You know, I have an e-bike and one of the things I discovered real quickly around my area is that regular bike shops generally won't touch them. I think they're missing out on a golden opportunity. Most people are going to be riding e-bikes with the gas prices going up and it would be a good time to get into keeping those running. I'm seeing more and more moped styley bikes with racks around here, that people are using to run errands
I know exactly what you mean. I have an Ebike that is from freesky, and none of the bike shops will work on it. I'm 64 and not in the best of health. I bought it for local transportation, and I feel ripped off .
2:00 For an ebike, this is glossing over a major factor of keeping it running long term. The charging regimen makes a big difference in how long the batteries last; people leaving it on charge continuously will likely have short life because the lithium batteries don't like being kept at full charge all the time in storage. Keep it at half to 70 percent charge in storage, and just charge immediately before the rides and it should last the longest.
This guy is on point. I wish I lived close to him so I could give him business. What great knowledge that he has and is willing to share. Hats off to him and thank you for posting.
no hes not even at 18psi in your tires the bike would go much further then 100 yards i bet that ladies battery is still hooped my fat tire bike has 10psi in them goes 55 miles range. bs dude thinks he runs a mechanic shop its a bicycle man learn how to fix your own stuff jeez. Do people actually take bikes to have shops work on them really ?!?! its not rocket science
He is so right about tire pressure. I bought a new e-bike. Put 55 psi in the tires. Rode the bike for a month and put 275 miles on it. Checked the tire pressure and it was 27 psi. Decided to check my tire pressure every 50 miles. Went from 55 psi to 40 psi in 50 miles. You basically have to check your tire pressure every week (or more) if you ride a lot.
2024 now… STILL an incredibly helpful video! Noticed Court’s reply to another comment updating us that Sam happily moved to Thailand with his.wife! Wishing Court, Sam & their families all the best, with great thanks for their help with our e-bikes all these many years! 🌹🌹🌹
I've been in the automotive and truck field for over 30 years. I have worked on bikes and small engines too. WD-40 is water and oil the water causes rust. I use WD-40 years ago on a brand new set of connecting rods. sprayed them down with WD-40 and put them in Ziploc bags. come back sometime later and the rods had rust on them. luckily it wasn't in the journals.
Great advice. Sam is a guy who knows what he's talking about. I have been observing the ebike market develop over the last 15 years. I finally took the plunge and bought one not assembled (in a box) during winter. Turns out to have been a good decision because I got to see first hand the quality of the build and its functions without riding it. This also gave me an opportunity to tweak it to my preferences, and I had a number to make because with all my biking experience throughout the years (I'm 65 and a little heavy), I have come to know what I really like for me personally. Push come to shove, after getting the ideal secure 2-lock setup (ebikes are thief magnets), I've taken it out in like 5 runs now. After further refinements, I also got used to how to modulate between the gear shifting and the bike's electrical power curves for an ideal balance, (which is super important). I may be super-happy with my choice, but I'm not here to sell any particular bike brand. These are just things that anyone who wants an ebike should consider. Yes, I'm somewhat more mechanically/electrically inclined than the average person, but if you have to pay someone like Sam to have the ideal setup that works for you, it's worth it. It just makes the joys of ebiking ownership that much sweeter. Happy touring/shopping/workingout/and using your car less!!
Thanks for this very informative video. If on the unlikely chance I get a flat tire on my 4.25" fat tires (which have TANNUS liners, BTW) I'm just inserting SLIME into the tube. My E-CELLS Super Monarch Crown E-MTB has a lot of parts such as 2 batteries, 2 motors, dual suspension, hydraulic brakes, etc. and even thought I used to race and maintain my bike having an e-bike is a new learning experience for many items.
my bike is waterproof, no battery to replace or catch fire. it's a gasoline powered hybrid it gets about 160 through 180 mi to the gallon. I've had it for almost 4 years now it's a four stroke. the longest I've taken it on is a 22 mile trip. a complete new engine is about $140.00 and there are all kinds of upgrades you can do. when I'm going green I can just shut the engine off and pedal it almost flat terrains.
I glad to actually see a video about keeping your electric bike in good shape and how to tune it up. Usually there are just a lot of videos about different new bikes on the market. The real question is when you got your electric bike what can you do to maintain it and keep it lasting for years to come. I was also taken by surprise to see that bike shop is locally close to me:)
Like hanging around the best bike shops, when the best riders are discussing what else - bikes. Great points, practical, useful stuff to know. Wish I was in the neighborhood. Thanks!
I honestly need more torque & power for all terrains as 250 W, just dosent cut It at ALL, would be much happyer with a touch more POWER, not 100% fit as In P.T.S.D. & C.O.P.D, Really need more POWER, can you possibly help Me? I would be most greatfull, as getting no exercise at all, willing to pay for the Increase in power etc, not a problem, for correct E-mountain bike, (folding would be great but not essential) & the power increase Is honestly essential & personal for Me, as staited. It would be amazing If you could help!Duncan.
