battery, as measured in Amp-Hours (Ah)?

• 8.0 Ah
• 10.4 Ah
• 11.6 Ah
• 14.0 Ah
• 16.0 Ah
• 20.0 Ah
• 25.0 Ah

What style of electric bike are you riding?

Select the tire tread that most closely resembles that of the tires on your electric bike.

NUMBER OF MECHANICAL GEARS

Select the mechanical gear system on your ebike.

• SINGLE SPEED
• 3-SPEED
• 5-SPEED
• 7-SPEED
• 9-SPEED
• 10-SPEED
• 14-SPEED
• 15-SPEED
• 21-SPEED
• 27-SPEED

Select the mechanical gear system on your ebike.

Select the terrain that best describes the average terrain for your ride.

Select which best describes the suface conditions you will encounter most on your ride.

• SMOOTH ASPHALT
• UNIFORM GRAVEL
• ROUGH GRAVEL / ROCKY
• HEAVILY RUTTED
• SAND OR SNOW

Which best describes the weather conditions you will encounter during your ride?

How often stop completely, and start from a standing position? Level 1 = Rarely, Level 5 = Frequently

• NO STOPS
• A FEW STOPS
• SOME STOPS
• LOTS OF STOPS
• CITY TRAFFIC

Ebike Battery Myth Busting

First, a little electric bike battery myth busting is in order. Every ebike manufacturer should provide detailed specifications for the battery and every other component on the models they bring to market. Many will also provide estimated ranges, but rarely indicate how these range estimates were derived. That is why we built this calculator, so that you could get a fairly precise range based on your ebike specifications and riding conditions.

Estimated ranges provided by ebike brands aren’t based on rigorous testing

Next, let’s dismiss another obvious falsehood. All ebikes can be ridden like conventional bikes, simply by pedaling and using the standard gears. If the electric vehicle you’re looking at does not have operable pedals, it’s not an electric bike.

If you ride your ebike with the electronics turned off, there is no loss of battery charge. And if you ride your ebike without turning on electronics, there is no drag or resistance from the turned-off ebike motor.

There is no drag or resistance from the turned-off motor

That being said, ebikes do tend to be heavier than standard bikes, due to the added weight of the motor, battery and controller. But there are also lightweight ebikes that fold up and are highly portable.

The lithium-ion battery is the fuel tank for your ebike, not unlike the batteries that power your cell phone and laptop computer. In the olden days a few years ago, some legacy ebike brands would use sealed lead acid (SLA) batteries on their ebikes.

You can still find these types of batteries in cars and on mobility scooters. But with improvements in battery technology, the denser and more energy efficient lithium-ion battery has been adopted as the standard for all ebikes. These batteries will vary in their chemistry, as well as their operating voltage and capacity. Do not get a bike that does not have a lithium battery pack. Find out more about electric bike batteries at our Ebike Battery FAQ.

Like the lithium batteries powering your personal electronic devices, ebike batteries will not last forever. After about 1,000 charge cycles, you will notice that the battery is not holding a full charge. For the average rider, it takes about 2-4 years to charge and discharge an ebike battery 1,000 times. These timeframes could be greatly reduced if you expose your electric bike battery to extremes in heat or cold. So it’s best not to leave your battery in the trunk of a hot car, or in a garage that might reach freezing temperatures overnight.

When you finally need to get a new battery for your ebike, have no fear. Usually replacement or spare batteries are available from the original manufacturer, but even if they are not, there are reputable 3rd party battery companies that can provide a high-quality replacement. Our go-to favorite company for this is the Ebike Marketplace in Las Vegas.

Non-Electrical Factors that Affect Electric Bike Range

There are many variables that affect ebike range, including the bike design of bike, rider weight and riding style, terrain, weather, surface moisture, tire inflation.

Bike Design Maintenance. Electric bikes, like conventional bikes, come in many flavors. You have fat tire mountain ebikes, small folding ebikes, and laid back cruiser style ebikes. There are several key factors in bike design that affect range.

First, the weight of the bike is a major factor, but also the width of the tires. Fat tires, for example, have more surface area in contact with the ground, and more traction (friction) compared to a road bike with narrower tires. This adds resistance which can deplete energy reserves more quickly.

Second, it’s important to note that a poorly tuned or maintained ebike will have a shorter range than a properly maintained vehicle. Low tire inflation, poorly aligned gears and brakes, and high wind resistance due to a lack of aerodynamic design will all contribute to reducing the range of an ebike.

Payload. The weight of the passenger and any cargo will also have a dramatic effect on ebike range. All things being equal, a 225-pound rider with a fully-loaded trailer will place a much higher demand on the battery than a 125-pound teenager with a fanny pack. The distribution of the payload on the bike will also affect range, especially if a bike is unbalanced due to heavy loads placed on the rear rack.

Weather Terrain. Headwinds and wet roads each will reduce the potential range of an ebike. Likewise, how hilly your ride is, and if you go off-road on gravelly trails will impact how far you can travel on a single charge.

