Keeping your e-bike delivery-ready
Similar to a traditional bike or car, regular maintenance can extend an e-bike’s lifespan and keep it running efficiently. By following these tips, you’ll enjoy a safer, smoother ride while minimizing the risk of costly repairs. Here’s a breakdown of what to prioritize:
Weekly maintenance
While your individual maintenance cadence will depend on how often you take your bike out, you should be doing these at least once a week:
- Battery care: Keep your battery charged and avoid letting it drop below 20% to maintain its longevity. It also helps to clean the electrical terminals regularly.
- Tire maintenance: Check tire pressure and inspect for wear or embedded debris. Properly inflated tires improve efficiency and reduce the risk of flats.
- Chain care: Lubricate the chain weekly to prevent rust and ensure smooth pedaling and switching between gears. For proper care, use a bike-specific lubricant.
- Brake checks: Test your brakes frequently and ensure they are responsive. Look for signs of wear on the brake pads and replace them if needed.
Monthly maintenance
These preventative measures can be done just once a month unless you notice an issue that needs immediate action:
- Keep it clean: Having a regular cleaning schedule for your e-bike to remove dirt, grime, and debris is crucial. Use a gentle, non-corrosive cleaner and a soft cloth.
- Electrical connections: Inspect your bike’s electronic components for signs of corrosion or looseness, and tighten or clean them as necessary.
- Software and firmware updates: Check for updates from your e-bike manufacturer and install them to enhance performance and address potential bugs.
Every six months to a year
It can help to schedule a professional tune-up to inspect critical parts of the e-bike, like the motor, battery, and drivetrain in depth. This preventive care ensures your e-bike stays in good working order and is ready for use at all times.
General tips for longevity
Outside of the above e-bike maintenance checklist, it pays to follow these few additional best practices:
- Avoid extreme riding conditions: Rough terrain or extreme weather conditions can put a lot of strain on electric bikes, so try to avoid them if possible.
- Monitor motor and controller health: Listen for unusual sounds from the motor and controller, and address any issues early on.
- Store your e-bike properly: Store your e-bike in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or extreme temperatures. Consider using a bike cover for added protection against dust and moisture, especially if stored outdoors.
Not sure how to conduct some of the mentioned maintenance tasks? Don’t sweat it! There are loads of tutorials online to guide you, so don’t be afraid to leverage those resources when needed.
Maximizing your bike’s battery range
Making the most of your battery life lies in charging and riding wisely. The average battery will last anywhere from two to 10 years, and most commonly between three to five years with regular use. Here’s what you need to know about maximizing your e-bike’s battery lifespan:
Charging tips
How long a battery lasts depends on several factors, but generally you can expect to get 25 to 70 miles on a single charge. Batteries can be recharged any number of times, and to ensure you don’t get stuck having to charge your battery when you’re in a hurry, it’s best to top off the battery charge whenever you can. This is especially helpful during the colder months since freezing temperatures can drain it faster.
Riding tips
When it comes to riding your e-bike, you can find ways to reduce the strain on your battery such as using eco mode, or whatever the lowest assist level is called on your bike. Wind resistance also plays a large role in battery usage, and while you can’t necessarily do anything to offset the wind’s impact, you can go slower to avoid pushing the battery too hard.
Safety tips to protect yourself and your bike
When relying on your e-bike to get you safely and efficiently to your destination, taking safety precautions is essential. Here are some safety tips to ensure your electric bike remains in good condition:
Avoid extreme temperatures
Extreme heat or cold can degrade your e-bike’s battery and impact its performance. During hot weather, park in shaded areas when possible, and in cold conditions, store your e-bike indoors to prevent battery drain.
Use a front and rear light
Visibility is key when riding on crowded streets, especially after dark. Invest in bright LED lights for the front and rear of your e-bike, ensuring you’re easily seen by motorists and pedestrians.
Have reflectors and high-visibility gear
Increase your visibility even further by equipping your e-bike with reflectors and wearing high-visibility clothing. Reflective vests, armbands, or jackets can make a difference, particularly in low-light conditions. Explore Grubhub e-bike gear in the driver shop.
Avoid rough or unpaved roads
While e-bikes can handle a variety of surfaces, rough or unpaved roads can strain your bike’s tires, suspension, and frame. Opt for smoother, bike-friendly routes when possible.
Stay in the bike lane
Bike lanes offer a safer space to ride, away from the flow of cars and trucks. Stick to designated bike lanes when available to minimize risks.
Avoid puddles and deep water
Sometimes water is unavoidable, like in rainy conditions. However, exposure to a lot of water can damage your e-bike’s electrical components, including the motor and battery. Steer clear of puddles and flooded areas when possible.
Use waterproof covers
On rainy days, equip your e-bike with waterproof covers for the battery and display. This added layer of protection ensures your bike stays functional and safe, no matter the weather.
Carry essential tools
Be prepared for minor repairs by carrying a basic tool kit. Include a flat repair kit, a portable bike pump, a multi-tool, and a spare tube. These tools can save you from being stranded mid-ride.
Secure deliveries properly if working a delivery job
Ensure your deliveries are safely secured in your bike’s basket, bag, or rack. Unstable packages can throw off your balance and increase the risk of accidents. You can use bungee cords or straps to keep everything in place as well.
Taking good care of your e-bike
With the right ride and upkeep plan, delivering with Grubhub is a breeze. Learn more about bike delivery jobs.
