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Ebike Batteries: Power options and Care Tips

October 5, 2015 by dWPKhjH4PWVUtQZ

The ebike battery is what determines the cost, weight and range of an electric bike. Because of this it’s important that you learn about the various types of batteries and how they can change your entire riding experience. Currently, there are four types of batteries that are suitable for electric bikes. These choices include: lithium ion, ithium polymer, NiCad and NiMH. Learning how these batteries work and how to care for them can provide you with a more dependable battery and save you from having to replace your battery more than once a year.

Ebike Battery Basics: Options and Power

For many years, lead acid batteries were the standard power supply for electric vehicles, because they’re low cost. Approximately seventy percent of all electric bikes sold all over the world still use this type of battery pack. But because these batteries are very heavy, causing the ebike to go slower and in turn decreases the range per charge, they are slowly being phased out. While these batteries are the least expensive, they are also the heaviest.

NiCad is a type of battery that has a reputation for a good cycle life and are commonly used in a variety of cordless tools and certain toys that require a large current. However, for ebikes, they have been replaced by lithium or NiMH batteries because they don’t pack the type of power needed for longer commutes.  Also a heavier battery, they’re still a better option than lead.

NiMH batteries are smaller than NiCads, but they feature much higher energy density and are better for the environment. They’re also the go-to battery type for digital cameras. This type of ebike battery is approximately twenty percent lighter than NiCads and features similar charge and discharge characteristics.

Electronics that feature plug-in chargers are typically powered with lithium batteries. Lithium batteries have the ability to store around three times the energy of NiCads and NiMhs.

Lithium polymer, also referred to as LiPo, is considered the lightest battery option. The cells in this type of battery are able to handle impressively high discharge currents and because of this they are often found in electric remote control cars and airplanes.

ebike conversion kit price

Lithium manganese are the most common type of lithium batteries used in ebikes, but they’re heavier than LiPos, however, they are also much safer.

The battery packs used in electric bikes are made up of individual cells that connect to each other.  As current is drawn from these packs, voltage slowly decreases until the cells eventually go flat. The amount of time an ebike battery lasts depends on its amp hours. A battery that can deliver an amp four one hour means it features a 1AH capacity. Most ebike models feature battery packs that offer about ten amp hours.

Replacing your Electric Bike Battery

Batteries don’t last forever, so there will come a time when you need to replace your ebike battery. Most people can tell when their battery needs to be replaced because there’s a significant difference in the type of mileage they’re getting, even when the battery has been fully charged.

If you own a factory made ebike, then you should purchase the same type of battery used in that model. Often, manufacturers will include an extra battery pack as part of the electric bike package. If you have trouble locating the same type of battery, contact the manufacturer.

You should also use the same type of battery that comes in an electric bike conversion kit. However, if the manufacturer has gone out of business, then finding the exact type of battery you need can be challenging.

We recommend using the same type of battery as the manufacturer because some companies will void an ebike warranty if you use an unapproved replacement. So before you decide to try out a different type of battery be sure to check the warranty. Some cyclists will choose to upgrade their battery from a NiCad to a lithium because it provides a longer charge and is much lighter, however, strict warranties will not cover the cost of repairs if they discover you have been using the wrong type of battery. If you’ve decided to upgrade and use a different type of battery you first need to ensure that it’s compatible with your bike.

Tips that can extend the Life of Your Electric Bike Battery

Once you have purchased an electric bike, it’s important that you follow these necessary steps to ensure that your ebike is running at its best and this includes proper battery care. Caring for your battery the right way will extend battery life while boosting the speed and power of your ebike.

Before you take your bike out on the road thoroughly read the user’s manual. That’s where you’ll find important information regarding bike and battery care and how to contact the manufacturer should you need replacement parts or repairs.

When charging your bike, never use an unapproved charger. Only use the charger that’s been supplied by the manufacturer. Using the wrong type of charger may affect your mileage and can even result in an explosion or fire.

electric bike lithium ion battery pack

Always wait to charge your bike until it’s out of juice. Some batteries suffer from what is called memory discharge. This occurs when the user recharges the electric bike before the battery is out of juice and results in only partial charges. This is a defect that is not very common among the types of ebike batteries used today.

