Cycling UK Forum

Zxcraig wrote:Hi me n Mrs finally got our e-bikes last weekend Bosch controllers my question is how do I protect these controllers while changing a tube or repairing a flat etc
?
Is there a bobbin type device I could fit to the handle bar as a distance piece to take the weight of the bike ?
How do others repair punctures etc?
I’m quite a keen cyclist and have always been used to simply upending my bikes and standing them on their bars and saddle

If it's just to protect the controller from being scratched when against the ground then a track mitt or similar over it will work. Bike is probably not so heavy that it will crush it. Certainly the ebike we have for the missus isn't that heavy.

And as others have said, a strap to hold the relevant end up by tying to a gate or similar whilst wheel is out is a good idea.

I would also strongly recommend fitting tyres like marathon+ which are extremely resistant to punctures in the first place. And always keep an eye on the tyre pressures.

I'd agree with Simonhill - fit some stubby bar ends that give just enough clearance to keep stuff on the bars from getting scratched/damaged. The Bosch display/mount is not particularly sturdy and could easily be broken by resting the bike upside down on it. In any case even with bar ends fitted I'd take the Bosch display off first in case of uneven ground. If you have an intuvia display it unclips easily from the mount unless you have the tiny security screw fitted under the unit (most don't) in which case you can remove the screw because it's not needed. Really the display wants to be removed every time you pop into a shop or whatever anyway. I'm sure other Bosch displays are also easily removed. Even the mount wants protecting from the ground though, hence the bar ends.

By the way if you have hydraulic disc brakes and take the wheel out be careful not to squeeze/knock the brake lever while the wheel is out. If you do the pistons/pads may move too close together to fit the brake rotor between them again. Also if the bike is standing upside down for a while some air can migrate from the oil reservoir in the levers into the brake line giving you a spongy, less effective brake, so check for this when you right the bike again. It's only a temporary issue if it happens. Sorry if you already know this.