Full time cyclist here: with respect to lubricating chain. . . I soak the whole chain (after a thorough cleaning) in molten sealing wax. It lubricates the interior part of the chain, and does not attract dirt the way most oily lubricants do. Using “quickllink” chain connectors makes this quite easy.
Really helpful! Thank you so much. And I totally agree that for most of us, purchasing your bikes through a trusted shop in your area and knowing they’re there for support and service has always been appreciated.
Thanks, Huge to both of you guys for this video. This is a 7-year-old video, but it helps massively to a guy like me as a brand new e-bike owner with knowing pretty much nothing about e-bikes. Thanks again, and have a Wonderful Christmas. 🙏
Thanks Chaz! Merry Christmas to you too. I’d love to do an updated video with Sam, but he moved to Thailand with his wife! Now living happily, helping raise some nieces and nephews, and taking care of rescue dogs. Living the dream… great guy :)
I took notes throughout this interview and will keep my tablet in my bike once it arrives from the company. Most excellent interview loaded with valuable helpful necessary information to a newby such as I. Thanks guys.
If you haven't chosen one that you really like yet continue your search. It took me 2years.. And when I was about to give up I stumbled across what I had been looking for. For me it was the Beachbum2 made by Tower , Good luck. Battery, the tires and motor are the three things you don't want to go cheap on.
@@samueltownsend1569 you're most welcome, I'm glad you saw my comment. Need more people like you here in the UK, its so difficult to find good mechanics. Hope you're doing good.
One thing that's important (among many other important things) is, if you have a speed sensor, to keep it free of shmutz and metal particles (it's magnetic) which helps the ebike utilize its battery more efficiently.
Thks Sam, 2 minutes in and you inform me more than anyone else ever did. Bicycle tires ---we put a man on the moon and still tires for bicycles haven't improved since the 1920s. Unfortunately, the shop is a thousand miles away from me.
These videos are awesome! I just got a Radrunner and want to learn how to do basic maintenance. I just added some Tri Flow to my Amazon cart. What a great guy. Wish there was someone like Sam in Oakland, CA
More more more videos about maintaining and working on ebikes! Love your details and knowledge of ebikes. Keep 'em coming! From Denver, CO, thanks so much for helping me feel more comfortable with my ebike.
THANX Sam! Because of your ebike knowledge, and experience, I FIXED my bike STALLING problem today! I had a faulty brake lever switch, so I just disconnected the SM (5v 3 prong connector) which was cutting out my motor. The brake still works OK, and that will get me by until I REPLACE that REAR brake lever (right side), with a new one. My bike has been sitting since May, so it's great to be back in motion!
10:42 IMO i think is the #1 top question that i always have in my mind that i just cant shrug off so easily considering the fact that not only am i purchasing a super expensive electric Mountain bike. I also live in the Pacific Northwest in Seattle WA where it rains all the time and can also get cold. Thank you very much you guys for answering that #1 top question am sure most people, especially new buyers such as myself are going to ask 👍
What a nice knowledgeable man, happy to impart his expertise, very helpful to me , a first time owner of 64 years, and I am in Dublin Ireland and just purchased a Rad Runner step thru . Thanks
Regarding flats … one thing you should do is run your fingers on the inside of the tire to ensure nothing is embedded that you don't see on the outside. Otherwise, you can patch or replace a tube only to get a flat again. I've been using hydraulic brakes since 2001 and the easiest brake adjustment is to loosen those hex bolts on the caliper assembly, spin the wheel, engage the brake, then tighten the bolts - no drag on the rotor after that.
Ex US Nat'l Coach here. Not a bad primer on basic, very basic maintenance. He skipped scores of general maintenance but most riders let bike shops or pro mechanics deal with alignment, bearing maint., wheel trying, etc. Here's the basics for Electric bikes and motos. 1. Battery maint is paramount! Follow proper charging and storage guidelines and never let it freeze, ever. You can store your bike in the garage, but not the battery. 2. Electrical connections should be cleaned regularly with electronics cleaner and qtips. 3.Always air blow connections after cleaning to reduce oxidation. Carry a can of compressed air to dry connections after wet rides before loading bike to vehicle. Take care not to blow out your lubricants and re- lube as necessary. 4.These are the basics. More advanced- learn how electric motors, controllers, BMS's and batteries work. Perform zero mods before doing so. Enjoy the future of cycle/ moto riding!
Good video. Simple things explained extremely well. Such a wonderful teacher. Despite knowing pretty much everything, I walked away having learned something more. Thanks.
I know you could have talked with Sam for hours but you wanted to keep the interview of a reasonable time length, and you did that very well. What I wanted to say was that your interruptions were irritating me and a couple of times I yelled at the screen for you to let Sam finish his thought. Love the channel overall, though, and I think it's cool you are doing this. Keep up the good work.
@@ElectricBikeReview Thanks. It was a successful run. Got to my job & back with my battery showing almost no drain on it. Picked up a few things for my bike while I was out. Tomorrow I think I will start commuting to work by bike & hopefully my savings in gas will allow the thing to basically start paying for itself.
