How to Charge an Electric Bike Properly?

In recent years, as people's environmental awareness has increased, electric bikes have gradually become an excellent way to travel green. Since batteries power electric bikes, they must be charged before they can be used normally. How to charge electric bikes is a question worth exploring and studying for novices.

This blog provides users interested in charging electric bikes with almost all the relevant content, including detailed charging steps, charging timing, charging skills, etc. Besides, the Jackery Portable Power Station, a portable power solution, can help you charge electric bikes outdoors or in an emergency.

How to Charge an Electric Bike?

As a convenient and environmentally friendly means of transportation, the safety and standardisation of the charging process of electric bikes directly affect the riding experience and battery life.

Mastering the correct charging steps can ensure riding safety and extend battery life. If you are unsure how to charge electric bikes, refer to the steps below for safe and effective charging.

Step 1: Remove the Battery (If Necessary)

Today's electric bikes have replaceable batteries that can be easily charged and replaced. If your electric bike's battery is removable, follow the instructions in the manual to remove it securely. Please switch off the electric bike's power to deactivate the battery, then slide or remove it from the container. Some electric bikes can be charged without removing the battery, so skip this step and proceed to the next.

Step 2: Connect the Charger to the Battery or Electric Bike

Accurately connect the charger output plug to the battery or electric bike's body charging port and confirm that the connection is firm to avoid looseness and poor contact. Do not force the connection, which may damage the port or charger.

Step 3: Plug the Charger into an Outlet

After properly attaching the charger to the battery or electric bike body, connect the charger's power plug to a wall outlet. Typically, after connecting the power supply, the charger's indicator light will illuminate (red, orange, or green), showing that power is being delivered. To minimise safety risks, plug the charger directly into a power socket rather than using an extension cable or a broken outlet.

Step 4: Monitor the Charging Process

Pay special attention to how the charger's indicator light changes during charging. The significance of indicator lights varies by brand; therefore, please refer to the manual. The red or orange light typically indicates that the device is charging, whereas the green light indicates that it is full or in standby mode.

Check the charger's temperature regularly to see if it is overheating and if the battery makes any unusual sounds or odours. If there is any irregularity, stop charging immediately, unplug the power supply, allow the battery to cool, and investigate the problem.

Step 5: Complete the Charge

When the charger indication light turns solid green (please refer to the manual for information on the various colours of lights), it indicates that the charging process is nearly complete. After charging, unhook the charger plug from the power outlet first, then disconnect the battery or electric bike body end.

Step 6: Reinstall the Battery (If Necessary)

Removing the battery from the electric bike allows it to cool slightly before carefully reassembling it. Install the battery back into the electric bike's battery compartment smoothly and firmly in the correct direction. Ensure the battery clip or lock is securely fastened, and the battery does not wobble.

Step 7: Check the Connection

Finally, turn on the electric bike's main power switch and check whether the dashboard display, especially the battery display, is standard. Then, do a simple, functional test, such as turning on the lights. If you have time, take a short test drive to confirm everything is normal and the battery is installed and connected correctly.

When Should an Electric Bike Be Charged?

After mastering how to charge an electric bike, you must also understand when it needs to be charged. The charging time of an electric bike needs to be adjusted flexibly depending on the remaining power, frequency of use, and idle state.

Charge As You Use

The electric bike battery should never be overcharged or fully discharged. The charge level should be maintained between 40% and 70%, particularly for lithium-ion batteries. If the electric bike has 40-70% remaining power, it can be charged as needed for the next ride.

For example, if the riding mileage the next day is long, it is advisable to charge it to more than 70% ahead of time to ensure adequate power supply. Charging it a few hours before your ride or the night before is advisable. However, charging it before each ride is unnecessary if the power level is within a suitable range (40-70%) and the rising demand is low.

Regular Charging for Low-Frequency Use

If you ride only once or twice a week, you should charge it at least once weekly to keep the battery alive. Charging is unnecessary if the power level exceeds 40% and there are no immediate plans for long-distance riding. If the power level is less than 40%, you can increase it accordingly, charging 50%-70%.

Regular Charging for Long-Term Idleness

When an electric bike is idle for a long time, no matter how much power it has, it should be charged at least once a month to 80%—90% to prevent the battery from being deeply depleted. Removing the battery from the electric bike for convenient storage is best. However, when removing the battery for storage, ensure the battery power is not less than 30%.

First Charge

Newly purchased electric bikes typically come with a set amount of power, which ranges between 30% and 70%. It is advised that the electric bike be charged entirely before its first use.

This is primarily to guarantee that you have enough power to begin using it and to allow the battery management system to initialise fully. Remember that an electric bike requires only a complete charge, which takes 8-10 hours, and should not be charged for more than 12 hours.

How Long Does It Take to Charge an Electric Bike?

Usually, charging until the indicator light turns red to green indicates that the electric bike is fully charged. Currently, the typical charging time of popular electric bikes on the market using a standard charger is 3 to 6 hours.

The charging time is usually longer if the electric bike battery is completely exhausted or the temperature is low. It may also be longer if the battery is idle or stored for a long time. However, please note that the total charging time of the electric bike should not exceed 12 hours to avoid overcharging and damaging the battery.

