A good e-bike is an exciting and transformative investment. With this nifty bit of tech, you’ll be able to enjoy better commutes, longer rides and easier uphill climbs. But with that investment comes the issue of what to do with it once you’ve hopped off and unbuckled your helmet.
In this guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about storing your electric bike the right way, including the ideal storage location, maintaining the battery and checking the bike’s condition.
Choosing the Ideal Storage Location
- Protection from Weather: Exposure to extreme heat, cold, rain or humidity can cause long-term damage to the battery, frame and other electrical components. Therefore, a dry, temperature-controlled location is ideal.
- Security: E-bikes are valuable and leaving them exposed in an unsecured area increases the risk of theft. Always choose a storage space with a secure locking mechanism if possible.
- Space Consideration: Ensure the storage space offers enough room for easy access to the bike without causing any strain on its structure.
Indoor Storage Solutions
- Garages: Storing your e-bike in your garage is a good choice as it’s usually dry and secure. If you live in an area with cold winters, a garage will also offer shelter from lower temperatures.
- Basements: Basements can be an alternative, provided they’re not damp or prone to flooding. Make sure there’s good ventilation to prevent any moisture buildup.
- Dedicated Storage Rooms: If you live in an apartment or have a dedicated room in your house, a storage space specifically designated for your bike can keep it clean and safe.
Outdoor Storage Considerations
- Weather-Resistant Covers: Use high-quality, weather-resistant bike covers to protect the e-bike from rain, snow and UV damage.
- Secure Locking Mechanisms: Invest in a strong lock to protect against theft. A combination of a U-lock for the frame and a chain lock for the wheels is the most secure approach.
- Choose a Shaded Location: If possible, store your e-bike in a shaded area to protect it from direct sunlight, which can damage the battery and fade the bike’s paintwork.
Maintaining Optimal Battery Health During Storage
- Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Extreme temperatures can affect your battery’s performance. Ideally, keep the battery in a cool, dry and well-ventilated place, away from heat sources or damp conditions.
- Charge the Battery to 50-70%: For long-term storage, bike batteries should be stored with a charge level between 50-70%. This helps prevent the battery from discharging completely or overcharging, which can reduce its overall capacity.
- Remove the Battery for Extended Storage: If you're planning on storing your bike for an extended period (e.g., over the winter), remove the battery and store it separately in a cool, dry location.
Preparing Your E-Bike for Extended Periods of Inactivity
- Clean the Bike: Thoroughly clean your e-bike, paying close attention to the frame, tyres, chain and electrical components. Dirt, debris and grime can cause damage if left on the bike for long periods.
- Lubricate Moving Parts: Apply lubricant to the chain, gears and other moving parts to prevent rusting and create a smoother ride when you use the bike again.
- Check Tyre Pressure: Over time, tyres can lose air, causing them to become misshapen. Before storing, inflate your tires to the recommended pressure to prevent flat spots.
- Check Brakes: Make sure your brakes are in good condition and that the brake pads are properly adjusted. If necessary, replace or adjust them before storage.
Innovative Storage Solutions for Limited Spaces
- Wall Mounts: Wall-mounted racks are a popular option that allow you to store your e-bike vertically, saving floor space. These mounts are usually easy to install and keep the bike secure and accessible.
- Ceiling Hoists: Ceiling hoists are a great choice for small spaces, allowing you to lift your e-bike out of the way when you're not using it. They’re especially useful for garages or areas with limited floor space.
- Foldable Stands: If your e-bike is foldable, you can take advantage of foldable bike stands to store it compactly.
Safety Measures to Prevent Damage and Hazards
- Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Never store your e-bike in places with extreme temperatures, like attics or sheds. High heat or frosty conditions can cause the battery to degrade quickly and damage other parts.
- Keep Away from Flammable Materials: If you're storing the bike near chemicals, fuels or other flammable materials, make sure there’s enough distance to avoid any risk of fire.
- Stabilise the Bike: Check that the bike is positioned so that it won’t tip over and cause any damage.
Regular Maintenance Checks During Storage Periods
- Inspect the Battery: If you’ve removed the battery for storage, check it every couple of months to see if it’s still in good condition and not losing charge.
- Look for Signs of Rust or Damage: Inspect the frame, tyres and other metal components for signs of rust or damage. If you spot any, address it immediately before it worsens.
- Test the Brakes and Gears: Take a quick ride around the block or test the bike in your storage area to check that the brakes, gears and motor are still working correctly.
Recommissioning Your E-Bike After Storage
Once you’re ready to take your e-bike out of storage, follow this checklist to get it back in action:
- Reinstall the Battery: If you removed the battery, reinstall it, making sure it's properly connected and charged.
- Inflate the Tyres: Check and inflate the tyres to the recommended pressure before riding.
- Inspect the Bike: Check for any loose bolts, worn-out parts or damage that might have occurred during storage.
- Test the Motor and Brakes: Turn on the motor and test the brakes to make sure everything functions properly.
- Perform a Quick Ride: Take a short test ride to test if the bike is operating smoothly before you take it out onto the road.
Ready to Ride? Explore Our Range of High-Quality E-Bikes!
When you’re ready to get back on the road, explore our range of high-quality e-bikes designed for performance and durability. We've got a wide range of e-bikes from city commuters to rugged off-roaders.