Very cold or hot temperatures can negatively affect battery performance and can even shorten its lifespan. Instead of charging your bike outdoors, charge it in a room with regulated temperatures. The battery should never be exposed to temperatures that are hotter than 104 degrees.

If you don’t ride your ebike year-round, then you should store your battery with a full charge. After a few months check the battery and recharge if necessary.

Store your electric bike, the battery and charger in a warm, dry location. Avoid humidity at all costs.

Following these ebike battery tips can extend battery life and allow you to enjoy longer rides or daily commutes reliably.

Filed Under: Uncategorized

Electric Bike Conversion Kits Versus Factory Made Ebikes

October 5, 2015 by dWPKhjH4PWVUtQZ

Riding a bike is cheap, convenient and economical and it can save you hundreds of dollars a year on gas and routine car maintenance. But bikes may not be a good choice for individuals with arthritis, past injuries or the elderly because they can be hard to use on tougher terrain. The invention of the electric bike has changed all of that and allows individuals of all fitness levels and ages to enjoy a bike ride around town like never before.

In recent years factory made ebikes and electric bike conversion kits have gained popularity as an economic way to get around town and get in shape. There are a number of differences between a conversion and a factory made model, including cost, engine type and mileage. Learning about these differences will allow you to determine which type of Ebike is right for you, your family and your budget.

Electric Bike Conversion Kits: Motors and Modes for the Toughest and Best Ebikes

If you are considering turning your traditional bike into an ebike, there are a few things to consider, such as how much weight are you willing to add to your bike, how far do you want to travel per charge, are you able to install the conversion kit yourself or will you need to hire someone to do it, and of course, how much money can you spend on this conversion? Most kits will feature a couple of different riding modes: manual and full throttle. The manual mode turns the ebike into a traditional bike, while full throttle allows the motor to completely take over. Some kits will also include the pedal assist mode, which kicks on to assist the cyclist during hilly terrain.

There are several types of conversion kits to choose from, each of which is based on motor type and how the motor is mounted. These choices include front hub motors, rear hub motors, geared drive to rear wheel and geared drive to pedal crank.

The front in hub motor electric bike conversion kits are pretty straightforward are easier to install and will fit most types of bikes.

ebike kit

The rear in hub motor features a more complicated installation process and can add too much weight to a bike’s rear wheel, but they offer better up-hill traction than the front in hub kits.

The geared drive rear wheel kits provide better mileage and may require the purchase of extra parts during installation, but overall they’re usually one of the more affordable types of conversion kits for ebikes. This type of kit is bolted to the bike’s frame above the back axle and can require professional installation.

The geared drive to pedal crank kit features a motor that’s bolted to the frame, near the pedal cranks. Because the motor drives through the gears the cyclist can ride up even the steepest hill with ease. Because this type of setup requires plenty of additional parts and engineering know-how, professional installation is usually recommended.

The cost of a conversion kit can vary depending on manufacturer, motor type and mount, battery and the extra components included in the package. You can expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $2000.

Before you buy, consider what you intend to use your electric bike for and what your needs are in terms of power, speed and range. If you want an electric bike as a daily commuter for a route that features mainly flat terrain, then choosing a kit with a smaller motor will be perfect and more cost effective. The rougher the terrain the more energy a bike will use, which in turn will minimize your bike mileage per charge. Other factors such as the weight of the rider and weather will also affect mileage. Usually, an electric bike can get up to twelve to fourteen miles per hour with ten to thirty miles per charge.

Factory Made Ebikes: Ready Right out of the Box

A factory electric bike comes with the entire ebike setup and is basically ready to ride straight out of the box. Usually, this type of bike assembly can be completed in ten to fifteen minutes, making it a great option for individuals who have no prior experience with bike assembly.

