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Become familiar with the many different types of lithium-ion batteries.

Lithium-ion is named for its active materials; the words are either written in full or shortened by their chemical symbols. A series of letters and numbers strung together can be hard to remember and even harder to pronounce, and battery chemistries are also identified in abbreviated letters.

For example, lithium cobalt oxide, one of the most common Li-ions, has the chemical symbols LiCoO₂ and the abbreviation LCO. For reasons of simplicity, the short form Li-cobalt can also be used for this battery. Cobalt is the main active material that gives this battery character. Other Li-ion chemistries are given similar short-form names. This section lists six of the most common Li-ions. All readings are average estimates at time of writing.

Lithium Cobalt Oxide(LiCoO₂)

Its high specific energy makes Li-cobalt the popular choice for mobile phones, laptops and digital cameras. The battery consists of a cobalt oxide cathode and a graphite carbon anode. The cathode has a layered structure and during discharge, lithium ions move from the anode to the cathode. The flow reverses on charge. The drawback of Li-cobalt is a relatively short life span, low thermal stability and limited load capabilities (specific power). Figure 1 illustrates the structure.

Figure 1: Li-cobalt structure. The cathode has a layered structure. During discharge the lithium ions move from the anode to the cathode; on charge the flow is from cathode to anode. Courtesy of Cadex

The drawback of Li-cobalt is a relatively short life span, low thermal stability and limited load capabilities (specific power). Li-cobalt is maturing and newer systems include nickel, manganese and/or aluminum to improve longevity, loading capabilities and cost.

Li-cobalt should not be charged and discharged at a current higher than its C-rating. This means that an 18650 cell with 2,400mAh can only be charged and discharged at 2,400mA. Forcing a fast charge or applying a load higher than 2,400mA causes overheating and undue stress. For optimal fast charge, the manufacturer recommends a C-rate of 0.8C or about 2,000mA. (See BU-402: What is C-rate). The mandatory battery protection circuit limits the charge and discharge rate to a safe level of about 1C for the Energy Cell.

The hexagonal spider graphic (Figure 2) summarizes the performance of Li-cobalt in terms of specific energy or capacity that relates to runtime; specific power or the ability to deliver high current; safety; performance at hot and cold temperatures; life span reflecting cycle life and longevity; and cost. Other characteristics of interest not shown in the spider webs are toxicity, fast-charge capabilities, self-discharge and shelf life. (See BU-104c: The Octagon Battery – What makes a Battery a Battery).

Figure 2: Snapshot of an average Li-cobalt battery. Li-cobalt excels on high specific energy but offers only moderate performance specific power, safety and life span. Courtesy of Cadex

Summary Table

Lithium Cobalt Oxide: LiCoO2 cathode (~60% Co), graphite anode Short form: LCO or Li-cobalt.                                                                                                             Since 1991
Voltages	3.60V nominal; typical operating range 3.0–4.2V/cell
Specific energy (capacity)	150–200Wh/kg. Specialty cells provide up to 240Wh/kg.
Charge (C-rate)	0.7–1C, charges to 4.20V (most cells); 3h charge typical. Charge current above 1C shortens battery life.
Discharge (C-rate)	1C; 2.50V cut off. Discharge current above 1C shortens battery life.
Cycle life	500–1000, related to depth of discharge, load, temperature
Thermal runaway	150°C (302°F). Full charge promotes thermal runaway
Applications	Mobile phones, tablets, laptops, cameras
Comments	Very high specific energy, limited specific power. Cobalt is expensive. Serves as Energy Cell. Market share has stabilized.

Table 3: Characteristics of lithium cobalt oxide.

Lithium Manganese Oxide (LiMn₂O₄)

Li-ion with manganese spinel was first published in the Materials Research Bulletin in 1983. In 1996, Moli Energy commercialized a Li-ion cell with lithium manganese oxide as cathode material. The architecture forms a three-dimensional spinel structure that improves ion flow on the electrode, which results in lower internal resistance and improved current handling. A further advantage of spinel is high thermal stability and enhanced safety, but the cycle and calendar life are limited.

