E-Bike Range Explained
Figuring out Electric Bike Range
The range of an electric bike is equal to how far you can ride on a single charge. The problem with these claims is no one will know the conditions you are riding under. It is nearly impossible for electric bike claims to be accurate. Below are some factors to consider.
- Weight of the rider
- The level of assistance one chooses
- Type of terrain
- Are you carrying backpacks, groceries ext
- How fast are you going (1/3 faster = 1/2 the range)
- How hard are you pedaling
- How many stop signs or pedestrians are you stopping for
- Is it windy
- Temperature (hot days will yield about 15% more range than cold weather)
- Tire pressure makes a difference
- What kind of battery
- How old is your battery
- Size of motor (bigger isn't always better)
- If your a hammerhead your range will decrease
Other things to consider
It goes without saying that most people just want max power, max power will get you off the line and up the hills quicker but doesn't always equate to more range. The most important thing to look at for range is the battery capacity.
Another way to look at a battery is picture it like the gas tank in your car, more gas, more range depending on how you drive.
The battery is typically measured in Watt hrs ( Wh = Amp hrs x Volts )
As an example: if you have a 46v 10ah battery that is = to 460 Wh
Watt hrs are important because they determine the range of your bike.
Here are some examples:
Rider A has a 24 volt 20 ah battery, that = 480 watt hrs
Rider B has a 48 volt 10 ah battery, that = 480 watt hrs
Rider C has a 24 volt 6ah battery, that = 144 watt hrs
Bike A and B have similar energy but that doesn't necessarily make them equal.
Bike B will have an advantage off the starting line and up the hills but that will come at the expense of energy. On the other end bike C will not take you as far.
So, if you want a bike that romps and are not concerned with mega distance go big or find a happy medium and go the distance.
