Cytronex - Electric Bikes with Hidden Power Assistance

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it legal to use a Cytronex powered electric bike on the road?

Yes. The UK regulations allow electric bicycles to be used on the road as a pedal cycle if they weigh less than 40Kg (even our heaviest Cytronex powered electric bikes only weighs 17.5Kg!), the maximum continuous rated power output of the motor does not exceed 200W (Cytronex Ebike motor is an ultra high efficiency 180W) and a maximum powered speed of 15mph (maximum Cytronex speed varies slightly depending on battery level, but is generally within a 10% tolerance of 15mph). Also the rider must be aged 14 or over.

How do you attach the battery?

The innovative water bottle battery slides into the water bottle cage and then the waterproof plug is attached and secured with a twist of the locking ring until it clicks. The bike is then ready to use.

Can I take a spare battery to double my range?

Cytronex is a modular system, so if you need to go more than 20 miles you can carry an extra battery, but for all shorter journeys you don't have the weight of a large battery to slow you down.

Larger frame sizes usually have additional bottle cage mounts on the seat tube. If you would like an extra battery we can provide this with an extra cage if required. The batteries come with a protective cap for use when they are not connected. It is important to realise however, that the weight of the battery without the connector attached presents a danger of the bottle coming out of the cage when going over bumpy ground. You should therefore make sure that additional batteries carried in a bottle cage are properly secured.

How do I get maximum capacity from the battery?

The maximum range will be achieved when using the battery straight after a full charge, and when the bike was used on the previous occasion until assistance expired.

How long does the battery take to recharge?

The smart battery charger will recharge the battery from empty in about 90 minutes. If less energy has been used then the charger will take less time to recharge. A journey of about 12 miles can be recharged in about one hour. You can recharge mid journey also but you should never recharge the battery while it is still warm.

My commute is longer than a 20 mile round trip?

If you are commuting further then why not buy an extra charger for the office or an extra battery? Of course, Cytronex powered bikes are not like other electric bicycles, if you run out of power they are as easy to cycle as a conventional bike. A Cytronex Powered commuter bike is the ultimate commuter bicycle.

How long will the lights last?

Without using the assistance the lights would shine at their usual strength for more than 30 hours. You can use the lights also for a maximum of 1 hour after power assistance expires. Using the lights for longer than this could damage the battery.

What if I get a puncture?

The rear wheel can be removed with the quick release in the usual way. The Cytronex motor is located in the front wheel, which is also one of the easiest to remove of any ebike. There is a waterproof connector on the fork which can be unplugged by twisting the lower locking ring anticlockwise then pulling the plug and socket apart. The V brake is then released, the two wheel nuts are undone with an 18mm spanner, and finally the two retaining washers are released and then the wheel will come out easily.

Can I use the assistance for a hill start?

Cytronex is a high efficiency system and not designed for a standing start. However, if you need to start on a hill, you should ensure that the bike can accelerate rapidly in the early stages to more than 5mph.

Can I leave the battery on the bike?

The battery should never be left on the bike while not in use with the plug connected. This can damage the battery if left for an extended period. Also the battery is small and relatively light so it can be removed from the bike for security and recharging indoors.

When can I use assistance?

You can use assistance at any time, but to give a good range and avoid over-stressing the components it is recommended that you only use boost at over 5mph. When the bike is moving at greater than the maximum assisted speed it is best to switch off assistance in order to maximise range.

Why isn't Cytronex fitted to mountain bikes?

Currently, Cytronex is only suitable for surfaced routes, it is not suitable for bumpy off-road terrain. The precision roller drive has the advantage of being silent, smooth and very efficient, but it is not designed for the regular impacts experienced by off-road mountain bike use. Using the motor in these situations is not recommended and Cytronex may push you faster than would be comfortable in this terrain. We also recommend leaving the motor off on cobbled streets.

How do I transport the battery?

Always put one of the yellow safety caps on the battery when transporting in a bag or where other objects could come in contact with the terminals on the top of the battery. The battery is only weatherproof when on the bike with the plug attached, at other times you should place the yellow protective cap over the terminal on top of the battery if there is a possibility of exposure to water.

Can I use a Cytronex Powered Bike in Freezing Weather?

Cytronex will function in most low temperature conditions without a problem, but the system is not currently suitable for regular use in extreme low temperatures such as below minus ten degrees Celsius. You should always check that the controls, especially the brake switch, are functioning properly before you set off in sub zero temperatures.

How can I clean my bike?

You should never clean a Cytronex powered bicycle with a pressure washer as this could breach the waterproof seals. This is particularly the case with the motor and controller (located under the bottom bracket – which is the part of the frame that the pedals turn in). Using a pressure washer could force water into these components and cause premature failure. Cleaning with warm soapy water and a sponge or cloth, or a special bike cleaner (like 'Muc-Off') is recommended.

Do I need to recharge the battery regularly?

If you store the battery without use for an extended period of time it is recommended that you charge it fully first then recharge again every 3 months. Batteries should not be left outside during the winter months for extended periods of time.