Electric bikes have changed the lives of many Kiwis. For older Kiwis, the greatest impacts have been in the areas of:
- Health and wellbeing
- Socialising with friends and family – for example, riding with the grandkids
- Discovering parts of New Zealand they would otherwise never have seen
For younger Kiwis, electric bikes are replacing the car to travel to work, thus saving on fuel costs while also enjoying a healthier lifestyle.
Still, electric bikes in New Zealand are not an inexpensive investment, and many buyers want to know how long their electric motor will last in NZ, especially given the fact that the motor is one of the most expensive components of the bike. If you’re curious about options, take a look at our latest NZ e-bike range to see what’s available.
The Longevity of Electric Bike Motors
The motor, an essential component of an electric bike, outlasts many other parts. Here’s why: electric bike motors are quite simple technology, with few moving parts and little opportunity for things to fail.
Most electric bike motors are robust, typically surpassing 20,000 kms of usage. You will likely replace the brakes, chain, battery, and essentially everything else besides the frame before you have to replace the motor.
MeloYelo uses Bafang motors on its bikes because of their reputation for reliability. Based on data from Bafang users, customers typically get over 10 years of use without any issues.
Maintenance of Other Essential Components
While the motor enjoys longevity, other parts of your electric bike will require regular checks:
Battery
The lifeline of your electric bike offers up to 1,000 charge cycles, equating to about three to five years of use, depending on riding habits. A diminishing charge capacity signals that it’s time for a replacement.
Brakes
With a lifespan of about 5,000 to 10,000 kms, the durability of your brakes can vary based on riding conditions and style. Regular maintenance is crucial as effective braking is non-negotiable for safety.
Chains and Tyres
These components are subject to the most wear, generally lasting between 1,500 and 5,000 kms. Fortunately, they are also among the easiest and least expensive to replace. This can ensure your ride remains smooth and efficient.
Regular E-Bike Maintenance
Regular maintenance, along with high-quality parts, can extend the lifespan of your electric bike. It makes it a reliable and eco-friendly choice for commuting and leisure activities. To improve the performance of your e-bike, consider the following tips:
Regular inspections
Conduct periodic checks of all critical components. These components include the motor, battery, brakes, tyres, and chains. This will help you catch issues before they become major problems.
Proper Storage
Store your electric bike in a dry, safe environment. This will help you avoid exposure to extreme temperatures and moisture. This moisture can degrade batteries and other sensitive components.
Professional Servicing
Even if you’re handy with tools, it is essential to have some professional servicing. Having your e-bike serviced by a professional can ensure that more complex systems are maintained easily. Such systems include mid-drive motors and integrated braking systems. MeloYelo requires servicing at 6 months/500kms, 12 months/1000kms, and 24 months/2000kms – whichever comes first – in order to qualify for their industry-leading 3-year warranty.
Battery Care
To extend the life of your e-bike’s battery, avoid letting it completely discharge. Try to keep it charged between 20% and 80% as much as possible. Also, use only the charger provided by the manufacturer to prevent damage.
Conclusion
In short, proper maintenance of electric bike components is essential for hassle-free riding. It can enhance the overall value of your investment. With proper maintenance, an electric bike can serve as a durable, eco-friendly mode of transportation for years to come.
By opting for MeloYelo, you choose a brand that uses a New Zealand team with vast experience in ebikes, to select each and every component on the bikes, with reliability and performance as the primary considerations.
