Can You Ride An Electric In The Rain?
Yes, you can ride an e-bike in the rain. Electric bikes are designed with IP technology and, therefore, are immune to most weather conditions, including rain.
So, if you were thinking of ditching your regular bike ride because of a rain forecast in your region, you don’t have to.
However, it’s important to note that while your electric bike will function fine in the rain, you still need to take a few measures to ensure your safety.
Keep reading this article to learn how to ride an e-bike safely in the rain.
Bike fenders
Bikes fenders are elongated water-guard-like tools that collect splashing/spraying water, protecting the rider and the bike tires from getting wet. This tool is wrapped around your tires to prevent water from spraying all over your feet.
Although fenders are very useful, they don’t work well in a torrential downpour. These tools are practical for riding an e-bike only in drizzle or moderate precipitation.
Using fenders doesn’t mean going on a splashing spree in puddles amidst the rain. Don’t, because it can seriously injure you and damage your bike.
Weatherproof clothing and gear
Weatherproof clothing and gear are necessary while riding your bike in rainy weather. A waterproof coat or jacket helps you keep warm and comfortable during a downpour.
While weatherproof gear ensures your e-bike is in its top shape and at its maximum performance, minimizing accident probability.
It is also advisable to use weatherproof glasses to help you with your vision clarity during rain.
Tail-lights and headlights
Rain blurs visibility for vehicle users. It’s also why government officials repeatedly request people to use working tails and headlights while driving on roads during the rainy season.
A blinking tail and headlight increase your visibility to the other vehicles’ drivers on the road. This will help you go on your bike ride without hiccups.
Moreover, even if you’re riding your bike in a neighborhood and not on the road, it’s essential that you still use these tools. It will help the passing pedestrians identify your bike and avoid unfortunate accidents.
Additionally, wearing weatherproof clothing that’s fluorescent in color is another way of increasing your visibility in the rain.
Corners and curbsides
The power boosts of electric bike is undoubtedly a thrilling experience. It’s also why electric bikes are such a roar amongst young adults and teenagers.
However, you might want to control your thrill doses during drizzling, especially around the corners. Rain makes the roads slippery. Therefore, if you don’t control your speed while turning corners, you can seriously injure yourself, even if you’re wearing a helmet.
So, control your speed and power near corners and curbsides while riding as much as possible. Moreover, try braking early to avoid wheels locking and skidding in the rain.
Keep an eye out for slick-y spots.
Avoid puddles and painted areas on the roads. If you notice carefully, water in puddles at times appears colorful. The color effect results from chemical substances like lubricants mixing with water, making them highly sticky.
The same reason applies to painted areas as well. Paints used for road marking are oil-based and contain a high concentration of organic compounds. And science says that oils and water are not a good combination.
Therefore, the area painted with paints becomes a bit slippery during precipitation, making them high accident zones for bike riders.
Hence, keep an eye out for such slippery road areas while riding.
Plan, plan, and plan
H. Stanley Judd has rightly said, “A good plan is like a roadmap; it shows the final destination and usually the best way to get there.”
Planning your route before heading out to ride in the rain will help you reach your destination safely. Try to avoid roads, if possible, even if you have to take a long detour.
Having a planned-out roadmap will help you avoid any potential accidents, bike damage, and other roadblocks in your way.
Clean your bike
Make sure you mindfully clean your bike after your enjoyable ride in the rain. This will help you get rid of any debris stuck to your bike and identify any damage caused as well.
While cleaning, lube your bike’s drive train and chain. Take your battery and gently wipe it with a soft, clean cloth.
And if you think that the rainwater might have penetrated the battery’s contact point, take your batter out and blow it with a leaf blower. This will help to disperse water from the battery.
Do not place the battery back after cleaning; instead, leave it in the sun or a dry place for some time to get rid of any moisture in the system.
Will my electric bike get damaged in the rain?
No, your electric bike won’t get damaged if you ride it in the rain. Electric bikes are equipped with weatherproof technology and thus are resistant to rain.
You can also check the IP rating of your bike to understand the extent of its waterproof capabilities. If you’re still unsure, you can also contact your bike manufacturer to get clarity on the subject.
Most bike brands have round-the-clock customer service available for their patrons. So, you can also explore this option to clear your donuts and query your bike’s performance in the rain.
You can also consult your local bike dealer to help you with the waterproof credentials of your e-vehicle.
Summing up
Electric bikes are the face of contemporary transportation. They are robust, efficient, clean conveyance modes and super fun to ride.
Moreover, their performance is not hindered in the rain, further adding to the thrill of riding. Ensure that you follow all the above tips and precautions to enjoy a safe and exciting bike ride in the rain.