Are you interested in what all the electric bike craze is about? Do you need a new set of wheels that will save you money and make rides around the neighborhood more fun?
Before you go out and get your first electric bike, we advise figuring out which battery will meet your needs. E-bikes can be supported by a variety of batteries for long rides and safe trips down the street.
You need to consider different factors when looking at the best batteries for bike. They include charging time, power, and the freedom to travel at different lengths and heights.
With our tips on using electric bike batteries, you will be able to find your best option right away. It is important to know how to keep an eye on it so it is treating you with pleasant trips.
Here are 7 types of batteries you should consider for your electric bike.
1. Lithium-Ion
The best batteries are those that you can use for a variety of products. One prime example of this item is a lithium-ion battery.
This option is currently used in the products we depend on the most to exchange information and contact people. These items include smartphones, laptops, tablets, digital cameras.
Lithium-ion makes for an excellent e-bike battery thanks to the combination of lithium polymer, iron phosphate, and manganese. These elements work together to provide power for long periods.
These batteries also tend to be on the heavier side out of those designed for electric bikes. This makes the power they are able to generate even more impressive.
Because of its capabilities, lithium-ion is more expensive than most options on the market. However, as long as you have the cash, you can save money in other areas that these bikes come in handy with, such as for commutes to work.
2. Nickel-Cadmium
Because of the electricity that these bikes rely on for rides, capacity will determine how long you will be able to enjoy your time on the wheels. That’s where Nickel-cadmium comes in.
This is another type of battery that leans on the expensive side. However, its ability to keep your bike running makes it worth the price.
While some people choose lean-acid batteries because of how cheap they are, they often have to trade in running time. Because of the amount of power you have with Nickel-cadmium batteries, you can go on rides with friends for great lengths.
Nickel oxide hydroxide and metallic cadmium work as the electrodes that keep the battery running. Be sure to talk to the manufacturer about how much of these elements are included.
The power needed for this battery also requires more maintenance on your end. Your manufacturer should bring this up so you know what to do to keep the battery in shape.
3. Lithium Cobalt Batteries for Bike
Because of the qualities of lithium, you will see this name pop up on our list several times. One example we will discuss is lithium cobalt.
It’s hard to come by any kind of battery that can contain reliable power without being heavy in the process. With lithium cobalt electric bicycle batteries, energy is available in a light bundle.
This battery moves lithium ions back and forth between electrodes to keep power flowing. As a result, you can take your bike for rides up and down the mountains in your area.
Because of the electricity density due to the small package, you can feel safe about your power. This will save time for recharges, which will also save you money on a new battery down the line.
Those who live in the city will get to enjoy frequent rides with one battery by going with this option. You can use this battery as an alternative to buses, subways, and other forms of transportation in populated areas.
4. Lead-Acid
One of the options that we mentioned earlier is the lead-acid battery. This type has gotten a lot of attention because of how cheap it is compared to the rest.
However, this means that you will need to be careful when using this battery. That includes installing it and periodically giving it a look after your rides.
One of the reasons for lead-acid batteries being cheap is how small they are. This means anyone who plans on taking their bikes out for short rides is the best potential customer.
This is also a battery that you will want to avoid using for long commutes. That is, unless, you feel like taking the bike on the bus or subway with you.
If you have a kid that wants to join the electric bike craze, a lead-acid battery will do the trick. The technology in this option will suit the short drives they tend to go on compared to adults.
5. Nickel-Metal-Hydride
Some of you may be looking for a battery that will allow you to allow rides that are not too long and not too short. In short, it’s about balance.
Thanks to nickel-metal-hydride, you can enjoy rides fit for a regular bike rider. Kids and fitness fanatics are best off checking out our first two options.
The balance is found through a length of power in between lead-acid batteries and lithium-ion batteries. The chemical elements are also similar to those found in nickel-cadmium batteries.
If you do feel like going on a long ride and only have this type of battery available, then it helps to have a spare with you. This also helps if you ride your bike on a regular basis.
You can use these batteries for bikes designed for rides in the woods or deserts as long as you’re carrying them in your car. This will save power for your adventures in the outdoors.
6. Lithium Manganese
Lithium is taking up another spot on our list. This time, it is with the Lithium Manganese battery.
This is another option that benefits from being used for other products. In this case, it’s for the environmentally friendly Nissan Leaf hybrid car, which should give you an idea of how much power use is a priority.
By using the same chemical interactions as other lithium batteries, this product is able to keep your bike running for as long as you need it. Letting out fumes harmful for the environment is not a compromise you need to make.
Because you can trust lithium manganese batteries to run for a long time, you have multiple options for using your e-bike. You can take it into the woods for a cardio workout, or you can use it to get to work on time going forward.
If you need more assurance, this battery is also commonly used for Elite Electric bikes, one of the biggest brands in the e-bike game. Even if you don’t own one of those bikes, you can apply the same technology to yours.
7. Lithium-Ion Polymer
Yes, lithium has occupied another spot in our recommendations. And yes, it has earned it.
The final spot on this list goes to lithium-ion polymer batteries. While this battery isn’t as big as other lithium options, nor does it provide as much of a range.
However, lithium-ion polymer batteries are easier to take care of because they don’t carry around liquid inside. This negates the need for protective cases.
As a result, these batteries can handle situations that can result in physical damage or overcharging. This means that you can take your e-bike out for long periods of time.
You also have the ability to mold this battery into the best shape for your bike. This can come in handy if the battery space in your bike is different from most that you’re used to.
Our Take
You have a variety of batteries for bike to choose from in case you are new to the e-bike world. However, you need to consider your needs before making a decision.
Some riders tend to use their electric bikes for workouts or adventures in the outdoors. Others need one for an easy way to get to work.
Your dream battery should be able to keep your bike running for as long as you need it to, as well as handle the worst that the environment can throw at it. Once you have your priorities set, picking an electric bike battery will be a piece of cake.
Check out more of our automotive battery tips today so that you can keep your rides fun and safe.
