For several years, driven by environmental considerations and some government aid, the practice of cycling has been (re)developing. The coronavirus crisis has further accelerated the trend. And more and more French people are turning to the electric bike. Here are some tips that will be very useful to those who wish to increase the autonomy of their battery.
You will also be interested
[EN VIDÉO] How to choose an electric bike? Electric-assisted bicycles (VAE) offer an alternative and ecological means of transport for short and medium distances. Price, autonomy, comfort of use, type of battery… Here are the criteria to take into account before a purchase.
Swallow the miles without getting too tired. This is the main advantage of electric bike. All of this, of course, while taking care of the planet. And even still a bit of his condition physical. A rise on the horizon? Children to transport? From joints a little painful? Nothing will stop you anymore. But to make the most of the possibilities offered by an electric bike, here are some tips to increase its autonomy.
Note above all that the range of an electric bike depends on a number of parameters. The intrinsic capacity of the battery, of course. But also the mode of assistance chosen. And we must not forget other almost equally important parameters such as the weight of the cyclist, the relief, the weather report – in particular the wind – or tire inflation.
Electric bike vs electric assist bike
Before discussing the tips that can help increase the range of an electric bike, it is worth remembering that an electrically assisted bicycle (VAE) – which stops as soon as you stop pedaling – benefits naturally with greater autonomy than a conventional electric bike. Because it is equipped with an intelligent motor whose power adapts to the way you pedal. While an electric bicycle battery can cover an average of around 40 to 50 kilometers, that of a VAE offers up to more than 150 kilometers of autonomy.
For a battery that lasts longer
It is first recommended tobuy with your bike, a quality battery. And to check that it has not been stored for several years in the store before being sold to you. Because a battery that is not used degrades. So in the same way, once the battery has been purchased, it must be used regularly to prevent it from wearing out too quickly. If you plan not to use your e-bike for more than two months – in winter, also remember to put the battery away from the cold – leave the battery about half charged. And remember to charge it a little regularly.
As for the battery of your smart phone, that of your electric bike does not like to stay plugged in once it is fully charged. She also doesn’t like load interruptions.
Adopt a smooth ride
As recommended for save fuel in car, it is also proposed to adopt a flexible ride to optimize the autonomy of your electric bike. A start – it is at this moment that the maximum ofenergy – gently then a speed as constant as possible. By choosing the driving mode best suited to your route. The turbo, for example, should be reserved for climbs and difficult terrain.
By pedaling harder at the right time – after a stop or on climbs – you will also reduce the level of assistance on your bike and thus increase the range of its battery. After all, if you ride a bike, it’s also to keep in shape, right?
And by regularly oiling your chain, your pedaling will be smoother and you will consume less energy.
Avoid anything that slows down the e-bike
The more your electric bike is charged, the more energy it will need to move forward and therefore the less its battery will last. Ditto if you ride with loose clothes that parachute and slow down the pace. Or, of course, if you ride too steep climbs. Or that your tires are poorly inflated.
Interested in what you just read?