You are ready for a long-distance fun-filled discovery trip, but is your e-bike ready? Before you embark on a long-distance trail, be sure that your e-bike doesn’t disappoint you on the way.
Prior preparation for any journey is key and so it is for long distance e-bike rides.
Long distance trails may take you days out there, and those days should be memorable and relaxing.
Therefore, taking your e-bike for servicing and repairs, if needed, will be a guarantee that your journey will be worthwhile.
Have a good look at all the parts to ensure they are in good condition. The tyres should have enough pressure and it all depends on the type of your e-bike.
Your e-bike can be a mountain e-bike, road e-bike, or gravel e-bike and they all need enough pressure for the work.
Find out if the rubber is in good condition without tears or deep scratches and roughness.
Here are tips to prepare your e-bike for long-distance trails.
- Battery
Before leaving for the trail, charge your battery fully. Your battery should be able to resist different prevailing weather, be it sunny or wet.
In addition, it is important to replace an old battery that may not keep charge for long. An unhealthy battery slows its capacity to propel your e-bike on rough or hilly terrain.
It would be a good idea to have another battery for backup in case the one you have on your bike runs out. Remember to fully charge the extra battery and store it in a cool place.
It is important to note that the faster you ride, the higher the consumption of the battery and the quicker it loses charge. A well-charged e-bike can go for 70 miles and beyond.
- Chains
Clean the e-bike chain properly and remove all the dirt. Clean the dust and previous grease applied on the e-bike chain using a soft cloth, mild detergent, and water.
Over time, the chain gathers particles that may eventually cause it to stop or slow down. A clogged chain will mean you add extra strength to the pedal. If you don’t remove dirt before lubrication, you will destroy your bike chain.
Once you clean and dry it, lubricate it with the recommended oil available in your location. Put enough oil so that the chain moves smoothly without friction.
- Don’t overload it
The excitement of going on a long-distance trail may tempt you to carry more than you need. A heavy bike slows its movement.
Put a few items on the cargo bike. Though cargo e-bikes are ideal for carrying people, pets, and heavy loads. However, that shouldn’t always be the case, especially if you are to ride on a rough road.
If you have a load and you are riding downhill, don’t speed because the load will cause your bike to lose control.
- Comfort
The e-bike should be comfortable for you. Your safety is important. If you haven’t gone with your e-bike for a long trail before, ensure your bike can cope.
Check with the manufacturer’s manual if your bike is ideal for a long distance trail. Most e-bikes can go on long distance trails if the battery stays long with charge.
However, your battery should not be too heavy, making the bike slow. Have a mental picture of where you are going before you reach there.
If your e-bike is heavy and you are going on a hilly trail, it’s advisable to use an alternative route.
Your lights should all be working in case dusk catches you when you are out on a ride.
- Follow The Weather Forecast
Know how the trekking place’s weather is before you embark on your ride. Some trails might be closed if they are too slippery.
While many parts of your bike are resistant to water, it is advisable not to subject it to water unnecessarily. Your battery is likely to lose charge fast if the weather is wet.
Avoid too much wetness on your bike like submerging it in a river as it will affect the electrical system and damage your bike.
Choose the right gear for stability. If your e-bike is new or the terrain is new, take time to study it before the ride.
Always wipe your bike dry after you use it. Storing it when wet slows its performance. GRUNDIG GCB-1 has a stunning performance in hot and wet weather.
Conclusion
Long distance trails are fun and that is what should be your focus. You shouldn’t let a failed e-bike cut short your enjoyable moments.
It is important to have a good look at your bike and also the terrain to have an enjoyable ride.
Don’t subject your battery to harsh weather. Your tires should have pressure. The brakes should be functional and the same for the chains.
Explore the world and enjoy that long distance trail with your dream bike for a long distance trail.