If you ride an eBike, the battery dying on you is definitely something you’ve considered at some point. So what do you do to improve your battery life and ensure you never find yourself in a situation where you’re stranded without a charge?
There are a few things you can do to save your battery life. You can keep the cargo weight low, or use the bike’s pedal-assist feature—but what about using another battery?
While it’s possible to carry a spare battery with you, that involves replacing the dead battery with the spare. This is a waste of time, especially if you’ve got somewhere to be. The next best solution is to add a secondary battery to your eBike.
Are Two Batteries Better Than One?
Both options (carrying a spare battery and adding a secondary battery) have their pros and cons. In the end, it boils down to your personal preferences, budget, and the eBike model you have.
Carrying a single big battery comes with its own set of benefits like less weight, compact design, and less upfront cost. On the other hand, a second battery means more battery capacity, which translates to longer rides.
Is It Possible to Upgrade an eBike’s Battery?
Changing the battery on an eBike can be a complex task, depending on how deep you are planning to go. It is worth noting that not every eBike battery is interchangeable. Depending on the make and model of your bike, you may or may not be able to replace the existing battery.
If you have a specific eBike model, you might only be able to replace it through the manufacturer, which can be expensive.
Moreover, it is worth noting that upgrading your battery might not be a DIY task you should undertake. If you do it wrong, you may damage your bike. Therefore, it is better to do your research and make the correct decision before touching the battery of your eBike.
Benefits of a Single Bigger Battery
Less Weight
With a single battery, you reduce the weight of the entire ride, thus adding to your range and comfort. You also require less force to pedal, which means you’ll use less of the bike’s pedal-assist.
Single Charge Time
Charging a single bigger battery takes less time than charging two batteries; however, this depends on how you charge the two batteries. If you charge them simultaneously, you save time and get more range.
Less Maintenance
A single battery requires far less maintenance than two individual batteries. Two batteries means you have to make more space to keep these batteries in the right conditions.
High Speed
Theoretically, a bigger battery can help you reach higher speeds than two smaller batteries. This is because one single big battery can output more power to the bike, and all this power goes to the bike since it comes from a single source.
Depending on how you use your bike, it is worth considering whether you want two smaller batteries or a single bigger battery.
Compact Package
The look of your eBike is important. A single battery will give your bike a tighter and more compact look. With a single battery, you won’t need aftermarket bags and racks.
Costs
Depending upon the model of your bike, having the manufacturer replace your battery can help you save money. This option also helps you save money on aftermarket products like bags, racks, and chargers.
Benefits of Dual Batteries
Fewer Charging Sessions
The number of charging sessions can seriously affect a bike’s performance. A charge cycle relates to the number of charges a battery can go through before it dies out. With dual batteries, it becomes easier to alternate charging cycles, thus doubling the lifespan of each of your batteries.
A Safety Net
Two separate batteries are definitely a safety net. If one of the batteries malfunctions or starts to die out on you, you will have another battery to save you from potentially having to walk your bike home.
Dual-Charging
Sometimes, you need to buy an aftermarket product to charge both batteries simultaneously. However, this might be worth the price, as having two batteries at a time and charging them simultaneously is considered beneficial.
If you are going to work or to pick up some groceries, you can leave the other battery at home if you don’t need it. With this approach, you will always keep a charged battery with you.
Less Charge Time Per Battery
Although you will have to charge two batteries, charging a single bigger battery will take longer. This is due to the capacity of the single battery. A smaller battery with a reduced charge time helps you when you are in a hurry and want your battery charged before leaving the house.
Extra Range
That’s right, double the battery means double the range. You can cover a greater distance in a single trip with two fully charged batteries. Having two charged batteries is undoubtedly advantageous if you are in for a long journey. The added range also opens you up to a new set of possibilities regarding where to go.
How to Carry Spare eBike Batteries
Rear Racks
As the name implies, rear racks are attached to the rear of your eBike, usually above the tire. These racks are relatively affordable, and you can install them easily. Extra weight on the back of your bike sometimes helps distribute weight.
The best thing about rear racks is the extra space they offer. Some models in the market have enough room for two batteries. You can use the extra space to hold things other than the battery.
If you choose this option, getting a smaller cover for your bike’s batteries is a good idea. These covers protect the batteries when you’re riding. These covers are economical, which means you won’t have to break the bank to add them to your bike.
Rear Seat Packs
A rear seat pack is another great storage option for a backup battery. Rear seat packs are placed on the bikes, and they help with weight distribution. These packs are waterproof, and removal is incredibly easy.
Make sure you use a rear seat pack suitable for your bike. Unlike other carrying options, seat packs lean towards smaller sizes, which is both a good and a bad thing.
Frame-Mounted Bags
Depending on how the existing battery is mounted, a frame-mounted bag can be a great option. If you have a bike with a tube-like, integrated battery, a top frame-mounted bag is a good choice.
These bags are affordable, easier to install, and compact enough to keep your bike looking stylish. You may also find frame-mounted bags that can hold much more than the battery itself, thus making your ride more comfortable. Make sure to find a waterproof version to keep the battery safe.
Backpacks
A backpack for eBike batteries is a simple, straightforward, and accessible option. Remember, the battery should weigh anywhere between 3 lbs and 7 lbs.
With all the added weight on your shoulders, riding with a backpack can become quite uncomfortable.
However, bags designed specifically for eBike batteries are far more comfortable for people that have experience carrying backpacks while commuting. These backpacks are also designed for people that want to avoid the heaviness of other carrying options.
Though comfortable and useful, these bags also have a massive price tag.
Are There Any eBikes with Dual Batteries?
The Super Monarch 700 Watt Bike is a good option if you’re looking for an eBike with dual batteries. It is available in a price range of $3000-$4000, depending on the frame size and the add-ons.
The Super Monarch is reasonably priced for an eBike. Other eBikes with budget-level features can cost $800, and bikes with slightly advanced features can go up to $10,000.
When you compare such bikes with the batteries and the add-ons on a Super Monarch, the Super Monarch doesn’t sound too unreasonable.
Wrapping Up
The answer is yes; you can add another battery to your electric bike. However, the process can be time-consuming and complex. Whether you opt for a bigger battery, a spare battery, or a dual battery bike, they all have their pros and cons.
The bike you choose depends on your personal budget, preference, and how you plan on using the bike.
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