Here are some maintenance suggestions for keeping your Alpha II in top shape!

<h3 dir="ltr" id="isPasted"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Keeping&#xA0;</span><span style="text-decoration:none;">Your Vvolt Ebike in Top Shape</span></h3><p dir="ltr"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Congratulations on choosing a low-maintenance Vvolt Alpha II! But remember, &quot;low maintenance&quot; doesn&apos;t mean &quot;no maintenance.&quot; Bikes experience vibrations, components loosen over time, and regular care ensures smooth, hassle-free rides. Let&apos;s break down essential maintenance steps to keep your ebike in peak condition.</span></p><hr><h3 dir="ltr" id="1-keep-it-clean"><span style="text-decoration:none;">1. Keep It Clean</span></h3><p dir="ltr"><span style="text-decoration:none;">One of the simplest yet most essential maintenance tasks is cleaning your bike. Dirt, grime, and road debris can accelerate wear on key components like brake pads and belts. Rinse your bike occasionally, but always power down and remove the battery first. Focus on the drivetrain, and avoid power washing&#x2014;it&apos;s unnecessary and could cause damage. A clean bike not only looks good but also performs better. Ensure you allow your ebike to dry completely before reinstalling your battery and going for a ride. <br></span></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="text-decoration:none;"><em><strong>We suggest a little leftover dirt from your last ride as a badge of honor!</strong></em></span></p><hr><h3 dir="ltr" id="2-brake-maintenance"><span style="text-decoration:none;">2. Brake Maintenance</span></h3><p dir="ltr">H<span style="text-decoration:none;">ydraulic disc brakes are designed to be strong, quiet, and reliable, but they require occasional attention to maintain performance.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Your Alpha II is equipped with Shimano MT200 hydraulic disc brakes with the following specifications:</span></p><ul><li dir="ltr"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Mineral oil fluid</span></li><li dir="ltr"><span style="text-decoration:none;">ISO 6-bolt 160mm disc rotors</span></li><li dir="ltr"><span style="text-decoration:none;"><a href="https://vvolt.com/products/jagwire-pro-e-bike-brake-pads-for-radius-hydraulic-brakes" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Deore-style organic brake pads</a></span><ul><li dir="ltr"><span style="text-decoration:none;">(</span><span style="text-decoration:none;"><a href="https://vvolt.com/products/jagwire-pro-e-bike-brake-pads" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">higher performance options are available</a></span><span style="text-decoration:none;">)</span></li></ul></li></ul><p dir="ltr"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Brake Pads and Rotors</span></p><ul><li dir="ltr" style="text-decoration:none;"><p dir="ltr"><span style="text-decoration:none;">If brake pads are worn below 1.5mm, replace them to maintain braking efficiency and reduce noise.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="text-decoration:none;"><p dir="ltr"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Brake rotors should be wobble-free and silent. Unusual noises (like howling or scraping) often indicate contamination&#x2014;clean them with isopropyl alcohol and a lint-free cloth.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="text-decoration:none;"><p dir="ltr"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Handle brake components with care&#x2014;oil from your fingers can cause contamination.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="text-decoration:none;"><p dir="ltr"><span style="text-decoration:none;"><a href="https://www.parktool.com/en-us/blog/repair-help/disc-brake-pad-removal-installation" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Park Tool</a></span><span style="text-decoration:none;">&#xA0;has created an excellent resource for swapping your brake pads!</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Brake Bleeding</span></p><ul><li dir="ltr" style="text-decoration:none;"><p dir="ltr"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Vvolt ebikes use a mineral oil-based system. Air may be trapped in the system if your brakes feel spongy despite good pad condition.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="text-decoration:none;"><p dir="ltr">Unless you already own a Shimano bleed kit and are familiar with bleeding hydraulic disc brakes, go to a local bike shop to have this work performed.</p></li></ul><hr><h3 dir="ltr" id="3-gates-carbon-drive-drivetrain"><span style="text-decoration:none;">3. Gates Carbon Drive Drivetrain</span></h3><p dir="ltr"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Your Gates Carbon Drive belt is durable and quiet but requires occasional care.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Your Alpha II is equipped with a Gates Sidetrack 118t belt. This is an OEM-only component, so please contact Vvolt if you encounter any issues, such as a broken or excessively worn belt. <br></span></p><ul><li dir="ltr" style="text-decoration:none;"><p dir="ltr"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Inspect it every 2,000 miles for cracks, wear, or misalignment.