Why your range does not match the spec sheet
Rated range is measured under ideal conditions. Your results depend on weight, weather, terrain and how you ride. The good news is that most range loss comes from a handful of fixable causes.
Start with tire pressure
This is the cheapest range upgrade there is. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which means the motor works harder for the same distance. Check pressure weekly against the figure printed on the sidewall.
Ride smoothly
Hard acceleration from a standstill is where batteries drain fastest. Accelerating gradually and holding a steady speed makes a measurable difference. On hills, pedal assist on an e-bike, or reduce speed on a scooter, rather than forcing the motor to work at full load.
Look after the battery
Battery care determines both range and lifespan:
- Avoid running the pack fully flat on a regular basis.
- Charge indoors at room temperature where possible.
- For lead-acid packs, allow a full charge cycle of 8 to 10 hours.
- Store at a partial charge rather than empty if the ride will sit unused.
Ontario winter storage
Cold is hard on batteries. If your ride is stored over winter, keep the battery somewhere heated rather than in an unheated garage, and top up the charge periodically instead of leaving it to discharge. A battery that sits flat through a cold winter often never recovers its original capacity.
When range loss means something is wrong
A gradual decline over years is normal ageing. A sudden drop is not. If range falls sharply, have the battery and controller tested. Our service department carries out battery diagnostics and controller replacement on the brands we sell, so the problem gets identified rather than guessed at.