Imagine your Ebike standing in the sun and gleaming with splendor. However, when you actually try to turn it on, it doesn’t start up. Wouldn’t that be frustrating?
If you feel clueless about what you’re supposed to do next, don’t worry. This troubleshooting guide should suffice to answer your question, “Why won’t my E Bike turn on?” and provide you with a few ways to resolve any issue your bike may have in a jiffy!
1. Check the Battery Power
First and foremost, it’s important to check whether your E-Bike battery is charged or not. This is the literal heartbeat of your bike and is the driving force of your motor. Without it, the motor of your electric bike won’t turn on.
To charge the battery, remove it from your E-Bike with a battery case key. Then plug it into your E-Bike’s battery charger and wait till the light comes on. Once the light turns green, it’s time to remove it from the charger and place it back into your bike, securing it with the key.
But if it doesn’t charge up, there is a possibility that a fuse has been blown or your battery has grown a little too weakr. Now, it’s time to take action to get your e-bike back on the road again.
2. Then, Check Your E-Bike Battery Voltage
If you notice that your battery hasn’t charged properly, consider checking it’s voltage. This can be done with a voltmeter.
Simply grab one and connect it to your battery by attaching prongs to the positive and negative sides. What you’re looking for is a voltage reading that’s greater than the number stated on the charger. If you see a number that’s too low or nothing at all, then it’s probably out of action.
However, if it does show some signs of life, charge it for 8-10 hours, making sure not to overcharge it. If your battery is fully charged, great! But if it isn’t, you can assume that it’s a goner. In this case, you may need to replace it with a new battery. Proper storage is key to ensuring a longer-lasting battery.
Remember, determining a battery issue and resolving it early on is key to avoid any other, more concerning, issues that may consequently ensue.
3. Check for Loose Connections in the Wiring
The wiring of your E-Bike is like it’s nervous system. Each wire plays an integral part in making your E-Bike move and function like it’s supposed to. However, sometimes you may recognize a problem with your bike’s wiring which prevents it from turning on.
First, make sure to give your wires a checkup. Inspect each wire manually to ensure they are all firmly plugged in. A loose connection could cause your bike to stop unexpectedly or even malfunction.
What you’re looking for are signs of damage. These could include cuts, fraying, or exposed wires. Not only are these hazardous for you, but they can also ruin your bike’s electrical system by causing short circuits.
4. Next, Check the Controller and its Electrical Components
The controller is the brain of your E-Bike that allows you to use and control a plethora of its functions. However, like the other electrical components of an E-Bike, the controller can give way as well. Here’s a proper approach to beginning the troubleshooting process:
- First, check the power supply connectors of your controller.
- Then, proceed to check the controller’s case for cracks, nicks, or any other indicators of damage.
- Look for any loose cables or connections that might be preventing your controller from turning on.
- Then, connect it to a battery and check its output voltage.
- If your controller has a circuit breaker, reset it.
- Finally, check the power cables to make sure that they are properly connected to the controller and battery pack.
5. Go Ahead and Check Your Electric Braking System
Your bike’s brakes are perhaps one of the most essential things that ensure your safety. They can get worn out over time as well due to debris or dirt build-up that can accumulate, disrupt, and jam the braking system.
First check your brake disks, pads, and rotors and make sure they’re working perfectly. The key is to look for dirt, scuffs, and scratches that may prevent it from working like it’s supposed to.
Sometimes, you may also need to tighten the brake lever or cable adjuster due to its tendency to loosen up.
The motor inhibitor switch can get stuck in one position as well. If that’s the case, try to move the levers a little. If it doesn’t budge, consider replacing them.
6. Finally, Check Your Bike’s Throttle
Some E-Bikes have throttles which is a handlebar control feature that, upon being pressed, allows your E-Bike to start moving without any pedaling. Oftentimes, this can get stuck open and not return to it’s initial position which prevents it from functioning like it’s supposed to.
To fix this, gently ease it back slowly. You can do this by twisting it carefully, making sure it doesn’t just break right off. However, if it doesn’t get unstuck, don’t hesitate to replace it.
Troubleshooting E-Bike Problems Made Easy With This Guide
Furthermore, it’s key to remember that if nothing seems to work, it’s best to leave your electric bicycle in the hands of a professional.
So, the next time your battery charge level doesn’t increase, your wiring and braking system are damaged, or your controller malfunctions, call a bike mechanic who’s familiar with electric bike problems and how they can be avoided or rectified.
Now, you’re ready to introduce your new E-Bike to the world and begin your cycling journeys thereafter!
