If there's one advantage to our current crisis situation, it's spare time! Moments we would normally spend on commuting or hobbies, we can now spend on 'useful' things, such as the maintenance of your eBike! If it's parked for a while it can get covered with a layer of dust. Not using your bike also affects the battery capacity. EBike expert Bosch eBike Systems explains how to keep your eBike in good condition. Five handy tips for optimal and long-lasting cycling pleasure!

Tip 1: good storage is half the work

If the battery of your eBike is not used for a longer period of time, it is important to store it correctly. It is best to store your battery in a dry room, at a temperature between 15 and 20 degrees. Also protect it from direct sunlight and keep an eye on your current state of charge. Storing your battery completely full or empty is not recommended, because it will cause more wear and tear. The ideal charge level for longer storage times is around 30 to 60 percent. If your battery indicator shows two to three glowing LEDs, you're in the right place.   

Tip 2: keep it clean 

Clean your bike and battery. The first step in the cleaning process? Get your battery off your bike! Then clean it with a damp cloth and do not use any aggressive cleaning agents. Also give the plug terminals an occasional turn and grease them lightly with battery grease or technical vaseline. Do not use a jet of water or a high-pressure spray, as this could damage the electronic components. Some water in your battery holder? Don't panic: this will easily drain away so that the contacts can dry out. The contacts are provided with a layer that protects the surface against corrosion and wear and tear.

Tip 3: how to charge you battery

Before you go out again, of course, you want a full battery. It is best to charge the battery in a dry environment, at room temperature. Feel free to interrupt the charging process - no matter what many people think, it's not harmful to the battery. What can cause irreparable damage, however, is the use of a non-associated charger. Finally, make sure your charging area is equipped with a smoke detector. Safety first!

Tip 4: don't forget your eBike

Maybe after a few weeks your whole eBike could use a little cleaning. And anyway, it's not advisable to wait until dirt has settled. First remove your battery pack and displays from your bike - fixed displays are best covered with a cloth or foil. Now you can start polishing! There are special bike shampoos and maintenance products, but if you don't have them, you can also clean your eBike with normal soapy water or detergent. Make sure that, just as when cleaning your battery, you do not use any agents that are aggressive or degreasing. And a soft sponge or brush is your best friend! 

Tip 5: Lubricate!

After washing, carry out a brief check: is the battery plugged in correctly? Is the drive working properly and does the system respond well to button presses? If not, reconnect it properly. Check, check, double check, and is your bike clean again? Then all you have to do is lubricate your bike chain with a fresh layer of grease! Make sure that no lubricant gets onto the disc brake, and your gears should not get stuck. Spray where the chain runs free. Afterwards, remove any superfluous grease with a cloth or soft cloth.

Do you still have questions about your eBike battery or the maintenance of your eBike? Then take a look at the Bosch eBike Systems website.

Source: Bosch eBike Systems