how much maintenance does ridekick’s ebike conversion kit require?
As you consider an e-bike or electric bike conversion kit such as the simple Ridekick power trailer, it’s helpful to understand what maintenance will look like.
One of the benefits of the Ridekick power trailer is that your bike maintenance is the same as it was before. It is worthwhile to double-check your brakes to make sure you have good stopping power.
Whether you do your own bicycle maintenance or use a local bike shop, there is no need to find a shop that specializes in e-bikes because the same skills you need for regular bike maintenance are all you need with the Ridekick power trailer. The diagnostic computer in the controller enables all electrical issues to be managed from our headquarters in Colorado.
What regular maintenance your ebike needs
- Lube the Chain
The chain is the only part that benefits from regular lubrication. Give it a squirt when you lube your bike chain and it’ll last for a couple thousand miles. - Tire Wear
Tires will wear out over time. With an e-bike, the extra weight and power will munch through a rear bike tire at a faster rate, so plan on replacing those more frequently.
With the Ridekick power trailer, the bike weight is nearly identical, so you can use expensive bike tires without having to replace them more frequently.
The trailer tire on the left (driven by the motor) takes the brunt of the wear; this tire lasts between 400 to 1500 miles depending on road conditions and style of riding. When it is well worn, we recommend swapping the tires (left to right) as you will notice the idling right-side wears very little. Trailer tires are about $20.
PS. Oh yes, keep the tires inflated to 15-20 psi. - Motor
The motor is the powerhouse for your assist. This electric-bike motor is a brush style which provides strong starting push. You may have heard that brushless motors can wear out, but this motor has very large brushes which have proven to last and last. More than a dozen riders have eclipsed over 20,000 miles on one motor, and the brushes are still good. - Battery
The battery is the “gas tank” and while it doesn’t require any maintenance, properly charging and storing it will help prolong its capacity and longevity. Basically, charge it after a ride so you will have good range for your next ride, and when storing it, keep it cool.
Looking to learn more about batteries? Take a look at our comprehensive battery care guide with information for an SLA (sealed lead acid) or Lithium (LiFePO4) battery. The guide also provides guidance on how to choose the right battery for you. Battery safety is also covered so
What to Bring on a bike ride or trip
You should carry what you need for flats and mishaps along the way. There is ample room in the trailer for tire patch kit, tire slime, pump, extra bike tire tubes, your hat, extra water, a snack, and more 😊 You can expand your cargo beyond the small bike-frame bag that used to limit our packing.
The trailer is weather-resistant, so your belongings will not get soaked. Plenty or riders commute to work through rain-soaked streets with only minor amounts of water finding its way inside. Keep the body of the trailer above the flood zone and all should be well.
In summary, maintenance for the Ridekick ebike conversion kit is simple. Also, maintenance for your bike continues as before. When you consider using a formal “e-bike”, look around for a service center you can rely on.
Ridekick is born in Colorado, USA where we proudly design, source, and support your riding experience.