Ten point four amp hours does seem to be a rounding error over the typical ten amp hour eBike battery pack. However, when we're talking about a 36 volt system, we have to think about it differently. Instead of 360 watt hours, we now have 374 watt hours. The Meaycoty 36V 10.4Ah is a great example of a product that meets the new standard. Alongside the increased energy storage, it comes equipped with a 30 amp BMS and a 4 pin base. Together these two features elevate the Meaycoty to a level above all the other generic thirty-six-volt packs competing on the shelves below 150 dollars.
This battery pack's "honest caveat" is that there is only one Amazon customer reviewer. They gave it five stars and that is the only thing he said. There isn't much to build off of, only one review. Therefore, you should purchase this pack based upon its specifications and the return policy offered by the seller, not on its reputation.
Specifications and Build Quality
Specifications: Thirty-six volts nominal, 10.4 amp-hours nominal, 374 Wh total stored capacity, 30 amp continuous BMS. The case is built using a 4-pin base. While the 4-pin base may appear to be simply an additional feature of the case, the design actually provides some significant advantages. In particular, the 4-pin base allows the pack to provide both the main discharge circuitry and a separate charging path. Providing both circuits via a single connection reduces the number of connections needed between devices and simplifies wiring.
As stated in the listing, Meaycoty claims the pack is water-proof and designed with shock-absorbing padding inside. Water-resistance in battery marketing generally refers to resistance to splashing water (and perhaps exposure to moisture), but typically does not imply that a battery is fully submersible. If you ride through heavy rain, take indoor routes during rainy seasons. Gravel washboard roads are a different story, however, the inclusion of shock-absorbing material inside the casing could help protect your pack from damage due to road vibrations.
The BMS is designed to monitor each individual cell within the pack for thermal conditions, provide cell balance, allow for a fuse to protect against short-circuits and over-currents, and provide reverse-polarity protection. The reason I personally appreciate the inclusion of a fuse along with reverse polarity protection is that they greatly reduce the risk of destroying your pack or controller when you accidentally connect them improperly.
Charging and Everyday Use
According to the manufacturer instructions, listed on Amazon, charging occurs in a very specific sequence. First, make sure to connect the charger cable to the pack. Then plug in the wall end of the charger. Plugging in the wall end of the charger before connecting the charger cable to the pack will result in sparking at the connector. Both the plug and the BMS may experience potential damage.
The pack contains a standard USB port that can be used for charging small electronics such as smartphones or lights while on the go. The power button on the back of the pack eliminates standby drain. The LED display shows battery state of charge. The included charger delivers 2 amps. As such, a full recharge from completely dead to completely charged will take approximately five hours. The manufacturer offers a twelve month warranty covering repairs at their expense, and additionally provides a three month return window.
Range and Practical Performance
On average, with this amount of energy available (374 watt hours at 36 volts), you can expect anywhere from fifteen to twenty-two miles on throttle-only operations on a motor rated at approximately 500 watts. More distance may be possible depending upon how often you use pedal assist. In general, lighter riders (less than 180 lbs) operating in lower PAS modes may reach the upper limit of this estimate. Less likely is reaching this upper limit for heavier riders or on more hilly routes.
There is absolutely nothing unusual about this type of performance, simply physics dictates how far you'll travel per unit of electrical energy provided to your electric bicycle. As for performance at high inclines, where motors tend to suck down significantly more current than normal, this pack's 30 Amp BMS limits excessive current draw from sustaining uphill climbs and thus prevents sagging or cutting-out of power flow during high-draw applications such as steep incline climbing. This means that if you've got a 750-watt motor and you're pulling maximum current during sustained climbs, this pack won't fail to deliver.
Who Should Purchase This Pack
If you operate an electric bicycle with a 250-watt to 750-watt motor running at 36 volts and want a pack with USB charging capability and a newer-style 4-pin base matching your existing mounting hardware, this could be a good option for you. Additionally, if you plan to carry a second pack (for longer rides), the lightweight nature of this pack makes it relatively simple to carry.
Do not purchase this pack if your frame requires use of the standard 2-pin Hailong mounting plate. The 4-pin base will not fit onto a frame requiring this configuration. Check the variant photos on the listing before ordering to confirm the base matches your bike.
Finally, if you require substantial evidence of previous performance and reliability prior to purchasing (such as multiple reviews indicating similar usage results), you'd probably be well-served spending more money on a known-brand product with many years of demonstrated performance history behind it. Our battery table provides direct comparison information on price vs. performance and our blog discusses various aspects of purchasing an eBike battery. For detailed explanations regarding eBike battery chemistry fundamentals, please refer to Battery University.
The biggest unknown factor is whether or not you feel comfortable being among the first customers for an untested product. The listing link is located here if you find acceptable terms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 10.4Ah sufficient capacity for my needs?
Yes, if you have shorter daily trips (under 20 miles), or if your rides are split between pedal assist (lower current consumption) and throttle only (higher current consumption) usage.
How do I charge my phone from the USB port while I'm riding?
You can. The USB port supplies 5 VDC to charge your phone. The draw required by your phone is negligible compared to what your motor is consuming.
What happens if I wire it incorrectly (i.e., reversed)?
Ideally, nothing serious will happen. The fuse will blow. The BMS will detect the improper wiring condition, and neither your controller nor pack will suffer permanent damage due to reverse polarity protection and fuse.
Does it include a charger and keys?
Yes, the package includes a 2A charger and keys for the safety lock.
Will the 4-pin base fit my bike?
It fits frames set up for the 4-pin base style. Check your current pack or mounting plate, because a 2-pin frame needs an adapter or a different pack.