Electrical Factors that Affect Ebike Range

All electric bikes have 3 essential components that set them apart from conventional bikes. These are the motor, the controller and the battery. Each of these electrical components plays a critical role in the performance of an electrical bike, and if any of them are not working properly, it can adversely affect your ebike performance range.

If you struggle with the concept of electrons running through wires to power a motor, you’re not alone. Check out the Water Pipe Analogy graphic below.

We use watt-hours to measure the energy capacity of a battery pack, and this will help you figure out how long you can ride your ebike before fully discharging the battery. But before we get into watt-hours (symbolized Wh), let’s first review what a watt itself is.

A watt (W) is a unit of power, and power is the rate at which energy is produced or consumed. Think of watts as a measure of electrical flow. Does an electrical device need a big flow or a small flow to work? For example, a 100W light bulb uses energy at a higher rate than a 60W bulb; this means that the 100W light bulb needs a bigger “flow” to work. Likewise, the rate at which your solar energy system “flows” power into your home is measured in watts.

A watt-hour (Wh) is a unit of energy equivalent to one watt (1W) of power expended for one hour (1h) of time. A watt-hour is a way to measure the amount of work performed or generated. Household appliances and other electrical devices perform “work” and that requires energy in the form of electricity. Utilities typically charge you for electrical energy by the kilowatt-hour (kWh), which is equal to 1,000 watt-hours.

An ebike battery is measured by its voltage (V) and amp-hour (Ah) rating. To calculate the Wh of an ebike battery pack, we simply multiply its V and Ah to get the Wh.

• A battery rated at 36 V and 10.4 Ah will have a 417.6 Wh capacity (36 x 10.4 = 374.4), like on the Eunorau UHVO All-Terrain Ebike
• A battery rated at 48 V and 21 Ah will have a 1,008 Wh capacity (48 x 21 = 1,008), like on the Bakcou Mule.

To learn more about ebike batteries beyond simply their range potential, check out our Ebike Battery FAQ. And if you want another expert’s opinion about ebike range, check out Micah Toll at Electrek.

How Long Do Electric Bikes Last?

An e-bike is a pretty big investment for most people. If you’re considering buying an e-bike, you may wonder, how long do electric bikes last? How long does an e-bike motor last? How long do e-bike batteries last?

In this guide, we explore the life expectancy of electric bikes and their individual components. We’ll cover motors, batteries, tires, chains, the frame, and more. We’ll also talk about the factors that determine e-bike longevity including the brand, quality of the components, type of terrain you ride, and how often you ride. Some types of e-bikes last longer than others.

Finally, we’ll share some tips to help you prolong your e-bike’s lifespan. A well-cared-for e-bike will last longer than one that is abused. Hopefully, this guide helps you make an informed decision about which electric bicycle to purchase.

Table of Contents

• How Long Do Ebikes Last?
• How Long Do Ebike Motors Last?
• Prolonging the Life of an Ebike Motor
• How Long Do Ebike Batteries Last?
• How to Make an Ebike Battery Last Longer
• Sensors
• Tires
• Brakes
• Chain and Sprockets
• How to Make Your Ebike Last Longer
• FAQ

How Long Do E-bikes Last?

On average, you can expect an e-bike to last around 10 years. It may last longer if it’s properly maintained or not ridden often. An abused or heavily used e-bike may not last quite that long.

The longevity really comes down to how often you ride and hofw well you care for your bike. Wear and tear is normal. Some parts last longer than others.

Over the lifespan of your e-bike, some components will need to be replaced. In the following sections, I’ll outline the longevity of various e-bike components.

How Long Do Electric Bike Motors Last?

Electric bike motors last anywhere from 3,000 to 15,000 miles before they need to be replaced. If you take good care of your electric bike and don’t ride too hard, you can expect to get around 10,000 miles out of the average motor. That’s equivalent to around 500 hours.

For most riders, an e-bike motor will last anywhere from three to ten years. The longevity of an electric bike motor can vary widely depending on the design of the motor, the quality, how the bike is ridden, and how often.

The motor is one of the longest-lasting components on an e-bike. Some electric bike motors last as long as the bike. You will need to replace the battery, tires, chain, brake pads, chainring, and cassette before the motor. Some of these components will need to be replaced multiple times.

There are three main types of e-bike motors including direct drive hub motors, geared hub motors, and mid-drive motors. In the following sections, I’ll outline each. We’ll cover how long each motor lasts and how to maximize its lifespan.

Direct Drive Hub Motor

Direct drive hub motors last the longest of any ebike motor. In fact, direct drive hub motors have been reported to last up to 5000 hours. That’s up to 10 times longer than other ebike motor types. It is possible to get up to 50,000 miles out of a driect drive hub motor.

A direct drive hub motor is mounted in either the front or rear hub. Inside a direct drive hub motor, there is a stator and a rotor. The stator is a series of tightly coiled wires. These wires are fixed to the bike’s axle.

A series of magnets are firmly attached around the inside of the hub shell, surrounding the stator. This is called the rotor.

The magnets and hub shell freely rotate around the stator with the assistance of hub bearings, which attach to the axle. When an electric current runs through the coiled wires of the stator, the magnets begin to rotate. This pushes the bike forward.

