General questions

How’s the ride?

Trek e-bikes simply amplify your pedaling effort. They pedal like a regular bike, but the wind is always at your back and hills melt away.

Electric bikes are basically just electric-powered motorcycles, right?

No, electric powered motorcycles use a throttle to engage the power. Trek e-bikes are pedal-assist, so input to the pedals determines the level of assist. Riding an electric bike with pedal-assist is incredibly intuitive, and anyone who can ride a bike will immediately feel comfortable on one.

What’s the best part about an e-bike?

Electric bikes break down barriers to riding. Most importantly, they are incredibly fun. Ride farther, see more, and explore the possibilities that come with a little extra power.

Where can I ride?

Many trails and bike paths allow e-bikes. Speed e-bike regulations vary by country, state, and city. Check out People for Bikes’ state-by-state guides and resources here, or check with your local authorities for clarification.

Do electric bikes require a license or registration?

Depending on where you live, speed e-bikes (those that can reach 28mph/45kph) may require licensing or registration. The rules are changing quickly, so it’s best to check with local authorities for clarification, or check out People for Bikes’ state-by-state guides here.

How fast can I go?

In general, maximum assist speeds range from 16mph/25kph to 28mph/45kph. You can find an e-bike’s top speed by looking at its specifications. Additionally, speed regulations vary from place to place. Contact local authorities for clarification.

What accessories are compatible?

Common accessories like fenders and racks will fit most of our e-bikes, and many already come equipped with such features!

What’s the advantage of mid-drive motors and batteries?

This configuration keeps weight centered and low for predictable handling and improved ride quality.

How many assist modes are there?

Bikes equipped with Shimano STEPS have three levels of assist, and Bosch systems provide four levels of power assist.

Why are there different assist levels?

Riders don’t always need the same amount of assist. Using less assist increases battery life, while the option to use more is always there for acceleration or climbing hills.

What’s a watt hour?

A watt hour is a measurement of battery capacity. Think of it as the “size of the gas tank.”

What’s the range?

General range is 20-100 miles/32-160 kilometers depending on power modes, terrain, and other riding conditions like load or wind. Bosch has a handy e-bike range calculator that will help you estimate range for specific riding conditions.

How do you turn the battery on/off?

Most are controlled from the handlebar. Earlier generation Shimano STEPS systems, such as the one used on Lift+, have a power switch on the side of the battery that serves as the on/off switch for the whole system.

How long does it take to charge?

Approximately 3-5 hours to charge, depending on the state of the battery prior to charge.

How does it charge?

The battery charges like any personal computer or cell phone. Plug the charger into a wall outlet and connect the charger to the battery. Most Trek e-bikes don’t require you to remove the battery to charge, but it’s always an option. Lights on the side of the battery indicate when it is completely charged.

Is the battery waterproof?

Yes.

Can I lock the battery?

Yes, the battery is locked to the bike and a key must be used to remove it.

What if I lose my battery key?

Battery replacement keys are available through your local retailer.

Does pedaling charge the battery?

No, the efficient motors used by Trek are not regenerative. Most regenerative motors provide a negligible amount of energy back to the battery, and sacrifice a lot in efficiency.

Will the lights still work if the battery is dead?

Yes. The battery management systems stop the motor from drawing power when the battery’s capacity reaches a certain point, but there is still ample power available to operate the lights.

Are replacement batteries available?

Replacement batteries are available directly from Bosch and Shimano.

What’s the warranty?

Like all Trek bikes, the frame is covered by a limited lifetime warranty. Bosch offers a warranty of 2 years or 500 cycles, and Shimano offers a warranty of 2 years or 1,000 cycles for the battery.

What service is required?

Maintenance is generally the same as with any other bicycle. Lithium ion batteries perform better at room temperatures and battery life depletion may occur if left outside in extreme temperatures, so we recommend storing them indoors.

Where can an e-bike be serviced?

Any Trek electric bike retailer. Ask if your shop has Trek Certified Expert Technicians!