There are potential issues with any type of bike, including portable electric bikes. Fortunately, each problem has a solution! In some cases, a quick fix on your e-bike can get you back on the road. Read on as we explore some common problems, and how you can solve these problems on your electric bike. You can start pedaling away in virtually no time!
Choosing The Right Bike For You
Before you worry about the problems that can occur when you are riding your electric bike, you should make sure you make the right choice of the bike in the first place. This can help you to avoid potential problems in the future.
Choose a bike that suits your frame. A men’s e-bike is a better choice for an adult man. These bikes cope well with bigger frames and heavier people. Finding a men’s electric bike for sale doesn’t mean you can’t use it if you are a woman. It is a guideline, taking into account average sizes.
If you are going to be riding the bike on the road a lot then you can buy a specific road bike, but if you are going on trails, buy an electric mountain bike. These are better at handling the mud and grit of off-roading.
Consider the battery range, too. If you are doing bicycle deliveries, you want a e-bike that can keep going through your long shift.
Why is My Electric Bike Not Working? Common Issues
There are certain common problems that are likely to crop up from time-to-time. Bikes need maintenance and sometimes repairs. Even the best portable electric bike will eventually need repairs.
Sensor Failure
Sensor failure is a common issue. Luckily it is easy to fix if you find that you are having issues with the sensor.
If your LCD appears to be working but the pedal and throttle don’t work, unplug the sensors. Check if the motor powers up again. If so, you can replace the sensor. If you’re not confident doing this, or your bike is still under warranty, you may be able to get a manufacturer fix.
Flat Batteries
If you get on your electric bike ready to cycle home after work and it doesn’t start, the battery could be the culprit.
In the best-case scenario, you will need to charge the battery. You should take a charger with you when you are spending a long time away from the house, or going for a long ride.
If you find your battery isn’t holding a charge, you can use a voltmeter to check if it is “healthy”. If you have a 36v battery, but the voltmeter reads 8v, it’s time to repair or replace the battery. Warranties cover this for a certain period of time.
The solution to battery problems is usually either recharging, repairing, or replacing.
Loose or Corroded Wires
The wiring system on an electric bike isn’t complex. However, it can be the root of some problems.
Wires carry the power and electric signals around the bike. All it takes is a loose wire and your battery or motor might stop working.
If this happens, the key is to work out where the loose wire is. If you are good with electronics you might be able to patch or replace a wire. If not, you can get the repair under warranty or take your bike to get repaired. These issues usually have an easy fix.
Although your bike’s wiring is not exposed, you are probably riding it in places where there are dirt and grit. You may also be out in the rain, which can contribute to corroding wires.
If your brakes aren’t working, this may also be due to corrosion.
Don’t take any chances with brakes or electrics, get them repaired professionally to ensure your safety.
Punctures
If you’re a seasoned cyclist then fixing punctures or even changing tires will be easy for you. For a lot of electric bikes, this isn’t required.
Many electric bikes have tubeless tires. They contain sealant, and when you get a small tear or puncture the sealant automatically finds and plugs the hole so that you can inflate the tire again and be on your way.
If the sealant doesn’t do the job, you can use a tire plug. These make the hole bigger and allow the sealant to properly fill the hole. Another solution is a vulcanized patch kit, which can go on the outside of the tire to plug the gap, at least until you get home or to a repair shop.
Transporting Your Bike
Electric bikes are heavier than their manual siblings. This doesn’t make it harder to ride the bike, because the motor helps you to generate power. When it comes to storing and moving the bike it can be a problem.
Usually, your bike provides its own transport. However, there are some times when you want to take it with you on a trip. You might have an electric mountain bike and want to take it. Maybe you want to drive to the train station and take the bike with you.
Accessories like bike racks for cars are very helpful. If you opt for a portable electric cycle for men or for women, it is probably already lightweight. Some of these bikes also fold up to fit in a smaller space like the trunk of a car.
To Sum Up
Portable bikes solve one of the biggest problems bike owners have; transport. It’s easier to take a portable bike like the Hollandia Folder 36V on public transport or your own vehicle. It folds to a smaller size and weighs just 46 lb. This means you can fit it in a luggage compartment and explore more of the world on your e-bike.
Electric bikes need some maintenance and odd repair, but this is true for every vehicle. Making the right choice of a portable and convenient bike is essential. The simple solutions in this guide can quickly fix any issues on the road (or trail) and leave you enjoying the power and convenience of your e-bike.
Explore our selection of portable lightweight electric bikes and find one that fits your needs: https://www.ebikejoy.com/collections/folding-electric-bikes