Electric bike battery: how to avoid deep discharge?

Your battery is much more than a simple accessory - it is the heart of your Ultima bike, offering you the freedom to travel for miles effortlessly.

The Valeo batteries in our bikes have been designed with the best technologies to last for years. However, like any high-precision equipment, their capabilities depend directly on how they are treated, especially during periods of inactivity. Improper use or poor storage conditions can cause irreversible damage and reduce the lifespan of the battery.

To optimize its use, it is essential to adopt a few good habits. Here's everything you need to know to keep your batteries healthy, protect your bikes, and fully enjoy your rides.

What is deep discharge?

A battery goes into deep discharge when its cells remain at a very low charge level for too long. The battery no longer turns on, even when attempting to charge it. It is sometimes possible to recover it by performing numerous micro-charges of a few seconds, but if the damage is too extensive, the battery will not be recoverable.

⚠️ Important reminder: Damage related to deep discharge results from a lack of maintenance. Therefore, they are not covered by the warranty conditions.

How to avoid deep discharge? Here are good storage and maintenance practices

To maximize the lifespan of your equipment:

• Never let the battery drop below 10%

It is strongly advised not to leave your battery with a low charge level after a ride. Since a battery naturally discharges even when turned off, recharge it immediately. Never leave it for several days at a very low level.

• Long-term storage

If you do not use your battery for more than three months; store it with a charge level between 25% and 50% (i.e., 2 LEDs lit).

• Check your battery level regularly

Check the charge status every 6 months. If it drops to 1 LED (less than 25%), recharge it immediately until it reaches 2 LEDs (50%).

• Store your bikes in good conditions

The battery tolerates storage temperatures between -20 °C and +25°C. However, cold accelerates voltage drop. A battery left in an unheated room in winter will discharge much faster. The storage location must be dry, ventilated, and free of humidity. For maximum safety, it is recommended to store your bikes in a room equipped with a smoke detector. Occasional storage between 25 °C and 45 °C is possible, but should not exceed three months.

• Respect charging temperatures

The components of your batteries are sensitive to their environment. Recharge your batteries in a place where the temperature is between 0 °C and +45 °C.

• Unplug after charging

It is not recommended to leave the battery plugged in permanently once it is fully charged.

To summarize, what should you do?

To keep your battery alive: store it between 25% and 50% of its capacity, away from humidity and cold, and also check its level regularly if you are not riding. By following these technical instructions, you guarantee a long life for your Ultima bike!