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Knowing how to store your ebike is essential for its longevity. This is particularly important if winter is approaching, and you will not ride your bicycle for several months. Even the best ebikes need adequate storage so that they will work the way you want them to once spring comes around again. Whether you plan on storing e bike outside or keeping it in the garage or shed, here are a few tips to follow to ensure your bicycle remains viable.
Clean Your Bicycle Thoroughly
You should clean your bike frequently, but you definitely need to do it before storing ebike away for an extended period of time. The best way to clean your bike is with a damp cloth. Use gentle motions to wipe off the entire frame, making sure you eliminate any stubborn dirt clinging to the surface. You should use a light degreaser, such as diluted dish soap, and apply it to the chain. You can scrub away any remaining residue with a soft brush and then wash off the entire bike. You also need to make sure you lubricate the chain every time you wash it even if you are putting it in electric bicycle storage.
Washing your bike is particularly important to get rid of any remaining salt. If you ride your bike at all during the winter, then there is a chance salt can end up on your bike and corrode it. You should also apply a rust preventative, especially if you are storing it outside.
Store the Battery Partly Charged
For mens and womens ebikes, you need to make sure you care for the battery. Some ebikes have certain batteries that come with a lower voltage ideal for storage. You just need to apply it to that setting, and then you are good for the season. If you are unsure about your battery’s charge, then you should charge it to full capacity and then take it for a long bike ride. Your battery needs to have some charge left to continue being viable months from now.
Under no circumstances should you ever leave the battery on the charger for the entire season. Leaving it at 100% for an extended period of time will actually degrade the battery, and it will be less capable of holding a charge later.
Keep Your Bike in a Dry Area
Even if you have an electric bike that claims to be waterproof, you still need to keep it in an area that will not become moist. You want to keep it in a cool, dry location, such as a shed, garage or basement. You also want to make sure the battery is not exposed to extreme temperatures. It is ideal to keep your battery in a room that remains consistently at 68 degrees Fahrenheit.
Cover Your E-Bike
In the event you have no choice but to keep your bike outside, then you should invest in a high-quality bike cover. This is often the case for people who live in apartments or condos, and a good cover will protect your bike from the elements and help deter theft. You should take note of what kind of weather your city usually gets and what the cover will need to protect against. You want it to be safe from rain, dust and even sunlight.
Having an electric bike is great, but it is understandable if you do not need to use it all of the time. With proper storage techniques, you can be confident your bike will be ready to go when you need it again. You can find the ideal e-bike for your needs online, so start searching for something you will love riding around town.