Charging Time of Different Types of Electric Bike Batteries

The charging time required is also different depending on the electric bike batteries. The following is a rough estimate of the charging time of various types of electric bike batteries commonly found on the market:

Lead-acid Battery: If the electric bike is equipped with a lead-acid battery, it takes 6 to 8 hours to charge.

Lithium Battery: Most modern electric bikes have lithium-ion batteries, which charge about 3 to 6 hours. On the other hand, lithium polymer batteries are faster and only take 2 to 4 hours to charge fully.

Tips for Charging My Electric Bike

Mastering the correct charging techniques can extend the life of the electric bike and avoid potential risks. Here are some tips to effectively protect the battery, extend its life and ensure safe charging:

Tip 1: Always Turn Off the Power of the Electric Bike When Charging

Before charging, you need to turn off the electric bike's power. This can protect the battery from potential damage and help save energy, speeding up the charging speed.

Tip 2: Use a Matching Dedicated Charger

Make sure to use the charger that came with the electric bike or one recommended by the manufacturer. These unique chargers, developed for electric bikes, provide maximum compatibility and charging performance. An improper charger could cause damage or possibly a fire.

Tip 3: Follow the Charging Instructions

Electric bike batteries and chargers of different brands and models may have specific requirements, so please refer to the charging instructions provided by the manufacturer. For example, some lithium batteries recommend shallow charging and shallow discharge, and some lead-acid batteries may require complete charging.

Tip 4: Avoid Overcharging

The power should be turned off immediately after the electric bike is fully charged. Do not leave the battery fully charged and connected to the charger for long, such as overnight or several days.

Tip 5: Avoid Charging in Extreme Temperatures

The optimal charging temperature for electric bikes is 20-25°C. Do not charge an electric bike at an ambient temperature above 35°C or below 0°C. If you must charge at extreme temperatures, shorten the charging time appropriately and reduce the charging behaviour immediately after riding.

Tip 6: Charge Regularly

Even if you don't use your electric bike often, recharge it regularly. Charge your electric bike to about 50%-80% before storing it. If you plan to store your electric bike for a long time, check the power every 2-3 months and charge it if necessary.

Tip 7: Consider Smart Chargers

Smart chargers can monitor the charging process and immediately cease charging once the electric bike battery is fully charged, improving battery life. They guard against overcharging, monitor temperature, regulate current, and identify battery health. Some high-end chargers can also notify you of charging issues via the app.

Other Ways to Charge an Electric Bike Besides an Outlet

Riders can also recharge their electric bikes in other ways if they lack access to a standard household socket. Electric bike charging methods are no longer limited to traditional power sockets when travelling or in an emergency. Several practical charging methods can be considered.

Method 1: Public Charging Stations

As of 2025, thousands of public charging points have been deployed across the UK for temporary charging needs. Some public charging stations offer free charging, while most charge by time or power.

However, it is necessary to confirm whether the charging interface of the public charging station you find is compatible with electric bikes and avoid using high-power charging piles designed for electric vehicles. Electric bike riders can find compatible charging stations through applications such as Zapmap and PlugShare.

Method 2: Car or Camper Battery

Charging an electric bike with the battery of an existing vehicle is a versatile solution, particularly for car owners and camping aficionados. However, users must have an inverter that converts the car or camper's DC power to AC power.

This charging method is similar to charging using a wall socket. However, it must be done while the automobile is running. Although charging an electric bike with a car or camper battery requires no special equipment, monitoring the vehicle battery status regularly is essential to avoid damage caused by frequent power supply.

Method 3: Solar Generator

Solar generators are an environmentally responsible and portable way to charge electric bikes, making them ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. Solar generators are portable devices that combine battery storage and power panels, making them a simple all-in-one option.

In addition to electric bikes, solar generators with several output types (AC, DC, USB, etc.) may charge mobile phones, computers, and other devices. However, the weather impacts the effectiveness of this method, necessitating the use of a backup charging solution on overcast days or at night.

Method 4: Portable Power Station

Portable power stations are similar to trolley cases with a capacity of 4-8kWh. They can be placed in the trunk of a bicycle or carried with you. Most portable power banks can charge an electric bike by 10-20%, providing an additional range of 2-8 miles.

Users only need to charge the electric bike through a standard charging port. In addition to being a supplementary power source for electric bikes, the Jackery Explorer 3000 v2 or 2000 v2 portable power station can also be charged using solar panels.

Jackery Portable Power Stations for E-Bikes

E-bikes give you incredible freedom to explore, but that freedom is limited by battery range. Jackery Portable Power Stations are designed to be relatively compact and lightweight (especially models like the Explorer 2000 v2), making them easy to transport in your car, RV, or even on a cargo bike. This allows you to charge your e-bike in remote locations, during camping trips, at trailheads, or anywhere a wall outlet isn't available.

E-bike chargers use standard AC wall power. Jackery power stations provide multiple AC outlets, meaning you plug your e-bike charger directly into the Jackery, just as you would at home. No special adapters or complex setups are needed.

