If you ride your bike regularly, you may need to take the battery out to charge it every 4 days or so. [2] X Research source
Many electric bikes will shut off automatically after a few minutes if you aren’t actively pedaling.
You can leave your bike in a garage or shed overnight, but only if it’s cool out and it won’t get too hot during the day. Lithium batteries can be a fire risk, but every type of battery can short or lose its charge when it gets too hot. [6] X Research source If you’re short on space, a vertical wall rack in your basement or living room will work just fine. [7] X Research source Keep the bike away from excess humidity, since moisture can cause the bike’s electrical components to corrode. [8] X Research source Store it away from any vents or windows where there might be a lot of condensation or humidity.
Removing the battery will prevent corrosion buildup on the battery terminals when you aren’t riding it. [10] X Research source
This will prolong the lifespan of the battery and keep it stable while you aren’t riding for a while. It’s not the end of the world if you don’t get the battery under the recommended range if you’re going to ride it relatively soon. If you’re storing the bike for more than a month, you definitely want to ride it for a little before storing it, though.
If you have a lead-acid battery, the refrigerator is actually the most ideal place for it. These batteries perform a lot better when they’re kept cold, but not freezing. [14] X Research source Never cover your battery and charger when you aren’t using them. If you put a rag over the battery, for instance, it may warm up a little and lose its charge. It could also be a fire hazard if your battery gets super hot. [15] X Research source
While your battery is unlikely to catch fire, it’s best to charge it on concrete surface just to be safe. Do not leave your battery unattended while it charges. You don’t need to charge the battery after every ride. A full battery will typically last 20–40 miles (32–64 km), so you may only need to charge it once a month depending on how often and how far you ride your bike. Never overcharge your battery. If you do charge it up to 100% for a long bike ride, unplug the charger as soon as your battery is topped off. Over-charging an ebike battery will drain the lifespan. [17] X Research source
Just as a reminder, you can store lead-acid batteries in the refrigerator to keep them cool. NIMH batteries aren’t especially common today, but they’re pretty similar to lead-acid. They tend to last a little longer than lead-acid, but you can’t store them in the fridge. Lead-acid batteries are generally considered the weakest option when it comes to long-lasting and consistent ebike performance. If you’re ever in the market for a new ebike, try to avoid lead-acid batteries.
Lithium batteries can be a fire risk if they get too hot, so do your best to keep these batteries cool. Never charge these batteries in an area where you can’t supervise them. If you can, keep them in a fireproof bag in a cool room.
The other upside here is that you can install the rack near your door so that you can grab the ebike right before you leave and hang it up as soon as you get home.
You can use any spare hooks to hang a spare tire, coat, or messenger bag.
Some freestanding racks have 2 sets of hooks to hang 2 bikes together.
Ebikes need to stay dry and cool. If your basement is especially humid or it tends to get hot in the summer, this isn’t a safe location for your investment. Some apartment buildings have a dedicated bike room. If you live in a large apartment building, ask your landlord if they have a good spot for your bike.
