Your electric bike accompanies you on all terrains, but have you ever thanked it with proper maintenance? Here's how to take care of your ride so it stays in tip-top shape, season after season.

Why maintain your electric bike?

An electric bike is a great investment and an essential companion for exploring powerful and agile trails. However, its electronic components require regular maintenance to ensure longevity and efficiency. Neglecting maintenance can significantly reduce the lifespan of the battery and motor, two key components on which the range and performance of an electric bike depend.

Whether you're a casual cyclist or an avid off-roader, adopting good maintenance practices can maximize your riding enjoyment while protecting your equipment.

So learn how to protect your electric bike from damage over time, shocks and premature wear for more reliable and long-lasting adventures.

Cleaning Basics

When cleaning your e-bike, you need the right method to protect the electronic components. If used incorrectly, this can damage the e-bike's battery, motor, and sensors, reducing its range, power, and reliability.

Before you begin, you should remove the battery and make sure the power is off. This simple precaution will prevent water from entering the circuit and protect the connectors from oxidation. Avoid using a pressure washer, as the powerful jet can force moisture into the engine or cables, causing irreversible damage.

Once the electric bike is stationary, focus on degreasing the drivetrain ( chain , flywheel, derailleur), an essential step to remove dirt and abrasive residue that accelerate wear.

Then clean the frame and components with a mild, non-corrosive cleaner specifically designed for bicycles, so as not to damage the surfaces and materials.

Finally, rinse with lukewarm water to avoid leaving limescale marks, then carefully dry each component with a microfiber cloth, paying particular attention to hidden areas such as electrical connections.

Battery Maintenance

An e-bike battery is more than just a power reservoir; it's a strategic component that directly impacts your riding experience. Its range and longevity depend on careful maintenance, integrated smart charging practices, proper storage, and active monitoring. By following these steps, you can avoid costly expenses and enjoy reliable power, even for hundreds of kilometers.

Charge the battery correctly

You should avoid letting the battery discharge completely to 0% or leaving it at 100%. These habits can stress the battery and reduce its long-term capacity. A partial charge is recommended, ideally between 20% and 80%, to keep it chemically healthy.

Best storage method

If you don't plan on using your e-bike for a few weeks, such as for winter storage, don't store it with a fully charged or empty battery. A charge level between 40% and 60% is ideal to minimize battery degradation.

Store the battery in a dry, cool environment (10°C to 20°C), away from direct sunlight, radiators, or uninsulated garages. Repeated exposure to temperatures below 0°C or above 30°C may cause irreversible damage.

👉 For LANKELEISI electric mountain bikes with 48V lithium batteries, it is recommended not to go below 20% charge in order to preserve the life of the cells. Also remember to recharge every 2 months if you do not use it in winter.

Manipulation and monitoring

A well-maintained battery also requires regular inspection. Check its metal connectors for corrosion, dust, etc. If necessary, gently wipe with a dry cloth or soft brush. Also pay attention to its appearance: swelling, cracks, or fluid leaks are warning signs that it needs to be replaced immediately.

It's a good idea to get into the habit of checking your battery's remaining life and discharge rate every time you go out. A sudden drop in performance could indicate an unbalanced or prematurely aging battery, sometimes requiring calibration or professional intervention.

Transmission system maintenance

The transmission primarily transmits the engine's power to the rear wheels , and its proper condition determines smoothness, quietness, and efficiency. A poorly maintained chain, worn cassette, or dirty derailleur can reduce battery life, create unnecessary noise, or even cause derailment while climbing. To avoid these inconveniences, proper and regular maintenance is crucial.

Regular degreasing to remove dirt

Dirt, sand, and greasy residue can act as abrasives and accelerate wear on chain links and cassette teeth. Use a biodegradable degreaser that is less harsh on the environment and components, applying the product to a chain brush or cloth.

Pay special attention to critical areas such as derailleur sprockets and chain rollers. Then rinse with clean water and dry thoroughly to prevent corrosion.

Lubrication adapted to the terrain

Selecting the right lubricant is essential. In dry and dusty environments, choose a dry lubricant, such as wax or Teflon-based, which is less likely to attract dirt. On the other hand, wet lubricant is preferred in wet or muddy conditions because it is more resistant to washing.

Apply lubricant to the moving chain and wipe off any excess to prevent dust buildup. Clean and re-lube the drivetrain after every muddy ride to remove abrasive particles.

Wear control

Excessively worn chains can damage the cassette and sprockets, increasing repair costs. Measure its elongation with a wear tester: if the index exceeds 0.75%, replace it immediately.

Also check the cassette and sprocket teeth. Asymmetrical, sharp, or bent teeth indicate significant wear and should be replaced. A damaged flywheel will reduce shifting accuracy and increase the risk of derailment.

By incorporating these movements into your daily routine, you'll extend the life of your drivetrain, save energy, and ensure a consistently smooth ride, even on the most technical terrain.

