Purchasing an electric bike is a great investment in your health and in your future, improving your carbon footprint and saving you money and time. When you’re buying an electric bike, however, you want to ensure that you’ll get the best value for money and will be able to rely on the model you choose to be a durable, reliable option for many years to come.
Here at The Edge, we only stock eBikes from manufacturers we know we can trust and it’s important to us that we only offer our customers reliable, top-quality options. We know the value of durable components and we are committed to providing excellence for your riding experiences. Talk to our experienced staff to find out more about the options available to you, and we will ensure that you find the best fit for your lifestyle and requirements.
How Durable is an eBike?
The durability of your electric bike will depend on the materials and components used to build it and the way it is maintained. Our experienced team will help you to get the best from your electric bike and we will be happy to discuss maintenance and servicing options that make your life easier.
When you are comparing the durability of different eBikes, the following are worth considering:
- What is the frame made from? Most electric bikes have frames made from aluminium alloy, steel or carbon fibre. Aluminium alloy is a great choice as it is lightweight and can resist corrosion, while steel frames are strong but can be heavier to handle and carry. A carbon fibre frame gives you strength and is lightweight but may be more likely to be damaged by impacts or collisions.
- Are the components good quality? There are many different components to consider on your eBike, and these include the motor, battery, drivetrain, brakes and suspension system. All of these can vary greatly in quality and here at The Edge, we will only supply bikes from reliable manufacturers who we trust to use top-quality components across their range. Check out the reviews and information for each component and you are more likely to end up with a long-lasting eBike that you can rely on for many years.
- What sort of motor and battery does your eBike have? The performance you get from your electric bike will be dependent upon the motor and battery it contains, and these will affect the durability dramatically. For instance, a top-quality motor that has a reliable power delivery system and durable bearings will give you years of great performance if it is maintained properly. Look out for a high-quality lithium-ion battery and a good battery management system that can give you the long-lasting power you need from your eBike. Storing your eBike properly when not in use, especially during the winter months, will help to extend its life and protect the motor and battery from damage.
- Is your eBike water-resistant? An electric bike can sustain damage when exposed to wet or damp weather conditions, particularly rain, snow and mud. These are common hazards when biking and a good level of water resistance will help to protect the components of your eBike. Ideally, your eBike should have sealed connectors and corrosion-resistant materials, as well as a waterproof casing for electronic components.
- How do you plan to ride your bike? The durability of your eBike may change depending on how often you use it and what sort of riding you do. When you ride on tricky terrain or off-road trails, or when you tackle steep hills, you will put additional stress on the bike frame and components and increase wear and tear damage. Riding at high speeds or carrying heavy loads can also speed up the process of wear and tear and compromise the durability of your ebike.
- Maintaining your eBike. The way your eBike is maintained will make a big difference to its durability and learning to take care of it for yourself will prolong its life effectively and save you money and time. Regularly carrying out cleaning and inspection tasks will help to keep your bike in great condition so read on for our top maintenance tips.
Maintaining your eBike to Increase Durability
Maintaining your eBike can extend its life and help you to make the most of your investment. Learning how to carry out basic maintenance tasks regularly and understanding the role each component plays in the way your bike functions can be very useful. Take the time to read the instructions from the manufacturer and get to know your eBike to ensure you get the best from it. Key ways to protect your eBike and yourself as a rider include:
- Inspecting. You should inspect the components of your electric bike regularly to check everything is working as it should and has not sustained damage during use. Inspecting after every ride is a good habit to get into, and this will enable you to check out any areas of concern and address these before your next ride.
- Cleaning. Cleaning your bike will keep it free of mud and debris and make it easier to see any damage. Use the recommended cleaning fluid to clean the frame and the components and this will protect against weather and water damage in the future.
- Lubricating. There are many moving parts on your eBike and these will need lubricating regularly to keep them in good condition. Ensure you are using the correct lubricating fluid and do not risk using any products that could cause damage to the components of your bike.
- Checking tyres. You should routinely check tyre pressure and ensure the bolts are tightened on the wheels of your bike. Ensuring your wheels are secure will keep you safer while you are riding and having your tyres inflated to the correct pressure will help to avoid the risk of slipping if you encounter hazards or debris on the road.
- Adjusting. Making any necessary adjustments to the components of your eBike includes adjusting the brakes and the gears and ensuring that they are functioning as they should. The brakes on your eBike are vital to your safety, which should always be your priority when you are carrying out maintenance tasks
You should consult an expert if you are concerned about any aspect of your eBike or how to maintain it, and it’s also a great idea to develop a relationship with your local eBike supplier. Here at The Edge, we will help you to get to know your eBike and how best to maintain it. We also offer servicing and repairs to keep it in great condition and ensure your safety at all times
Getting the Best From your eBike in Ireland
Ireland is a wonderful place to cycle, with hundreds of miles of beautiful cycle trails and paths to explore. We recommend getting to know the facilities and provisions for bikes in your local area and taking the time to explore the terrain your bike is suited to. Whether you are using it to commute to work with ease or to explore mountain trails or country cycleways, you’ll get the best from your eBike when you ride with others and enjoy the social experience of getting outdoors in good company.
If you are an experienced cyclist, you may want to plan trips further afield or explore the possibility of cycling holidays. You may be tempted by the Kingfisher Trail, which takes in 480km of incredible views, including panoramic vistas across Lough Erne and Lough Macnean, so you can make the most of your pedal assist function to discover the beautiful border counties. Alternatively, the Wild Atlantic Way offers 2500km of cycleways that run from Kinsale to Derry so that you can take a month to travel from the south of Ireland to the north, or simply choose a shorter section that appeals to you and enjoy the hospitality of the villages on route.
Find eBiking Equipment in Ireland
Here at The Edge, we have an excellent range of electric bikes and our friendly staff will help you to find the best options for your lifestyle when you visit us in-store. We suggest that you try as many models as possible before you decide on an eBike, and we recommend writing a list of what you require and what you are prepared to compromise on before you begin your search.
We are committed to helping you get out and enjoy your adventures in the wild, and we also have a great range of mountain bikes, road bikes and hybrid bikes, as well as clothing and equipment for running and surfing. We are a triathlon specialist and offer advice, support and equipment, whether you are a beginner or a regular triathlete. Pop in and see us or visit our website to find out more about how we can support your outdoor adventures.