A factory made ebike is equipped with an electric motor that starts up automatically once the cyclist starts pedaling. Most models will utilize lithium ion batteries because they provide the best charge and are lightweight and relatively maintenance free. They can also recharge within two to three hours.

ebike kit

A factory made model will include the same components as a conversion kit, however, they’re usually more affordable than a kit and feature a price that ranges from $200 to $1,200, depending on manufacturer. They can also offer more riding modes including pedal assist, full assist and manual. Manual simply means that the motor is switched off so that the bike works like a traditional model. Pedal assist will help the cyclist during a more strenuous ride and still allows them to burn calories. Full assist allows the motor to take full control of the ride.

Electric bikes are different than a traditional bike in a couple of big ways: they’re much heavier which means they can cause a lot of damage if you crash or hit a pedestrian and they’re also much faster than a regular bike.

Do I Need a License and Insurance to Ride my Electric Bike?

Most states will not require an ebike rider to own a license in order to legally pedal around town, as long as the motor is under 750 watts and doesn’t go above twenty miles per hour. Each state will set their own ebike laws, which can include a minimum motor wattage and age of the rider. On a ride, an ebike rider must adhere to the rules of the road and any additional laws that surround ebikes specifically, including helmet laws. Insurance is not required in order to ride an electric bike, but because most models are pretty expensive, we recommend purchasing insurance against theft.

Filed Under: Uncategorized

Watseka XP Cargo Ebike

October 5, 2015 by dWPKhjH4PWVUtQZ

This Watseka XP cargo ebike review explores all of the fun and surprising features that allow the cyclist to truly enjoy getting into shape. Most people can recall when they learned to ride a bike and the joy and sense of freedom it offered. With the wind in your hair and power in your legs you were able to jet around your neighborhood for hours at a time. Watseka has recreated the traditional bike and improved it, allowing us grown-ups to recapture that time in style and with a whole new sense of power. The XP Cargo electric bike is a hybrid that combines a manual pedaling feature with an electric motor, allowing you to enjoy the best of both worlds and get fit while you’re at it.

Watseka is a company that features an extensive line of ebikes and electric bike products. This Watseka XP Cargo electric bike review will discuss what makes this model one of the best ebikes on the market and why you’ll want to order one by the end of this article.

Watseka XP Cargo Ebike Review: Features and Specs

Watseka XP Cargo-Electric Bicycle picThe frame of the XP is made from steel as opposed to aluminum, which is the metal of choice for many manufacturers. But while an aluminum frame bike can offer you faster speeds and easier portability, this all-steel frame provides durability and longevity, especially if you end up wiping out. After you crash an aluminum bike, it could be several weeks before you’re able to get back in the saddle because that type of bike is so delicate. With an all-steel frame you no longer have to worry because it can handle a crash like a champ.

This model is a one size fits all, which is perfect for families or couples who want to get fit together. Now, there’s no need to spend countless hours online researching a specific electronic bike for each member of the family. The frame features telescopic front fork suspension with seat springs, a low step frame design for shorter riders and adjustable height for both the seat and handlebars.

For the XP there are three different riding modes: pedal assist, manual and throttle. With pedal assist the motor will help you to handle some of the more challenging types of terrain and you’ll still burn some calories. The throttle feature is designed to completely takeover, which can definitely come in handy if you’re using your ebike as a daily commuter and don’t have the energy to make it all the way home. The manual feature allows the cyclist to handle all the heavy work, turning this electric bike into a traditional one. This model comes with two ignition keys, so you’ll always have a spare.

The Cargo is powered with a brushless 250 watt motor that utilizes a 36V 9 AH battery pack. The battery pack can only be removed by using the ignition key, so you’re always protected against theft. The seat is designed with the easy tilt feature for easy battery removal and it’s a feature that’s not available for the standard ebike. However, if you don’t want to deal with removing the battery to charge, you don’t have to, simply plug the charger into the battery while it remains cradled under the seat.

Speed and Safety Features for the XP: Ultimate Speed

This is a fast model for its size and it’s able to reach speeds of up to fourteen miles per hour. This can vary depending on your route. If your ride is very challenging or it’s a windy day you may go slower, with an average of about twelve miles per hour. The weight of the rider can also affect how fast this bike can go.

This ebike weighs in at just over seventy-two pounds, with a total shipping weight of about ninety pounds.

Assembly is pretty easy, even if you’ve never put a bike together before. Should you run into issues during this process you can check out the free instructional videos on the manufacturer’s website.

