E-bikes are becoming more and more popular among people of all ages due to their environmentally friendly and convenient features.
Coupled with the affordable price, it is no wonder that many people choose e-bikes for transport or leisure purposes. Even so, some riders still find that the speed is not enough, so they try to find ways to increase it.
In this article, you'll learn how to make your e-bike go faster and how to do it safely and effectively.
Top 10 Ways to Make Your E-Bike Run Faster
There are many ways to make your e-bike go faster. Knowing how to do it right will help you stay safe and get the most out of your performance. Here are 10 proven ways to make your e-bike go faster.
1. Adjust pedal assist
Most e-bikes have at least 5 pedal assist modes ranging from 0 to 5. They determine the amount of pedal assist you get from your e-bike. The lower the number, the less assist, and the higher the number, the more assist. Higher numbers also consume more battery power.
To adjust the pedal assist, use the handlebar display. To increase the assist level, press the plus (+) sign. To decrease the assist level, press the minus sign (-).
2. Adjusting the application's maximum speed
Most e-bike manufacturers allow you to adjust the maximum speed of their products. The most common way they do this is through the official manufacturer app. By linking your e-bike of choice to the manufacturer's app, you can comfortably adjust the top speed on your mobile device.
Bodywel has an official app that allows you to adjust all aspects of your e-bike. The app is available for iOS and Android and you can use it to adjust the top speed for each pedal assist (PAS) level.
2. Choose a higher voltage, fully charged battery
Battery voltage has a direct impact on performance. The higher the voltage of your eBike's battery, the more energy is transferred to the motor, which makes the wheels spin faster.
Depending on your e-bike, you may be able to swap your existing battery for one with a higher voltage. However, check the manufacturer's specifications first.
Consider the disadvantages of a battery before upgrading it. An overpowered battery increases the risk of overheating and other problems. This is because capacity generates more heat, which can damage the cells inside the battery. Choose only high-quality batteries that are suitable for your e-bike model.
4. Reduce the weight of your e-bike
Reducing the weight of your e-bike is one of the most effective ways to increase speed and performance. By reducing the weight of your e-bike, the electric motor will consume less energy to propel the vehicle forward and maintain consistent power.
To reduce the weight of your e-bike, follow these practical steps:
Replace heavier tyres with lighter ones
Remove unnecessary accessories such as baskets that are not in use
Use an alternating riding position (e.g. standing up on the pedals) rather than relying too much on motor power
All these steps will result in an exhilarating ride, more suitable for those who want a faster ride!
5. With better aerodynamics
Consider adopting the right riding position to increase the speed of your e-bike. Your riding position has a direct impact on the aerodynamics and wind resistance you create while riding.
For a more aerodynamic ride, try leaning forward. This will reduce the surf area and allow for smoother airflow behind you. Alternatively, try bending or squatting over the handlebars.
Also, focus on optimising pedalling. Keep your feet flat on the pedals to ensure the most efficient transfer of power. Avoid feet up or down. Also try different cadence and gear settings.
6. Adjust tyre pressure
Are your tyres feeling a little flat? Low tyre pressure increases rolling resistance, making it more difficult to roll the tyre and maintain momentum. It also reduces vibration damping and decreases your driving comfort.
Get yourself a bicycle air mattress. Then pump up your tyres to the recommended PSI level for bike tyres. Each bike tyre has a different recommended PSI level, so make sure you follow the manufacturer's recommended standard.
7. Use narrow tyres
Another way to increase the speed of your e-bike is to use thin tyres. Thin tyres cover less surface area than thicker tyres, which means less rolling resistance and better aerodynamics.
Of course, you still want optimal shock absorption and puncture resistance. Choose tyres that are at least 2 inches wide. They will give you the optimum speed and protection you need for riding on all types of surfaces.
8. Adjusting to the right gear
When riding your e-bike, make sure you use the correct gear. This way, you can pedal comfortably and maintain speed anywhere, such as on steep hills. On flat roads, turn up the gears to speed up; on steep slopes, turn down the gears to pedal more easily.
9. Changing tyres
Are your existing tyres not meeting your needs? Consider a new set of tyres.
The performance of old bike tyres deteriorates over time. They may develop small cuts, holes or tears. The tyre tread may be damaged. Or the tyre shape may become flatter and lose its aerodynamic roundness.
When replacing an e-bike tyre, make sure that the new tyre matches the specification of the existing tyre. This means that the tyres have the same or similar width and dimensions. Also, make sure you use the proper tools and follow the correct method of replacing your e-bike tyre.
10. Clean your e-bike regularly
Knowing how to clean your bike is essential to keeping your e-bike performing at its best. As dirt and grime builds up on the frame and other bike components, friction increases, making it more difficult to pedal or use the motor power effectively.
Pay particular attention to the chain, as over time it can become clogged with debris; this reduces the amount of torque generated by the rotation of each wheel, leading to a loss of speed and performance.
Cleaning not only improves speed, it also allows you to scrutinise the bike. Check for worn brake pads, loose bolts or damaged components. All of these symptoms can negatively affect the operation of your e-bike.
