Riding an electric bike in the rain is a awesome experience, but many people worry about it getting wet. While the electronic components of an electric bike need to stay dry, taking some measures can make your ride in the rain safer and more comfort. In this article, some suggestion helping you riding in the rain will be introduced, making your ride securely.
Will an electric bike get wet?
Yes, electric bikes can get wet. Many people are led to believe that electric bicycles are waterproof, but this is not true, and they can quickly get damaged. However, some electric bicycles are waterproof, and this primarily depends on the design of the electric bike and the battery. If the electric bike is designed with a fully integrated battery, it is usually waterproof. The downside is that integrated batteries are typically difficult to remove from your own. If the battery needs to be replaced after prolonged use, you will likely need to contact the brand for battery replacement. Professional technicians at offline repair shops can also assist with the replacement. Generally, semi-integrated batteries can withstand light rain, but it is not advisable to expose them to heavy rain. After returning indoors, it is recommended to remove the battery and let it dry in a well-ventilated and sun-free environment.
Tips of riding in the rain
Compared to sunny days, riding in the rain requires extra attention to safety. Firstly, rain can make the road surface slippery, increasing the risk of slipping. Additionally, rain can affect visibility, reducing awareness of the surrounding environment and reaction time. This is particularly true at night or in low visibility conditions, making accidents more likely to occur.
Furthermore, electronic components need to stay dry. Prolonged riding in the rain or riding through deep water areas can potentially damage the electric bicycle. Therefore, when riding an electric bike in the rain, it is essential to not only prioritize personal safety but also protect the electric bicycle itself. It is advisable to avoid riding through deep water areas and try to minimize the exposure of the electric bicycle to rain for an extended period.
Additionally, rainy weather can result in poor road conditions such as standing water and potholes, which increase the difficulty and danger of riding. Choosing tires with good grip, adjusting tire pressure appropriately, wearing waterproof gear, and paying attention to road conditions and the surrounding environment are all important considerations when riding in the rain.
Installing bike fenders
When riding an electric bike, you often encounter various road conditions and weather conditions, including rain and mud. These factors can have a negative impact on the appearance and performance of the electric bike. Therefore, it is crucial to install fenders to protect the appearance and extend its lifespan.
Some electric bicycles have batteries designed under the seat. In such cases, installing mudguards on the rear wheel has a chance of protecting the battery in the rain. For example, installing fenders on both the front and rear wheels of the Hipeak folding electric bicycle can reduce the splashing of rainwater and mud during sudden rainfall, protecting the battery and preventing the dirt from splashing onto your body.
Fenders redirect water away from the tires, wheels, and frame, keeping you dry. The ideal placement for installing these fenders is on your front wheel, especially if you intend to ride on slippery surfaces. Both the front and rear wheels should be equipped with fenders. If your scooter or electric bicycle uses a step-through frame, it may be more convenient to place the fender on your rear wheel. During heavy rain, pay close attention to your battery and motor.
In summary, installing fenders is necessary to protect the appearance and extend the lifespan of the electric bicycle. Fenders not only reduce corrosion and damage to the surface of the electric bicycle caused by dirt but also improve riding comfort and safety. They effectively protect the components of the electric bicycle from water erosion and damage.
Avoiding puddle
Puddles can hide uneven road surfaces, cracks, or obstacles that can increase friction and resistance during riding, potentially causing the rider to lose balance and fall. Avoiding puddle will help keep your electric bike and battery dry. Riding through puddles can often result in splashing, which can reach the entire bicycle, including the battery, motor, and chain. The best approach is to avoid water and ride around it.
Avoiding puddles can reduce the risk during riding and increase the lifespan of the electric bike while also reducing the maintenance costs. Therefore, when riding, try to avoid passing through puddles. If unavoidable, reduce your speed appropriately, maintain stability, and promptly clean and maintain your electric bicycle after riding.
Protecting batteries
Wrap the battery with a rain cover or consider purchasing a bicycle cover. When the weather is bad or the rain is getting heavier, and your electric bicycle has a semi-integrated or exposed battery, it is necessary to use a battery rain cover to protect the battery and prevent short circuits. If you don’t have a rain cover and it starts raining suddenly, it is recommended to find a sheltered area or use a plastic bag to cover the battery temporarily. Alternatively, seek shelter until the rain stops.
Keeping motor clean
Riding in the rain can cause a significant amount of liquid to adhere to the exterior of the electric bike, leading to rust. It is essential to keep your bicycle clean, especially in harsh weather conditions.
Drying the electric bike after heavy rain
After a period of heavy rain, it is necessary to take extra steps to dry your electric bicycle before storing it in a well-ventilated and sun-free environment. Always wipe down the electric bicycle and allow it to dry completely before placing it in the box. A dry bicycle is more durable than a wet one.
Conclusion
Will electric bikes get wet? Yes, they can get wet, so you should be extra careful when riding in inclement weather. Using fenders will help keep water away from your wheels and chain, making it easier to ride around puddles. Additionally, if the battery gets wet, be sure to remove it immediately.
When purchasing an electric bicycle, it’s best to inquire whether it is waterproof. If it’s not clearly specified, contact customer service for clarification. Make sure to charge the battery in a well-ventilated and cool environment, away from direct sunlight and moisture. It’s recommended to check the weather forecast before heading out and consider carrying a rain cover for the battery to protect it as much as possible.
About HIPEAKBIKE
We are a E-bike company that produces innovative, high-performance, valuable and affordable electric bike and outdoor accessories. Our mission is to get people in touch with bikers and outdoor people shine in their communities.
