As our customer support receives many questions about e-bike batteries, we decided to share some essential tips on how to properly care for your electric bike battery. We’ve already published several articles on related topics: battery testing, a beginner's guide, and how to increase your e-bike speed.

How to Charge an E-Bike Battery

When you're buying a new electric bike, one of the first things you might wonder is how to charge the battery. The process is straightforward: start by removing the battery pack from your e-bike, then make sure the switch is turned off. Place the charger on the battery and plug it in. According to best practices, lithium-ion batteries—common in today’s fast-growing e-bike market—can be safely charged before reaching full capacity. Charging typically happens in two cycles, with the first cycle filling the battery up to 80-90% quickly. So even if you unplug it early, your battery will still be mostly charged.

Some customers also ask if the battery can be replaced. The answer is yes—it can be replaced at any time without affecting the bike’s performance.

How Long Does It Take to Charge an E-Bike?

Most e-bike chargers have an LED light that turns green when the battery is fully charged. The charging time depends on the battery size, but it usually takes between 2 to 6 hours to reach 100%. For example, if your e-bike has a 40-mile range and charges in 2 hours, that means it gains about 20 miles per hour of charging.

Can You Charge While Pedaling?

Some e-bikes come with regenerative braking or energy recovery systems that allow you to recharge the battery while riding. This feature can add up to 5–10% of extra range, but it may also make pedaling slightly harder. Also, this option can increase the cost of the bike. If you're unsure about your battery life, it's better to avoid relying on this feature during long rides.

Top Tips for Charging Your E-Bike Battery at Home

Here are the key steps to take care of your e-bike battery and ensure it lasts longer:

1. Charge your e-bike regularly. Even if you're not planning to use it for a while, it's important to maintain the battery. Unlike traditional bikes, e-bikes require more attention during storage. Try not to leave them unused for too long. Before storing your e-bike, clean it thoroughly, charge the battery, and store it in a safe place. These steps help maintain its performance over time.
2. Avoid extreme temperatures. When you first get a new e-bike, charge the battery fully within 12 hours. This helps activate all the cells. Lithium-ion batteries perform best in moderate temperatures. Avoid charging in very cold or hot conditions, as both can damage the battery. In winter, bring the battery indoors before charging to prevent electrolyte breakdown.
3. Don’t overcharge the battery. Leaving it on the charger for days can cause unnecessary wear. Overcharging can reduce battery life over time. Use a timer on your phone to remind you to remove the battery once it's fully charged.
4. Charge your new battery for 12 hours initially. This ensures the battery is properly conditioned and ready for use.
5. Never store a completely empty battery. If you need to leave your e-bike for a while, keep the battery at around 40–70% charge. Storing it fully discharged can significantly reduce its lifespan.

Remember, proper storage is crucial for battery health. Most e-bike batteries come with a 3-year warranty, which typically covers at least 70% of their original capacity. At Delfast, we offer a 2-year warranty on the battery and a lifetime warranty on the frame. We also provide various payment options to make purchasing easier and more convenient for customers worldwide. Contact our team for more details on our products and services at Delfast website.