Battery Range Is Lower Than ExpectedUpdated 3 hours ago

Battery range is an estimate, not a fixed distance. A Ridewave e-bike or e-trike can use noticeably more energy on hills, in cold weather, with higher assistance, heavier loads or low tyre pressure. Start with a controlled comparison before assuming that the battery has failed.

First check the conditions

Think about what changed on the rides with lower range:

• Were you using a higher pedal-assist level, more start/stop riding or steeper hills?
• Was the vehicle carrying cargo, a passenger or a heavier rider load than usual?
• Were the tyres at the pressure printed on their sidewalls?
• Was it cold, windy or very hot?
• Has the chain become dry, noisy or hard to pedal?

These factors affect how much work the motor needs to do. A lower range under harder conditions can be normal, even if the battery is working correctly.

Do one useful comparison ride

Charge with the Ridewave-supplied or approved charger, then try a normal route that is safe and familiar. Note the starting battery level, selected assist level, distance travelled and ending battery level. Avoid testing by deliberately running the battery flat.

For a useful comparison, keep the tyres correctly inflated, use the same approximate route and load where possible, and avoid changing assistance levels constantly. If the display battery reading drops quickly but then stabilises, take a video or photo sequence rather than relying on one momentary reading.

Check for warning signs

Stop using and charging the battery if it is swollen, cracked, leaking, unusually hot, smells unusual, has been in water or shows a warning/error code. Do not continue a range test in those circumstances.

Also contact us if the battery level falls suddenly during ordinary riding, the vehicle switches off unexpectedly, or the range has changed sharply with no meaningful change in conditions.

What to send us

For a possible battery assessment, please include:

• your model, order number and approximate age of the battery;
• the route distance, assist level, terrain, load and weather conditions;
• starting and ending battery/display readings;
• photos of any warning/error code; and
• a short video if the battery percentage drops unexpectedly.

Do not open the battery or try to test its internal cells. Submit a warranty claim if the symptoms suggest a possible fault, or contact Ridewave for general range advice.