How Long Do Ebikes Last?

An ebike is a big investment, so it is understandable to wonder how long you can expect yours to last. The good news is, ebikes are exceptionally well-built machines. With proper care and regular maintenance, a good ebike is a friend for many years.

On average, ebikes last around 10 years. That number can be higher or lower depending on the type of bike and how you use it. If you are conscientious about caring for your ebike, it can last well over a decade. However, various parts like motors and chains will need to be periodically replaced even with proper care.

Below, we will go over the shelf life of the average ebike and give some advice on how to keep your ebike in good shape in the long haul.

How Long Do Ebikes Last? The Basics

As with regular bikes, even high-quality ebikes require upkeep and maintenance. While ebikes as a whole can last 10 years or more, different parts will need replacing during this time. Everyone’s bike is different, and a lot depends on how often you ride your bike.

Wear and tear is normal over the years, and parts of the bike deplete at different rates. Below is a rough breakdown of how long various ebikes parts will last:

The Battery

People are often concerned about battery life – both in terms of day-to-day range and how long before batteries need replacing.

Story Bikes batteries will take up to 45 miles before they need to be charged, although how and where you ride your Story Bike will have an impact The terrain, rider, and level of pedal assist being used effects the distance traveled.

For the majority of ebikes, batteries last for around 1,000 charges. This usually comes out to around three to five years.

Batteries are generally easy to replace and provided by your ebike manufacturer. The process to replace the battery differs depending on the ebike company and their design.

Motors

A motor has among the longest lives of any components of an ebike. In fact, a quality motor usually lasts as long as the ebike itself. Rear hub motors are sealed and protected against corrosion and the elements and require minimal maintenance.

In the event your motor fails, you can get it replaced. You would contact your manufacturer and either install the replacement at home or with the help of your local bike shop.

Chains and Tires

Chains and tires usually last between 1,000 and 3,000 miles before they need replacing. This means they usually last one to two years for the average rider. Regular cleaning and lubrication of the chain will add time to its lifespan.

Those who ride their bikes frequently and over difficult terrain will probably need to replace chains and tires more often. However, these supplies are relatively inexpensive and can usually be replaced without needing to take your ebike to a mechanic.

Gears

Gears are a bit of a wild card when it comes to longevity. Gears on a well-made bike can often last as long as the bike itself, but certain types of gears tend to break down more quickly.

Gears holding the chain in place, for example, might break down quicker. Gears found near the front cog are also more vulnerable.

While some gears may only last three or four years, gears are inexpensive and easy to replace on your own. Regular maintenance and tuning of your derailleur and gears will help prevent issues from occurring.

How Do I Make My Ebike Last Longer?

While no ebike lasts forever, there is plenty you can do to ensure your bike lasts as long as possible. Proper care does not take a lot of effort and pays off in the long run. A well cared for ebike can last well over 10 years.

Weather can be hard on your ebike – especially rain and snow. Store your ebike away from the elements, preferably somewhere inside. Rusty parts wear down faster and can affect the overall lifespan of your ebike.

Never store your battery at full capacity. This impacts the battery’s recoverable capacity, shortening its lifespan overall. A good range to store your battery is between 40 and 80%.

Dirt and dust can affect your bike’s motor and moving parts, so wiping it down after a long ride is always a good idea. However, electric bikes need a gentle wash to prevent the bike suspension and drivetrain. Never spray down your bike with a hose or engage in similar high-pressure washing techniques.

Always keep your tires inflated. Poor inflation makes tires more prone to puncture. Check the bolts frequently to ensure they are not getting loose. If your bike breaks down while you are riding, this could hurt you and potentially cause more damage to your bike.

The Bottom Line

A high-quality ebike can last a long time. While no piece of machinery is immortal, ebikes are built to last substantially longer than traditional bicycles. With proper care and regular maintenance, you can enjoy riding your ebike for well over a decade.

If you think an e-bike is right for you, you can start your search at Story Bikes. We offer step-through bikes, road bikes, and commuter bikes at reasonable prices. For every bike we sell, we give a bike to a student in Zimbabwe.