I’m a little shocked this video is 8 years old and this guy says he’s been working on e-bikes for 12 years! Lol I just got my first e-bike a month ago! But good info is timeless and everything he says is good advise.
What a great video informing newbies on common things "i can do at home' to keep your e bike on the road and well maintained. Thanks for this very informative video!
You Truly Found the Perfect Guy and shop. Might want to replay it again every time bike is ready for a little lube before heading out. Boy was I glad when he pointed out WD40 is just a solvent cleaner and not a lube. 50 Million people would make this mistake not knowing they were causing damage using it as a lube. It's just modified diesel fuel made for stubborn fasteners. It was never a lubricant to begin with, just as he said, it'll be dry a day later. Go ahead, spray it on your wheelbarrow, Tomorrow it won't be traceable where it was sprayed. Cheers
Sam the Man ... you are terrific. I have viewed a few of these info-videos, and I like to maintain my our bikes. Thus, your expertise and advice is second to none. Al McCalder, Alberta, Canada
Thanks, Sam and Court! That was an extremely interesting video. Just chock full of tips and good advice. I take a pack of tire irons and patches in a case, a pump, and added a 14-in-1 tool ($4 from Chaiwan, complete with chain breaker) on the road with me. That's in addition to elbow/knee pads, helmet, and orange mesh vest. People still don't see any bikers unless they're stopped and one rides by and stops next to them.
Hey! You guys are goood! Thanks so much for the in-depth coverage (like - 'what' and 'where' is a 'controller'. I just wasn't sure). Lubricants and 'cleaners' ...that was important to know too.
Thank you both. Simple direct advice that is easy to listen to. Sam is the perfect foil his voice suits the role of questioner as he not at all threatening nor does he make the question sound stupid. Well done both of you. Chuck.
That blue lightening stuff is really only a wet lube. Please clean the bike chain with a solvent and re-lubricate the bike to make it running smoothly.
Although I knew that an e-bike was water resistance and not proof, it's good to hear that the hub motor is well protected and can withstand riding in the rain. Also, that the controller is more vulnerable than the motor and would have to be submerge in water in order to fail. I would like to add to also carry a spare inner tube just in case of a blowout with the appropriate wrenches to loosen the axels, as well as spare brake cables and brake pads. And are you snapping brake cables way too often? I finally realized that I was over tightening them, 'excessive torque' at the brake caliper, and that stopped the problem. Thanks for sharing your valuable knowledge !!
D Jaquith I have since retired to use Southeast Asia Now I just hep out villagers fix the farm equipment their bicycles and a few motorcycles. Thanks for the kind words
@@samueltownsend1569 I bet you're living like a king down there after leaving such a high cost of living place. What pushed you to make that decision finally?
Great video, I'd say checking tyre pressure is the most easy and most important for mileage/kilometerage. I have a 16" wheel foldable ebike made in China, I have to pump a little bit into those small tyres every 3 rides (I ride 30KM/day). It's not because it's cheap and crappy. It's because what we call the American valves use air pressure inside the inner tube to seal itself, they loses air over time and when there are less air pressure, they lose air quicker. It's summer now in Australia, if the tubes don't have enough pressure in the morning, the heat may cause the tyres to lose more air. Then in the after noon when I try to get back home, the tyres will be too soft and I will have to make a lot of effort to get through the Sydney hills. So, check your pressure and pump it up before every ride.
11:39 You'd be hard pressed to find _any_ experienced professional in the repair industry that doesn't roll their eyes when they hear the word »rice«. Rice has little effect as a desiccant. It will absorb many times its weight in water, but _only_ while in direct contact. It will not effectively »draw« moisture out of the air. All it does is bring starch dust and grit into the thing you’re trying to dry out, and that bag (as in »a bag of rice«) will prevent air from circulating, and both rice and the bag will keep the humidity way up. Rice in salt has one major effect: to loosen the salt crystals, cover them slightly with starch powder from the rice and prevent them mechanically from clumping. It has next to nothing to do with humidity. If you want something to dry, just keep it in dry air, preferribly at the maximum temperature your gadget (bike, battery, controller, phone) is allowed to be stored. Keep the rice in your kitchen. Cook the rice when hungry, and eat the rice. Bon appetit! [edited to correct some typos.]
Love the idea that ebikes and ebike motors are becoming more available. My old style cruiser bike with fake gas tank and springer front end has been sitting in the garage since we moved to hill country. Now I'm thinking of getting an ebike mid - mount motor and get that big comfortable bike on the road again.
Holy crap, I thought most experienced bicyclists knew all this kind of stuff. I'm more of an expert than I knew. I'm going to apply for my certification and decoder ring.
OMG. This is basic shit. 250 lbs. breaking spokes? Rebuild your wheels with 13 plus gauge spokes. I had to check out at 4 minutes. Oops, heard some more bullshit whilst posting. Boeshield T9 is the only thing you ever put on your chain. Period.
A wonderful, knoweldgeable, charismatic man who goes to work in a tee-shirt, shorts, flip-flops and seems to love his job, immensely. My only reget is that he doesn't have a shop here in south Florida.