Engine maintenance

An electric bike's battery is the component that converts battery energy into pedaling power. Their proper functioning is essential to ensure stable performance and avoid sudden breakdowns. Unlike mechanical parts, these components require special attention, including thorough cleaning and active monitoring for warning signs.

Cleaning the sensor and connections

Sensors (cadence, torque, speed) and electrical connectors are sensitive to dust, moisture, and electrostatic discharge. After each ride, gently wipe these areas with a dry anti-static cloth. Avoid using liquid cleaners or damp cloths, as they can cause a short circuit.

Pay particular attention to cables and plugs, checking that they are securely connected and free of corrosion. If necessary, use a clean contact spray to improve conductivity, but always follow the manufacturer's recommendations.

Regular inspection

Unexplained power outages, unusual noises, or unusual vibrations are signs that shouldn't be ignored. They may indicate motor imbalance, bearing damage, or firmware issues. Also, visually inspect the motor for cracks, signs of impact, or water infiltration.

When in doubt, consult a LANKELEISI professional: Mid-drive motors are complex systems, and disassembly often requires specialized tools. Doing so by an amateur may void your warranty or worsen the damage.

General inspection of mechanical parts

Your e-bike relies on a balance of electronic and mechanical components. Regular inspections of key components such as brakes, suspension, and tires are essential to ensure safety, comfort, and performance, especially on rough terrain where every detail counts.

Brake pads for electric bikes

Brake failure can put your safety at risk. Check brake pad wear regularly: if the brake pad thickness is less than 1.5 mm, they must be replaced immediately.

Also check the disc for deep scratches or warping, which would indicate a loss of efficiency.

For cable brakes, adjust the tension to avoid excessive lever travel. For hydraulic brakes, check the fluid level and bleed the system if the lever feels spongy.

Electric bike tires

Terrain-appropriate inflation improves grip and reduces the risk of punctures. Choose 2 to 2.5 treads on hard surfaces and 1.5 to 2 treads on soft surfaces.

For tubeless tires, check for sealant leaks every 3 months. If you have a tube , check it after a puncture to prevent a recurrence due to a trapped foreign object.

Maintenance Frequency and Schedule

Regular, planned maintenance is essential to avoid unexpected breakdowns and extend the life of your electric mountain bike . By adjusting maintenance based on usage intensity and riding conditions, you can maintain optimal performance while reducing long-term repair costs.

Maintenance after each outing

After an off-road or muddy ride, take 10 to 15 minutes to do a quick cleanup. Wipe the frame and components with a damp cloth to remove abrasive dirt, then lubricate the chain if necessary. Also check tire pressure and tighten any loose screws ( bike seat , frame). These simple actions prevent debris buildup and premature wear.

Monthly/Quarterly Inspections

Perform a thorough inspection every 1 to 3 months, depending on your frequency of use:

• Brakes: brake pad thickness, brake disc alignment, hydraulic fluid level.
• Transmission: Chain wear, condition of cassette and sprockets.
• Tires: tread wear, sidewall integrity (cuts, cracks).
• Electronics: The sensors are working properly, the connectors are clean and dry.

5 common mistakes to avoid

Even with the best intentions, certain maintenance mistakes can shorten the lifespan of your e-bike or impair its performance. Here are the most common ones to avoid:

1. Wash the ATV with a high-pressure jet

Why this is a mistake:

Water pressure can force moisture into electrical components, bearings, or the motor. This promotes corrosion and damages internal circuits.

What to do instead:

Use a soft cloth, a sponge, and a bucket of soapy water. Rinse with a light stream of water, avoiding sensitive areas.

2. Lubricate the chain without cleaning it first

Why this is a mistake:

Applying lubricant to a dirty chain creates an abrasive paste that prematurely wears out the drivetrain.

What to do instead:

First clean the chain with a suitable degreaser, then dry it before applying a thin layer of lubricant.

3. Leaving the battery plugged in too long once full

Why this is a mistake:

Prolonged overcharging can cause chemical degradation of lithium cells and reduce overall battery life.

What to do instead:

Unplug the battery as soon as it's fully charged. If your LANKELEISI charger turns off automatically, that's a good thing, but it's best not to leave the battery plugged in for hours unnecessarily.

4. Forgetting to check the tightness of the screws after an off-road trip

Why this is a mistake:

Vibrations on rough roads can loosen components such as handlebars, pedals, or luggage racks. This can cause accidents.

What to do instead:

Run an Allen key over the key points after each ride: stem, crankset, battery holder, etc.

5. Storing the bike in a humid or poorly ventilated place

Why this is a mistake:

Humidity attacks metal components (rust), but also electronic circuits.

What to do instead:

Store the mountain bike in a dry place, at room temperature, preferably protected from extreme variations (ventilated garage, dry cellar, indoor room).

Conclusion

By following these simple but essential tips, you can extend the life of your electric mountain bike and ride with confidence.

✅ Are you using a LANKELEISI? Find our personalized advice for each model on our blog.