How waterproof are electric bikes?
How waterproof are electric bikes?
Two of the most commonly searched for questions on electric bikes are ‘can electric bikes get wet?’ and ‘can you ride an ebike in the rain? The simple answer to both questions is yes. Just like an electric car, electric bikes are designed to be used in wet conditions. Just like an electric car, electric bikes are not waterproof. If you drive one into a river and submerge all the electric don’t be surprised if you have problems.
Electric bikes are expensive. But with a few simple precautions you’ll be able to keep your bike running smoothly.
Keep it clean
Electric bikes are designed to be used in wet and muddy conditions. The main batteries and motors are sealed to stop dirt and mud getting in. However, leaving your bike muddy will accelerate the wear on all the parts. If you want your chain, gears, brakes and other parts to keep working smoothly then they need to be cleaned regularly.
Keep it dry
As we said above electric bikes are designed to be used in the rain and on muddy trails but they are not fully waterproof. Storing your bike outside in the rain, or in a damp shed, won’t do it any good. As with a non-electric bike riding it in the rain and then putting it away wet also won’t help. Often all you need is a quick wipe over with a dry cloth and then somewhere dry to store it.
Don’t jet wash your bike!
This goes for any bike really but especially electric bikes. While electric bikes are fairly waterproof the seals around bearings and suspension parts do not stand up well to high power jet washing. Repeated jet washing can blow all of the grease out of pivots and replace it with water. In no time you will have a creaking, rusty and malfunctioning bike. To make matters worse many manufacturers will not honour the warranty on your bike if they think you have been jet washing it.
Be careful with fords and river crossings
If you are mountain biking in the UK you’ll inevitably end up having to ride through puddles and small streams. A quick splash won’t do your electric bike any harm but fully submerging the motor or battery can. So be careful if you need to cross a deep ford or come across any really big puddles.
