Basic E-Trike Maintenance Guide
2025-03-20
Simple and Easy to Understand, Quick Start!
Doing some simple maintenance yourself can save you a lot of time and money. For some enthusiasts, maintaining their e-trike is a pleasure, but if you find it a burden, don't worry, just take a little time each month. Remember, neglecting maintenance will accelerate the vehicle's aging, and may eventually require expensive repairs. Regular checks and maintenance can save you a lot of trouble.
Good e-trikes are designed with durability in mind. Daily maintenance focuses on a few key areas: fasteners, brake system, drivetrain, and battery. Of course, there are some other small details.
Proper Storage, Half the Battle!
Before starting daily maintenance, make sure your e-trike is stored in a dry place. Although rain won't cause immediate damage, long-term moisture will accelerate component aging. Try to store the vehicle in a garage, shed, or indoors. If you can only keep it outdoors, be sure to cover it with a waterproof cover. After riding in the rain, shake off excess water and wipe it with a dry cloth.
Daily Maintenance Tips!
Regularly performing the following checks and maintenance will not only extend the life of your electric tricycle but also make your ride safer and smoother.
1. Check Fasteners
Monthly, use a suitable wrench to check all nuts and bolts, ensuring they are tightened, especially in the following key areas:
✅Wheel Axles: Ensure the nuts are tight to prevent the wheels from loosening while riding.
✅Handlebar Fixing Screws: Loose handlebars can lead to steering control issues, so be sure to tighten them.
✅Frame Connections: Check for looseness or abnormal noises, and retighten if necessary.
If you find a loose screw, don't just tighten it; first, check if it is rusty or stripped. If the stripping is severe, you may need to replace the screw or related parts.
2. Brake System Inspection and Brake Pad Replacement
Brake pads are wear items. Generally, if the brake pad thickness is less than 2mm, it needs to be replaced, otherwise, the braking effect will deteriorate significantly.
✅How to Check Brake Pads:
- Locate the brake calipers (the black or metallic clamps on both sides of the tire).
- Observe the thickness of the brake pads. If it is less than 2mm, or if you feel the brakes are weak when applied, it needs replacement.
- Lightly turn the wheel while gently pressing the brake. If you hear a metallic rubbing sound, it means the brake pads are worn out and must be replaced immediately.
3. Drivetrain Maintenance (Chain Cleaning & Lubrication)
Regularly cleaning the chain can effectively reduce wear and improve riding efficiency.
✅Cleaning Steps:
Dry wipe cleaning method (suitable for daily maintenance):
Use a clean cloth to gently wipe the chain to remove surface dust and oil.
Deep cleaning (suitable for long-term uncleaned situations):
- Use chain cleaner or soapy water + soft brush to clean the dirt on the chain.
- When rinsing, be careful not to let the water column directly flush the bearing area of the bottom bracket, hub or headset.
After drying, lubricate.
✅Lubrication Steps:
- Use special bicycle chain lubricant, drip one drop at each chain link, and avoid getting it on the outside.
- After lubrication, wipe off excess oil with a cloth to prevent dust from adhering and accelerating wear.
Note: Never use WD-40, it will cause the chain to dry out excessively and affect its life.
4. Battery Care & Storage
The battery is the "heart" of your electric trike, and proper maintenance can extend its lifespan.
✅ Charging Guidelines:
Avoid overcharging and deep discharging – Keep the battery between 20%–80% instead of draining it completely before charging.
Charge in a suitable environment 10°C–30°C (50°F–86°F) is the ideal temperature range. Avoid charging in extreme heat or cold.
Regular maintenance – If storing the battery long-term, charge it once a month to prevent deep discharge damage.
✅ Storage Tips:
For long-term storage, keep the battery at 40%–60% charge, not fully charged or completely drained.
Store in a dry, temperature-controlled area, avoiding heat above 40°C (104°F) and cold below 0°C (32°F).
Keep the battery away from direct sunlight to prevent overheating.
5. Cleaning & Waxing
✅ Cleaning Tips:
Use a damp cloth to wipe down the frame, wheels, and fenders to remove dirt.
Avoid using a high-pressure hose! Water can penetrate the motor and bearings, leading to rust or damage.
✅ Optional Waxing:
- Applying bicycle-safe wax helps reduce dirt buildup and keeps the frame looking new.
- Avoid automotive wax, as some formulas may be too harsh for bicycle paint.