Direct drive hub motors have no moving parts other than the hub bearings. This is a major advantage for durability and longevity.

Two factors that can affect the lifespan of a direct drive hub motor include overheating and corrosion.

If you run too much power through a direct drive hub motor, the components can overheat. Excessive heat can cause the motor to wear out prematurely. If the motor gets hot enough, components can begin to melt.

As long as the motor, controller, and batter are compatible and properly calibrated, overheating shouldn’t be an issue. If you have a motor that is rated for 250W but your controller sends 1000W of power, the motor will get hot. It probably won’t last very long.

If you live in a wet climate and you regularly ride your ebike in the rain, corrosion can be an issue for direct drive hub motors. Moisture can make its way into the hub. The bearings can also fail prematurely if they get wet. When the bearings wear out, they can be replaced.

If your direct drive hut motor fails and needs to be replaced, expect to spend around 60-300 to replace it depending on the quality and size of the motor you choose. Direct drive motors tend to be the cheapest type of electric bike motors.

Geared Hub Motor

Geared hub motors do not last nearly as long as direct drive hub motors. On average, a geared hub motor lasts around 3,000-10,000 miles depending on the quality of the motor and how it’s treated. On average, geared hub motors last around 500 hours.

Gear hub motors work the same way as direct drive hub motors. The difference is that geared hub motors have a gear reduction system built into the hub.

The motor’s rotating force is transferred to the wheel through the gear system rather than directly. The gear system takes the motor’s input speed and slows it down to a lower output speed. The type of gears used are called planetary or elliptical gears. You can read more about this type of gear system here.

The benefit of this gear reduction system is that it allows the motor to spin faster. Electric motors are more efficient when they run at higher speeds. This improves range. The gears also allow the motor to create more torque. This helps with acceleration and climbing performance.

The drawback of the gear system is that it sacrifices some longevity. You may need to replace the motor 2-3 times during the bike’s lifespan. It can cost anywhere from 50-300 to replace a geared hub motor.

Geared hub motors don’t last as long as gearless because the gears create friction while running against one another. Over time, this friction causes wear. Eventually, the gears wear out. The gears also add complexity. They are moving parts that can fail.

The good news is that the gears in a geared hub motor can be replaced on most models. You will need to replace the gears a couple of times during the lifetime of the motor.

The gears are cheaper than a whole motor. Replacement gears for a geared hub motor cost around 45-75. You can replace them yourself. If you have to pay a bike shop to replace them, you’ll also have to factor in the cost of labor.

If you have a lower-end or older geared hub motor, finding replacement gears can be a challenge. When you can’t find replacements, you’ll have to replace the whole motor. This is a bit more expensive.

Geared hub motors can also overheat. They don’t do as good of a job of dissipating heat as direct drive models. The motor can overheat and burn out if you’re not careful. Overheating can cause the motor to fail prematurely. It’s best not to overpower a geared hub motor.

Geared hub motors are also susceptible to moisture. Most models are sealed. Some can leak if they’re ridden in extremely wet weather. Moisture can cause metal components to corrode and the bearings can fail prematurely.

Mid-Drive Motor

A Mid-drive motor is considered to be higher-end than a hub motor. Quality mid-drive motors can last 10,000-15,000 miles if it’s taken care of.

On a mid-drive electric bike, the motor is located at the bottom bracket, between the pedals. The cranks attach directly to the motor.

A mid-drive motor provides power through the bike’s drivetrain. The motor turns the cranks and provides power to the rear wheel through the chain. Just like you do when you’re pedaling normally. The motor works the same way as a hub motor. Inside, there is a stator, a rotor, and a set of planetary gears.

One drawback to mid-drive motors is that they put more stress on the bike’s drivetrain components. The chain, chainring, cassette, and derailleur system will all wear out and need to be replaced sooner on a mid-drive electric bike. This is because the electric motor is capable of producing more power than a human.

A mid-drive motor may sustain 250-1000 watts of power output consistently. An average human cyclist can only output 100-200 watts of power consistently. The extra power from the motor causes the chain to stretch and the gears to wear down faster than they normally would. These parts don’t last as long as they would on a non-powered bike.

To help overcome this issue, many off-the-shelf mid-drive e-bikes come with an extra-strong chain that is designed for e-bikes. Ebike conversions usually use standard chains. You will have to replace the chain every 1000-2000 miles on a mid-drive e-bike. You’ll have to replace the cassette every 2-3 chains.

Mid-drive motors are also usually geared, like geared hub motors. The power passes through a system of gears before reaching the cranks. Over time, the internal gears can wear. Eventually, they will need to be replaced.

If your mid-drive motor fails, it can be difficult to replace. Many models are proprietary. In most cases, you’ll have to have the motor replaced by a professional or you may need a new e-bike. Replacing a mid-drive motor is much more expensive than replacing a hub-drive motor. Mid-drive motors usually cost around 300-700.

You may or may not have to replace your motor over the course of your ebike’s life. Some will last the life of the bike. Others will not.

