Originally Posted by
tpreitzel
Maybe for you and with GUSTS of wind under 18 mph, I be likely to agree. However, GUSTS of wind at barely 18 mph is almost a dead calm in many places.
You can periodically check the voltage on the batteries, e.g. every few months. For each 12v battery, the voltage should be at LEAST 12.66v (25.32v for 2). Since the Currie pack is 24v, just take a reading of the pack without opening the case. Although less than ideal, this approximate voltage should be accurate enough to gauge the condition of the batteries. Use Google to search for the adverse effect of deep discharging SLA batteries on their life span. "Only time will tell whether your significantly shortening the life of your batteries, but I think the odds are quite high that you are." The following website has good information:
http://www.steveduncan.net/html/caring_for_slas.html
Good luck
I'd just came back from Vermont for a week long ride/vacation trip and I didn't noticed any high winds that I haven't seen elsewhere - and I go all over to bike. The wind should be no more of a factor than a mild hills - you just go little slower and use the motor to bring up the speed a bit.
As for testing the battery and what not - does it matter? The replacement battery is $33 x 2 + shipping (not from Currie). Thats less than one fill-up on my car. If we're talking about 180 good charge vs 200 - its minor in overall scheme of things (and at this price). I not saying we shouldn't take good care of these batteries, but its quite cheap and each pack will last quite a while.