Great video! Very helpful. I'm new to e-bikes, but also new to bike maintenance in general. Sam made it very easy to understand how to maintain the bikes.
Thanks for the video and tips. Still relevant in 2019. I recently got my first E-bike and I’m trying to get all I can out of it performance wise. This video definitely gave me some good tips!! 👍.
Awesome advice on fixing a rear flat. I have imagined my first real life experience with fixing a rear flat would probably have been to remove the rear wheel and break out my new spare Inner Tube:( I don't anticipate a blow out so I'll be leaving my spare Inner Tube at home. Thanks Sam and EBR.
I have to admit that's clever pulling the tube out to the side of rim to patch it vs pulling entire wheel off. Saving a good hour right there, plus the mess it made. Cheers
I plan on. Buying my first e-bike next month and I definitely want to know what self maintenance and emergency items I should have. One additional item will be a small first aid kit.
Nice video and it's a nice bike too but since it is a paddle assist but due to my health I would like add throttle in my cube bike, please advise in detail on how to go about it ?
![[#2024MAMA] ROSÉ (로제), Bruno Mars - APT. | Mnet 241122 방송](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/dgGqD28J6aQ/mqdefault.jpg)
I learned more from this technician in a short time from his video than I ever knew about bikes in 60 years of riding one. Thank you!
Yeh and it's sad that he has only 40+ subscribers on his channel.
I bought an electric bicycle today. This video from six years ago is still very helpful to me!
You know, I have an e-bike and one of the things I discovered real quickly around my area is that regular bike shops generally won't touch them. I think they're missing out on a golden opportunity. Most people are going to be riding e-bikes with the gas prices going up and it would be a good time to get into keeping those running. I'm seeing more and more moped styley bikes with racks around here, that people are using to run errands
Definitely need more E-Bike shops in all 52 states😊
And Canada!!
I know exactly what you mean. I have an Ebike that is from freesky, and none of the bike shops will work on it. I'm 64 and not in the best of health. I bought it for local transportation, and I feel ripped off .
What a great video. Many thanks👍
@@garyv.gethers7495 And Nambia
2:00 For an ebike, this is glossing over a major factor of keeping it running long term.
The charging regimen makes a big difference in how long the batteries last; people leaving it on charge continuously will likely have short life because the lithium batteries don't like being kept at full charge all the time in storage. Keep it at half to 70 percent charge in storage, and just charge immediately before the rides and it should last the longest.
You should watch this video every 3 months or so as a reminder of all the maintenance you should be doing.
Great stuff.
Good suggestion, things can last a long time with a bit of extra care :)
i agree, this is a video that should not be discarded, LOL
Yeh and it's sad that he has only 40+ subscribers on his channel.
@@skismosisYeh and it's sad that he has only 40+ subscribers on his channel.
This guy is on point. I wish I lived close to him so I could give him business. What great knowledge that he has and is willing to share. Hats off to him and thank you for posting.
He already sold his business and move over the seas
Send him your whole paycheck or are you cheap?
no hes not even at 18psi in your tires the bike would go much further then 100 yards i bet that ladies battery is still hooped my fat tire bike has 10psi in them goes 55 miles range.
bs dude thinks he runs a mechanic shop its a bicycle man learn how to fix your own stuff jeez. Do people actually take bikes to have shops work on them really ?!?! its not rocket science
Yeh and it's sad that he has only 40+ subscribers on his channel.
After watching this, I realize how fortunate I have been in all my decades of biking with no tools or tire repair patches. Thank you.
Can we clone Sam Townsend?
Every town and city needs an ebike expert like this.
Yeh and it's sad that he has only 40+ subscribers on his channel.
He is so right about tire pressure. I bought a new e-bike. Put 55 psi in the tires. Rode the bike for a month and put 275 miles on it. Checked the tire pressure and it was 27 psi. Decided to check my tire pressure every 50 miles. Went from 55 psi to 40 psi in 50 miles. You basically have to check your tire pressure every week (or more) if you ride a lot.
even moreso if you're carrying cargo. more weight = more air loss over time
2024 now… STILL an incredibly helpful video! Noticed Court’s reply to another comment updating us that Sam happily moved to Thailand with his.wife! Wishing Court, Sam & their families all the best, with great thanks for their help with our e-bikes all these many years! 🌹🌹🌹
I work for a company that sells E-bikes I will use the stuff I learned to tell our customers. Great Video guys!!!
Yeh and it's sad that he has only 40+ subscribers on his channel.
I've been in the automotive and truck field for over 30 years. I have worked on bikes and small engines too. WD-40 is water and oil the water causes rust. I use WD-40 years ago on a brand new set of connecting rods. sprayed them down with WD-40 and put them in Ziploc bags. come back sometime later and the rods had rust on them. luckily it wasn't in the journals.