There are benefits to mid-drive motors. Because the power is supplied through the drivetrain, you can use the mechanical advantage of the bike’s gears. This can help with climbing, acceleration, top speed, and range. You can shift to keep the motor running at its optimal RPM. Having the weight of the motor in the center of the bike also improves handling. The bike feels more balanced.

Mid-drive motors are also susceptible to water damage. Most are sealed. If you ride in a heavy storm, the case could leak. Moisture can cause damage to the motor. Some are sealed better than others. Most come with an IP rating.

Electric Bike Motor Maintenance

E-bike motors require very little maintenance. The maintenance you have to perform depends on the type of e-bike motor you have.

If you ride an ebike with a direct drive hub motor, the only maintenance you’ll have to do is replace your hub bearings when they wear out. Cartridge hub bearings can last around 10,000 miles as long as they don’t get wet. It’s a good idea to inspect the bearings once per year. This is maintenance you need to do on all e-bikes.

If you ride an electric bike with a mid-drive motor or a geared hub motor, you will need to replace the internal planetary gears when they wear out. In most cases, you will need to replace the gears 1-3 times during the lifetime of the motor.

Replacing the gears involves removing the motor and opening up the shell to access the gears. It’s relatively easy to do this yourself or you could take the bike to a bike shop to have the work done for you. For more info on the process, check out this great step-by-step guide.

It’s also a good idea to clean and dry your electric bike’s motor after you ride. If the motor gets wet in the rain, use a cloth to dry it off when you get home. This reduces the likelihood of moisture making its way into the motor’s case and causing damage.

If the motor gets muddy or sandy, use a rag to wash the dirt away. Keeping the motor clean reduces the likelihood of contaminants making their way into the motor’s case.

How To Make An Electric Bike Motor Last Longer

There are a few ways to make your electric bike’s motor last longer. Most importantly, you should run the motor at the recommended wattage. If your motor is rated for 250W, program your controller to supply a maximum of 250W of power to the motor. If you buy an off-the-shelf e-bike, you won’t have to worry about this. The controller will already be programmed to supply the correct amount of power for your motor.

Most electric bike motors are capable of handling more power than they’re rated for. You can overpower a 250W motor to 500W if you want. If you choose to do this, keep in mind that the motor may not last as long. The reason is that more heat will build up in the motor when it’s run at a higher wattage. This could cause the motor to fail prematurely.

Another way to make the motor last longer is to ride the bike smoothly and gently. Instead of cranking down on the pedals or using full throttle, ride the bike in eco mode. Use pedal assist instead of the throttle. Accelerate slowly. Avoid climbing extremely steep hills.

Riding the bike gently will prolong the life of the internal planetary gears. Your drivetrain components will last longer as well. If you’re constantly doing wheelies, riding at full throttle, or powering up steep hills, the motor will wear out sooner.

You can also prolong the life of the motor by keeping the motor clean and dry. Regularly cleaning the motor will keep it free of contamination. If moisture or debris makes its way into the motor’s shell, it can cause corrosion and abrasion, which makes the motor wear out faster. Try to clean and dry your motor after every ride.

It’s also important to keep the moving parts well-lubricated. When the chain, gears, and bearings are well lubricated, there is less resistance for the motor to overcome. It won’t have to work as hard. The motor will last longer as a result.

It’s also a good idea to avoid riding your electric bike in extremely hot weather. If it’s 100 degrees Fahrenheit out, your motor could easily overheat if it’s used for a prolonged period of time. If you must ride in hot weather, stop every 10-15 minutes to let the motor cool down.

You should also avoid riding your electric bicycle in wet conditions. Most e-bike motors are not designed to be ridden in heavy rain or through streams. E-bike motors aren’t water-proof. They are only water-resistant. If water makes its way into the motor, it can short out. You can ride your e-bike in light rain.

How Long Do Electric Bike Batteries Last?

Battery longevity is usually measured in charge cycles. Charge cycles are the number of full charges that a battery can endure before it degrades to a point where it is no longer usable. Once a battery drops below 80% of its original capacity, it is considered degraded. At this point, it should be replaced.

These days, the majority of e-bikes come with lithium batteries. A modern lithium e-bike battery can last for 500-1000 charge cycles. For the average rider, an electric bike battery lasts between 3 and 5 years if it’s ridden regularly and properly maintained.

The number of charge cycles an e-bike battery can last depends largely on the quality of the battery cells that are used. Premium cells from major manufacturers such as Samsung, LG, or Panasonic last much longer than knockoff cells from a no-name manufacturer. These three brands are considered the best cell manufacturers.

Other types of batteries also exist. If your bike doesn’t have a lithium-ion battery, it most likely has a nickel or lead battery. On average, a nickel battery can last for around 500 charge cycles. A lead battery may only last for 300 cycles.

A number of other factors determine the life of the battery. For example, the way you charge the battery can play a role in how long it will last. If you regularly run your battery all the way down to 0%, it won’t last as long. How you store your battery can also affect its longevity. Excessive heat can reduce a battery’s lifespan.

