Checklist For An Easy Ebike Tune-Up For Spring
The best way to keep your ebike performing at top speed is to conduct an ebike tune-up regularly. The peak of spring is here, and if you haven’t dusted off that ebike sitting in the garage, now is the time! With longer days ahead and warmer weather, think about what you need to do before taking off for the season’s first ride. Going through an ebike tune-up checklist will prevent mishaps, ensuring your electric bike is in tip-top shape and running smoothly. Whether you DIY the ebike tune-up yourself or let an expert handle it, every cyclist should take a few simple tips to get their electric bike adventure-ready!
1. Clean Your Ebike
After your end-of-season ride from last year, your ebike might be covered in dirt and grime. Always start with a clean ebike. Removing residual mud and dust allows you to inspect any flaws thoroughly. A clean bike will also run better, and what better way to start the season than with a fresh, clean ride. To clean your ebike, begin by wiping down every inch of the ebike and brushing off any loose debris with a damp towel or toothbrush for hard-to-reach areas. Use a degreaser to remove buildup off the chain, chainrings, derailleur and cassette.
2. Check Your Brakes
The next important thing on the ebike tune-up checklist is the brakes. One of the essential parts of the ebike to check! Going full send is exciting for those thrill-seekers but can turn into a nightmare without breaks. The brake pads are rubberized pads located against the metal tire rim. Check for uneven wear and tear, and if they look worn out, they’ll need to be replaced.
3. Check Your Wheels and Tire Pressure
Just like your car tires, your ebike tires can get worn down. Check your tire treads for any tears, punctures, and smooth patches. Spin your rims and look for any loose parts, such as spokes. Pump them up according to the manufacturer’s recommendations if your tire is flat- usually marked on the tire. For ENVO ebikes minimum PSI is 30, maximum is 80 PSI. A good middle point is around 50 PSI.
The general rule of thumb is the lower the pressure, the:
- More comfortable
- More grip (on gravel, wet roads, etc.)
- More prone to pinch flats
- More rolling resistance and less efficient
- Faster tire wear
- Less sidewall support while cornering
Vice versa would apply to higher tire pressure.
4. Check The Drive Train (Gears, Chains, Pedals, and Cassette)
Next on the Ebike tune-up is the drive-train. This includes the gears, chains, pedals and cassette. Spin your rear wheel while shifting through the gears. Watch the chain, cassette, and derailleur for issues such as scraping or missing teeth. Poor shifting can signify a stretched chain and might need replacing. Riding with a stretched chain can wear out your chainrings and cassette, meaning you’ll need to replace those sooner than you have to. A good general rule of thumb is to replace your chain every 3000km or once a year. If you notice any issues, you’ll want to take it to a bike shop for repairs or if you’re nifty and have the parts, do it yourself.
5. Check And Charge Your Battery
If you haven’t used your ebike in a while, make sure your battery is fully charged. You can charge your ENVO battery on or off the ebike. A full charge will take 5 hours; four green lights will indicate a full charge.
6. Add Lubricant
Finally, on the ebike tune-up checklist is to apply oil lubricant to all moving parts. Coat the chain, chainring, crankset and front and rear wheel bearings. The lube protects the moving parts from wear and tear and keeps the systems running smoothly.
After giving your bike the TLC it needs, you’re good to take it out for a spin! Remember safety first, especially if you haven’t been on an ebike for a while. If you need help servicing your bike, contact us, and we’ll be glad to help!
