POWER LOSS
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      3. POWER LOSS

      Intermittent Power Loss

      Troubleshoot intermittent power loss on your QuietKat

      QuietKat electric bikes are built for rugged adventures, so encountering a power loss issue can be frustrating. In this knowledge base article, we'll guide you through the steps to troubleshoot and resolve power loss on your QuietKat ebike. We'll cover essential checks, including ensuring a full battery charge, checking battery voltage, inspecting brake and shift sensors, and verifying all connections are sound.

      1. Ensure a Full Battery Charge:

      • Power loss can occur if your battery is not fully charged. Always charge your battery according to the manufacturer's recommendations before heading out on a ride. 
        • When connecting your battery to the charger, wait a few seconds to confirm the charging light indicator has turned red. The light will remain red until a full charge has been reached, when the light will turn green. If your charging indicator light turns green right away, but you know the battery is not at a full charge, contact QuietKat support.
        • There will either be an issue with your charger or battery. If you have a spare battery or spare charger, test charging on the spare battery with the existing charger and the spare charger with the existing battery to better determine whether the charger or the battery is presenting the issue. Report any of these findings to QuietKat customer support.
        • Please note, batteries operating around 30% charge may experience cut-offs. 

      2. Check Battery Voltage:

      • Use a voltmeter to measure your battery's voltage. A fully charged battery should read 54.6V at 100% charge.
      • If the voltage is too low, contact QuietKat support and report the voltage reading. If you are still within your warranty period, or have Extend warranty, this will be covered. If you are outside of your warranty period, or if the battery is older and used infrequently, consider replacing it if it no longer holds a charge effectively. 

      3. Check Voltage Setting (Hub-Drive Bike Models Only): 

      • At a full stop, hold the up and down arrows on your keypad simultaneously to enter your display settings.
      • Press 'M' to cycle through the parameters. At parameter 3 (P03), ensure this setting is set to 48V (should read 048). If not, use the up/down arrow to cycle to 048, then save and exit settings by holding the 'M' to power off. 
      • Power the bike on again and you should see an accurate reading of your 48V battery. 

      4. Assess Riding Conditions: 

      • Riding in excessive heat, prolonged steep grades, or under heavy loads can cause internal motor temperature to increase. This may result in intermittent power loss. This is considered normal operation to protect the motor and other electrical components from overheating.

      5. Inspect Brake Sensors:

      • Brake sensors are safety features that cut off power to the motor when the brakes are applied. Check if your brake sensors are functioning correctly.
      • Inspect the brake cables and connectors for damage. Realign or replace any damaged components.
      • Please note, brake sensor shorts will not always present an Error Code on your display screen. However, they can still cause intermittent power loss without the Error Code present. 

      6. Examine Shift Sensors (Mid-Drive Bike Models Only):

      • Shift sensors ensure the motor's power delivery is appropriate for your gear selection. If these sensors malfunction, it can lead to power loss.

      • Ensure the shift sensor indicator is operating by following the wire from the shifter down to the main bundle of connections located behind your handlebars. You will find an LED light that will illuminate with proper function. If the light does not illuminate, contact QuietKat support for a replacement. 

      7. Verify All Connections:

      • Loose or damaged connections can disrupt the flow of power. Inspect all electrical connections from the display down to the motor.
      • Re-seat any loose connectors and make sure connections are clean and secure. Contact QuietKat Support if you do find any damaged wires or connections.

      8. Inspect Throttle and Pedal Assist System:

      • Check the throttle operation. Make sure it's responsive and not stuck in a position that restricts power delivery.
      • For pedal assist, ensure that the pedal assist sensor is functioning correctly, and there are no obstructions or issues with the magnet ring located on the bottom bracket (hub-drive only). You can follow this article to inspect the PAS sensor on your hub-drive bike.
      • The mid-drive PAS sensor is located within the motor. Contact QuietKat Support for any issues with your pedal assist on your mid-drive model. 

      9. Professional Evaluation:

      • If power loss persists after performing these checks, it may require a professional technician's assessment.
      • Contact QuietKat's customer support for a thorough diagnosis and resolution. Report any findings from the troubleshooting list to the CS team, as this will help to identify and confirm the best resolution.

      Conclusion: Troubleshooting power loss on your QuietKat electric bike involves several key steps, from checking your battery and sensors to verifying all electrical connections. Regular maintenance, attention to detail, and prompt action in addressing any issues are essential to maintaining a reliable and enjoyable riding experience. By following these steps, you can identify and resolve power loss issues, ensuring your bike performs optimally on your next adventure.