13
Townie GO!
This section explains some of the basic information about
e-bikes or EPACs (Electric Pedal Assist Cycle).
Please also read the information in the Shimano
Steps manual included with your bicycle. If you
did not get a manual, ask your retailer or visit
Shimano.com.
A pedelec is an electric pedal-assisted bicycle.
“Pedal-assisted” means that you can pedal
this bicycle as a normal bike, or that the bike
can assist you in your pedalling. The Townie
GO! will assist you up to a speed of 20 mph
(25 kph in some countries where the Townie
GO! is configured to meet the EPAC standard
EN 15194), but it will only assist when you are
pedalling. The amount of assistance depends on
the force you exert on the pedals.
The way the Townie GO! assists you, and the
top speed, meets the legal definition of EPACs
(Electric Pedal Assist Cycle) in both the U.S.
and Canada (as well as in countries where the
Townie GO! is configured to meet the EPAC
standard EN 15194). However, the state and
provincial laws governing the use of a pedelec
vary widely. Depending on location, your Townie
GO! may be considered a bicycle, a moped,
or a motorcycle (with all the details required
by your state). The variations in the laws may
include restrictions in the use of roads, paths,
and trails. Check with your local Department of
Transportation to make sure you are using your
Townie GO! in a lawful manner.
Lithium-ion batteries
Your Townie GO! pedelec uses a Li-Ion (Lithium
Ion) battery. This battery should be handled
gently. It also has special requirements for
charging, recycling, and traveling. These
requirements are explained in the Shimano
Steps manual.
WARNING:
Mishandling of the battery-
pack may cause it to overheat, catch fire, or
explode. Handle gently. If you suspect the
battery has damage, immediately take it to
your retailer for inspection. Do not delay;
a severe impact can cause a short circuit
possibly leading to overheating and fire.
Avoid ‘deep discharge’
When the battery-pack is not in use, store it
fully charged in a dry, cool place. Batteries lose
their charge over time. Charge a stored battery
every six months. Failure to follow these
guidelines could result in a deep-discharged
battery, which can damage the battery and
cause it to not charge fully. This type of
damage is misuse, so it is not covered under
the warranty.
When it is necessary to recharge, the battery-
pack will emit a ‘recharge’ beep.
Traveling with a lithium-ion battery
In some places, regulations may restrict the
transport of lithium-ion batteries of this size and
power. The restrictions apply to most airlines
and some trucking companies. If you intend to
ship or travel with your Townie GO! bike, make
sure you check ahead with your airline or carrier
before booking your trip.
Recycling the battery
The battery will eventually lose strength,
causing it to not hold a charge as long as
desired. When this happens, you must replace
the battery. When you do, please recycle the
old battery. You can find out where to do this at
call2recycle.