Low internal cell resistance enables fast charging and high-current discharging. In an 18650 package, Li-manganese can be discharged at currents of 20–30A with moderate heat buildup. It is also possible to apply one-second load pulses of up to 50A. A continuous high load at this current would cause heat buildup and the cell temperature cannot exceed 80°C (176°F). Li-manganese is used for power tools, medical instruments, as well as hybrid and electric vehicles.

Figure 4 illustrates the formation of a three-dimensional crystalline framework on the cathode of a Li-manganese battery. This spinel structure, which is usually composed of diamond shapes connected into a lattice, appears after initial formation.

Figure 4: Li-manganese structure. The cathode crystalline formation of lithium manganese oxide has a three-dimensional framework structure that appears after initial formation. Spinel provides low resistance but has a more moderate specific energy than cobalt. Courtesy of Cadex

Li-manganese has a capacity that is roughly one-third lower than Li-cobalt. Design flexibility allows engineers to maximize the battery for either optimal longevity (life span), maximum load current (specific power) or high capacity (specific energy). For example, the long-life version in the 18650 cell has a moderate capacity of only 1,100mAh; the high-capacity version is 1,500mAh.

Figure 5 shows the spider web of a typical Li-manganese battery. The characteristics appear marginal but newer designs have improved in terms of specific power, safety and life span. Pure Li-manganese batteries are no longer common today; they may only be used for special applications.

Figure 5: Snapshot of a pure Li-manganese battery. Although moderate in overall performance, newer designs of Li-manganese offer improvements in specific power, safety and life span. Source: Boston Consulting Group

Most Li-manganese batteries blend with lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide (NMC) to improve the specific energy and prolong the life span. This combination brings out the best in each system, and the LMO (NMC) is chosen for most electric vehicles, such as the Nissan Leaf, Chevy Volt and BMW i3. The LMO part of the battery, which can be about 30 percent, provides high current boost on acceleration; the NMC part gives the long driving range.

Li-ion research gravitates heavily towards combining Li-manganese with cobalt, nickel, manganese and/or aluminum as active cathode material. In some architecture, a small amount of silicon is added to the anode. This provides a 25 percent capacity boost; however, the gain is commonly connected with a shorter cycle life as silicon grows and shrinks with charge and discharge, causing mechanical stress.

These three active metals, as well as the silicon enhancement can conveniently be chosen to enhance the specific energy (capacity), specific power (load capability) or longevity. While consumer batteries go for high capacity, industrial applications require battery systems that have good loading capabilities, deliver a long life and provide safe and dependable service.
Summary Table

Lithium Manganese Oxide: LiMn2O4 cathode. graphite anode Short form: LMO or Li-manganese (spinel structure)                                                                    Since 1996
Voltages	3.70V (3.80V) nominal; typical operating range 3.0–4.2V/cell
Specific energy (capacity)	100–150Wh/kg
Charge (C-rate)	0.7–1C typical, 3C maximum, charges to 4.20V (most cells)
Discharge (C-rate)	1C; 10C possible with some cells, 30C pulse (5s), 2.50V cut-off
Cycle life	300–700 (related to depth of discharge, temperature)
Thermal runaway	250°C (482°F) typical. High charge promotes thermal runaway
Applications	Power tools, medical devices, electric powertrains
Comments	High power but less capacity; safer than Li-cobalt; commonly mixed with NMC to improve performance.

Table 6: Characteristics of Lithium Manganese Oxide.

 

Lithium Nickel Manganese Cobalt Oxide (LiNiMnCoO₂ or NMC)

One of the most successful Li-ion systems is a cathode combination of nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC). Similar to Li-manganese, these systems can be tailored to serve as Energy Cells or Power Cells. For example, NMC in an 18650 cell for moderate load condition has a capacity of about 2,800mAh and can deliver 4A to 5A; NMC in the same cell optimized for specific power has a capacity of only about 2,000mWh but delivers a continuous discharge current of 20A. A silicon-based anode will go to 4,000mAh and higher but at reduced loading capability and shorter cycle life. Silicon added to graphite has the drawback that the anode grows and shrinks with charge and discharge, making the cell mechanically unstable.

