"It's finally here!" we want to shout out, and so do all the other cycling fans. What care should you give to your e-lover before the first ride?
The most important part of any e-bike is the battery. Without it, you're saddling an ordinary bike, so pay the most attention to it. If you've stored it outside the frame of your e-bike over the winter, make sure it's charged before you put it back in. Charge it to full capacity and recharge it regularly. Ideally, don't let it drop below 30%. It's a key preventive measure for its longevity. If you find that your battery is holding less than usual after the winter, or discharging more quickly, speak to your dealer about appropriate servicing.
Also, try to inspect all connections and connectors for oxidation.
Many of us store our e-bikes after the season, and after months of being left unused, we are surprised that we can't fit into the tracks during the first ride. As the surrounding temperature drops, the tire pressure also decreases, so it’s important to check and, if necessary, inflate them. Lower pressure means higher resistance while riding and a shorter range – an unwanted combination. For a smooth ride, the tires should also be in perfect condition.
Are they working as they should? Do they respond immediately? Aren´t they worn out? This would not be a suitable condition for a safe and calm ride. Without functioning brakes, riding an e-bike would be more adrenaline-pumping, but much riskier. Brake pads on V-brakes and disc brake pads wear down over time and need to be replaced occasionally. Pay attention to the cables and housings as well. The brake should operate smoothly and not drag.
If the chain on your e-bike has worn out a bit due to use, or if dirt has accumulated on it during storage, clean it with a special chain cleaning product. After cleaning, it’s a good idea to apply a special oil to the chain to prolong its lifespan and ensure smooth operation. Also, don’t forget to check the overall condition of the cassette and chainring. If you notice that the shifting isn't working as it should, or that the chain is 'sticking' somewhere, it may be necessary to have it adjusted by your dealer at the closest selling point.
The bike frame must be sturdy, without cracks or other visible damage. Check all screws to make sure they are not loose, especially those holding the handlebars. Also, verify the condition of the fork and shock absorber. If something seems off, don't hesitate to visit the dealer where you purchased your CRUSSIS e-bike.
The Bosch, Panasonic, Bafang and OLI motors on our e-bikes are very reliable, yet the beginning of the season is the right time to check them. Check that the motor doesn't overheat during the ride. If you notice that the motor is behaving differently than usual, it may indicate a problem with its handling or the use of poor maintenance techniques.
Before your first ride, of course, read or review the user manual of your e-bike and check the other equipment – make sure your lights, reflectors, and bell are working. And if you want to enhance your ride even further, add some high-quality cycling gear to your clothing arsenal.
An e-bike is not just a simple means of transport, it's the key to your new adventures and experiences. They will take you to places well-known and unexplored parts of the countryside. Whether you choose a quiet ride through picturesque natural scenery or a ride through vibrant city streets, every pedal stroke brings new feelings of freedom. Once you've taken care of your trusty machine, it will reward you by taking care of you. It'll help you tackle a steep hill you thought was insurmountable before.
Whether you're planning a long trip into the countryside or just need to make a quick journey to work, your e-bike is now ready for any challenge - just get going!
So what are you waiting for? The season full of new experiences is just beginning!