Santa Cruz Skitch CC GX AXS

Real-world range

24–36 km

Our estimate for an 80 kg rider on rolling terrain in medium assist at about 20 km/h, with a healthy battery. Hills, wind, cold, high assist and speed cut it a lot.

Battery and charger

• Use the maker’s own replacement battery, or one the maker or a specialist confirms is approved for this motor system. Voltage, connector and battery-management system all have to match.
• Use the original charger, or one the maker approves for this battery. Never use a charger with a different output, even if the plug fits.
• Check the battery’s own label (Wh, V and serial) matches what the seller says.
• Damaged, swollen, hot or smelly batteries: stop using them, keep them outside away from anything that can burn, and take them to a battery drop-off — never household bins.

Servicing

• A first check after the first few hundred kilometres — new cables stretch and bolts settle.
• Chain: clean and lube regularly and measure wear — e-bikes wear chains and cassettes faster than regular bikes.
• Brakes: check pads and cable tension often — the extra weight and speed wear them faster.
• Hub motor: check the axle nuts or thru-axle and torque arms, and that the motor cable isn’t pinched or rubbing.
• Battery: keep it between 20% and 80% for daily use, store it at about half charge, and keep it out of hot cars.

Find a shop near you.

Buying a used one

• Run the serial through the free EbikeMate buyer check — theft status, recalls and ownership on record.
• Find the frame serial yourself (usually under the bottom bracket) and check it matches the seller’s papers.
• Ask how old the battery is and check it holds charge on a test ride up a hill.
• Look for signs of derestriction: tuning dongles, unusual wiring, or a top assisted speed above 25 km/h on the display.
• Ask for the receipt, the original charger and the key for the battery lock.