Question: Are there any advantages to removing e-bike battery from the bike and riding with it in a backpack? – Clement, Pacific Beach, CA
Answer: You didn’t mention if you were riding on road or off-road and at what distance but in general carrying an e-bike battery in a backpack offers several benefits off-road:
- Weight Distribution: While carrying a battery in a backpack adds weight, it also distributes the weight more evenly compared to having it mounted on the bike. This can improve the balance and handling of the bike, especially off-road.
- Security: Removing the battery from the e-bike and carrying it with you adds an extra layer of security. It reduces the risk of theft since potential thieves won’t be able to easily access the battery when the bike is parked.
- Compatibility: Backpacking a battery ensures compatibility with different e-bike models. Instead of relying on specific charging ports or connectors, you can use the same battery with multiple bikes.
- Aesthetics: Most serious off-road riders find their bikes more aesthetically pleasing without the big ugly battery mounted to the frame.
However, there are also some drawbacks and considerations to keep in mind:
- Weight: Carrying a battery in a backpack adds weight to your body, which can be tiring and hot, especially on longer rides. It may also affect your balance and comfort, particularly if the battery is heavy.
- Comfort: Depending on the size and shape of the battery, it may be uncomfortable to carry in a backpack for extended periods. Padded straps and proper ventilation can help mitigate this issue.
- Safety: There are safety concerns associated with carrying a lithium-ion battery in a backpack, particularly if it gets damaged or punctured. Proper storage and protection are essential to minimize the risk of fire or explosion.
Our test riders prefer going the backpack route on shorter off-road rides, usually 10 miles or less. They use the Deuter style packs that keep the load away from touching your back for a cooler experience. Removing the battery weight from the bike improves off-road handling significantly.
The internet threads always bring up the risk of fire and although I assume it’s possible none of our testers or engineers have ever experienced, seen or heard of this firsthand. I suppose it poses a similar risk of the battery catching fire on the actual bike itself. On road, our team members prefer the battery mounted to the bike frame as handling isn’t as big of an issue on pavement and it keeps the weight off your body.
Ludwig Von Heinrich (AKA Dr. Dirt) is a German-American born PHD engineer, cycling historian and author who serves as our experienced mentor on all things bicycle. Dr. Dirt has cycled on all 7 continents (yes even Antarctica!) and has been credited with repairing over 10,000 bikes over his career. Dr. Dirt was an early fan of e-bikes and even had one of the first Montage folding e-bikes from the early 1990’s.
While not on staff Dr. Dirt does provide valuable guidance, motivation, and feedback for what we are trying to accomplish here. If you have a cycling or e-bike question please drop him a note at drdirt@dirtrevo.com.