Electric bikes are becoming a popular way to get around cheaply and more environmentally friendly. One of the concerns potential ebike riders have is how far they can ride before charging. They often ask the question, "Do electric bikes charge when you pedal?" This is a valid question, as, in theory, it is a possible solution to extending an ebike's range.
Answering The Question
Most ebikes do not charge while you pedal. So, to save your ebike's battery power, you need to put more effort into the pedals, reducing the strain on the motor and battery demand. By choosing a lower assistance level, your battery will last much longer.
Some ebikes have regenerative braking, a complex system that uses the energy generated by the brakes to charge the battery. This is only possible on ebikes with direct-drive hub motors. Most ebike manufacturers don't offer regenerative braking as it only gives you a small percentage of battery recharge.
Why Don't Ebikes Charge While You Pedal?
The motor on an electric bike requires a lot of power to recharge. The energy you produce while pedaling is minimal compared to the amount needed to recharge the battery. Fitting an ebike with a system that charges the battery while you pedal would be unrealistic in most cases or very expensive.
Ebike riders learn to manage their battery power by riding smoothly, pedaling more to relieve the strain on the motor, and choosing easier routes.
Charging An Electric Bike: How and Precautions
How to Charge an Electric Bike
It's easy to charge an ebike, but if you're new to them, don't just plug yours in and forget about it. Before you do anything with your ebike, it's essential that you read the instruction manual. It will tell you the proper way to charge your ebike and how to look after the battery to give it a long lifespan.
However, in general, to charge an ebike, all you need to do is plug the charger into your bike's charging port, then into the power outlet. Ensure the bike is turned off when charging. Most e-bikes take 3-8 hours for a full charge, but always check the manufacturer's guidelines, as this will depend on your charger and battery capacity.
Charging Precautions
Use the Correct Charger: Always use the charger provided by the manufacturer. If you choose a cheaper, aftermarket charger, you risk permanently damaging the battery or starting a fire.
Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Avoid extreme heat or cold. Environments that are too hot or cold can damage the battery, reducing its lifespan. So if you keep your ebike in a garage or shed, disconnect the battery and bring it inside. This is the same if you leave your ebike out in the sun all day while at work; don't let your battery cook.
Monitor Charging: Don't leave the battery charging unattended for long periods, as overcharging can also damage the battery. We recommend buying a timer that will cut the power when your battery has been charging for a few hours.
Regular Maintenance: Keep the battery clean and check for any damage regularly. Common issues lie with damaged or corroded terminals, which are often easy to fix. Also, check the battery mounting mechanism, as any faults could cause your battery to drop out of the frame.
Types of Electric Bikes: With and Without Pedals
Electric Bikes with Pedals
Ebikes with pedals are the most versatile type. They allow you to switch between pedal assist modes and a throttle mode. The pedal assist modes amplify your pedaling efforts with the electric motor. Alternatively, the throttle will enable you to ride without pedaling at all, like a scooter.
Additionally, you can ride an electric bike with pedals without motor assistance. This is an advantage when your battery power has run out.
Pros:
- More riding options
- Extended range with pedal-assist
- You can get home even with a dead battery
- Excellent for exercise
- You can use the throttle when you want to take it easy
Cons:
- More maintenance is required due to the drivetrain
- Slightly more expensive
- Electric Bikes without Pedals
- Electric bikes without pedals are suitable for those who want to ride without any effort at all. They rely entirely on the motor, so there is no other method of propulsion.
Electric Bikes without Pedals
Pros:
- Lightweight and compact
- Easy to use
- Fun
- Often very comfortable due to the seat design
Cons:
- Limited range
- No exercise benefit
- No alternative way of getting home if the battery dies
Fiido Electric Bikes with Pedals
Fiido D11
The Fiido D11 is a compact, foldable ebike perfect for urban commuting. Its stylish frame design gives it an elegant and modern look while providing portability and easy storage. Its 250W motor is powered by an 11.6Ah battery, offering a range of up to 62 miles/100km in pedal-assist mode.
Pros:
- Foldable and portable
- It looks great
- Decent range
Cons:
- Small wheels might not handle rough terrain well
Fiido T1 Pro
The Fiido T1 Pro is a rugged electric cargo bike with a powerful 750W motor and a 48V battery. It provides a range of up to 150 km and is perfect for hauling heavy loads, even uphill and on rough surfaces.
Pros:
- High power and long-range
- Suitable for light off-road use
- Great cargo-carrying capacity
- It can be used to replace car journeys
- Comfortable to ride
- 45kph top speed
Cons:
- Heavier and bulkier
Fiido L3 Long Range
The Fiido L3 Long Range has a 350W motor and a massive 23.2Ah / 1113.6Wh 48V battery, offering an impressive range of up to 125 miles (200 km). This ebike is ideal for long-distance commuting and days out. The L3 is also highly versatile, thanks to its folding frame, which features an adjustable seat post, making it suitable for riders of all heights.
Pros:
- Exceptional range
- Versatile
- Suitable for riders of all heights
- It's battery has a long lifespan
Cons:
- Small wheels may make rough surfaces uncomfortable to ride on
Do Electric Bikes Charge When You Pedal? - Answered!
Ebikes are rapidly becoming the future of urban transport, thanks to their eco-friendliness, versatility, and relatively low costs. Range will always be on the mind of an ebike rider, but while they don't charge while you pedal, you can extend your range in other ways.
Before you head to the electric bike shop, know what you want from your electric bike. By having a clear picture of how you'll use it, you can choose an ebike with a suitable battery life. Alternatively, check out the Fiido collection of ebikes to see what is available.