Unfortunately, lithium-ion batteries that are used in e-bikes degrade over time, even when they’re not used. If you store your bike for a year, the range will decline, even if you never ride it.

For more in-depth info, check out my guide: How Long Do Electric Bike Batteries Last?

Ebike Battery Care: How to Make Ebike Batteries Last Longer

It’s important to take good care of your bike’s battery. The battery is, by far, the most expensive individual component of your bike. A new e-bike battery can cost 500-900. You want it to last as long as possible.

A few ways to prolong the life of your electric bike battery include:

• Don’t store your battery somewhere that’s too hot or cold- To maximize the life of your e-bike’s battery, store it in a cool, dry place when not in use. Ideally, it should be stored between 59° F and 68° F (15° C and 20° C). Don’t store the battery in an extremely hot or cold location. During the winter, keep the battery inside your home. Don’t leave it near a window in direct sunlight.
• Store your battery partially charged- If you’re not going to use your e-bike for a while, try not to store the battery empty or fully charged. Store it while charged at 40%-80% of its capacity.
• Don’t use fast charging- Most e-bike batteries take 4-6 hours to fully charge. Fast chargers are available that can speed up the charging time. The problem is that fast charging puts additional stress on your bike’s battery, causing it to wear out faster. To get the maximum amount of life out of your e-bike, use the charger that is recommended by the manufacturer.
• Avoid fully discharging your battery- Instead of riding your electric bicycle until the battery runs to 0%, do partial recharges. Charging this way puts less stress on the battery. Ideally, you should charge your battery when it reaches 20% and charge it to 80%. If you come home and your battery is at 50%, throw it on the charger for a couple of hours so it’s ready to ride next time.
• Ride efficiently- If you ride smoothly, use the lower levels of pedal assist, and carry as little weight as possible you’ll achieve more range. The more range you get, the less often you’ll have to charge your battery. When you charge less frequently, the battery will last longer because you won’t use up as many charge cycles. For example, if you charge your bike’s battery every day, it might only last two years. If ride efficiently and only charge your battery five times per week, it might last 3 years.
• Avoid riding your bike in extreme temperatures- If the weather is over 100 degrees or below freezing, limit using your e-bike for prolonged periods of time. The extreme heat or cold can affect your battery’s longevity.

For more info, check out this guide to extending the life of a lithium-ion battery.

How Long Do Ebike Sensors Last?

Electric bikes come with pedal assist sensors. E-bikes have either torque sensors or cadence sensors or both. The bike’s pedal assist system uses these sensors to determine when to engage and disengage the motor.

Generally, the lifespan of an electric bike sensor is 5-10 years. However, this can vary depending on usage and the type of components used in its construction.

It’s important to take proper care of your eBike’s sensors by ensuring they are kept clean and free from any dust or moisture. If you keep the sensors clean and dry, they should last the life of the bike. If a sensor gets broken or stops working, it will need to be replaced.

Tires

Tires on electric bikes tend to wear out faster than tires on non-powered bikes. This is because e-bikes are ridden at higher speeds than regular bikes. Most people also cover more distance on their e-bike than they would on a regular bike. As a result, the tires don’t last as long. E-bikes are hard on tires.

The lifespan of bike tires varies greatly. On an average electric bike, the tires last anywhere from 1000 to 3000 miles. A set of heavy-duty touring tires might last 2500-4000 miles.

Exactly how long the tires last depends on how fast you ride, your braking habits, and the surfaces you ride. If you accelerate hard, ride fast, brake hard, and ride on rugged terrain, your tires might not last as long.

When buying tires for an electric bicycle, it’s important to buy a quality set. Make sure the tires are rated for e-bikes. Some lower-end tires are not designed to handle the high speeds that e-bikes can reach. Ebike tires are designed to be ridden at speeds of up to 50 km/h. They are also a bit more durable than average bike tires.

When buying tires for your e-bike, also consider buying puncture-resistant tires. These have a thick layer of synthetic material under the tread. Kevlar is often used. This material resists punctures. Puncture resistance is important because the weight of a hub motor makes it difficult to repair a flat on an e-bike.

It’s also important to make sure your bike tires are properly inflated. Check the tire pressure after every couple of rides and add air as necessary. Properly inflated tires last longer and run more efficiently.

Brakes

Brake pads on electric bikes tend to wear out faster than brake pads on non-powered bikes. There are a couple of reasons for this. First, e-bikes are ridden at higher speeds. E-bikes are also heavier than standard bikes due to the additional weight of the motor and battery.

Slowing down from higher speeds requires more braking force. It also takes more braking force to slow down a heavier bike. The extra braking force creates more friction. This creates more heat and abrasion on your brake pads. As a result, the pads wear down faster. You’ll have to change the pads more often when you ride an e-bike. It’s also best to use higher-end brake pads on an e-bike.

On average, a quality set of brake pads will last anywhere from 500-1200 miles. High-quality sintered rim brake pads last the longest. Organic and semi-metal pads don’t last quite as long.

Exactly how long your brake pads on your e-bike will last depends on a number of factors including the weather conditions you ride in, how fast you ride, your braking habits, the weight of the bike and rider, the quality of the gear that you use, and how well you maintain your bike.