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="text-decoration:none;"><p dir="ltr"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Clean with water and a soft-bristled brush&#x2014;avoid harsh chemicals.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="text-decoration:none;"><p dir="ltr"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Check the belt ring and cog for excessive wear.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="text-decoration:none;"><p dir="ltr"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Proper alignment and tension prevent noise and prolong belt life.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="text-decoration:none;"><p dir="ltr"><span style="text-decoration:none;">If you hear popping or clicking, reach out to support@vvolt.com.</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Refer to Gates&apos; official maintenance guide (</span><span style="text-decoration:none;"><a href="https://www.calameo.com/gates-corporation/read/006975492a1f903de3202" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">pg. 10</a></span><span style="text-decoration:none;">).</span></p><hr><h3 dir="ltr" id="4-wheel-care"><span style="text-decoration:none;">4. Wheel Care</span></h3><p dir="ltr"><span style="text-decoration:none;">True wheels are critical for a smooth ride; regular checks can prevent long-term issues.</span></p><ul><li dir="ltr" style="text-decoration:none;"><p dir="ltr"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Spin your wheels occasionally to check for side-to-side (lateral) or up-down (vertical) wobbling.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="text-decoration:none;"><p dir="ltr"><span style="text-decoration:none;">A tire lever or fixed object held near the rim can help assess trueness.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="text-decoration:none;"><p dir="ltr"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Spoke tension is key&#x2014;uneven tension can lead to further misalignment.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="text-decoration:none;"><p dir="ltr"><span style="text-decoration:none;">If you notice wobbling, visit a local bike shop instead of attempting adjustments without the correct tools.</span></p></li></ul><hr><h3 dir="ltr" id="5-tire-maintenance"><span style="text-decoration:none;">5. Tire Maintenance</span></h3><p dir="ltr"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Your tires are your only contact with the road&#x2014;monitoring their condition is crucial for safety.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Your Alpha II is equipped with CST tires, sized 27.5&quot; x 2.4&quot;. You can buy a replacement tire&#xA0;</span><span style="text-decoration:none;"><a href="https://vvolt.com/products/medium-roller-tire-27-5-x-2-4" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a></span><span style="text-decoration:none;">. The tubes use Schrader valves, and you can purchase replacements&#xA0;</span><span style="text-decoration:none;"><a href="https://www.teravail.com/product/teravail-tube-27.5-x-2.0-2.25-inch-48mm-schrader-valve-650b-211782-1.htm" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">online</a></span><span style="text-decoration:none;">!</span></p><ul><li dir="ltr" style="text-decoration:none;"><p dir="ltr"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Check tread wear regularly&#x2014;bald tires reduce grip and increase risk.</span></p><ul><li><p dir="ltr"><span style="text-decoration:none;">A purple/pink liner will become visible when the tire is well past worn out and is your sign to STOP riding and replace that tire! <br></span></p></li></ul></li><li dir="ltr" style="text-decoration:none;"><p dir="ltr"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Replace worn tires before slipping or handling issues arise.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="text-decoration:none;"><p dir="ltr"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Proper inflation improves ride comfort, efficiency, and longevity.</span></p></li></ul><hr><h3 dir="ltr" id="6-safety-inspections--bolt-checks-"><span style="text-decoration:none;">6. Safety Inspections &amp; Bolt Checks <br></span></h3><p dir="ltr"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Routine checkups keep your ebike running smoothly and safely.</span></p><ul><li dir="ltr" style="text-decoration:none;"><p dir="ltr"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Your ebike should be primarily silent&#x2014;clicking, ticking, knocking, or rattling signals the need for attention.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="text-decoration:none;"><p dir="ltr"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Schedule biannual inspections if you ride over 5,000 miles/year.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="text-decoration:none;"><p dir="ltr"><span style="text-decoration:none;">If riding fewer miles, an annual inspection is usually sufficient.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="text-decoration:none;"><p dir="ltr"><span style="text-decoration:none;">After crashes or hard impacts, get a professional safety check before riding again.</span></p></li></ul><p>Bikes can rattle bolts! During safety inspections, it&apos;s a good idea to put a wrench on all your bolts to ensure everything is nice and tight.</p><p dir="ltr"><br></p><hr><p><br></p><p><br></p>