Great advice. Sam is a guy who knows what he's talking about. I have been observing the ebike market develop over the last 15 years. I finally took the plunge and bought one not assembled (in a box) during winter. Turns out to have been a good decision because I got to see first hand the quality of the build and its functions without riding it. This also gave me an opportunity to tweak it to my preferences, and I had a number to make because with all my biking experience throughout the years (I'm 65 and a little heavy), I have come to know what I really like for me personally. Push come to shove, after getting the ideal secure 2-lock setup (ebikes are thief magnets), I've taken it out in like 5 runs now. After further refinements, I also got used to how to modulate between the gear shifting and the bike's electrical power curves for an ideal balance, (which is super important).
I may be super-happy with my choice, but I'm not here to sell any particular bike brand. These are just things that anyone who wants an ebike should consider. Yes, I'm somewhat more mechanically/electrically inclined than the average person, but if you have to pay someone like Sam to have the ideal setup that works for you, it's worth it. It just makes the joys of ebiking ownership that much sweeter.
Happy touring/shopping/workingout/and using your car less!!
Thanks ✌
Thanks for this very informative video.
If on the unlikely chance I get a flat tire on my 4.25" fat tires (which have TANNUS liners, BTW) I'm just inserting SLIME into the tube.
My E-CELLS Super Monarch Crown E-MTB has a lot of parts such as 2 batteries, 2 motors, dual suspension, hydraulic brakes, etc. and even thought I used to race and maintain my bike having an e-bike is a new learning experience for many items.
This has to be the most informative video I have found on electric bikes, you guys together answered so many questions that I didn’t even know to ask.
God Loves You glade we helped you
The guy in the shop is great but the interviewer is an idiot who appears to be on drugs. Absolute plonker
my bike is waterproof, no battery to replace or catch fire. it's a gasoline powered hybrid it gets about 160 through 180 mi to the gallon. I've had it for almost 4 years now it's a four stroke. the longest I've taken it on is a 22 mile trip. a complete new engine is about $140.00 and there are all kinds of upgrades you can do. when I'm going green I can just shut the engine off and pedal it almost flat terrains.
I glad to actually see a video about keeping your electric bike in good shape and how to tune it up. Usually there are just a lot of videos about different new bikes on the market. The real question is when you got your electric bike what can you do to maintain it and keep it lasting for years to come. I was also taken by surprise to see that bike shop is locally close to me:)
Like hanging around the best bike shops, when the best riders are discussing what else - bikes. Great points, practical, useful stuff to know. Wish I was in the neighborhood. Thanks!
Bar oil is lubricant that is designed to stick to a spinning chain without slinging off. So I use it on my chainsaw and my bikes,
Cool! Thanks for the tip
Dan is a good guy
This man seems like a really nice guy...God bless him 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
Love the way he gives good advice .I have been thinking about buying one sometime soon
Who's God ?
@@Utubedeletescomments The Creator
@@Utubedeletescomments Jesus Christ of Nazareth is God in flesh.
@@incorectulpolitic You think you're brainwashed by man made religious fairytales?
Amazing. I loosened the 2 nuts as instructed, squeezed the brake, then tightened the nuts. The disk was
completely centered as you said. Thank you!!
Fred you get THIS video ain't press 🔥 RIGHT? Ebike disk brake 60 second VIDEO for owners is NEEDED in must view playlist
I just did that today after watching another video. I feel like I have a brand new bike and it was super simple and quick to do.
What an asset to have someone so knowledgeable close by to purchase an electric bicycle....
He's covering basic stuff
@@forevercomputing Basic but essential!
I live about 30 miles from fullerton this guy is real nice in person too
I honestly need more torque & power for all terrains as 250 W, just dosent cut It at ALL, would be much happyer with a touch more POWER, not 100% fit as In P.T.S.D. & C.O.P.D, Really need more POWER, can you possibly help Me? I would be most greatfull, as getting no exercise at all, willing to pay for the Increase in power etc, not a problem, for correct E-mountain bike, (folding would be great but not essential) & the power increase Is honestly essential & personal for Me, as staited. It would be amazing If you could help!Duncan.
@@duncanhorne5562 come to Pedego Corona Del Mar we’ve got a model in with minimum 500 watts of power
Thank you for this video. As a 63 yr old man getting my 1st E Bike delivered today this is much needed info looking forward to years of enjoyment
You’re going to love it! Enjoy the ride!
Full time cyclist here: with respect to lubricating chain. . . I soak the whole chain (after a thorough cleaning) in molten sealing wax. It lubricates the interior part of the chain, and does not attract dirt the way most oily lubricants do. Using “quickllink” chain connectors makes this quite easy.
old school.
Really helpful! Thank you so much. And I totally agree that for most of us, purchasing your bikes through a trusted shop in your area and knowing they’re there for support and service has always been appreciated.
Thanks, Huge to both of you guys for this video.
This is a 7-year-old video, but it helps massively to a guy like me as a brand new e-bike owner with knowing pretty much nothing about e-bikes.
Thanks again, and have a Wonderful Christmas. 🙏
Thanks Chaz! Merry Christmas to you too. I’d love to do an updated video with Sam, but he moved to Thailand with his wife! Now living happily, helping raise some nieces and nephews, and taking care of rescue dogs. Living the dream… great guy :)
I took notes throughout this interview and will keep my tablet in my bike once it arrives from the company. Most excellent interview loaded with valuable helpful necessary information to a newby such as I. Thanks guys.
