Range optimization for your journeys with the pedelec

The range is an important selection criterion when purchasing an eBike or an electric retrofit drive. When comparing the manufacturer's data on the achievable distances with electrical support, the strongly varying mileage ranges are noticeable. The largest value usually shows the distance the cyclist would cover under ideal conditions. However, since many factors have an influence on energy consumption, a lower mileage is usually given, which already takes into account some conditions that reduce the range. Some factors can be influenced by the driver himself and thus also increase the range. Others, however, cannot be influenced, but should be taken into account when planning the route, so that support is also available on the last few kilometres.

THESE FACTORS INFLUENCE THE RANGE

 

support level

The higher the support mode used, the higher the power consumption and the lower the range.

driving style

You can save energy with the optimal use of the gear shift. In smaller gears you need to use less power, the support is less and the drive of your pedelec consumes less energy.

ambient temperature

Due to cell chemistry, modern rechargeable batteries can emit less energy at cold outside temperatures and therefore have a shorter range. Even at temperatures below 15°C, the lithium-ion batteries do not work optimally, which influences the capacity.

Weather and weight

In addition to the ambient temperature, wind conditions also have an influence on the range. Due to strong headwinds, more power must be used when driving. Luggage increases the total weight which also requires more power.

Technical condition of your pedelec

Insufficient air pressure increases rolling resistance. A grinding brake or a badly maintained chain also reduces the range of your pedelec.

state of charge

The state of charge indicates the amount of electrical energy stored in the battery at that moment. If the battery is not fully charged, this of course reduces the maximum range.

battery capacity

The battery capacity indicates how much energy a fully charged battery can supply. Since the capacity decreases with increasing age of a battery, the amount of storable energy also decreases with a full charge.

cadence

The motor develops its optimum efficiency at cadence frequencies between 70 and 80 revolutions per minute. In this range, less energy is consumed for the same driving force than at lower cadence frequencies, which allows a higher range.

Number of starts and stops

Similar to a car, on tracks with frequent starts and stops, more energy is needed for starting up, which reduces the range.

topography

Uphill more power and therefore more energy is needed than downhill. The more gradients there are on the route, the higher the energy consumption.

soil condition

A smooth surface such as asphalt has a positive effect on energy consumption, unlike stony, uneven or soft surfaces.

bicycle type

A load bike has a higher air resistance and a higher dead weight than a road bike, for example. As a result, the ranges with a load wheel will usually be smaller.

7 TIPS TO IMPROVE YOUR RANGE

Vary your support levels!

With the Pendix eDrive you can adjust the support levels individually and adapt them to the terrain. If it is mountainous, you can choose the highest level, if the terrain is flat, a lower level is often enough. If you want to use your bike without any electrical support, you can switch off the Pendix eDrive and use it like a conventional bike without any noticeable pedaling resistance.

Drive with optimal cadence!

The Pendix eDrive has its optimum efficiency at a cadence between 70 and 80 revolutions. To control your cadence, you can use the free Pendix.bike PRO app. It connects easily to your Pendix via Bluetooth. Among many other functions there is also the cadence display (RPM). The app also shows you by means of an arrow whether you are in the optimal range.

Work with your circuit!

Imagine you drive the car in third gear. Then you'd have to step on the gas pedal to get going. It's similar with your pedelec. So use your gearshift to save energy, especially when starting in a lower gear.

Choose the optimal battery capacity!

You can choose between a 300 Wh battery with 45-105 km range and a 500 Wh battery with 69-160 km range. In addition, there are various packages, such as the Pendix eDrive Flex1000, in which you get two 500 Wh batteries. You can use our configurator to get a clue which of our products suits you and your track best. Simply answer a few questions and at the end you will receive a non-binding product recommendation.

Check your bike regularly!

In addition to a six-monthly inspection of your bike, you should check your tyre pressure regularly.

Reduce drag!

Especially in strong headwinds, a bent sitting position is recommended so that you offer less aerodynamic drag when riding.

Use a protective cover for your battery!

The lithium-ion rechargeable batteries operate optimally at temperatures between 20°C and 25°C. With protective sleeves or covers, as they are often called, your energy supplier is not only protected from mechanical influences, but also from excessively cold temperatures. Pendix users get the covers in our shop.

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