If you like to ride fast, your brake pads probably won’t last as long. Your brake pads will also wear out faster if you regularly ride on sandy or muddy trails. If you ride a particularly heavy e-bike with a direct drive motor and large battery or if you carry cargo, your brake pads might also wear out faster.

Some hub motor electric bikes feature regenerative braking. A regenerative braking system creates resistance with the motor to slow you down. This system creates energy that can be used to recharge your battery. You use the brakes less often with regenerative braking so they last longer. You’ll get more range as well. Only some hub drive e-bikes offer regenerative braking.

It’s a good idea to use high-quality brake pads on an e-bike. You need as much stopping power as you can get to slow down a fast and heavy bike. High-quality pads can stop you faster and more reliably. They’ll also last longer.

You will also need to replace brake cables occasionally. On average, brake cables last 5,000-6,000 miles. If your bike has hydraulic disc brakes, you’ll have to bleed your brakes and replace the fluid once per year. If you don’t ride frequently, you may only need to bleed the brakes once every other year. Brake rotors and calipers can last for the life of the bike if they’re taken care of.

Chain and Sprockets

Chains, chainrings, and cassettes usually don’t last as long on e-bikes as they do on regular bikes. This is because e-bikes are usually ridden longer distances and at higher speeds.

On an e-bike, expect to replace your chain around every 2000 miles. Sometimes you might only get 1000 miles out of a chain. To compare, you can usually get around 2000-3000 miles out of a chain on a non-powered bike. Some riders can get as much as 5000 miles out of a chain.

On average, rear sprockets last 2-3 times longer than the chain. In other words, you’ll have to replace the chain 2 or 3 times before you have to replace the rear sprockets. A chainring usually lasts about 5-6 times longer than a chain.

Exactly how long your chain and sprockets will last depends on the type of e-bike you ride, your riding habits, how well you maintain your bike, the weight of the bike, the terrain you ride, and more.

Mid-drive electric bikes are particularly hard on drivetrain components. This is because the motor provides power through the drivetrain. The motor helps turn the cranks. Power is transferred to the rear wheel through the chain. A mid-drive motor can produce much more power than human legs. An elite cyclist might be able to produce 250-300 watts of power. A powerful mid-drive e-bike motor can output 750-1000 watts all day long. This puts some serious stress on your bike’s drivetrain. If you ride an e-bike with a mid-drive motor, you will wear through chains, chainrings, and cassettes faster than you might expect.

The way you ride can also affect your chain and sprocket longevity. If you accelerate hard and shift frequently, you will wear through these components faster.

Maintenance also plays a big role in drivetrain longevity. If you don’t regularly clean and lube your chain, your drivetrain components also won’t last as long. Dirt, sand, and other contaminants can create additional friction and abrasion that causes your chain and gears to wear out faster.

When you ride an ebike, it’s a good idea to use a chain checker to check for wear on your chain. This Chain Wear Indicator from Park Tool would work well. When your chain is worn out, replace it. This will help prolong the life of your gears.

When buying a new chain for your mid-drive ebike, try to choose a chain that is designed for ebikes. These chains are designed to put up with the stress. They last longer than standard chains.

How Long Do Electric Bikes Last

A quality e-bike should last around 10 years if it’s properly maintained. If you don’t ride frequently, it may last longer. If you’re hard on your e-bike and you don’t keep up on maintenance, you may only get 5 years out of it.

During the life of your e-bike, you may need to replace the battery 2-4 times. You may need to replace the motor 1 or 2 times. If your e-bike has a geared motor, you may need to replace the gears once every 2 or 3 years.

You’ll also need to regularly replace wearable parts including the tires, chain, brake pads, and cables as they wear out. These parts are expected to wear out and be replaced regularly on any bike.

Other parts can also wear out and break over time. At some point, you may need to replace your handlebar grips, saddle, and pedals. You will probably have to replace the wheels at some point. You may need to replace your derailleur or a lever if the original breaks. Anything that breaks or wears out can be replaced, except for the frame. If the frame fails, you’re probably better off replacing the bike.

Exactly how long your electric bicycle will last depends on a number of factors including the quality of the components, the terrain you ride, how well you maintain your bike, how you ride, your weight, and more.

A high-end e-bike will outlast an entry-level model. If you only ride on-road, your bike may last longer than if you ride off-road. A well-maintained bike will outlast a poorly-maintained bike. Riding smoothly and efficiently can also increase the longevity of your bike.

If you leave your ebike out in the rain, it probably won’t last 10 years. If you neglect maintenance on your ebike, it won’t last as long. Riding your ebike hard may also shorten its lifespan.

How To Make Your E-Bike Last Longer

The best way to prolong the life of your e-bike is to keep on top of maintenance. Replace components as they wear out. When your chain starts to stretch, install a new one. If the gears in your geared motor start to wear out, replace them.