There is so much passion that I could see on this guy. It helps me more motivated on getting my electric bike soon.
If you haven't chosen one that you really like yet continue your search. It took me 2years.. And when I was about to give up I stumbled across what I had been looking for. For me it was the Beachbum2 made by Tower , Good luck. Battery, the tires and motor are the three things you don't want to go cheap on.
I think I've learned more about bikes listening to this awesome man for 20 minutes than the rest of my life combined!
James Turner thanks for the kind words, you made me laugh
@@samueltownsend1569 you're most welcome, I'm glad you saw my comment. Need more people like you here in the UK, its so difficult to find good mechanics. Hope you're doing good.
interesting how 4 years later. I discover your channel and still find your content fresh and informative!
Wow, this guy really knows his stuff! And he condensed everything into easy to understand quips
Great video! Appreciate the on bike tube repair method and disc brake caliper centering technique.
This guy is for real, super good advice for any bike electric or not. Would take my bike to him any day.
One thing that's important (among many other important things) is, if you have a speed sensor, to keep it free of shmutz and metal particles (it's magnetic) which helps the ebike utilize its battery more efficiently.
Thks Sam, 2 minutes in and you inform me more than anyone else ever did. Bicycle tires ---we put a man on the moon and still tires for bicycles haven't improved since the 1920s. Unfortunately, the shop is a thousand miles away from me.
hackberry flat hey in that case you’ve got to rely on your MacGyver skills and be more self reliant good luck
These videos are awesome! I just got a Radrunner and want to learn how to do basic maintenance. I just added some Tri Flow to my Amazon cart. What a great guy. Wish there was someone like Sam in Oakland, CA
Cool video. Lots of good info. Sam seems like a great guy.
More more more videos about maintaining and working on ebikes! Love your details and knowledge of ebikes. Keep 'em coming! From Denver, CO, thanks so much for helping me feel more comfortable with my ebike.
THANX Sam! Because of your ebike knowledge, and experience, I FIXED my bike STALLING problem today! I had a faulty brake lever switch, so I just disconnected the SM (5v 3 prong connector) which was cutting out my motor. The brake still works OK, and that will get me by until I REPLACE that REAR brake lever (right side), with a new one. My bike has been sitting since May, so it's great to be back in motion!
10:42 IMO i think is the #1 top question that i always have in my mind that i just cant shrug off so easily considering the fact that not only am i purchasing a super expensive electric Mountain bike. I also live in the Pacific Northwest in Seattle WA where it rains all the time and can also get cold. Thank you very much you guys for answering that #1 top question am sure most people, especially new buyers such as myself are going to ask 👍
My first e-bike is on it's way to me. This was a great help in knowing how to keep my bike in top shape for lots of miles ! Thank you !
the tip he gave on the brake adjustment was great! Good stuff all around.
What a nice knowledgeable man, happy to impart his expertise, very helpful to me , a first time owner of 64 years, and I am in Dublin Ireland and just purchased a Rad Runner step thru . Thanks
Ray Donnelly enjoy your new EBike it will change your life.
"9 times out of 10" Sam is very imformative - actually 10 times out of 10!
Yeah, I wish he was up here in Oregon.
Yes, wish he was here, Long Island, NY.
@@mima4392 hnnnnnnnnb nk
?!
Awso.e! He is so beautiful ❤️
Regarding flats … one thing you should do is run your fingers on the inside of the tire to ensure nothing is embedded that you don't see on the outside. Otherwise, you can patch or replace a tube only to get a flat again. I've been using hydraulic brakes since 2001 and the easiest brake adjustment is to loosen those hex bolts on the caliper assembly, spin the wheel, engage the brake, then tighten the bolts - no drag on the rotor after that.
Adjusting the front break caliper was super awesome!!!
Ex US Nat'l Coach here. Not a bad primer on basic, very basic maintenance. He skipped scores of general maintenance but most riders let bike shops or pro mechanics deal with alignment, bearing maint., wheel trying, etc. Here's the basics for Electric bikes and motos.
1. Battery maint is paramount! Follow proper charging and storage guidelines and never let it freeze, ever. You can store your bike in the garage, but not the battery.
2. Electrical connections should be cleaned regularly with electronics cleaner and qtips.
3.Always air blow connections after cleaning to reduce oxidation. Carry a can of compressed air to dry connections after wet rides before loading bike to vehicle. Take care not to blow out your lubricants and re- lube as necessary.
4.These are the basics. More advanced- learn how electric motors, controllers, BMS's and batteries work. Perform zero mods before doing so. Enjoy the future of cycle/ moto riding!
Excellent informative video. Sam consistently has the best insight and advice. Glad he was featured in this video. Thanks
Awesome video. I haven't bought an E-bike yet, but you answered a bunch of questions I had before I buy one. Thank you.
Good video. Simple things explained extremely well. Such a wonderful teacher. Despite knowing pretty much everything, I walked away having learned something more. Thanks.
