E-bike upkeep 101
Watch the video to learn how to store, transport, and clean your Trek electric bike.
Electric bikes don’t require much more maintenance than traditional bikes. The main thing you need to remember is to treat your battery with care, just like you would your laptop or smartphone. And always take your e-bike into a qualified Trek retailer with mechanics who know how to work on e-bike drive systems!
Frequently asked questions
Yes!
All of our e-bike batteries can safely be charged and stored in your home. Here are a few ways our batteries meet and exceed industry standards:
Tier-one cell selection
Lithium ion batteries are everywhere these days, so you won't be surprised to know there are many suppliers and manufacturers. And like anything that's manufactured, there are companies that do it right and companies that do it quickly and cheaply. The cells in Trek e-bike batteries come only from Tier 1 suppliers, which means they're from companies that have the highest requirements for quality, the best documentation, the longest qualification timelines, and the most experience manufacturing.
Battery management system
Every battery you'll find on a Trek e-bike has a sophisticated battery management system (BMS), which is like a security guard for the battery's cells. It's constantly monitoring and regulating, ensuring each individual cell is performing with top-level efficiency without overheating. BMS is crucial for safer battery operation, and it's also important for ensuring you get the longest possible life out of your battery.
Testing beyond certification
The e-systems on all Trek e-bikes are third-party tested to meet leading e-bike safety standards, and we're proud to to use only systems in the US that pass stringent UL 2849 certification. The testing required to obtain this certification is extensive and rigorous. From temperature to shock to vibration, our e-bike components go through the ringer to make sure you get a safer, high-quality e-system.
Where can my electric bike be serviced?
You should bring your e-bike to a qualified local bike shop whose mechanics are skilled and certified in working on the kind of electric drive system your e-bike uses. Regardless of which brand of e-bike you choose, always check to see if they have a good electric drive system warranty in case anything should happen to your motor, battery, or other part of the system.
How should I store my electric bike?
E-bikes can be heavy, so it’s ideal to have a safe place to store them at ground level. A garage works well when the weather is temperate, but just like smartphones, electric bike batteries don’t like extreme heat or cold. We recommend bringing your battery inside when the temp reaches either end of the spectrum. If you live somewhere with harsh winters, we recommend storing your e-bike inside your home where the temperature is more controlled. If you can’t bring your entire bike inside, at least be sure to bring the battery.
What kind of car rack should I use for my e-bike?
Electric bikes are heavier than traditional bikes, so it’s important to make sure your bike rack can handle the extra weight. Hitch-mounted racks are the most common racks you’ll see toting electric bikes, but we suggest stopping into your local bike shop for personalized rack recommendations. Note that many e-bikes come with fenders, which can limit your rack choices. Lots of racks function by using “arms” to secure your bike by the tires, and fenders get in the way of that. It’s also important to consider how you’ll actually get your e-bike onto your rack. Pro tip: removing the battery will make your e-bike easier to lift.
Can I ride my electric bike in the rain?
Yes! High-quality electric drive systems are designed to withstand washing and rainfall.
Electric bike cleaning products