Jackery offers a range of capacities (Wh), from smaller units suitable for a single top-up to larger ones that can fully recharge an e-bike battery multiple times (like the Explorer 2000 v2 or 3000 v2). This allows e-bike riders to pick a model that matches their typical ride length and charging needs.

Jackery Explorer 3000 v2

The Jackery Explorer 3000 v2 is an ideal e-bike charging solution, especially for those who want maximum freedom and reliability. 

Massive Capacity and Output: Most e-bike batteries range from 300Wh to 750Wh. With 3072Wh, the Explorer 3000 v2 can fully charge a 625Wh e-bike battery 3-4 times. This is perfect for extended multi-day trips, powering several e-bikes, or providing significant backup for unexpected detours. You'll rarely worry about running out of juice for your e-bike, even on ambitious tours.

E-bike chargers draw relatively little power (e.g., 50W to 150W). The 3000 v2's 3600W continuous output is overkill, which is good! The power station can easily handle your e-bike charger with plenty of overhead, ensuring stable and efficient charging without being strained. It can even power fast chargers if your e-bike uses one.

LiFePO4 Battery: It utilises a LiFePO4 (Lithium Iron Phosphate) battery, which is known for its excellent durability, long cycle life (up to 4000 cycles to 70%+ capacity), and enhanced safety compared to other lithium-ion chemistries. LiFePO4 is also known for its thermal stability and reduced risk compared to other lithium-ion types, which is crucial for a large power device.

Ultra-Compact and Lightweight: Despite its high capacity, the Explorer 3000 v2 is engineered to be notably smaller and lighter than previous models. Weighing around 59.52 lbs (27 kg), it's designed for easier portability, making it a dependable companion for e-bike adventures.

Off-Grid Freedom: Pairing the Explorer 3000 v2 with Jackery SolarSaga 200W solar panels transforms it into a full-fledged solar generator. This is invaluable for remote camping, overlanding, or long-distance e-bike touring with nonexistent wall outlets. You can ride all day, set up your solar panels to recharge the Jackery, and then use the Jackery to charge your e-bike overnight, creating a self-sustaining cycle.

Jackery Explorer 2000 v2

The Jackery Explorer 2000 v2 is another excellent choice for charging e-bikes. It offers a compelling balance of capacity, power, and portability. While the 3000 v2 offers even more, the 2000 v2 is often a "sweet spot" for many e-bike users.

Enough Power to Charge E-bikes: E-bike batteries typically range from 300Wh to 750Wh. With 2042Wh capacity, the Explorer 2000 v2 can fully recharge most e-bike batteries 2 to 4 times. For instance, Jackery states it can charge a 625Wh e-bike battery approximately 2.3 times. This is fantastic for multi-day trips or for charging multiple e-bikes.

High AC Output: E-bike chargers are relatively low-wattage devices (usually under 200W). The 2000 v2's high 2200W continuous output and 4400W surge means it can power any e-bike charger with ease and efficiency, providing stable power without straining the unit. This also leaves plenty of headroom for charging other devices simultaneously.

Enhanced Portability: Weighing around 17.5 kg (38.6 lbs), the Explorer 2000 v2 is notably lighter and more compact than the larger 3000 v2. This makes it significantly easier to transport in a vehicle, RV, or even a robust cargo e-bike trailer, striking a better balance between capacity and mobility for many users.

Fast and Flexible Recharging: The 2000 v2 can be recharged from a wall outlet in 1.7 hours, a massive advantage for quick turnarounds between rides. With up to 400W of solar input, you can recharge the unit in 5.5 hours of good sunlight, making it perfect for sustained off-grid adventures. This closes the loop for accurate renewable e-bike charging.

FAQs

The following are frequently asked questions about charging an electric bike.

1. How do you recharge electric bikes?

Electric bikes can be charged differently from brand to another, so read the manufacturer's charging instructions carefully before using them for the first time. Always use the charger that comes with your electric bike. If you are sure it is compatible, connect the charger to a standard household outlet to charge your electric bike.

2. Can I charge an electric bike at home?

Yes. Charging an electric bike at home is the most convenient and safest option as long as you follow the manufacturer's instructions and take the necessary precautions. However, confirming that the charger is compatible with your home outlet before charging your electric bike at home is best.

3. Do electric bikes charge while pedaling?

Generally, most electric bikes today cannot be charged while pedaling. Some models can be charged while pedaling, but this is inefficient.

4. Is charging an electric bike at home better than a public charging station?

Generally speaking, yes. Compared to charging at a public charging station, charging an electric bike at home allows you to charge your electric motorcycle according to your convenience, including location and time. Charging an electric bike at home is also more cost-effective, as you only need to pay for the electricity. Best of all, charging your electric bike at home also avoids the risk of theft or vandalism at public charging stations.

Final Thoughts

After reading this blog, you can learn how to charge an electric bike. The simplest way to charge an electric bike is to connect the charger to a standard household socket and the charging port on the vehicle. Suppose you are traveling or doing any other outdoor activities. In that case, you can also consider using public charging stations, car or camper batteries, solar generators or Jackery Portable Power Stations to charge your electric bike.