For added protection, each model features a serial number that’s been stamped into the frame. We recommend writing this number down. In the event of theft this is the number that is used to track down and identify your bike, preventing thieves from selling it.

The XP Cargo ebike has a weight limit of three-hundred pounds and an adjustable seat height that ranges from thirty-two to thirty-seven inches.

Consumer Feedback for the XP Cargo by Watseka

Pros: This model, like other high quality ebikes, offers the user the type of versatility that’s needed in order to enjoy their biking experience. Because this model is equipped with three different biking modes, the user has the option to use assistance with pedaling or go full throttle and relax, if they’re low on energy. Consumers noted that all modes worked well and the bike was able to easily handle large hills and bumpy terrain. The ignition keys were a big selling point for this model because it adds much needed protection for a bike of this quality. The versatility for frame size was another huge selling point and made it much easier for consumers to choose a bike that provided the right fit.

Cons: There wasn’t much negative feedback for this model. One consumer noted that this bike should utilize a lithium battery for more power and further biking range. However, the user can easily upgrade their battery by purchasing a lithium ion model at their local bike supply shop.

Conclusion and Consumer Rating for the Electric Bike by Watseka: Final Say

With a model that has plenty to offer, you’ll be hard pressed to find any complaints after you take the XP Cargo out for a spin. Consumers gave this model an impressive rating of four and a half out of five stars for ease of use, power, versatility and pricing. You can find this model on Amazon for a price of just $599.99.

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Cyclamatic Bicycle Electric Foldaway Bike

October 5, 2015 by dWPKhjH4PWVUtQZ

The Cyclamatic foldaway electric bike review will give explore and discuss the innovative features and specs that this model has to offer.  There are some people who have never heard of or even seen an ebike, let alone a folding E bike. But these diverse bikes have a lot to offer and consist of the perfect blend of human power operated and electric power. The folding electric bike consists of a modified frame and pedals and includes an electric motor. These bikes allow the rider to switch between modes: manual, assisted pedaling or full throttle.

The best folding bike will run on a rechargeable lithium ion battery. The range of these batteries will vary from manufacturer to manufacturer. Commonly, the range is about twenty to thirty miles per charge. An ebike works very similar to an electric scooter. You don’t have to pedal the entire time to operate this type of bike, simply allow the engine to do all the hard work. This is perfect for longer commutes or strenuous uphill rides.

Cyclamatic Folding Electric Bike Review: A Taste of Convenience

Cyclamatic Bicycle Electric Foldaway Bike picThis Cyclamatic electric foldaway bike is powered with a lithium ion battery and offers the fully powered bike mode, assistance mode and the pedal powered bike mode. To use the assistance mode, simply initiate pedal motion. This will propel the rider with more speed and less effort when pedaling. The manual pedal mode gives the user total control over pedaling for part or all of their commute. Using this feature turns the foldaway ebike into a traditional model and can give you a pretty impressive workout.

This model folds up easily, making it a great option for cyclists who are short on space at home, or need to safely store their bike easily at their place of employment. The folding for this model occurs at the mid-point on the crossbar and handlebar stem and is equipped with a quick release lock system, which makes it easy to unfold or fold up.

The electric bike’s seat features a tilt and lock feature that allows you to remove the battery easily. The brushed motor is 250 watts. With this type of power the cyclist can travel up to thirteen miles per hour. This is a low maintenance motor that’s built to last and simple to maintain. On smoother roads consumers have reported getting up to as much as twenty miles per hour.

Weighing in at just fifty-one pounds, the foldaway Cyclamatic comes with a one year full warranty that covers defects in workmanship or manufacturing.

Utilizing a lithium ion battery, this ebike features the upgraded 10 AH twenty-four volt battery which is said to be much more reliable and powerful with a lower rate of self-discharge. The battery range for the foldable ebike is approximately twenty miles. However, certain factors such as terrain type and wind resistance can improve or decrease mileage capabilities. This battery will also never suffer from memory effect, which is often seen with rechargeable batteries. Memory effect occurs when the battery is repeatedly charged before all of the power has been fully discharged. This causes the battery to only recall the lower capacity of power and will usually fail to fully charge your device. The type of newer battery on this Cyclamatic ebike guards against this issue and is also friendlier to the environment.