The secret of NMC lies in combining nickel and manganese. An analogy of this is table salt in which the main ingredients, sodium and chloride, are toxic on their own but mixing them serves as seasoning salt and food preserver. Nickel is known for its high specific energy but poor stability; manganese has the benefit of forming a spinel structure to achieve low internal resistance but offers a low specific energy. Combining the metals enhances each other strengths.

NMC is the battery of choice for power tools, e-bikes and other electric powertrains. The cathode combination is typically one-third nickel, one-third manganese and one-third cobalt, also known as 1-1-1. This offers a unique blend that also lowers the raw material cost due to reduced cobalt content. Another successful combination is NCM with 5 parts nickel, 3 parts cobalt and 2 parts manganese. Further combinations using various amounts of cathode materials are possible. New electrolytes and additives enable charging to 4.4V/cell and higher to boost capacity. Figure 7 demonstrates the characteristics of the NMC.

Figure 7: Snapshot of NMC. NMC has good overall performance and excels on specific energy. This battery is the preferred candidate for the electric vehicle and has the lowest self-heating rate. Source: Boston Consulting Group

There is a move towards NMC-blended Li-ion as the system can be built economically and it achieves a good performance. The three active materials of nickel, manganese and cobalt can easily be blended to suit a wide range of applications for automotive and energy storage systems (EES) that need frequent cycling. The NMC family is growing in its diversity.

Summary Table

Lithium Nickel Manganese Cobalt Oxide: LiNiMnCoO2. cathode, graphite anode Short form: NMC (NCM, CMN, CNM, MNC, MCN similar with different metal combinations) Since 2008
Voltages	3.60V, 3.70V nominal; typical operating range 3.0–4.2V/cell, or higher
Specific energy (capacity)	150–220Wh/kg
Charge (C-rate)	0.7–1C, charges to 4.20V, some go to 4.30V; 3h charge typical. Charge current above 1C shortens battery life.
Discharge (C-rate)	1C; 2C possible on some cells; 2.50V cut-off
Cycle life	1000–2000 (related to depth of discharge, temperature)
Thermal runaway	210°C (410°F) typical. High charge promotes thermal runaway
Applications	E-bikes, medical devices, EVs, industrial
Comments	Provides high capacity and high power. Serves as Hybrid Cell. Favorite chemistry for many uses; market share is increasing.

Table 8: Characteristics of lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide (NMC).

 

Lithium Iron Phosphate(LiFePO₄)

In 1996, the University of Texas (and other contributors) discovered phosphate as cathode material for rechargeable lithium batteries. Li-phosphate offers good electrochemical performance with low resistance. This is made possible with nano-scale phosphate cathode material. The key benefits are high current rating and long cycle life, besides good thermal stability, enhanced safety and tolerance if abused.

Li-phosphate is more tolerant to full charge conditions and is less stressed than other lithium-ion systems if kept at high voltage for a prolonged time. (See BU-808: How to Prolong Lithium-based Batteries). As a trade-off, its lower nominal voltage of 3.2V/cell reduces the specific energy below that of cobalt-blended lithium-ion. With most batteries, cold temperature reduces performance and elevated storage temperature shortens the service life, and Li-phosphate is no exception. Li-phosphate has a higher self-discharge than other Li-ion batteries, which can cause balancing issues with aging. Cleanliness in manufacturing is of importance for longevity. There is no tolerance for moisture, lest the battery will only deliver 50 cycles. Figure 9 summarizes the attributes of Li-phosphate.