Man, ebikes have improved so much in 5 years.
I know you could have talked with Sam for hours but you wanted to keep the interview of a reasonable time length, and you did that very well. What I wanted to say was that your interruptions were irritating me and a couple of times I yelled at the screen for you to let Sam finish his thought. Love the channel overall, though, and I think it's cool you are doing this. Keep up the good work.
aber00all Thanks for the feedback.
I enjoyed Courts conversation and don;t think he interrupted unnecesarily.
aber00all
Same here. If you're going to ask a pro questions, let him ANSWER!
Yeah i wasn't gonna say anything but please let the man speak! :D thanks for doing the vid :)
Great advice, thank you! New ebike owner
What I have learned. Correct Lubricant is my friend. I need to buy that tomorrow during on my test commute.
Good luck on your test commute!
@@ElectricBikeReview
Thanks. It was a successful run. Got to my job & back with my battery showing almost no drain on it. Picked up a few things for my bike while I was out. Tomorrow I think I will start commuting to work by bike & hopefully my savings in gas will allow the thing to basically start paying for itself.
I’m a little shocked this video is 8 years old and this guy says he’s been working on e-bikes for 12 years! Lol I just got my first e-bike a month ago! But good info is timeless and everything he says is good advise.
Yeh and it's sad that he has only 40+ subscribers on his channel.
What a great video informing newbies on common things "i can do at home' to keep your e bike on the road and well maintained. Thanks for this very informative video!
You Truly Found the Perfect Guy and shop.
Might want to replay it again every time bike is ready for a little lube before heading out.
Boy was I glad when he pointed out WD40 is just a solvent cleaner and not a lube.
50 Million people would make this mistake not knowing they were causing damage using it as a lube.
It's just modified diesel fuel made for stubborn fasteners. It was never a lubricant to begin with, just as he said, it'll be dry a day later. Go ahead, spray it on your wheelbarrow, Tomorrow it won't be traceable where it was sprayed.
Cheers
Sam the Man ... you are terrific. I have viewed a few of these info-videos, and I like to maintain my our bikes. Thus, your expertise and advice is second to none.
Al McCalder, Alberta, Canada
I'm from Sacramento area and I always enjoy all of your good and educational tips and tricks videos. Thank you.
Thanks, Sam and Court! That was an extremely interesting video. Just chock full of tips and good advice. I take a pack of tire irons and patches in a case, a pump, and added a 14-in-1 tool ($4 from Chaiwan, complete with chain breaker) on the road with me. That's in addition to elbow/knee pads, helmet, and orange mesh vest. People still don't see any bikers unless they're stopped and one rides by and stops next to them.
Thanks to both of your for all the helpful information. As a new e-bike rider, I really appreciate it.
Nice video. I'm getting back into bicycling and the technology progress like the brake caliper adjustment is all new to me. Thanks!
Excellent video on how to maintain your E-bike!! Thank you! I ordered my 1st one 2 days ago!
Hey! You guys are goood! Thanks so much for the in-depth coverage (like - 'what' and 'where' is a 'controller'. I just wasn't sure). Lubricants and 'cleaners' ...that was important to know too.
Thank you both. Simple direct advice that is easy to listen to. Sam is the perfect foil his voice suits the role of questioner as he not at all threatening nor does he make the question sound stupid. Well done both of you. Chuck.
I use blue lightening chain lube, it's a wax lube that goes on wet and then dries, it also actively cleans the chain as you ride too. Great stuff
There's no substance in the world that can clean and lubricate. Lubricant is sticky. It sticks to the chain. Dirt and dust stick to the lubricant.
@@schregen I don't anything about bikes, but I use dry lubricants like graphite on all kinds of things to avoid dirt and dust sticking.
That blue lightening stuff is really only a wet lube. Please clean the bike chain with a solvent and re-lubricate the bike to make it running smoothly.
Although I knew that an e-bike was water resistance and not proof, it's good to hear that the hub motor is well protected and can withstand riding in the rain. Also, that the controller is more vulnerable than the motor and would have to be submerge in water in order to fail. I would like to add to also carry a spare inner tube just in case of a blowout with the appropriate wrenches to loosen the axels, as well as spare brake cables and brake pads. And are you snapping brake cables way too often? I finally realized that I was over tightening them, 'excessive torque' at the brake caliper, and that stopped the problem. Thanks for sharing your valuable knowledge !!
If Sam were on the other coast in SW Florida .. I'd definitely buy from him! 😀👍
D Jaquith I have since retired to use Southeast Asia Now I just hep out villagers fix the farm equipment their bicycles and a few motorcycles. Thanks for the kind words
@@samueltownsend1569 I bet you're living like a king down there after leaving such a high cost of living place. What pushed you to make that decision finally?
GrummanPilot99 family
I really love to have Sams knowledge keep up the good work big man! 😊
13:14 “Just keep it lubed and you are good to go.”
