Signs Your E-Bike Needs Professional Repair - London E-Bike Repair Specialists
Is your e-bike not performing like it used to? From strange noises to power issues, ignoring early warning signs can turn a small fault into a major failure. Our London e-bike repair specialists fix and service electric bikes, with knowledge of a range of brands and models. In this post, we break down the most common signs your e-bike needs expert attention and how timely repairs can keep you safe, extend your bike’s lifespan, and protect your investment.
Think of this blog as your personal maintenance partner. Whether you're a weekend rider or a daily commuter dodging London traffic, knowing when your bike is crying out for help can save you time, money, and hassle.
How Do You Know When Your E-Bike Needs Servicing?
E-bikes are incredible machines, but just like any piece of tech, they need regular TLC. Many riders wait until a breakdown happens, but being proactive is key. So how do you know it's time to bring your e-bike in for a check-up?
It all comes down to recognising the red flags early. From battery issues to strange sounds or electrical quirks, these are the telltale signs that your electric bike needs attention.
1. E-Bike Battery Problems
Your battery is the most critical (and expensive) component of your e-bike. If something seems off, don’t wait. Watch out for these signs:
Reduced range despite full charge
Battery not charging fully or charging slowly
Overheating during rides or charging
Sudden power cutouts mid-ride
Why it matters: A healthy battery means consistent power and safe rides. Persistent issues can permanently reduce battery capacity or even become a safety risk.
Pro tip: Store your battery indoors, avoid charging it in freezing conditions, and use a neoprene cover in winter to maintain heat.
2. E-Bike Motor Issues
Noticing a lag in your pedal assist or throttle? That could be your motor acting up. Symptoms include:
Jerky or sluggish acceleration
Clicking, grinding, or unusual sounds
Intermittent loss of assist
Motor cutting out when riding uphill or under load
E-bike motors work hard, especially on London hills or with added cargo. Dirt, moisture, and heavy use can all lead to performance decline. If your bike is struggling to keep up, it’s time for a motor inspection.
3. Controller or Display Malfunctions
Your display isn’t just for looks. It’s the communication hub between you and your bike.
Common faults include:
Frozen or blacked-out screen
Random power shutoffs
Unresponsive buttons or touch panels
Assist levels not updating properly
Persistent error codes
These issues can point to damaged wiring, water ingress, or firmware glitches. If you own a smart e-bike like VanMoof or Gocycle, these problems could be more complex. Our techs at Forbidden Cycles are trained in advanced diagnostics for app-connected systems.
4. Strange Noises While Riding
Your e-bike should never sound like a toolbox falling down stairs. Noises could be your bike's way of telling you something’s wrong:
Squeaky brakes = worn pads or alignment issues
Grinding = potential drivetrain wear or motor problems
Rattling = loose bolts, cracked mounts, or broken internal parts
Clicking = issues with pedals, cranks, or gears
Don’t drown it out with music. Listen carefully and bring it in for a check-up.
5. Braking & Gear Shifting Problems
This isn’t just annoying, it’s dangerous.
Brake red flags:
Spongy brake levers
Delayed response time
Metal-on-metal sounds
Inconsistent stopping power
Gear problems:
Gears slipping under load
Chain dropping or getting stuck
Clicking or grinding when shifting
These issues can usually be fixed quickly, but if ignored, they can damage more expensive components.
6. Pedal Assist Not Engaging
If your bike feels like a regular pushbike, something’s wrong.
This could mean:
Sensor failure (torque or cadence)
Wiring disconnection
Firmware issues
Power delivery faults
A non-functioning assist system defeats the purpose of an e-bike. Book a diagnostic to get your boost back.
7. Overall Performance Drop
Have you just gotten used to your e-bike underperforming? That’s not normal.
Signs of decline include:
Sluggish acceleration
Slower top speed
Laggy torque
Reduced range
More resistance while pedalling
It could be as simple as needing air in the tyres or as serious as a degrading motor. A quick service can tell you what’s really going on.
How Often Should You Service an E-Bike?
Just like a car or traditional bike, regular servicing is essential.
General guidelines:
Light riders: Every 6 months
Commuters: Every 3 to 4 months
High mileage riders: Monthly checks or every 1,000 km
More important than the timeline is responding to issues as soon as they appear. Routine servicing saves money in the long run.
Pre-Ride Checklist: What to Look for Before Each Journey
Even a 30-second visual check can help avoid breakdowns:
Tyres inflated properly?
Brakes engaging quickly?
Chain clean and lubricated?
Battery level sufficient?
Any strange noises or loose bolts?
Why Riders Choose Forbidden Cycles for E-Bike Repairs
Independent VanMoof and Gocycle experts in London
Trained technicians with over 6 years’ experience
12,000+ VanMoof riders trust our servicing
We accept postal repairs from across the UK and EU
We don’t just fix e-bikes, we specialise in them. Book a repair appointment or visit our Wandsworth workshop.
Don’t Ignore the Warning Signs
Your e-bike is more than just a mode of transport; it’s a high-tech investment in your lifestyle and health. Regular maintenance, paired with swift attention to faults, ensures it keeps running like a dream.
Whether it’s a subtle noise, an annoying glitch, or a performance dip, your bike is trying to tell you something. Listen to it. Trust your instincts. And when in doubt, let us take a look.
We’re here to help with:
E-bike diagnostics and repair
Battery testing and replacement
Brake and drivetrain tuning
Firmware updates and app resets
Based in Wandsworth and trusted across London, Paris, Berlin and beyond.
Book your repair today and ride with confidence.