E-bike inspection
An e-bike inspection is almost as important for an e-bike as it is for a car. Due to its greater mass and the higher stresses to which it is subjected, an e-bike suffers more wear-and-tear than a conventional bicycle. In addition to the mechanical parts, protecting the electronic components such as the motor and display from damage is extremely important to ensuring safety while riding. In the following, we describe what exactly is done during an e-bike inspection, how often it should be carried out, and whether it is compulsory for your e-bike.
What is done during an e-bike inspection?
An e-bike inspection in the workshop includes a range of work on the mechanical and electronic components of the e-bike. This includes checking the following components and functions:
- screws
- brakes
- tyres
- chain and sprocket
- bottom bracket
- spokes
- motor
- light system
- structural integrity of stem and handlebar
- saddle pin
- e-drive system
Along with the chain, sprocket, tyres, and motor, the brakes and brake pads are the parts of an electric bicycle that are most subject to wear. The workshop should also check all bolts as well as the stem, handlebars, and saddle pin of the bicycle for structural integrity and proper fit. Looking at the wheel, the tyre should not exhibit much wear, and the spokes should have sufficient tension. In addition, the mechanic will check the lighting system, battery, display and drive system of the e-bike. A special diagnostic plug can read error codes, and the workshop will install any important software updates required. Note, however, that software updates for cheaper e-bike models from abroad will not always be available.
Is an e-bike inspection required?
If you did not buy your e-bike yourself but are using a leased bicycle, inspections are obligatory and prescribed at regular intervals. If, on the other hand, you are the owner of the e-bike, you are not required to have your own electric bicycle inspected. Theoretically, you can check your own e-bike for wear and other issues. In practice, however, it is better to leave the inspection of all mechanical and electronic components to a specialist. Professionals are much better capable of detecting faults and wear much more quickly and competently and are much more effective at preventing damage.
Regular bicycle inspections and maintenance ensure the longevity of your bicycle and help to keep its value. As with a car, there is also a logbook used for documenting your e-bike inspections (or, otherwise, you can keep the receipts of all inspections). This is one way to prove that your bicycle is in good working order at all times. This can be important in the event of a warranty or guarantee claim or if you ever decide to sell your e-bike.
When should you have your first e-bike inspection?
The first inspection of your e-bike should take place after one year or 2,000 kilometres. Some bicycle dealers go so far as to recommend a first bicycle inspection only 300 or 500 kilometres after purchase. This can be useful to check your bicycle and components such as the saddle pin and chain for proper fit. Depending on the bicycle dealer and manufacturer, the moment of the first inspection may also be relevant to any warranty claim you may make.
How often does an e-bike need to be inspected?
Ideally, you should have your e-bike inspected and serviced by a specialist workshop once a year or every 2,000 kilometres. This is the recommended period for identifying wearing components and maintaining your bicycle in a safe condition.
How much does an e-bike inspection cost?
The workshop costs for an e-bike inspection vary depending on the bicycle dealer and the workshop. On average, you can expect a cost of between €45 and €90. If the bicycle mechanics have to replace worn parts, there will be additional expenses for materials and labour. But remember that regular maintenance and inspection pays off in the long run, and in your peace of mind knowing that your e-bike is always in perfect condition, and that you are safe on the road. Regular inspections are the key to avoiding unexpected costs for major damage or accidents due to unmaintained components.
What can I do for my e-bike myself?
In addition to professional bicycle inspection and maintenance, there are things you can do to help to keep your e-bike in perfect condition and reduce wear and tear. You should clean your e-bike regularly and check all functions. In winter, road salt, snow and ice all take their toll on the bicycle. You can keep your e-bike clean with water and gentle cleaning products from a specialist shop. Never use a high-pressure cleaner, as the high water pressure can cause water to penetrate components and cause irreparable damage. You should also check the tightness of all bolts at regular intervals and make sure your tyre pressure is always correct. Experts recommend oiling and lubricating the chain about every 800 kilometres. Working in tandem with the e-bike inspection in the specialist workshop, you can keep your bicycle in perfect condition and enjoy years of riding pleasure.