It’s also important to keep your bike clean and dry. Clean and lube the chain and cogs to keep the bike running smoothly. Wash any dirt and sand off of your motor to avoid contamination. Avoid riding in the rain or through puddles. Keep the bike as clean and dry as possible. When washing your e-bike, never use a hose or any type of pressurized water. Simply use a sponge or damp cloth and wipe it down.

You can also prolong the life of your e-bike by adjusting your riding habits. Use a lower pedal assist mode, such as eco mode to improve your battery life. Instead of accelerating quickly, accelerate slowly and gently. Try to ride smoothly and efficiently. This puts less stress on your motor and battery. They’ll last longer as a result.

Your e-bike will also last longer if you store it properly. Never leave your e-bike out in the rain. Instead, store it in a covered area, such as a garage or carport. Better yet, store it indoors. If you don’t have access to a covered space, buy a cover for your e-bike. Keeping your bike out of the elements will prevent parts from corroding. Rust can reduce the lifespan of your e-bike.

It’s also best to store your e-bike in a temperature-controlled area so it doesn’t get too hot or too cold. Extreme temperatures can reduce the lifespan of the battery.

When you have to store your electric bicycle for the winter, store the battery partially charged at 40-80%. never store your battery empty or fully charged. It will last longer this way.

You can also increase your e-bike’s longevity by avoiding riding in extremely hot and extremely cold temperatures. If you must ride in extremely hot weather, let your battery and motor cool down once in a while. If you must ride in extremely cold weather, take your battery inside with you so it doesn’t get too cold.

To get the most out of your e-bike, it’s also important to buy an e-bike that is designed for the type of riding that you plan to do. For example, if you plan on riding your e-bike off-road, consider an electric mountain bike. It will better hold up to the rugged terrain.

FAQ About Electric Bike Longevity

In this section, I’ll answer a few frequently asked questions about how long electric bikes last.

How Many Miles Will an E-bike Last?

The lifespan of an electric bike depends on its use and care. If treated properly and maintained regularly, an e-bike will last between 30,000 to 50,000 miles. To achieve this type of mileage, you will probably have to replace the battery 2-4 times and the motor a couple of times. You’ll also have to replace wearable parts as they wear out. A quality frame can last for tens of thousands of miles.

Most people put less than 1000 miles per year on their e-bike. Casual riders won’t ride their e-bike until it completely wears out.

How Many Hours Can an Electric Bike Last?

Electric bike usage usually isn’t measured in hours. On average, a mid-drive motor or geared hub motor will last around 500 hours. A direct drive hub motor can last up to 5000 hours.

The motor can be replaced when it wears out. If your motor dies, it doesn’t mean that the bike can no longer be used. A motor replacement on an electric bike can cost as little as 50 for a cheap hub motor to 1000 for a high-end mid-drive motor. If a motor wears out, it

How Many Years Will an Ebike Last?

The life expectancy of an electric bicycle can vary widely depending on its use and care. However, a good quality e-bike that is properly maintained should be able to last an average of around 10 years.

Factors such as how often the bike is used, the type of terrain it’s ridden on, and how well the battery and other parts are taken care of all influence its longevity. If you rarely ride your e-bike, you might get 15 years out of it. If you commute on your e-bike daily and ride it year-round through wet and snowy conditions, it might only last 5-7 years.

How Many Years do E-Bike Batteries Last?

The lifespan of an e-bike battery depends on several factors. Generally speaking, most e-bike batteries will last between two to five years before needing to be replaced. Battery life expectancy can also vary depending on how frequently the bike is used, temperature exposure, battery type, and charging habits.

Can You Replace the Motor on an Ebike?

Yes. you can replace the motor on an e-bike. On average, a new e-bike motor costs 150-200. Higher-end models can cost up to around 800. If your bike uses a hub motor, the new motor will need to be laced into the wheel.

Before you replace your bike’s motor, check your e-bike’s warranty. Some manufacturers guarantee the motor for a certain length of time. If it fails, you may be able to get it replaced for free.

Can You Ride an Electric Bike if the Battery Runs Out?

Yes. You can still ride your electric bicycle if the bike’s battery runs out. Simply pedal the bike like you would a non-powered bike. If the bike has a direct drive motor, there will be some additional resistance from the bike’s motor. Geared and mid drive motors have a freewheel mechanism that reduces the resistance when the motor is not in use. You will also have to overcome the weight of the motor and battery.

Final Thoughts About the Longevity of E-Bikes

Electric bikes are a great way to get around with little effort and low maintenance costs. With proper care and regular maintenance, your electric bike should last around 10 years. During that time, you will have to replace some components including the ebike’s battery and possibly the motor. Wearable parts such as the tires, chain, cassette, brake pads, cables, etc. will also need to be replaced multiple times.

There are many preventative measures you can take to ensure your e-bike lasts as long as possible. With regular maintenance, you’ll be able to enjoy a smooth ride for years to come! Hopefully, this guide helps you get the most life out of your e-bike.

Do you ride an e-bike? Share your experience in the Комментарии и мнения владельцев below!

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What Happens When An Electric Bike Runs Out Of Battery?

Electric bikes make commuting to work or the grocery store a breeze, providing plenty of power to keep your wheels turning. Depending on your e-bike, you might not even need to pedal at all!

