As the leaves fall and temperatures drop, many riders in Canada are gearing up to store their VoltBikes for the winter months. Many of you ride all year, and we're thrilled to be here throughout the winter to help, but let's talk about putting the bikes away for the season! Proper maintenance before tucking away your VoltBike not only preserves its performance but also ensures it's ready to hit the trails or streets come spring.
At VoltBike, we've seen how a little prep work can prevent common issues like corrosion, flat tires, or battery degradation. Drawing from our technical support experience and insights from our help center, here's a straightforward guide to winterizing your electric bike.
Start with a Thorough Cleaning
Before storage, give your VoltBike a good clean to remove dirt, salt, and grime that could cause rust or wear over time.
- Wash the frame and components: Use a mild soap or cleaner like Simple Green, and clean the bike with a soft brush or cloth. Avoid high-pressure washers, as they can force water into electrical connections or bearings. Pay special attention to the chain, gears, and undercarriage—areas where mud accumulates.
- Dry completely: Towel off all parts and let the bike air dry in a warm spot. For hub motors (like the G06 Bafang in the Yukon 750) or mid-drive systems (like the M620 in the Yukon Core or M600 in models such as the Enduro), ensure no moisture lingers around the motor housing or cables.
- Lubricate moving parts: Apply a light chain lube (we recommend Tri-Flow lubricant, but any bike-specific chain oil is great) to the chain, derailleurs, and brake pivots. This prevents seizing during storage. For rear hub motors, a quick check of the axle nuts (using an 18mm wrench as outlined in our Rear Hub Motor Service guide) can confirm everything is secure.
If your e-bike has been exposed to salty winter roads already, consider a professional tune-up at a local mechanic—our manuals recommend certified service for optimal safety.
Inspect Key Components
A quick once-over can catch small problems before they become big ones.
- Tires and wheels: Inflate tires to the recommended PSI (maximum 30 PSI for all Yukon models with fat tires). Inflate to maximum if storing for months to prevent flats. Inspect for cracks or wear; if needed, replacement tubes start at around $50 per tire.
- Brakes and cables: Test hydraulic brakes for responsiveness. Clean brake pads and rotors, and lubricate cables if they're exposed.
- Electrical system: Power on the bike and cycle through assist levels on your display (whether it's the 850C, 860C, or C240 model). Check for error codes—our display manuals (available at voltbike.com/manuals) explain common ones like low battery or sensor issues. Disconnect and inspect cables for fraying; zip-tie any loose ones to prevent damage.
- Suspension and frame: For full-suspension models, clean forks and shocks. Tighten bolts to spec (use a torque wrench if possible—our owners manual suggests 5-8 Nm for most fittings).
Lithium Battery Storage: Key Tips for Longevity
The battery is the heart of your VoltBike, and improper storage can reduce its capacity or lifespan. Our lithium-ion batteries (typically 48V, ranging from 12.8Ah to 25Ah) are built for durability, but they require specific care in cold weather.
- Charge level: Store the battery at 50-75% charge. Fully charged or depleted states can lead to degradation. Use your charger's LED indicators (or the battery's built-in meter) to monitor this—aim for 2-3 bars.
- Temperature control: Keep the battery in a cool, dry place between 0°C and 20°C (32°F to 68°F). Avoid freezing temperatures, as they can damage cells. If your storage area dips below freezing, bring the battery to somewhere warmer. Never store in direct sunlight or humid spots to prevent corrosion.
- Removal and inspection: Detach the battery from the bike for storage using the key provided with the bike. Check for any signs of swelling, leaks, or corrosion on terminals. Clean contacts with a dry cloth and apply a light grease if needed.
- Periodic checks: Every 6-8 weeks, check the charge level and top it up to 50-75% if it drops. This maintains cell balance. Our batteries come with a 1-year warranty, but following these steps can extend life beyond that.
- Charging note: Use only VoltBike-approved chargers. Avoid third-party ones, as they may not match voltage specs.
For detailed battery LED replacement or troubleshooting, refer to our support articles in the help center.
Choosing the Right Storage Spot
Keep your VoltBike in a dry, secure garage or shed. If it gets below freezing there, be sure to bring the battery somewhere warmer. Cover the bike with a Bike Cover to protect from dust—avoid plastic, which traps moisture. If space is tight, folding models like the Mariner store compactly.
Spring Revival
When winter ends, recharge the battery fully, reinstall it, and test all systems. Pump tires, lube the chain again, and take a short test ride. If issues arise, our technical support is here—email sales@voltbike.com or check https://voltbike.com/a/support for FAQs.
By following these steps, your VoltBike will emerge from storage as reliable as ever, ready for new adventures. Safe riding, and remember, we're here to help with any questions!
While you're here, come visit our Help Center for more tips and technical advice.