Are you an avid cyclist who loves to explore new places on your trusty eBike? If so, you may be wondering if it’s safe and practical to transport your folding bike on a rack. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the pros and cons of shipping a folding eBike on a shelf and give you some valuable tips to ensure a smooth and hassle-free shipping experience.
Benefits of transporting folding e-bikes on racks
Expediency
One of the biggest advantages of using a luggage rack to transport a foldable e-bike is the convenience it provides. Instead of taking your bike apart and stuffing it into the back seat of your car or SUV, you just need to attach it to the frame and be on the road in no time.
Secure
Putting your e-bike on a rack can also protect it from damage. By attaching it properly to the rack, you can avoid potential scratches, dents, or other problems that might arise from throwing it in the back of the vehicle.
Space-saving
Folding electric bikes are compact in design and easy to store, making them ideal for transport on racks. By folding your e-bike and securing it to a rack, you can free up valuable space in the car for other devices or passengers.
Potential disadvantages of transporting folding e-bikes on racks
Secure
A major problem with shipping foldable e-bikes on racks is the risk of theft. While most bike racks have a locking mechanism, it’s important to make sure your bike is secure and not easily accessible to potential thieves.
Stabilize
Depending on the type of rack you use, there may be some stability issues when transporting an e-bike.
FAQ
Can you put the electric bike on the bike rack?
Most traditional bike racks can’t handle the extra weight and bulk of an electric bike, which can weigh more than 50 pounds. It is recommended to purchase a sturdy, high quality bike rack designed specifically for electric bikes.
Why are some bike racks not suitable for electric bikes?
Electric bikes vary widely in weight, with some models weighing more than 60 pounds (27 kilograms) or more. Traditional bike racks are primarily designed for traditional bikes and are difficult to safely accommodate the extra weight and size of an electric bike.
Why are electric bikes not popular?
The main reason is because e-bike battery packs completely lack thermal management, which means they destroy the battery at a much faster rate than a typical liquid-cooled car. In addition, electric bicycle motors are generally far less durable than electric vehicle motors. In-wheel engines typically have a range of about 20,000 miles.
How can I keep my electric bike battery healthy?
If you don’t plan to ride an e-bike for a few weeks or more, it’s best to store the bike in a place where it’s undercharged, Mr. Boscher said. “Storing a battery at 100 percent is actually bad for battery life,” he said.
Is it a bad idea to fully charge the battery of an e-bike?
Second, batteries are more susceptible to heat damage when fully charged. In extreme cases, excess voltage can be a battery killer. It’s always good to fully charge the battery when needed, especially if you pay attention to the charging and storage temperature.