But what happens when an electric bike runs out of battery life? Does it stop working entirely?

This article will answer this question and discuss ways to extend your electric bicycle’s battery life. That way, you can be prepared to handle sudden battery failures and enjoy the longest-lasting battery life!

Do Electric Bikes Stop Working When They Run Out of Power?

No, your electric bike will not stop working when it runs out of battery power. Unless you’re riding an electric motorbike, which is more similar to a motorcycle or scooter than a conventional bicycle, you’ll still be able to use your e-bike when the battery runs out of power.

After all, nearly all electric bikes have pedals, and these pedals function normally, with or without battery power. That said, depending on the size and weight of your e-bike, pedaling it home after it has run out of power can be challenging.

Therefore, it’s crucial to ensure that your bike’s battery is always properly charged. This means connecting your electric bike’s battery to a reliable and safe power source after each ride.

But what if your bike’s battery refuses to charge? Does that mean you need a new e-bike battery?

Do You Need to Replace an Electric Bike’s Battery?

Like car batteries, e-bike batteries eventually need to be replaced. Most electric bicycle batteries last between three and five years.

If your current e-bike battery no longer accepts a charge or runs out of power early on during your rides, you might need to replace it.

Of course, you might be able to extend your bike’s battery life to the maximum threshold by following a few maintenance tips and tricks.

How to Extend an E-Bike’s Battery Life

There are several ways to keep your electric bike’s battery in tip-top shape and ensure it holds its charge. Some of the best tips include:

• Don’t travel at top speed
• Utilize pedal assist modes
• Store your bike indoors
• Charge the battery after each ride
• Avoid exposing the battery to heat

Let’s explore these tips to ensure your e-bike’s battery enjoys a long lifespan!

Don’t Travel at Top Speed

Though you might want to crank your electric bike to its top speed while cruising around town, it’s often far wiser to only go as fast as you need to.

Keeping to a mid-range temperature (about 10 mph or 16kph for most e-bikes) helps reduce the power you use during each ride. It can also ensure you have plenty of battery power to overcome steep inclines or transport heavy groceries home.

If your chosen electric bike doesn’t have a display screen that shows your current speed, you might want to add one to your bike. Some e-bike brands sell optional display screens as accessories, but you could also choose a widely compatible option that suits most models.

The HUDAMZKY Ebike LCD Display Mini Meter is a worthwhile option for those without built-in display screens. It’s compatible with 24V to 52V bikes and clips directly onto your bike handle for convenient reading. In addition to displaying your e-bike’s speed, this device can also help you adjust your speed settings!

Utilize Pedal Assist Modes

Another fantastic way to extend your electric bike’s battery life is to utilize its pedal assist modes. These modes add extra power to your pedaling, reducing the strain on the battery while still helping you get to your destination without expending much effort.

Some e-bikes are either zero-power or throttle-only, meaning they lack a pedal assist mode. If this applies to your electric bicycle, you’ll want to keep a close eye on your average speed and try to pedal instead of using the throttle (whenever possible).

Ensuring you charge your battery after each ride is also a fantastic way to extend your bike’s battery life.

Charge the Battery After Each Ride

Each time you return home after riding your e-bike, you should immediately roll into a cool indoor area and charge the battery.

If you enjoy short-range rides, you might be tempted to neglect post-ride charges, as your battery might still have plenty of power. But getting into the habit of charging your electric bike battery each time you’ve finished riding is an excellent way to avoid fully depleting your battery.

A fully depleted lithium bike battery can struggle to receive a charge. If you accidentally let your e-bike’s battery die multiple times, it might only function at a fraction of its original capacity.

Avoid Exposing the Battery to Heat

Like electric vehicles (EVs), most electric bikes use lithium batteries to power their motors. These batteries are long-lasting and easy to charge using electrical outlets. But they are sensitive to high-heat conditions.

Now, it might not always be possible to avoid exposing your bike’s battery to heat, especially when riding during the summertime. But keeping your bike indoors, preferably in an air-conditioned space, can help negate damage caused while riding outdoors on a hot day.

After all, when a lithium battery is exposed to high-heat conditions of 122°F (50°C) for hours at a time, it can begin to develop internal signs of damage.

These damages can result in a lower battery capacity, meaning that each subsequent charge will produce less power. Over time, your e-bike’s battery might even refuse to accept any charge, necessitating a full replacement.

Final Thoughts

When an electric bike runs out of battery, you’ll still be able to pedal it to get it moving again. However, you won’t be able to utilize the electric power via pedal assist or throttle-only modes.

If you’ve noticed that your e-bike’s battery isn’t providing as much power as it once did or fails to accept a charge, you likely need to replace it.

To help your electric bicycle’s battery last longer, keep it away from high-heat areas. You might also want to charge the battery after each ride and avoid riding at the bike’s top speed.

Jason Hawkley is a biking enthusiast, which is a nice way of saying he’s a total nerd when it comes to bikes. One day while mountain biking through the woods in New Hampshire, the idea came him to create Our Streets as a way to share his biking passion with you.