Electric bikes (e-bikes) have revolutionised personal transportation, providing a green, efficient, and fun way to get around. One of the key components that determine the performance and utility of an e-bike is its battery. In this blog post, we will delve into what battery capacity means for e-bikes and how it affects their range.
Battery Capacity: The Heart of Your E-Bike's Performance
Battery capacity in electric bikes is a critical factor that determines how far you can ride on a single charge. This capacity is usually measured in watt-hours (Wh). A watt-hour is a unit of energy that quantifies the total amount of power used over time. Essentially, it combines the voltage (V) and the ampere-hours (Ah) of a battery.
For example, a battery with a voltage of 36V and a capacity of 10Ah will have a total capacity of 360Wh (36V x 10Ah = 360Wh). The higher the watt-hour rating, the more energy the battery can store and the further you can travel on a single charge.
Factors Affecting Range
- Terrain: Riding on hilly terrain consumes more battery power compared to flat surfaces.
- Rider Weight: Heavier riders require more power to move, reducing the range.
- Pedal Assist Level: Higher levels of pedal assist use more battery power.
- Wind and Weather: Strong headwinds and cold weather can decrease battery efficiency.
- Tyre Pressure and Type: Properly inflated tires and tires designed for road use can improve efficiency and range.
Calculating Range
While the manufacturer may provide an estimated range, real-world conditions often result in variations. As a rough guide, an e-bike with a 500Wh battery might offer a range between 40 and 60km, depending on the factors mentioned above.
Battery care
We wrote about battery care in another blog post, but to summarise, it is important to use the original charger, charging in dry areas at room temperature, avoiding full discharges, managing temperatures, and following specific storage practices—ensures optimal performance, extends battery life, and saves money while reducing waste.
Conclusion
Understanding battery capacity and its impact on range is essential for any e-bike enthusiast. Whether you’re commuting to work, exploring trails, or simply enjoying a leisurely ride, knowing how far your e-bike can take you on a single charge helps you plan better and ride with confidence. At Rothar, we choose Shimano and Bosch batteries for our e-bikes because of their proven reliability and performance, ensuring our customers get the best riding experience possible.
If you’re in the market for a new e-bike or looking to upgrade, visit Rothar to explore our range of Shimano and Bosch equipped models. Ride farther, ride smarter, ride with Rothar.
