Whether you have one of our motors due to its reliability or because of Bafang's reputation for quality, there are things you should do, and things you shouldn't do, to protect your motor. Below are a few tips that could help you over the summer.
THE DOS WITH OUR BAFANG MOTORS
Maintain the cleanliness of your eBike
It is crucial to keep your eBike motor clean to safeguard it. After each ride, wipe down the bike and regularly clean the motor area. Utilize a soft cloth and mild soap to eliminate dirt or grime. This practice will help to maintain the motor's temperature and integrity, and prevent any potential issues caused by build-up.
Prevent water damage
Water and moisture can significantly harm e-bike motors. Ensure that your motor is not submerged or overwhelmed by puddles, rain, and snow. While cleaning your bike, take extra care not to wet the motor area. If you frequently ride in wet conditions, investing in a waterproof cover for your eBike might be wise.
Maintain a clean and well-lubricated chain
Regularly cleaning and lubricating your chain is essential to prevent strain and damage to the motor. For optimal results, use a degreaser to clean the chain and apply a bike-specific lubricant. If the chain becomes excessively dirty or dry, it's time to replace it.
Take care in mud or sand
Riding in mud or sand can result in motor clogging and overheating. Do opt for a purpose-designed bike for this kind of riding, and ensure that the motor is cleaned after riding in these conditions. After riding in such situations, check the motor for any damage. It's always better to avoid riding in excessively wet or dirty conditions.
Schedule a professional service for your bike
Even if you diligently care for your eBike, bringing it in for regular professional servicing is essential. This will ensure everything functions correctly and allow potential issues to be identified and resolved early on.
Follow the manufacturer's recommendations
Follow all the care instructions provided by the bike manufacturer and Bafang for the best care of your eBike motor. Guidelines in manuals and instructions have been developed over decades, by experienced engineers and riders. Taking note of this advice can extend the lifespan of your motor for many years.
THE DON'TS WITH A BAFANG MOTOR
Don't overheat your motor
To prevent motor overheating, consider avoiding riding in very hot weather and plan to give the motor a break if it starts to feel hot. Most e-bike motors have a built-in cutoff switch to turn off the motor if it gets too hot, but caution is still necessary. Keeping the motor area clear of obstructions is recommended to enhance heat dissipation.
Don't overload your motor
To avoid overloading the motor, do not exceed the bike's weight limit, and don't attach excessive accessories that could add too much weight. Additionally, avoid putting strain on the motor by riding in conditions it is not designed for; a cargo bike's powerful motor is not designed for sporty tracks, a city bike may not have the oomph needed to tackle long mountain ascents, and many motors have not been reinforced to take on jumps and stunts.
Avoid storing your bike in an excessively hot or cold place
Avoid storing your e-bike in areas with extreme temperatures, as it can harm the drive system. Opt for a cool, dry place instead. The duration you can safely store the bike at a specific temperature varies based on the make and model.
Don't leave your bike in the sun
Avoid exposing the bike to direct sunlight for prolonged periods, as this can harm the motor, battery and components, just like extreme temperatures can. Store it in a shaded spot or cover it with a tarp when not in use, especially on hot days.
Don't attempt complicated maintenance
There are some tasks that are simply not suitable or appropriate for bike owners to tackle by themselves. Never attempt to dismantle your Bafang motor or components, as this can not only void the warranty but can be dangerous. The full system components such as battery, controller and display have usually been carefully matched with the motor for the best power and performance. So Bafang advises against switching out components without professional advice.