Maintenance Suggestions: Alpha II

Pro Tips for Wheel Removal and Installation

<p><span class="fr-video fr-deletable fr-rv fr-fvc fr-dvb fr-draggable" contenteditable="false" draggable="true"><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/n6b-JIs6lFs?&amp;wmode=opaque&amp;rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen class="fr-draggable"></iframe></span><br></p><hr><p>Pro Tips for Wheel Removal and Installation:</p><ul><li id="isPasted">The axle nuts should be torqued to 30nm</li><li>Please do not twist the motor wires when unplugging or plugging them in. The connection is watertight, so it&apos;s very snug. There is a line on the motor side of the connection, which you can use to ensure it&apos;s completely connected. Align the white arrows, and don&apos;t bend any pins.&#xA0;</li><li>The axle should be fully seated within both dropout slots. Do not attempt to ride the bike until it is fully seated!<ul><li>Using gravity and placing the bike on the ground to seat the axle is helpful.</li></ul></li><li>You should not have to adjust belt tension!<ul><li>Sometimes, the axle position changes and affects belt tension. Learn how to adjust your belt tension here!</li></ul></li></ul>

Rear Wheel Removal: Alpha II

<p><span class="fr-video fr-deletable fr-rv fr-fvc fr-dvb fr-draggable" contenteditable="false" draggable="true"><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/wWkzVGy-uAA?&amp;wmode=opaque&amp;rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen class="fr-draggable"></iframe></span></p><hr><p>Pro Tips for Adjusting Your Belt Tension:</p><ul><li>The dropout plates must only be loosened slightly to move forward or backward.</li><li>Adjust each side evenly to ensure the rear wheel remains aligned in the frame.</li><li>If you hear rubbing from the disc rotor after changing the belt tension, you may need to adjust the caliper.&#xA0;</li><li>A misaligned belt is dangerous and can break! If your belt makes excessive noise, such as clicking, popping, or grinding, double-check the wheel alignment and adjust until the belt and wheel spin freely.&#xA0;</li><li>The belt tension measurement is an average of four readings taken over the course of one full crank rotation.&#xA0;</li></ul>

Belt Tension Adjustment: Alpha II

Here's how to remove and install the battery in your Vvolt ebike equipped with a bottom-mount battery.

<p><br></p><p><span class="fr-video fr-deletable fr-rv fr-fvc fr-dvb fr-draggable fr-active" contenteditable="false" draggable="true"><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Y2t0xstUxhE??si=QxpaB_HOQjFFuCl4&amp;wmode=opaque&amp;rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen class="fr-draggable"></iframe></span><br></p><hr><h2 id="isPasted">Pro Tips: </h2><ul style="list-style-type: disc;"><li>Slide the safety latch up first!&#xA0;</li><li>Ensure your hand holds the bottom of the battery before twisting the key to release it.&#xA0;</li><li>Reinstall the battery with vigor; it auto-locks but needs a solid &apos;thwack!&quot;&#xA0;</li><li>Hold the battery firmly in the downtube while sliding the safety latch <strong><u>DOWN</u></strong> to ensure proper engagement.</li></ul>

Battery Removal and Installation: Alpha II

Here's how to reset the trip distance on the Alpha II with an Ananda D20 display

<p><span class="fr-video fr-deletable fr-rv fr-fvc fr-dvb fr-draggable" contenteditable="false" draggable="true"><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/V9i8yO9juu0?&amp;wmode=opaque&amp;rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen class="fr-draggable"></iframe></span></p><hr><h2 id="steps">Steps:</h2><ol><li>Power on the display by long pressing the power/function button</li><li>Press and hold the + and - keys at the same time to enter the menu&#xA0;</li><li>Navigate to the clear screen (clr) by pressing the - key three times</li><li>Short-press the power/function key to enter the menu&#xA0;</li><li>Press the + key to &quot;yes&quot;&#xA0;</li><li>Long-press the power/function key&#xA0;</li><li>Go ride!&#xA0;</li></ol>

Reset the trip distance: Alpha II

How to address and resolve Error Code 4 on the Alpha II.

