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Electric bikes aren't that different to regular bikes when it comes to maintenance, but there are a few extra things you need to do to keep them working effectively.
Proper maintenance could save you money in the long run, too, by keeping the battery in good working order and avoiding costly repairs.
So whether you're commuting everyday or exploring the wilderness at the weekend, here are three essential tips to keep your e-bike running smoothly and safely.
E-bike maintenance - go straight to the full guide
The main difference between standard bike and e-bike maintenance is looking after the battery.
The motor is housed in a sealed unit, and tampering with it could void any warranty you have on your e-bike, so there's nothing you can or should need to do to maintain the motor.
However, not caring for the battery could see its capacity decrease much faster than it should, which could significantly reduce the range you get on a single charge.
It's one of the most expensive parts, too, so careful handling should mean you won't have to fork out for a replacement sooner than anticipated.
Most e-bikes use lithium-ion batteries, which inevitably deteriorate over time and lose their ability to hold charge, but one that's well looked after will last longer.
How to make your e-bike battery last:
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Water and electrics don't mix - so far, so obvious. But sometimes it's easy to overlook the simple things, and it's important to avoid getting the electrical components wet when cleaning your e-bike.
Here's how to protect your e-bike's electrical components during its scrub down:
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Keeping tyres at the correct pressure makes your ride smoother and reduces the chances of getting a puncture, so checking they're pumped up on any bike is time well spent.
But it's even more important on your e-bike, as low-pressure tyres will dramatically reduce the range it can achieve. This is because the motor has to use more power to propel a squishy tyre forwards.
It's harder to spot flat tyres on an e-bike as the motor will compensate for them to a degree, so it's important to make this check part of your routine.
Before setting off give your tyres a quick press. If there's a lot of give, use a pump to get your tyres to the correct pressure.
We recommend using a pump with a pressure gauge. Manufacturers put the details of the correct pressure range on the walls of the tyre, as seen in the image below.
Maintenance guide - get the full lowdown on how to look after your e-bike
Like a car needs a MOT, getting your e-bike serviced is a good way to make sure it keeps performing at its best - especially if you're less confident at tackling maintenance and repair jobs yourself.
Electric bikes don't need servicing any more or less frequently than a non-electric model. The main thing that affects how often you should get your e-bike checked over is how regularly you use it.
It's recommended you get your bike serviced once a year, but if you use the bike regularly - ie, for commuting to work - you may want to get it checked more frequently.
You can compare servicing prices and what's on offer at different UK bike retailers in our full maintenance guide.
E-bike buying guide - everything you need to know
Despite the extra maintenance steps and cost, electric bikes make even the steepest hills easier - while still elevating your heart rate and giving you a workout.
So if you're older, less fit or have a health condition that makes cycling on a regular bike difficult, an e-bike can be your entry to the sport - although bear in mind that they can be much heavier to carry than a standard bike.
Find out more in our video interview with ex-pro cyclist Sean Yates: