This document is an owner's manual for Bakcou eBikes, providing comprehensive information on their function, technical specifications, usage, and maintenance. Bakcou eBikes are designed for accessing backcountry terrain with minimal disturbance to wildlife and their habitat, emphasizing quiet and non-pollutant operation. The company focuses on creating durable, efficient, and affordable electric bikes, with designs centered around the motor and drivetrain to withstand demanding use.
Function Description:
Bakcou eBikes are electric bicycles equipped with powerful motors and gearing optimized for both steep climbing and higher-speed straightaways. They offer pedal assist and throttle-only riding options. The bikes feature shift and brake sensors that cut power to the motor when brakes are applied or gears are shifted, ensuring smooth operation and reducing stress on the drivetrain. The primary function is to provide an efficient and robust means of transportation for outdoor enthusiasts in challenging environments.
Important Technical Specifications:
The manual details several Bakcou eBike models, including Storm Jäger, Storm, Mule Jäger, Mule, Mule ST 26"/24", Scout, Flatlander, and Flatlander ST 24". While specific details vary by model, common specifications include:
- Motor: 750 W / 1000 W Bafang Ultra Motor (for mid-drive models) or 750 W Bafang High End Hub Motor (for hub-drive models).
- Battery: Available in 17.5ah, 21ah, or 25ah Lithium-Ion Battery options.
- Frame: 6061 Aluminum Alloy Frame across all models.
- Gearing: Shimano Alivio 9 Speed (common), Rohloff E-14 (500/14) Speed Hub (on Jäger models), or SRAM 9 Speed with 40t Front & Sunrace 11-42t Rear (on Storm full-suspension).
- Brakes: 203mm Hydraulic Quad Piston Disc Brakes (most models) or 203mm Hydraulic Dual Piston Disc Brakes (Flatlander hub-drive).
- Tires: 26x4 Traction & Control Maxxis 120 TPI (most models), 24x4 Maxxis Tires or 24x4 CST BFT Tires (Mule ST 26"/24"), or 24x4 Traction & Control CST BFT Tires (Flatlander ST 24").
- Suspension: RST Renegade Fork - 120mm Travel (most models), Rockshox Monarch Rear Suspension (full-suspension models), or GT MRK 100mm Air Fork (hard-tail models).
- Tire Pressure Range: 5 psi to 30 psi, with recommendations for specific terrains (5-15 PSI for soft sand/snow, 15-25 PSI for off-road, 25-30 PSI for pavement/smooth surfaces). A 2 psi difference between front and rear tires is recommended for optimal traction and stability.
Usage Features:
- Display Screens: Two main types of display screens are described:
- Five Button Keypad (Storm, Mule, Scout): Features Power, (+), (-), Light, and (i) buttons. The (i) button scrolls through information screens (Current Speed, Trip Distance, Power Level, Total Distance, Battery Level, Watts Output) and allows access to settings. It also includes Sport Mode (aggressive torque sensor) and Eco Mode (increased battery efficiency).
- Four Button Keypad (Flatlander): Features Power (bottom right), (+), and (-) buttons. The (+) button turns lights on/off, and the (-) button activates walk-assist mode. Information displayed includes Current Speed, Trip Distance, Pedal Assist Level, Total Distance, Battery Level, and Watts Output.
- Battery Charging: Batteries can be charged on or off the bike. Charging typically takes 4-8 hours. For long-term storage, a 50-80% charge is recommended, and batteries should be stored in a cool place.
- Riding Tips for Maximizing Battery Life: Suggestions include using pedals often, especially when starting; avoiding throttle-only riding; starting in a low gear and low power; using low gears for climbing; minimizing starts and stops; and using higher tire pressure.
- Front Suspension Fork Adjustment: The right dial locks out suspension travel (clockwise to lock, counter-clockwise to unlock). The left fork cap covers a valve for adjusting air pressure with a high-pressure shock pump. Bakcou recommends starting at 140psi.
- Safety Information: Emphasizes knowing rider and eBike limits, handling parts with care, and adhering to age restrictions (16 years or older). Helmets are always recommended.
- Error Codes: A table of Bafang Mid Motor Error Code Definitions is provided, along with troubleshooting methods for issues like braking system application, throttle faults, low/overvoltage, motor/controller sensor failures, and communication errors.
Maintenance Features:
- Pre-Ride Checklist: Before each ride, users should perform a safety check including:
- Handlebar: Ensure it's at 90 degrees to the wheel, tightened sufficiently, and cables are not pulled or caught.
- Saddle and Seat Post: Check alignment and tightness, and adjust saddle height for proper leg bend.
- Wheels: Inspect rims and spokes for damage, ensure axles are seated, and check for looseness.
- Tires: Verify proper inflation within the recommended pressure range (5-30 psi) and inspect for damage. Puncture-proof liners or sealant are recommended for thorny areas.
- Brakes: Confirm full braking force without lever touching the handlebar and proper function of front and rear brakes.
- Chain: Check for correct tension, kinks, rust, broken pins, plates, or rollers.
- Cables: Ensure all cables and housings are secured and free from interference, kinks, rust, or fraying.
- Reflectors, Lights & Accessories: Verify secure attachment, proper positioning, and functionality.
- Battery and Controller: Confirm battery is locked and fully charged, and the system is functioning.
- Suspension: Adjust for use and ensure no component "bottoms out."
- Pedals: Check for looseness, smooth rotation, and cleanliness.
- Cleaning: Clean the eBike with water or mild detergent and a non-abrasive sponge. Avoid high-pressure washing or spraying directly onto bearing points or electrical parts. Do not use harsh chemicals or alcohol wipes.
- Chain Degreasing and Lubrication: Degrease the chain with a bike-specific degreaser and brush, then rinse and dry. Lubricate each link pin with bike-specific chain lubricant, wiping off excess. Avoid getting lubricant on brake surfaces.
- Wheel and Tire Replacement: Instructions are provided for removing and replacing rear wheels (including shifting to the smallest gear and handling the derailleur) and tires (deflating, loosening from rim, using hands or tire levers, inserting inner tube, and inflating).
- Part Replacement: Emphasizes using only genuine replacement parts from a bike shop or Bakcou's accessories page to maintain safety and performance.
- Regular Maintenance: Recommends professional bike shop service for repairs not specifically described in the manual, especially for adjusting derailleurs and addressing cable stretch. A full check by a bike shop is advised two months after purchase and annually thereafter.
- Tightness Checks: Users should regularly check bolts and connections for proper tightness, ideally using a torque wrench according to specified torque specs.
- Frame and Fork Inspection: Examine for signs of fatigue like dents, cracks, scratches, deformation, or unusual noises.
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