E-MTB battery chargers

How to choose an e-MTB charger

Chargers are not interchangeable accessories: they must match the bike’s system, not just the motor brand. For Bosch, the dividing line is between Smart System and earlier generations — Active Line, Performance Line, PowerPack: their connectors and protocols differ, and the chargers are not interchangeable.

Which charging current?

• 2 A : the compact charger. Slow, but light and easy to take on trips or holidays.
• 4 A : the standard option. Around half the charging time of the 2 A charger, without being too bulky.
• 6 A (Fast Charger) : the fastest option, only for batteries that support it.
• Fast charging does not damage a battery designed for it. But charging slowly and at room temperature is still the best way to maximise its lifespan.

Bosch, Shimano and adaptors

• Bosch distinguishes between Smart System and Classic Line : a Smart System charger cannot charge an older-generation PowerPack, and vice versa.
• Shimano offers EC-E6002 and EC-E8004 for the STEPS system, with or without a mains cable — the cable is sometimes sold separately.
• TheSM-BTE80 adaptor lets you charge a battery after removing it from the bike.
• The EW-CP100 charging port replaces the socket on the frame when it is broken, corroded or waterlogged.

Making your battery last longer

A lithium-ion battery ages through both charge cycles and the passage of time. For long-term storage, keep it at between 30 and 60% charge, away from freezing temperatures and heat, then charged fully just before a ride. Avoiding leaving it plugged in continuously at 100% makes a noticeable difference to its lifespan.

To find out more: Understanding e-bike battery range

See also: E-MTB batteries · E-MTB displays and mounts · Electric mountain bike speed sensors