Transporting an eBike: Everything You Need to Know
Are you looking for tips on how to transport your ebike, for instance to take it with you on vacation? If you want to transport your bike, there are a number of things you need to bear in mind. After all, you want your bike to arrive safely at its destination. Here we will explain the various ways you can transport an ebike from A to B. We will also give you tips to make sure everything goes smoothly, so you can transport your ebike with peace of mind!
What is the Difference Between Transporting an eBike and a Bicycle?
When transporting an ebike, you need to take into account a number of things that are not as important when transporting a regular bicycle. Therefore, it is very important to think about the following points before you start planning your ebike transport:
Weight: An ebike weighs more than a regular bike.
Battery and Electronics: The electronic components needs to be protected.
eBike value: An ebike generally has a higher material value.
How Do I Transport an Electric Bike?
There are several ways to transport your ebike, and they each have different pros and cons. Read through these options so you can choose which way is best for you.
In the car
On car roof rack
On car bike rack
On the plane
Transporting Your eBike in the Car
Of course, it is possible to take your bike in the car. However, you should take into account that your car has enough space to store an electric bike. So, this is not possible in every car. A medium-sized station wagon, van or SUV are best suited for this. It is also important that you can secure the bike properly so it does not slip while driving. Of course, we want your bike to arrive in one piece!
Your Electric Bike on Your Car Roof Rack
We do not recommend transporting an ebike on your car roof. There are two very simple reasons for this:
An electric bike is very heavy. Lifting such a bike onto a car roof is therefore a difficult job. Of course, you don't want to risk injury, such as a herniated disc.
Every car roof has a maximum permissible roof load that you can easily exceed with an ebike. Therefore, an electric bicycle should not be transported on the car roof.
Carrying an Electric Bike on the Car's Bike Carrier
The safest and easiest way to transport your electric bike is with a bike carrier mounted on the car's rear hitch. Since most electric bicycles are heavy, not all ordinary bike carriers are suitable.
If you want to transport your electric bike on a bike carrier, you need to consider a few things:
The bike carrier must not block the view of the license plate.
The bike carrier must have working rear and brake lights.
Your ebike may only protrude a maximum of 7.8 inches on either side of the car.
No sharp parts may protrude.
The maximum drawbar load on the tow bar must not be exceeded. This information is often found in the car papers or on the plate next to the tow bar socket. If you can't find it, contact your car dealer for assistance.
Remove all loose items such as bags, baskets, and child seats.
The battery and display should be removed and stored in a transport bag in the car. This not only saves weight but is also better for the components of your ebike. If you do not remove these loose parts, you are not only endangering yourself but also other traffic. Additionally, you may receive a fine.
Note: Be aware of the specific laws and regulations regarding ebike mobility in your state. There may be restrictions on where and how ebikes can be used, such as speed limits, designated routes, or requirements for additional signage.
Taking an Electric Bike or Bicycle on a Plane
Taking an electric bike with you on a long trip? A regular bicycle can generally be checked in as cargo on the plane, but in most cases, it is expensive. With ebikes, it becomes even more difficult: only certain battery capacities can be carried on passenger planes. The batteries of electric bikes usually exceed this limit, so the battery cannot be taken. In theory, you could take your ebike without a battery and borrow one at your vacation destination, but that is quite complicated.
Taking your bike on the plane often involves high costs that vary by airline and flight. It is best to check with your airline to see if your bike can be taken, how much it costs, and how to pack it.
Transporting eBikes With or Without a Battery?
The battery of your electric bike should always be well protected. If you want to transport the bike, it is important to remove the battery and display and store them safely in the car. Additionally, you must ensure that the battery is not exposed to mechanical shock or excessive heat. So, store it properly!
Transporting Your Electric Bike in the Rain
A frequently asked question is whether you can transport the ebike in the rain. Since you can also use this bike in the rain, transporting it in the rain is not impossible. However, you should pay attention to a few things:
Electronic parts (battery and display) must be removed from the ebike. Always do this before transportation.
The contacts that will be exposed without the battery and display, as well as the motor, should be covered with a waterproof protective cover. This will protect important parts of the ebike from dirt and water.