<p><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" style="width: 687px;"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://attachments.gorgias.help/q0jJY2DMD07eBWMO/hc/z8QbV2PYZe7ogePy/2025012222-b3f60954-6a0a-4b73-9f45-72ffc929defe-e04.jpeg" style="width: 687px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"><span class="fr-inner" spellcheck="false">Uh oh! It&apos;s Error Code 04!&#xA0;</span></span></span></p><h2 id="whats-error-code-04">What&apos;s Error Code 04?</h2><p>The error code denotes a fault with the brake cutoff sensor(s) installed on the underside of the Shimano MT200 brake levers on your Alpha II. The goal of the brake cutoff switch is to cut power to the motor when the brakes are applied.&#xA0;</p><h2 id="brake-cutoff-components">Brake Cutoff Components</h2><p>The system is comprised of two components on either brake lever:</p><p><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" style="width: 304px;"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://attachments.gorgias.help/q0jJY2DMD07eBWMO/hc/z8QbV2PYZe7ogePy/2025012222-f6e58c39-d0db-462f-9a5d-f0a53e39fd33-tempimageybrp99.jpg" style="width: 436px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded"><span class="fr-inner" spellcheck="false" style="text-align: center;">1) An MT200 lever, the magnet, and the sensor&#xA0;</span></span></span></p><p>The magnet, specific to the right and left sides, clips onto the hinge where the lever connects to the master cylinder.&#xA0;</p><p>The sensor is attached to the clamp body using the clamp bolt, which affixes the lever to the handlebar.</p><p><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" style="width: 324px;"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://attachments.gorgias.help/q0jJY2DMD07eBWMO/hc/z8QbV2PYZe7ogePy/2025012223-74bced35-3088-42f3-8e93-6fb235c67f22-tempimagecnwxbk.jpg" style="width: 300px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded"><span class="fr-inner" spellcheck="false">2) Magnet and sensor installed correctly</span></span></span></p><p>For the system to work as intended, the magnet must be within range of the sensor but not too close. If that magnet is either out of range or too close, the sensor will throw the fault, and you&apos;ll see Err 04 on your handlebar display.</p><h2 id="possible-causes">Possible Causes</h2><ul><li>The magnet is either too close or too far away from the sensor.</li><li>The sensor is corrupted.&#xA0;</li><li>The bike has fallen over or been knocked, and the wires within the sensor have become dislodged from the circuit board.</li></ul><h2 id="solutions">Solutions</h2><ol><li>Identify which sensor is causing the fault:<ol><li>Unplug the rear (right) side sensor while the bike is powered on. Hold either plug firmly and gently rock it back and forth while pulling them apart. Do not twist these plugs!&#xA0;</li><li>If the error remains on the display, plug in the right-side sensor and unplug the front (left) side sensor.&#xA0;</li><li>Plug in both sensors once you&apos;ve identified which side is causing the fault.&#xA0;</li></ol></li><li>Ensure the magnet is fully seated and clipped to the brake lever.<ol><li>Refer to image 2 for a correctly installed magnet and sensor</li></ol></li><li>If the magnet is installed correctly, use a 2mm hex wrench to adjust the brake lever reach outwards by turning clockwise:<ol><li>You should only need to adjust the reach by a quarter to half-turn</li></ol></li></ol><p><span class="fr-video fr-deletable fr-rv fr-fvc fr-dvb fr-draggable" contenteditable="false" draggable="true"><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/LOBfcgeXNtc?&amp;wmode=opaque&amp;rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen class="fr-draggable"></iframe></span>&#xA0;</p><hr><p>If the troubleshooting steps outlined in this guide do not resolve the error code, please email <a href="mailto:support@vvolt.com">support@vvolt.com</a> for further assistance!&#xA0;</p>

Error Code 04 Troubleshooting: Alpha II

Error Codes: Alpha II

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