Li-phosphate is often used to replace the lead acid starter battery. Four cells in series produce 12.80V, a similar voltage to six 2V lead acid cells in series. Vehicles charge lead acid to 14.40V (2.40V/cell) and maintain a topping charge. With four Li-phosphate cells in series, each cell tops at 3.60V, which is the correct full-charge voltage. At this point, the charge should be disconnected but the topping charge continues while driving. Li-phosphate is tolerant to some overcharge; however, keeping the voltage at 14.40V for a prolonged time, as most vehicles do on a long drive, could stress Li-phosphate. Cold temperature operation starting could also be an issue with Li-phosphate as a starter battery.

Figure 9: Snapshot of a typical Li-phosphate battery. Li-phosphate has excellent safety and long life span but moderate specific energy and elevated self-discharge. Courtesy of Cadex

Summary Table

Lithium Iron Phosphate: LiFePO4 cathode, graphite anode Short form: LFP or Li-phosphate                                                                                                       Since 1996
Voltages	3.20, 3.30V nominal; typical operating range 2.5–3.65V/cell
Specific energy (capacity)	90–120Wh/kg
Charge (C-rate)	1C typical, charges to 3.65V; 3h charge time typical
Discharge (C-rate)	1C, 25C on some cells; 40A pulse (2s); 2.50V cut-off (lower that 2V causes damage)
Cycle life	1000–2000 (related to depth of discharge, temperature)
Thermal runaway	270°C (518°F) Very safe battery even if fully charged
Applications	Portable and stationary needing high load currents and endurance
Comments	Very flat voltage discharge curve but low capacity. One of safest Li-ions. Used for special markets. Elevated self-discharge.

Table 10: Characteristics of lithium iron phosphate.

Lithium Nickel Cobalt Aluminum Oxide (LiNiCoAlO₂)

Lithium nickel cobalt aluminum oxide battery, or NCA, has been around since 1999 for special applications. It shares similarities with NMC by offering high specific energy, reasonably good specific power and a long life span. Less flattering are safety and cost. Figure 11 summarizes the six key characteristics. NCA is a further development of lithium nickel oxide; adding aluminum gives the chemistry greater stability.

Figure 11: Snapshot of NCA. High energy and power densities, as well as good life span, make NCA a candidate for EV powertrains. High cost and marginal safety are negatives. Courtesy of Cadex

Summary Table

Lithium Nickel Cobalt Aluminum Oxide: LiNiCoAlO2 cathode (~9% Co), graphite anode Short form: NCA or Li-aluminum.                                                                                                     Since 1999
Voltages	3.60V nominal; typical operating range 3.0–4.2V/cell
Specific energy (capacity)	200-260Wh/kg; 300Wh/kg predictable
Charge (C-rate)	0.7C, charges to 4.20V (most cells), 3h charge typical, fast charge possible with some cells
Discharge (C-rate)	1C typical; 3.00V cut-off; high discharge rate shortens battery life
Cycle life	500 (related to depth of discharge, temperature)
Thermal runaway	150°C (302°F) typical, High charge promotes thermal runaway
Applications	Medical devices, industrial, electric powertrain (Tesla)
Comments	Shares similarities with Li-cobalt. Serves as Energy Cell.

Table 12: Characteristics of Lithium Nickel Cobalt Aluminum Oxide.

Lithium Titanate (Li₄Ti₅O₁₂)

Batteries with lithium titanate anodes have been known since the 1980s. Li-titanate replaces the graphite in the anode of a typical lithium-ion battery and the material forms into a spinel structure. The cathode can be lithium manganese oxide or NMC. Li-titanate has a nominal cell voltage of 2.40V, can be fast charged and delivers a high discharge current of 10C, or 10 times the rated capacity. The cycle count is said to be higher than that of a regular Li-ion. Li-titanate is safe, has excellent low-temperature discharge characteristics and obtains a capacity of 80 percent at –30°C (–22°F). However, the battery is expensive and at 65Wh/kg the specific energy is low, rivalling that of NiCd. Li-titanate charges to 2.80V/cell, and the end of discharge is 1.80V/cell. Figure 13 illustrates the characteristics of the Li-titanate battery. Typical uses are electric powertrains, UPS and solar-powered street lighting.

