I bought an electric city bike because I was looking for a reliable model for my daily commute. However, I’m now experiencing strange problems with the battery and pedal assist. The acceleration is jerky when starting, and the battery drains faster than expected, even on short trips. The charger also gets hotter than anticipated, which worries me for safety. While I enjoy the freedom it gives me, especially when finding parking, these problems make me question its suitability for everyday use. Has anyone else had similar experiences with an electric city bike? If so, how did you resolve them?
I had the same problem with jerky starts on my urban e-bike, and it turned out the cadence sensor was dirty. After a thorough cleaning, the pedal assist worked much better. I recommend checking this sensor, as even the smallest dust particles can affect the controller’s operation.
My battery used to drain quickly until I changed my charging method. Before, I would plug it in immediately after every ride, while it was still warm. Now I let it cool down and avoid leaving it plugged in overnight. The battery lasts longer and the charger stays cooler.
I think the problem is with the controller’s firmware. Some manufacturers release updates that improve pedal assist. I contacted customer support and they sent me an update file via the screen. After that, the acceleration was predictable.
Mine stays cool even in the hottest summer weather.
Tire pressure is more important than you think. If the pressure is too low, the engine loses power and may even stall. I maintain the recommended pressure, and the ride is noticeably smoother. A simple adjustment with a big impact.
I answered in such detail because I had several problems with my urban e-bike. The battery lost capacity after six months and I had to replace it under warranty. Later, the hub motor started squeaking due to worn bearings. I learned that regular maintenance is essential, even for e-bikes. Now I clean the drivetrain weekly and check the connections monthly. I also bought a smart charger that better balances the battery cells. Since then, the bike has been working perfectly again. It’s frustrating that these bikes are advertised as low-maintenance when they require the same care as any other vehicle.
I agree with firmware updates. My motorcycle had a similar vibration at low speeds, and the dealership installed a new version. The problem was immediately resolved. If your brand offers updates, it’s worth checking them out.
Sometimes the problem lies in a mechanical defect. Check the chain tension and derailleur alignment. A loose chain can cause jerking when starting the engine. I had the same problem, and after tightening the chain, the bike worked perfectly again.
Which model do you have?
The cold affects batteries. I drive in Boston, and in winter, the range drops rapidly. Lithium cells lose performance at low temperatures. I store the battery in a closed container and charge it shortly before starting my trip. That way, I was able to maintain the range.
I received a rather lukewarm response because I wanted to describe my warranty experience. When my battery broke, the seller asked me for a detailed charging history. Because I documented it accurately, I received a free replacement. Documenting your charging habits can support your warranty claim.
Poorly calibrated torque sensors can also cause uneven power delivery. Specialist retailers often have a tool for recalibrating them. It’s advisable to ask for their advice, as cadence sensors aren’t always the cause.
My charger also gets warm, but according to the manufacturer, a slight increase in temperature is normal. However, if it feels so hot that you could burn yourself, that’s a problem. Try charging it in a cool room and see if the temperature stays within the normal range.
My answer was a bit longer because I solved several problems. My urban electric bike had poor range and jerked when starting. I checked and lubricated the mechanical parts, like the chain and sprockets. Then I updated the firmware and recalibrated the torque sensor. I also adjusted my riding style and now ride more smoothly. After all these steps, the bike works reliably. Now I use it daily and save on gas. It took some work, but it was worth it.
I just ordered the version with two batteries, I can’t wait!
Loose connections between the battery and the controller can cause voltage drops and, therefore, jerking. I found corrosion on the contacts; after cleaning them, the scooter worked perfectly. It’s worth checking.
My answer is brief, as I simply wanted to point out that the display settings can be confusing. Make sure you’ve selected the correct assist mode. I once thought my bike was broken, even though it was set to walk assist.
I’ve received mixed opinions about installing a more powerful battery in my electric city bike. The original battery was 10 Ah, and I replaced it with a 14 Ah one. The range has increased, and the charger runs cooler. It was expensive, but it’s worth it for my daily commute.
Hub motors typically offer a less smooth ride than mid-drive motors. If smoothness is especially important to you, you might consider upgrading to an e-bike with a mid-drive motor in the future.