Transmission in danger: the mistakes that destroy your electric bike (and how to avoid them!) 🚨

How to maintain the transmission of your high-end electric bike like a real pro?

If you own a mid-drive e-bike, whether you ride it on the mountain or on the road, you know that these beasts combine power, performance… and faster drivetrain wear. Why? Because the motor amplifies your force, which puts even more stress on the chain, cassette, and chainrings. But don’t worry, with a little care and a few good habits, you can maximize their lifespan while enjoying a super-smooth ride. Here are our top tips for making sure your bike rides like new.

1. Electric bike transmission: it wears, it wears!

A mid-engine bike transmits power directly to the chain and cassette. This is super efficient, but it can also:

• Wear the chain faster : Because the traction is more intense than with a standard bike.
• Create costly problems : If your chain is worn out, it will mess up your cassette and chainrings, which will end up costing you a lot of money if left unattended.

2. Cleaning, your best weapon against wear and tear

The secret to extending the life of your transmission is to keep it clean. Here's how:

What you need:

• A degreaser (ideally designed for bicycles).
• A brush or chain cleaning tool.
• A clean cloth.
• A chain lubricant (special for VAE or intensive use is better).

Easy steps:

1. Clean regularly : Use a brush and degreaser to remove mud and dirt, especially after riding in the rain or mud.
2. Wipe properly : An over-oiled chain accumulates dust, so dry it well after each cleaning.
3. Lubricate wisely : Apply a thin layer of lube as you turn the pedals, then wipe off the excess with a rag to prevent it from becoming a dirt trap.

How often to clean?

• On the road: Every 200 km or so (more often if you ride in wet conditions).
• In the mountains: After each outing in the mud or sand.

3. The tool you need: the chain wear tester

Your chain is the part that wears out the fastest. With a wear tester, you can know exactly when to change it before it damages your other components.

How does it work?

A wear tester measures the elongation of your chain (because a worn chain stretches, and that causes problems).

When to test your channel?

• Every 300 to 500 km , or after a big ride.

How to use the tester?

1. Place the tool on the chain.
2. If the side marked 0.5% is inserted, it means that it is already quite worn and needs to be replaced if it is an 11-12 speed system.
3. If the 0.75% side passes, it's definitely time to change your chain to protect the cassette and chainrings which may already be affected if it's an 11-12 speed system.

4. When to change your parts?

Even with proper maintenance, your components will eventually wear out. Here's a quick guide to help you know when to replace what:

The chain

• When to change it? Every 2,000 to 3,000 km on the road, or 1,000 to 1,500 km in the mountains (if you take good care of it)
• Factors that accelerate wear: Powerful engine, frequent climbs, mud and rain.

The cassette

• When to replace it? About every 2 or 3 chain changes , if you've taken good care of your transmission.
• Signs it's done: It's creaking, your gears aren't shifting properly, or your chain is jumping.

The front tray

• When to care for them? Chainrings often last longer, but expect to replace them after 3-5 chains , depending on usage.
• To check: If the teeth are pointed or hook-shaped, it's time to change them.

5. Pitfalls to avoid

1. Leaving a dirty or poorly oiled chain : This accelerates wear on the entire drivetrain.
2. Ignore the chain tester : An overly worn chain can seriously damage your cassette and chainrings.
3. Over-oiling : Too much oil attracts dust and mud, which does worse than good.

6. Come to the workshop: we’ll take care of you!

Don't want to get your hands dirty or just want it done properly? Come see us at our workshop ! 🚲

We offer you:

• A professional cleaning of your transmission.
• A complete inspection : chain, cassette, chainrings, everything is there.
• Advice tailored to your riding style and type of bike.

And what's more, we show you simple little tricks so that you always have a top-notch machine without too much hassle. Because at home, we're not just mechanics, we're bike enthusiasts who want you to have fun on your bike.

In conclusion

Keeping your transmission clean and in good condition is not complicated if you follow these steps. Clean, measure, lubricate, and change your parts at the right time: it's the recipe for a smooth and trouble-free ride.

And if you want peace of mind, come see us at the workshop: your bike is our specialty, and we love to see you leave with a smile and a machine in great shape! See you soon! 🚴‍♂️

Marc-Antoine ✌🏼