Figure 13: Snapshot of Li-titanate. Li-titanate excels in safety, low-temperature performance and life span. Efforts are being made to improve the specific energy and lower cost. Source: Boston Consulting Group

 

Summary Table

Lithium Titanate: Can be lithium manganese oxide or NMC; Li4Ti5O12 (titanate) anode Short form: LTO or Li-titanate                                              Commercially available since about 2008.
Voltages	2.40V nominal;  typical operating range 1.8–2.85V/cell
Specific energy (capacity)	70–80Wh/kg
Charge (C-rate)	1C typical; 5C maximum, charges to 2.85V
Discharge (C-rate)	10C possible, 30C 5s pulse; 1.80V cut-off  on LCO/LTO
Cycle life	3,000–7,000
Thermal runaway	One of safest Li-ion batteries
Applications	UPS, electric powertrain (Mitsubishi i-MiEV, Honda Fit EV), solar-powered street lighting
Comments	Long life, fast charge, wide temperature range but low specific energy and expensive. Among safest Li-ion batteries.

Table 14: Characteristics of lithium titanate.

Figure 15 compares the specific energy of lead-, nickel- and lithium-based systems. While Li-aluminum (NCA) is the clear winner by storing more capacity than other systems, this only applies to specific energy. In terms of specific power and thermal stability, Li-manganese (LMO) and Li-phosphate (LFP) are superior. Li-titanate (LTO) may have low capacity but this chemistry outlives most other batteries in terms of life span and also has the best cold temperature performance. Moving towards the electric powertrain, safety and cycle life will gain dominance over capacity. (LCO stands for Li-cobalt, the original Li-ion.)

Figure 15: Typical specific energy of lead-, nickel- and lithium-based batteries.
NCA enjoys the highest specific energy; however, manganese and phosphate are superior in terms of specific power and thermal stability. Li-titanate has the best life span.
^{Courtesy of Cadex}

Last updated: 2017-05-09

Understanding Electric Bike Modes: Throttle vs. Pedal Assist (Pedelec)

Give me a sigh! 5 WH-Questions about Lumos Smart Bicycle Helmet

“A Next Generation Bicycle Helmet” by Lumos Helmets is ready to make your cycling more safe and comfortable.

What?

A bicycle helmet with integrated turn signals.

You don`t need to use your arms to show that you are going to cross the intersection. Turn lights could be seen clearly in the darkness that is so important in wintertime.

Why?

Because of LEDs.

Imagine that you have more than 50 lights on the front and back of the helmet! (The Lumos Helmet features 28 super bright white LEDs in the front and 22 super bright red LEDs in the rear). Now you are visible not only for the nearest driver in your lane but also for a truck driver  who is  2000 inches away from you.

Cyclists who have already tested this device indicated that LEDs were not only larger but also arranged higher than ordinary bike lights.

Who?

Adults.

The helmet is designed in one size and fits 54-62 cm, but manufacturers promise that it will appear in different sizes in the nearest future.

Where?

EBIKES FLORIDA

This helmet by LUMOS HELMETS you can get as a gift with your purchase in our store and online.

When?

Time is now.

Visit our store or web site to order your bike and receive “A Next Generation Bicycle Helmet” by Lumos. First edition, limited quantity — your action is required right now.

Why BESV? The company behind the brand

Good Morning All,

I felt compelled to write this email because virtually no one knows who BESV is, who is behind the brand, and why it makes sense to choose us vs and other brand.

BESV falls under Darfon, and Darfon falls under the BenQ Group, comprised of 16+ companies that drive the Number 1 tech company in Taiwan.  The companies mantra is: “Bringing Enjoyment ‘N’ Quality to Life”.

BenQ has over 50,000 employees in all their divisions and does over $20B in revenue annually.

