How far can you really go? The truth about the e-bike battery
How far can I actually get on my e-bike? Many e-bike riders and those who want to become one ask themselves this question. After all, the e-bike battery is the heart of your electric bike - and its performance largely determines how long your tour lasts.
At HEPHA, we know that: An e-bike battery is more than just an energy storage device. It is your ticket to freedom. For spontaneous trips into the countryside. For relaxed commuting without sweat stains. That's why today we're explaining to you honestly and without technical jargon how the range is calculated, which factors influence it and what you should pay attention to if you want to get the most out of your e-bike battery.
What makes a good e-bike battery?
Not all e-bike batteries are the same. You will notice this after the first long tour at the latest. While some e-bike batteries fail after just 30 kilometers, others can easily take you over 100 kilometers. The difference lies in the quality, the capacity and - most importantly - the intelligent control system.
At HEPHA, we rely on high-quality lithium-ion batteries that are not only powerful, but also last a long time. Our e-bike batteries are designed to function reliably even after years of use. After all, what good is the best motor if the e-bike battery gives up the ghost after two years?
We measure the capacity of our batteries in watt hours (Wh). The higher the number, the more energy can be stored. But be careful: a large e-bike battery does not automatically mean more range. More on this in a moment.
No standardized measurement: the range is as individual as you are
This is where it gets interesting: The WLTP standard exists for cars, but there is no standardized method for measuring range for e-bikes. This is actually a good thing, because your riding style is as unique as your fingerprint.
The range indicator on your display is therefore not a fixed figure, but a dynamic estimate. It continuously adapts to your driving behavior. Clever, isn't it? So you always know how much you really have left - without any nasty surprises.
Example values for HEPHA e-bike batteries: What is realistic?
708 Wh battery: With a rider weight of approx. 65 kg and use in ECO mode, a range of up to 160 km is possible under optimum conditions. That's more than enough for a day trip or a whole week's commute.
800 Wh battery: Under the same conditions, the large battery even offers a range of up to 200 km. This means you can drive from Munich to Nuremberg on a single charge.
But beware: If you use the more powerful TOUR or TURBO support levels, the range is reduced accordingly. This is completely normal and nothing to worry about. After all, you want more power - and power costs energy.
How is the range calculated? A look behind the scenes
The range shown on the display is based on a real-time calculation. Your e-bike is smarter than you think. It continuously measures various parameters and learns about your riding style. The following factors are included in the calculation:
The most important factors influencing your e-bike battery:
Support level: ECO saves energy, TURBO consumes more. Logical, but often underestimated. In ECO mode, you can double the range of your e-bike battery - without sacrificing comfort.
Terrain and inclines: Every hill costs extra energy. The motor works harder uphill and the e-bike battery delivers more power.
Tire pressure and tire tread: A flat tire is a range killer. The optimum tire pressure is shown on the side of your tire. Check it regularly - your e-bike battery will thank you for it.
Weather conditions: Headwinds cost range, tailwinds give it to you. Temperature also plays a role: e-bike batteries don't like it too hot or too cold.
Your riding behavior: Steady pedaling is more efficient than stop-and-go. If you drive with foresight, you will get further.
The calculation starts as soon as the charge level of your e-bike battery falls below 95%. The forecast is updated every time the battery level drops by a further 3%. This means that the display always remains close to the actual range. It couldn't be cleverer.
Why does my display suddenly show less range?
We get this question again and again, and the answer is simpler than you think: Your driving behavior over the last few minutes strongly influences the forecast. The system is capable of learning and extrapolates your current driving style into the future.
For example, if you frequently ride at the highest support level or climb a lot, you will see a lower remaining range - even if the battery is actually still full. This is no reason to panic, but simply shows that your e-bike is thinking ahead.
Our tip: Ride more evenly for a while or switch to a lower support level. You will see how the displayed range increases again.
Myths and truths: What is really true about e-bike batteries?
Myth 1: "E-bike batteries have a memory effect" Truth: Modern lithium-ion batteries do not have a memory effect. You can charge your e-bike battery at any time - even with 50% charge remaining.
Myth 2: "Cold damages the battery permanently" Truth: Cold temporarily reduces performance, but does not cause permanent damage. Full capacity is restored at room temperature.
Myth 3: "Cheap batteries are just as good" Truth: Quality has its price. Cheap e-bike batteries often only last half as long and can even be dangerous.
How long does an e-bike battery last? The service life in detail
Many users ask us: How long does an e-bike battery last? The honest answer: That depends entirely on you. The service life of an e-bike battery is usually 500 to 1,000 charging cycles. With normal use, this corresponds to around 5 to 8 years.
What does that mean in concrete terms?
With an average range of 80 km per charge and 500 charging cycles, you can drive 40,000 km. That's more than once around the world! The range per charge decreases slightly over time, but remains stable for a long time with careful handling.
This will extend the service life of your e-bike battery:
Store correctly: If the battery is not used for a longer period of time, store it in a cool, dry place at 50-70% charge.
Drive regularly: A battery needs to be moved. If you leave your e-bike standing for months on end, you will damage the battery.
Avoid extremes: Neither discharge completely nor leave permanently at 100%.
Keep clean: Dirt and moisture on the contacts can cause problems.
Optimize range: Practical tips for everyday life
Want to get more out of your e-bike battery? These tips really help:
Optimize driving technique
Pedal evenly: A constant cadence is more efficient than jerky movements.
Drive with foresight: Braking costs energy that you won't get back.
Choose the right support: It doesn't always have to be TURBO. ECO is often enough.
Technical optimization
Check tire pressure: Check every two weeks and pump up if necessary.
Reduce weight: Every kilo less means more range.
Don't forget maintenance: A well-maintained e-bike runs more efficiently.
The HEPHA philosophy: batteries that deliver what they promise
At HEPHA, we don't do things by halves. Our e-bike batteries are developed and tested in such a way that they will continue to function reliably for years to come. We only use high-quality cells from renowned manufacturers and equip every battery with intelligent protection systems.
The result: e-bike batteries that not only last a long time, but are also safe. Because your safety is more important to us than every cent we could save on cheap components.
Software updates: Your battery is getting better and better
Modern e-bikes are computers on wheels - and computers get better with updates. The range calculation of your e-bike battery can also be optimized through software updates.
Tip: Stay up to date with the HEPHA app. As soon as updates for the range calculation are available, they can be easily installed. This will make your e-bike even more efficient over time.
Conclusion: reach can be planned - with the right knowledge
Whether you ride an e-bike battery with 708 or 800 Wh - the range depends on several influencing factors. If you know them, you can plan more consciously and ride further. Remember: even the best e-bike battery can only do as much as its user allows it to do.
The good news: with the right knowledge and a little practice, you can significantly increase the range of your e-bike battery. Try out our tips and experience how your e-bike can become a long-distance runner.
More questions about e-bike batteries?
Do you still have questions about your e-bike battery? These are the topics that concern our customers the most:
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How long does an e-bike battery last under different conditions?
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What affects the performance of my e-bike battery the most?
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Which accessories help me to optimize the range?
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How do I know when my e-bike battery needs to be replaced?
Find out more: Discover HEPHA accessories
HEPHA - e-bikes for people who think ahead.
With us, you don't just get an e-bike, but a partner for all of life's journeys. With batteries that last. With service that's right. And with the certainty that you can rely on us - today and for many years to come.