How to Extend the Lifespan of Electric Bike Batteries and Optimize Your Purchase?

Electric bikes are a popular choice for budget-conscious commuters, but replacing batteries remains a significant expense. Learning how to extend the lifespan of batteries and make informed purchase decisions can save costs and enhance convenience. Below, we provide practical tips on battery usage, purchase criteria, liquid refilling techniques, and solutions for degraded batteries.

1. Proper Usage and Maintenance
   Accelerate Gradually to Avoid High Current Discharge
   Batteries discharge more efficiently at moderate speeds. Tests show that riding at 15 km/h allows a new battery to last for 60 km, whereas riding at 25 km/h reduces the range to 45 km.

Charge Promptly and Avoid Deep Discharge
Lead-acid batteries should be charged before the charge depletes completely to prevent sulfation of the plates, which reduces capacity.

Regularly Check and Refill Electrolytes
Low electrolyte levels can cause overheating and damage the battery plates. Regular inspection and refilling are crucial.

2. Tips for Selecting a Battery
   Choose Trusted Brands and Mature Technologies
   Pure lead-acid batteries offer reliable performance due to their well-established technology. Avoid experimental products like “silicone gel” batteries, which often suffer from insufficient capacity.

Opt for Maintenance-Friendly Designs
Batteries with removable lids and alignment slots make refilling easier. Avoid designs that use glued-on lids, as they are difficult to reseal after opening.

3. Correct Method for Refilling Electrolytes
   Determine the Right Time for Refilling
   For new batteries, the first refill should be 6-8 months after use, with subsequent refills every 4-5 months. In hot climates, shorten the intervals accordingly.

Use Original Manufacturer Acid Solution
Original acid solutions ensure stable battery performance. Request spare acid bottles when replacing batteries at service centers and store them safely.

Refilling Steps

Use a syringe to inject 5 mL of acid solution into each cell.
Let the battery sit and observe the electrolyte level. Add 3-5 mL more if the plates are not fully submerged.
For third and subsequent refills, use distilled water instead of acid to prevent over-concentration.

4. Handling Severely Degraded Batteries
   Assess Repair Viability
   Batteries older than two years are usually beyond repair and should be replaced. Batteries under 1.5 years old can be partially restored using the following method.

Flush and Refill

Remove the old liquid and flush the cells thoroughly to eliminate sediment.
Inject 5 mL of acid solution per cell and adjust the level as needed.
Test Restored Capacity
Treated batteries can regain up to double their previous capacity, achieving a range of 15 km, suitable for urban commuting, and extending usage by another 6-8 months.