Understanding and Maximizing Electric Bike Battery Range
Electric bikes can travel 20 to 100+ miles on a fully charged battery. That’s obviously a pretty wide range, so how do you know just how far you’ll be able to go?
The range depends on a number of factors. The main things to consider are the battery capacity, the level of pedal-assist you’ll be using, and motor efficiency.
Capacity
Range Boost adds a second battery to compatible Trek e-bikes to significantly extend your range.
Naturally, the more battery capacity, the more juice, and the farther you’ll be able to go.
For ultimate mileage, there are even e-bikes that can accommodate an additional battery which can double your range in the right conditions. For example, Range Boost (left) seamlessly attaches an extra 500 WH battery to compatible Trek e-bike models.
It’s important to note that the more pedal-assist you utilize, the faster the battery will drain. So, if you’re looking to extend your range, be mindful of what mode you’re in and use only what you really need. Save the higher levels of assist to keep a smile on your face during the climbs, and bump down to a lower level for the flat stretches.
A state-of-the-art pedal-assist motor will make the most out of those pedal strokes, no matter what mode you’re traveling in. Bosch has led the world in motor (and battery) innovation for decades, and their drive systems power the majority of the Trek and Electra electric bikes we carry.
There are several other factors to take into consideration when trying to maximize your e-bike battery range.
Some factors may be out of your control, like weather conditions and the terrain you’re riding. If you choose to ride on a windy and/or cold day, be aware that your range may be reduced. Likewise, if you choose a ride on especially rough terrain with a lot of climbing, your range will be affected as well.
Other factors that you DO have control over are cadence, weight, bike set up, and battery care.
A state-of-the-art pedal-assist motor will make the most out of your pedal strokes, especially as you find a nice, balanced cadence.
Cadence
Finding a nice, balanced cadence is something you may have to play around with, but finding that sweet spot will go a long way in extending your range. (Pun TOTALLY intended.)
Keep in mind that the motor will have to work harder the slower you pedal. Shift into a lighter gear from the start and of course on the climbs. Getting your cadence to about 50-80 rpm is optimal. You should be doing more work, but obviously find a balance that doesn’t do you in. It’s supposed to be fun, right?! As your speed builds, you can shift up to a higher gear, but keep that high cadence nice and steady.
Weight
How much weight your motor is working for makes a huge difference as well. You may not have control over rider weight; if you’re packing a few extra pounds, just keep riding your bike and as the weight slowly but surely comes off, you’re sure to notice your battery range is lengthening.
The weight you CAN control is how heavy your pack and other cargo are. Don’t skimp on carrying the essentials and anything that will make your ride safer and more comfortable. Certainly DO use your bike to haul as much stuff as possible — nothing better than kissing your car goodbye. But do keep in mind that the more you carry, the less miles you’ll get on a charge, so plan your trips accordingly.
Bike set up
For eMTBs, bike set up is key, as well, particularly when it comes to your tires (especially the rear) and tire pressure. Of course, you’ll want to match up your tires and pressure to trail conditions, but you’ll certainly get more miles out of your battery running a 29er XC over a beefy 27.5" tire.
Suspension pressure and settings can affect range, too. Pay attention to how your range varies based on the terrain you’re riding and how aggressively you’re getting after it.
Trek’s Removable Integrated Battery (RIB) system makes it very convenient to charge and store your e-bike battery.
Proper care
Lastly, proper battery care is crucial to extending range as well as the life of the battery. Be sure to check the charging, storing, and cleaning protocol for the specific brand and model of your battery.
Most of the e-bike models we carry are equipped with state-of-the-art Bosch batteries which are exceptionally efficient and durable.
Bosch recommends charging and storing at room temperature in a dry location where a smoke detector is installed. Get the full scoop on caring for your Bosch battery here.
Calculate your range
To help you plan your rides, use Bosch's range assistant tool to calculate the approximate range.
You’ll input info about the rider (weight and cadence), the e-bike (style, drive, shifting system, battery, and tires) and the environment (terrain, surface, wind conditions, temperature), as well as anticipated riding mode(s), speed, effort, and frequency of start-ups.
To learn more about the technology that makes riding a bike so much more fun and accessible, read our blog post Understanding E-Bike Tech: Motors and Batteries.