This model features Tourney SIS index gears, which have a reputation for never sticking and are much easier to shift. The gear’s twist shift acceleration will make it smoother for you to switch gears should you run into difficult terrain.

The features for this foldaway ebike include twenty inch wheels with stainless steel spokes, six gears, two Samson Champion tires, a polished lightweight aluminum frame, quick release battery and front wheel, spring loaded kickstand for easier use, V brakes on the front and rear, bell and reflectors, bound cables and mudguards for both tires.

Consumer Feedback for the Foldaway Cyclamatic Electric Bike

A sturdy foldable bike that’s packed with power and a ton of features, this is a model that includes both convenience and style. There were a number of reviews dedicated to this model, with most feedback being mainly positive.

Pros: A huge selling point is the fact that the bike can be easily folded and stored away until use. Often, individuals who commute to and from work find it incredibly difficult to store their bikes in the office, but this Cyclamatic model can solve that issue. The high quality brakes do exactly as promised and can stop short with some serious power. For an electric bike, this model is surprisingly light, but that doesn’t detract from the overall quality.

Cons: While the foldable ebike has a reputation for power, some consumers noted it was difficult to ride over loose dirt and sand. The battery power also struggled on more difficult terrain, providing an average of fifteen to seventeen miles per charge. Keep in mind when purchasing this type of bike, that they’re not like mountain bikes which are designed for off-roading. This type of ebike is perfect for handling cultivated terrain only.

Another consumer noted that a huge improvement for this model would be the addition of shock absorbers, which could help to improve the rider’s comfort during more strenuous rides. However, adding shocks to an electric model would significantly increase the bike’s weight, which in turn would minimize the bike’s mileage per charge.

Conclusion and Rating for the Cyclamatic Foldable Ebike

Cyclamatic is a company that’s gained quite the reputation in the biking world for quality bikes that last. Their innovative foldaway design for this ebike model is a true testament to their dedication towards continual improved convenience for the avid cyclist. A great space saving model and one that packs some serious power and impressive mileage for its size, this is a bike that can be relied on as a serious commuter or a bike you use around town. Consumers gave this model a rating of four out of five stars for ease of use, improved lithium battery, easy foldup and storage and the overall design. Currently, you can find this model on Amazon for a price of $899.99.

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Filed Under: Reviews

Cyclamatic Power Plus Electric Mountain Bike

October 5, 2015 by dWPKhjH4PWVUtQZ

This Cyclamatic Power Plus electric mountain bike review takes a closer look at what makes this one of the best electric mountain bikes on the market, the pros and cons for this model and what consumers had to say about their experience assembling, riding and using the Power Plus. This is a well-built and intuitive electric bike that’s designed for both newbies and pros.

Riding a bike can do wonders for your health and weight and can improve cardiovascular function, while also boosting your metabolism and toning your core and leg muscles. Just one to two hours of cycling a week can promote circulation, improve immune function and act as a mood elevator. Working a nine to five job makes it difficult to fit in a much needed workout. By switching to daily bike commutes to and from work you’re fitting in a workout twice a day, five days a week. The best ebike is just like a standard bike, only battery operated with a motor that either assists with pedaling or completely takes over the pedaling process while the user relaxes and takes in the scenery.

Now, more than ever before, biking is used as a means of transportation and way to stay fit for many individuals who are normally stuck behind a desk for eight to ten hours a day. Riding an ebike will give you the type of freedom you once enjoyed in your childhood, without the constraints of a car and the hassles that come with fighting traffic.

Cyclamatic Power Plus Ebike Review: Specs and Features

Cyclamatic Power Plus Electric Mountain Bike picElectric bikes are designed to make your ride more enjoyable. The bike’s electric motor switches on the moment the sensors detect pedaling. The motor’s job is to make pedaling much easier and smoother. Once the cyclist stops pedaling the motor will shut off instantly. This helps to conserve battery life.