Never had more truer words been spoken!😉
Great video, I'd say checking tyre pressure is the most easy and most important for mileage/kilometerage. I have a 16" wheel foldable ebike made in China, I have to pump a little bit into those small tyres every 3 rides (I ride 30KM/day). It's not because it's cheap and crappy. It's because what we call the American valves use air pressure inside the inner tube to seal itself, they loses air over time and when there are less air pressure, they lose air quicker. It's summer now in Australia, if the tubes don't have enough pressure in the morning, the heat may cause the tyres to lose more air. Then in the after noon when I try to get back home, the tyres will be too soft and I will have to make a lot of effort to get through the Sydney hills. So, check your pressure and pump it up before every ride.
11:39 You'd be hard pressed to find _any_ experienced professional in the repair industry that doesn't roll their eyes when they hear the word »rice«. Rice has little effect as a desiccant. It will absorb many times its weight in water, but _only_ while in direct contact. It will not effectively »draw« moisture out of the air. All it does is bring starch dust and grit into the thing you’re trying to dry out, and that bag (as in »a bag of rice«) will prevent air from circulating, and both rice and the bag will keep the humidity way up.
Rice in salt has one major effect: to loosen the salt crystals, cover them slightly with starch powder from the rice and prevent them mechanically from clumping. It has next to nothing to do with humidity.
If you want something to dry, just keep it in dry air, preferribly at the maximum temperature your gadget (bike, battery, controller, phone) is allowed to be stored.
Keep the rice in your kitchen. Cook the rice when hungry, and eat the rice. Bon appetit!
[edited to correct some typos.]
thanks for the information!
Ride my ebike to work every day and it is THA BEST. No fuel, no sweating, no hill/intersection anxiety. Good to know how to upkeep it
Good review - i would be very happy to let this guy service my e bike 👍🇬🇧
Love the idea that ebikes and ebike motors are becoming more available. My old style cruiser bike with fake gas tank and springer front end has been sitting in the garage since we moved to hill country. Now I'm thinking of getting an ebike mid - mount motor and get that big comfortable bike on the road again.
Holy crap, I thought most experienced bicyclists knew all this kind of stuff. I'm more of an expert than I knew. I'm going to apply for my certification and decoder ring.
OMG. This is basic shit. 250 lbs. breaking spokes? Rebuild your wheels with 13 plus gauge spokes. I had to check out at 4 minutes. Oops, heard some more bullshit whilst posting. Boeshield T9 is the only thing you ever put on your chain. Period.
If I lived near Fullerton, 9 times out of 10 I’d buy a bike from Sam. Friendly kid. Just bought my first Ebike and appreciate the tips.
Great video! My e-bike was a sizable investment for me and now I feel more confident as to keeping it on the road working good. Thanks! :)
SAM is the best! He educated me 110% on ebikes. Thanks for this video.
Packed with information. Every first time e bike owner should watch.
Very easy to listen to. You can tell he loves his job
Such a great guy! :)
nerdexproject Super friendly, down to Earth... Sam's a good guy, glad you enjoyed :)
No doubt. Most people are good, but it's super cool to be comfortable right off the bat. Bikes are so cool.
@@erickgregoryful I love how QUIET my 72 volt ebike is! I can SNEAK up on people! :P
A wonderful, knoweldgeable, charismatic man who goes to work in a tee-shirt, shorts, flip-flops and seems to love his job, immensely. My only reget is that he doesn't have a shop here in south Florida.
I love your videos and reviews they have helped me out so much. I now know so much more about e bikes for what to look for.
Thank you for explaining the basics so clearly.
17:26 Awesome tip, thanks.
Thank you and thank you Sam. I learned a lot from this video.
Sam Townsend = ACE !
Great video! Very helpful. I'm new to e-bikes, but also new to bike maintenance in general. Sam made it very easy to understand how to maintain the bikes.
Thanks for the video and tips. Still relevant in 2019. I recently got my first E-bike and I’m trying to get all I can out of it performance wise. This video definitely gave me some good tips!! 👍.
An excellent outline on how to maintain your eBike. Detailed and covers many issues. Thank you.
Sam's the man!
Thanks for the advice. now what kinda seat needs a bike....
Thank you for all the valuable information. You are a delight to listen to!
Michelle Maggio you are very welcome
Awesome advice on fixing a rear flat. I have imagined my first real life experience with fixing a rear flat would probably have been to remove the rear wheel and break out my new spare Inner Tube:( I don't anticipate a blow out so I'll be leaving my spare Inner Tube at home. Thanks Sam and EBR.
I have to admit that's clever pulling the tube out to the side of rim to patch it vs pulling entire wheel off.
Saving a good hour right there, plus the mess it made.
Cheers
I plan on. Buying my first e-bike next month and I definitely want to know what self maintenance and emergency items I should have. One additional item will be a small first aid kit.
8 yr old but still a great video
Nice video and it's a nice bike too but since it is a paddle assist but due to my health I would like add throttle in my cube bike, please advise in detail on how to go about it ?
Two nice guys thank you for the advices 👍😎
17:02 you just saved me taking my new ebike into the shop to get a caliper adjustment! THANK YOU