The founder of BESV is the CEO of Darfon, and an avid rider.  BESV came about when Andy Su (CEO of Darfon) held his annual ride with his employees.  Many of them really suffered on the hills outside of Taipei.  He wanted a better experience for all that participated and was well aware of the developments in E-bikes.  His company was already developing batteries and displays, so the tech side was covered.  Others in the company created designs, which lead to the birth of the brand BESV, Beautiful, Electric, Smart, Vehicles.

Why BESV

• World class support and technology
• We are here to stay, with the financial support to keep innovating
• BESV is the only company that has invested in their Reps with hands on training (scheduled for January)
• As a company, you come first, with no pressure for heavy commitments.  We want the best shops
• In conjunction with our “No Pressure” program, we offer reasonable terms, but not NET forever, that just benefits the manufacturer and puts the dealer at a disadvantage. The lure to order more is to great.  We want to support dealers to to turns!
• BESV believes that our partners should be compensated to do work when a warranty issue arises.  No one should be asked to work for “FREE”
• Our bikes use “Smart Technology” for our batteries and chargers.  That means that they communicate and do not charge in a linear motion, but rather in a controlled to 80%, there by increasing battery life
• All parts in stock, and if not, we will make it in stock (borrow from a bike)

Ken Fagut

Magnum Ui5 Review

Summary

Click Here to buy the Magnum Ui5

The Magnum Ui5 is an excellent hybrid electric bike with wide tires, an adjustable handlebar, and a beautiful design. The Ui5 is an urban electric bicycle with an integrated 36V/ 13Ah battery housed in the downtube of the bicycle and allows for up to 40 miles of range per charge. This sleek design provides for complete stability while riding, and even weight distribution. The electric system comes with a 350W motor peaking at 500W of power. 22 Mph top speed with pedal assist and 20 Mph with throttle only.

Introduction	Info
Make	Magnum
Model	Ui5
Price	$1,699
Suggested Use	Urban, Neighborhood, Commuting
Warranty	1 Year Comprehensive
Model Year	2015

Details
Total Weight	51 lbs ( 23.13 kg )
Frame Type	Step-Thru
Motor Brand	8Fun
Top Speed	22 mph
Voltage	36 volts
Battery Life	25-55 miles

Written Review

 

The Magnum Ui5 is an urban model electric bike, offering fifth generation technology, that is perfect for riding around the city. The motor is a 350 watt internally geared hub mounted in the rear wheel. Magnum chose a black version of the motor that beautifully matches the spokes, rims, and battery. Depending on the level of power you’re applying, the motor hums a little, however, it is not very loud or heavy. Additionally, this e-bike has a quick release on the front wheel, but you’ll need tools to access the rear. There’s a seven speed cassette with entry-level Shimano Tourney TX derailleur there and a quick-disconnect in the power cable so you can completely remove the wheel and motor together without any loose wires getting in the way. Seven speeds is good enough for city riding and if you keep the chain lubed and drop in for an occasional tune-up everything should last.

Powering the Magnum Ui5 is an integrated Lithium-ion battery pack. The downtube is partially severed in order to sink the pack inside which delivers more security and strength while simultaneously lowering the center of mass. Inside the pack are 18650 sized cells manufactured by Samsung. These care quality cells, that are known for being long lasting and light weight. They are efficient in transferring power and usually seen in the mid to high end models. The battery also offers an integrated LED power level indicator and a USB charging port.

Operating the Magnum Ui5 is a two-step process. First you press the power button on the top of the battery pack, then you press a second power button on the display panel. This two-step process only takes an extra second, however, it makes it easier to forget to turn off the battery pack once you park the bike. The display panel features a “set” button, which allows you to change from odometer to trip distance and trip time. While the “up” and “down” buttons allow you to select different power levels for pedal assist. The Magnum Ui5 offers both a throttle and pedal assist option.