The rider will have a few options to choose from when using this type of bike: full throttle, pedal assistance or manual. Using pedal assistance is definitely more energy efficient because the bike isn’t completely depending on the motor. Using this feature also takes some pressure off the cyclist, which is a big bonus for beginners who aren’t in the best shape. The full throttle mode gives the cyclist a total break and is a great option for longer commutes or uphill rides. The manual mode turns the ebike into a traditional bike.

Weighing in at just sixty pounds the Power Plus ebike is powered by a lithium ion battery and includes an extra rechargeable battery set. Equipped with a seventeen inch frame, this model is designed for riders that are five feet to six feet tall. The adjustable seat can raise up to forty-three inches from the ground. The stainless steel spokes and twenty-six inch wheels are at the top of their class when it comes to both speed and strength. The lithium ion battery is also pretty powerful and features a range of up to thirty miles per charge. Because the battery is fully seated, the bike is safe to ride in any type of weather, without the fear of damaging the battery. The gear system features 7 speed Shimano quick change gears.

This electric bicycle is equipped with two twenty-six inch stainless steel rims, Servo anti-cling brakes, an extra battery pack, water bottle, bell reflectors and rear and front mudguards. It’s also height adjustable, so you can make adjustments to the frame based on your height. The bike’s rims have a reputation for longevity, when compared to traditional rims. The Servo’s give the rider confidence that the Power Plus can easily stop in seconds, in any type of weather.

Consumer Feedback on the Ebiking Experience Using the Power Plus

When you open the box, the Power Plus comes in four parts: handle bars, frame and rear wheel, front tire and seat.  The user’s manual features easy to follow instructions that allow you to assemble the bike in just fifteen minutes.

For cyclists that have only ridden traditional bikes, it can take a ride or two to before you feel comfortable and confident on the ebike. Cyclamatic has also provided a one year warranty against any defects or issues that develop during normal wear and tear.
Consumer Feedback and Rating for the Power Plus

Pros: This model is truly a bike that will change the way you look and feel while increasing your stamina and providing you with the type of workouts you desperately need during a busy work week. Consumers were impressed with the bike’s thirty mile use per charge, the handling of the brakes and the overall durability of this model, which makes it a great investment.

Cons: Some cyclists noted that the bike can feel somewhat sluggish and heavy when you switch to the full manual mode, however, this is a common issue for new cyclists that will dissipate over time, once the rider adjusts to their new healthier lifestyle. Should you feel discomfort or muscle fatigue during your bike ride, simply switch to the full throttle mode and allow the bike to do all the work.

Conclusion and Rating for this Cyclamatic Electric Bicycle

Consumers gave the Power Plus a rating of five out of five stars, making it our top rated product. This is a great buy for any individual who is interested in stepping up their fitness level. Using your ebike as your go-to transportation will also save you hundreds of dollars a year that would otherwise be spent on gas, oil changes and other types of routine car maintenance and repairs.

Because this bike gives you the option of riding full throttle or riding in the traditional style, you can slowly and safely increase your endurance and stamina on your journey to get fit and make it in to work on time.  The manufacturer’s extensive warranty can provide potential buyers with confidence in this type of purchase and definitely provides them with some much needed peace of mind, should their model need basic repairs in the future. A safe and affordable option that will save you miles of wear and tear on your vehicle, this Cyclamatic electric bicycle is a great investment that can provide you with years of healthy living.  Currently, you can find this model on Amazon, priced at just $699.99.

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Filed Under: Reviews

Best Electric Bikes for Sale in 2015: Reviews and Comparisons

Best Electric Bikes for Sale in 2018: Ebike Reviews and Comparisons for top Models on the Market
Ebike Batteries: Power options and Care Tips

Ebike Batteries: Power options and Care Tips

Electric Bike Conversion Kits Versus Factory Made Ebikes

Electric Bike Conversion Kits Versus Factory Made Ebikes

Watseka XP Cargo Ebike

Watseka XP Cargo Ebike

Cyclamatic Bicycle Electric Foldaway Bike

Cyclamatic Bicycle Electric Foldaway Bike

Cyclamatic Power Plus Electric Mountain Bike

Cyclamatic Power Plus Electric Mountain Bike

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