Batteries based on nickel-cadmium (NiCad) technology are the most widely used in the ebike industry. Generally speaking, NiCad batteries have to be used until they are completely discharged to avoid the dreaded 'memory effect'. This is where frequent part-charging of a NiCad can permanently limit the battery's capacity. The NiCad battery used by the FLYER F-Series doesn't suffer from this memory effect because of the patented pulse-loading circuitry incorporated into the built-in battery charger – it means you can charge the battery whenever you want. The FLYER F-Series NiCad battery has a long life (1000 charging cycles) – the downside is that its range is limited to just 25-30 km. That said, the battery is perfect for frequent short trips, and it's relatively cost effective.

Due to its 70% higher capacity, fitting a nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) battery to the F-FLYER makes the bike suitable for more intensive use. Its range would remain reasonable even if your trips included uphills or if you were towing a trailer. You could generally expect to get around 45 km out of an F-FLYER running on a NiMH battery. So, NiMH batteries feature enhanced capacity, but they cost appreciably more – and their service life is limited to around 600 charging cycles. They're also more sensitive to high temperatures.

The lithium ion (Li-ion) battery is currently state-of-the-art for use in ebikes, and Biketec was the first manufacturer in Europe to deploy it in its series production runs. Very light (2–2.5 kg) and offering a range of 50 km or more, the Li-ion battery represents the greatest developmental advance in the history of the electric bicycle; it's key to ebikes achieving mass acceptance in the market.

Motor / drive

Generally speaking, the industry distinguishes between hub motors and drives integrated into the bicycle's bottom bracket. We use the latter approach with our FLYERs: not only does this provide optimal weight distribution for a stable ride, it means that wiring between the battery and motor (which can be a weak link) is kept to a minimum. Also, there's no need to dismantle the front or rear wheel to access or repair the fiddly electronics built into it. Both FLYER series are fitted with maintenance-free, brushless motors.

Sensors
Batteries
Bicycle technology
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