The Magnum Ui5 is an exceptional electric bike for city riders at its price point of $1,699. The aesthetic matching paint, integrated wires, upgraded batteries and other extras really set it apart. At 51 pounds this bike is actually consider relatively light given the larger tires. Additionally, the adjustable stem on the Magnum Ui5 allows for a wider range of riders. Overall, this electric bike is an impressive product with a great refined fifth generation design.

 

 

Video Source: [ElectricBikeReview.com]. (2015, Aug 3). Magnum Ui5 Video Review. [Video File]. Retrieved from https://youtu.be/KYr5AiSRltY

Leisger MD5 Review

Summary

Click Here to buy the Leisger MD5

This is a new era when even dirt bikes are going electric. The Leisger MD5 is made to take on the city roads and tackle the off-road trails with full force. If you are looking for an on and off road electrifying experience the Leisger MD5 is for you.

Introduction	Info
Make	Leisger
Model	MD5
Price	$2,499
Suggested Use	Urban, Trail, Mountain
Warranty	1 Year Comprehensive
Model Year	2015

Details
Total Weight	52 lbs ( 23.58 kg )
Frame Type	High-Step
Measurements	Reach: 22
Motor Brand	8Fun
Voltage	36 volts
Battery Life	20-55 miles

Written Review

 

The Leisger MD5 is a mountain style electric bike with “downtube” mounted battery that’s a “5th generation” build. The $2,499.00 e-bike is trail capable, even light mountain, but also useful as a commuter or city bike. As a hardtail, this is the type of platform that would work well with a rear carry rack and even fenders and it has all of the necessary braze-ons built right in. You get a 24 speed drivetrain with Shimano Acera components and locking grips, upgraded pedals, and 650b tire size (27.5″); which is very popular due to being an “in between” size that handles well and rolls over obstacles easily.

 

The Leisger MD5 is powered by a standard 350 watt internally geared hub motor from 8Fun. This motor produces a bit of zipping noise under heavy power but it is not particularly loud. It is relatively small and fairly light and features a quick disconnect power cable running along the chain stay that’s easy to unplug during maintenance. This motor is not powerful enough to push you up a hill, however, with a little pedaling, the pedal assist mode can be noticeably helpful. Additionally, the motor is black and matches the spokes and wheelset very nicely.

 

The battery pack that is equipped with the Leisger MD5 is slightly above average at 36 volts and 13 amp hours. It has enough battery life to go 20+ miles even on the higher levels of assist. It is also mounted in a sturdy and aesthetically attractive way. The battery pack is removable and can easily be charged on or off the bike. The charging port is easily accessible on the right side of the battery pack and there is a USB charging port as well.

 

Operating the Leisger MD5 takes an extra step and has some broader menus that may be more useful to some than others. To turn on the bike, you first press the on/off button on the battery pack, then you press the on/off button on the button pad near the left grip. This two-step process can be a hassle because it takes more time and it makes it easier to forget to turn the battery off. Once the power is on, the LCD display screen will activate and show the speed, pedal assist level (six levels), battery level, and a few other details. The up and down arrows are used to change assists levels as well as change how much power the throttle has access to. Additionally, the “set” button allows you to switch from trip distance, odometer, and time monitors. The final area you can interact with is the power level. To access this, you must hold down the “set” button for several seconds and then navigate the settings menu. This setting allows the rider to choose a power setting, which changes how fast the motor accelerates and can help extend the battery life.

 

The Leisger MD5 is an excellent electric bike for city roads as well as off-road trails and even light mountain riding. It is well built with a sporty style, and offers power, range and multiple features. The frame is only available in white and in one size, which may not be ideal for taller riders because of the shorter reach. It is an effortlessly portable e-bike due to the removable battery and front quick release wheels, as well as the classic diamond frame which allows the bike to easily hang off racks. Overall, the Leisger MD5 is a solid choice for those who fit the frame and are looking for a versatile electric bike.

 

Video Source: [ElectricBikeReview.com]. (2015, Aug 7). Leisger MD5 Video Review. [Video File]. Retrieved from https://youtu.be/wlo4KJPjQGU