Battery Care

For electric bicycles and electric scooters

Proper battery maintenance will not only maximize the life of the battery, but it will also ensure available ride time. Batteries, based on the manufacturer, all come with different warranties. Be sure to check your owner’s manual for the warranty specifics on your battery.

Some battery types need to be “conditioned” or “broken in.” Please check owner’s manual for the specifics on your battery type.

There are generally three types of batteries used in electric bicycles – sealed lead acid, nickel-metal-hydride, and lithium—ion batteries.

Sealed lead batteries are the most common type of battery and have been used for many years in products like automobiles, wheelchairs, hospital equipment and the first electric vehicles. They are inexpensive, but also have the shortest life among the battery types mentioned, and are by far the heaviest. These batteries can be highly toxic and should always be disposed of properly through a local battery recycler.

Nickel-metal-hydride batteries do not only have high energy density, but they also do not contain any toxic metals. These batteries are commonly used in products like cellular phones and laptop computers.

Lithium—ion batteries are the fastest growing battery application for light electric vehicles. They are high density, low weight and are the safest option among battery types. They are commonly used in medical devices, cellular phones and electric vehicles. This type of battery is easy to both recycle and reuse.

Battery tips

Always make sure that the power switch on the electric bicycle is in the “off” position prior to charging.

Fully charge batteries before first use. The recommended charge times are:

Battery type
Sealed lead acid 6 – 8 hours
Lithium ion and nickel Metal hydride 4 – 6 hours

Keep batteries charged as much as possible and always store with a fully charged battery. Charge lithium ion and nickel metal hydride batteries at least every 90 days when stored, and sealed lead acid batteries every 30 days.

Never charge the batteries for more than 24 hours unless your specific charger unit has internal cut off capabilities. Please check your owner’s manual to ensure that your charger has this feature prior to leaving your batteries plugged in for more than 24 hours.

Be sure to disconnect the charger from the outlet when charging is complete – most chargers are equipped with light indicators to signal a full charge.

Do not store batteries below 50 degrees Fahrenheit and never allow batteries to freeze!

Always be sure to turn the light electric vehicle off after each use. Failure to do so may result in the battery losing the ability to hold a charge.

Even with proper care, rechargeable batteries don’t last forever. Battery life will depend on use and conditions.

If your battery leaks, do not touch it!! Battery acid can cause severe injury.

Please dispose of old batteries properly!! You can recycle by bringing them here to Current Moves, or to your local battery recycling center. If you have difficulty finding one, please contact your local light electric vehicle retailer for assistance. Do not throw them in the garbage under any conditions!!