Top 7 Options for a Battery for an Electric Bike: Reviews & Range Tips
Not sure which battery for an electric bike will actually give you the range, power, and reliability you need?
If you are confused by voltages, capacity, and real-world performance, this guide breaks it all down so you can choose with confidence before you buy.
Choosing the right battery is one of the most important decisions you will make when building, upgrading, or buying an electric bike. The battery determines how far you can ride, how much power your motor can deliver, and how reliable your setup will be over time. For UK riders, weather conditions, terrain, and legal motor limits also play a major role in battery performance.
Whether you commute daily, ride for performance, or build your own conversion kit, dependable battery power and realistic range are essential for a confident ride. In this guide, we break down the top 7 options for a battery for an electric bike, explain how to choose the right voltage and capacity, and share practical range tips based on UK riding conditions.
Whether you are looking for a long range e-Bike battery for touring, or an e-Bike battery for 1000W / 2000W motor builds, this article will help you make a confident choice.
How to Choose the Right Electric Bike Battery
Before comparing specific batteries, it is important to understand what actually matters when choosing one.
Voltage Explained: 36V, 48V, 52V and Beyond
Voltage directly affects how much power your motor can draw.
- 36V systems are common on city bikes and legal 250W setups.
- 48V systems offer a noticeable jump in torque and responsiveness.
- 52V systems deliver even stronger acceleration and better efficiency at higher speeds.
Many riders ask about 48V vs. 52V e-bike battery setups. In simple terms, 52V batteries maintain higher voltage under load, which can feel smoother and more powerful, especially on hills or with heavier riders.
Capacity and Range: Why Watt Hours Matter
Capacity is often shown in amp hours, but watt hours give the clearest picture of real range. A higher Wh rating generally means more distance per charge, assuming similar riding conditions.
If you want a realistic estimate, an e-Bike battery range calculator can help, but remember that wind, rider weight, terrain, and riding style all affect results.
Battery Shape and Frame Fit
The physical design of a battery matters just as much as its electrical specs.
- Downtube batteries integrate neatly into most frames.
- Triangle batteries maximize capacity for high power builds.
- Rack mounted options suit step through or utility bikes.
Choosing the right downtube battery for e-bike setups or a triangle e-Bike battery often depends on frame size and intended use.
Top 7 Electric Bike Battery Options Reviewed
48V 24.5Ah Samsung Downtube Battery
Best For Long Range And High Power Builds
This 48V 24.5Ah downtube battery delivers an impressive 1178Wh of usable energy, making it ideal for riders who want extended range without sacrificing power. Built with Grade A Samsung 18650 cells and a robust 50A BMS, it comfortably supports motors from 200W up to 2000W.
It is particularly well suited for anyone building an e-Bike battery for a 1000W / 2000W motor, including mid drive and high torque hub motor conversions. The size works best on larger frames with lower bottle mounts, and the XT90 discharge ensures reliable current delivery.
36V 14.4Ah LG Hailong Battery
Best Lightweight Option For City Riding
If you are looking for a compact and efficient solution, this Hailong e-Bike battery is a strong choice. Using LG 21700 cells, it offers 480Wh of capacity in a lighter package that suits smaller frames and urban commutes.
This battery pairs well with legal 250W systems and many entry-level Bafang 36V battery setups. Riders who value simplicity, reduced weight, and clean integration often prefer this option.
Samsung 52V 20Ah Poly Slot Battery
Best Performance Upgrade For Powerful E-Bikes
For riders who want stronger acceleration and higher sustained speed, this 52V 20Ah battery stands out. With roughly 1040Wh of capacity and a 50A BMS, it supports demanding 2000W systems with ease.
Many customers upgrading their batteries choose this option when moving from 48V to 52V. If you are considering a 52V battery for performance riding, this model offers an excellent balance of power and range.
52V 14Ah Hailong G80 Max Downtube Battery
Best Balanced Everyday Battery
The Hailong G80 Max is designed for riders who want dependable daily performance with practical features. It includes an upgraded connector system, USB charging, and an integrated lock for security.
With real world mileage figures of around 74 km in pedal assist mode on a 1000W setup, it is a versatile option for commuting and weekend rides. It is also compatible with many popular Bafang e-Bike battery configurations, including BBSHD mid drive systems.
60V 25Ah Samsung Triangle Battery
Best For Extreme Power And Custom Builds
This high capacity triangle e-Bike battery is built for serious riders pushing up to 3000W. With Samsung 21700 50S cells and a 60A BMS, it delivers massive current while maintaining thermal stability.
Triangle batteries are often chosen for custom frames or off road builds where space allows. This option is not about subtlety, it is about raw performance and endurance.
72V 20Ah Samsung Triangle Battery
Best Maximum Performance Option
For experienced riders only, the 72V 20Ah triangle battery offers extreme voltage and power delivery. It supports high speed builds and heavy duty controllers while maintaining safety through a high quality BMS.
This is not a typical commuter solution, but for advanced users, it represents the top end of electric bike battery performance.
Large Capacity 52V 28Ah Triangle Battery
Best Long Distance Touring Battery
If maximum range is your priority, this 52V 28Ah battery delivers. With nearly 1500Wh of energy, it is a true long range e-Bike battery designed for extended rides, touring, and heavy riders.
The triangle format helps distribute weight evenly, making it a popular choice for riders who want distance without constant recharging.
Electric Bike Battery Range Tips for UK Riding
Range is never just about battery size. Real world conditions matter.
What Increases Range
- Pedal assist instead of throttle only riding
- Steady cruising speeds
- Flat or rolling terrain
- Warmer weather
- Correct tyre pressure
What Reduces Range
- High average speeds
- Frequent stopping and starting
- Heavy loads
- Cold winter temperatures
- Strong headwinds
Battery Safety, Certifications and Longevity
All batteries supplied by Electro City Bikes meet UK and EU safety standards, including UKCA certification and advanced Battery Management Systems.
Many UK riders ask how long e-bike batteries last.With quality cells, proper charging habits, and sensible storage, most lithium ion e-bike batteries last between three and five years or 500 to 1000 full charge cycles.
Avoid leaving batteries fully discharged for long periods, and store them indoors during winter to extend lifespan.
Which Battery Is Right for You?
- Urban commuters benefit from lighter 36V or compact 48V downtube options.
- Performance riders often prefer 52V systems for better efficiency and power delivery.
- Conversion kit builders using Bafang motors can choose from compatible 48v, 36V, or 52V options depending on motor and controller requirements.
While some riders consider a rear rack battery e-Bike setup, most modern builds benefit from downtube or triangle batteries due to better weight distribution.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right battery transforms how your electric bike feels, how far you can ride, and how confidently you can rely on your setup. From compact city solutions to extreme high power builds, there is no one size fits all answer.
At Electro City Bikes, we stock and support a wide range of batteries to suit every riding style, from everyday commuters to serious performance builds. If you are unsure which option fits your bike or conversion kit, our team is always happy to help you choose the right power source for your ride.
