BATTERIES

As regards the batteries, to intervene it’s necessary to know vital parameters in order to better understand the functions of the battery in pedal assistance. The two most important parameters are voltage and capacity. Voltage is commonly indicated in volts, which is the unit of measure for electric field strength. It corresponds to the difference in power that is created between the two poles of the battery. Bicycles are normally powered by 24-36 volts. The capacity, indicated in Ampere/hour (Ah), indicates how long it takes for a certain load (for example a motor) to discharge the battery. Another feature to take into account in order to better understand the functionality of a battery is self-discharge, i.e. the decrease over time in the voltage and capacity initially available to the battery, even if it is not being used. The phenomenon becomes evident after 3-4 weeks of non-use (and therefore no recharging) of the battery.