Winter is a severe problem for cyclists. This is due to several reasons. Even models of e-bikes that are designed specifically for the cold season should not be considered quite frost-resistant models. This is not surprising, since the weather in winter is very unpredictable, and owners of e-bikes require to be very careful. The short answer to the question can you ride an electric bike in winter conditions is: yes, you can. The electric bike is more resilient than a regular bike, so it is good for winter.
Even if it is snow and extremely slippery conditions, you can enjoy cycling. But you should properly prepare your transport for winter riding because that is what decides everything.
How to properly operate an electric bike in the winter: useful tips
Battery care
The most important element of e-bikes is the battery. E-bike batteries are very vulnerable to cold temperatures, so they require special care. The main rule to follow is never to leave the battery in the cold. Thus, the bad habit of leaving e-bikes out in the open at night will not affect the length of the operating period. Also, keep in mind that you should not charge the battery in the cold.
It is a smart idea to bring the e-bike up to room temperature. This way, your e-bike will charge better and be able to provide you with longer winter riding.
If your e-bike is equipped with a removable battery, you can simply bring the battery inside. Ideally, if you still have room in your home to store the whole e-bike.
If you do not practice winter e-bike riding, you shouldn’t store the battery with a full charge. This is not good for your e-bike battery. Optimal storage for batteries is 40-80% of charge.
Take care of the cleanliness of your e-bike
For obvious reasons, your e-bike will be dirtier in the winter conditions than it is in the summer. Just like riding a car, rust can be a serious problem when using your bike. Road salt and moisture can be dangerous to your bike’s electronic components.
It is important to keep your e-bike clean, especially if your area gets salt, sand, or other chemicals on the road. This requires wiping it with a damp cloth and land lubricating the chain with a special agent. This applies to the frame, transmission, and other elements.
Moisture from wet roads can also contaminate the chain, so, after each use, it is necessary to treat and clean these components. Winter riding means more regular maintenance than in the summer. Keep this in mind.
Preventing rusting
Another great method of preventing rust is to use a special preventive agent that is sold in car dealerships. This product should be sprayed on the spoke nipples. It can also be sprayed on any metal part before you drive.
This will prevent salt water from appearing on the various elements of the e-bike. Make sure, however, that the product does not get on any electronics. Systematically check your bike’s hull and chain for rustproof and apply the product periodically.
Take care of using the winter tires
The tires that come with your e-bike are great for summer riding. However, snow and slippery conditions make it necessary to use winter tires. It is what magically transforms your e-bike into a permanent winter vehicle. Studded winter tires are great for hard and icy roads.
As a rule, tire pressure decreases in winter and therefore the tires sag a little. On snowy roads, cyclists prefer rubber for regular electric bicycles. Studded tires, thicker and lumpier, are used for better traction.
Fat tires are great for soft snow. You can buy winter tires at most e-bike stores.
Check your brakes on your e-bike regularly
This is a basic rule for those who want to cycle an electric bike on cold days. Therefore, you should always check your brakes before winter riding.
You should check the cables for signs of freezing or moisture buildup. In addition, you will probably need to install new, better brake pads.
Pay special attention to the brake levers. Consider whether they allow you to maintain their grip even if they are wet. Use gloves that are non-slip and allow you to use the brakes properly.
Put protective fenders on your e-bike
It is common for snow to stick and fall on your face unexpectedly. Front fenders will undoubtedly ensure that you are so well protected from discomfort while riding your electric bike. Rear fenders can also prevent snow from getting on your back.
Peculiarities of riding a bike in the snow
In winter, it is often necessary to cycle on snow-covered roads. In this case, the type of vehicle is of great importance. To operate a bike in the snow in winter, models with hub motors and with electric motors on the pedals are suitable. The latter allows you to achieve better torque than hub motors. The hub motor often gets stuck in hard, wet snow.
If the snow is deep, a mid-drive model is the best solution. In addition, it’s best to avoid bikes with a front hub motor. Such bikes can lose traction much more easily than bikes with a rear hub.
Do not ride in slush
Riding your e-bike in slush is something you need to avoid when operating this vehicle. Dirt and moisture can get into hard-to-reach areas and cause corrosion. When planning to ride in slush, be sure to wipe down the entire e-bike and chain. Place it in a warm, dry place.
This last condition is worth keeping at all times of the year. Your e-bike can be used in snowy weather, but it should be stored in a dry place at night.
Use special clothing for e-bikes
It is important to have winter gear for winter riding. This should be waterproof breathable clothing, gloves, and boots. Because days are much shorter in winter, it is worth getting clothes that will ensure good visibility. Reliability and safety on the road will ensure the front and rear lights. Be especially attentive to obstacles on the road. Slow down on corners.
Now let’s talk about protecting different body parts of a cyclist on a winter ride in more detail.
Equipment for the face
To protect your face, wear special anti-glare glasses. Skier’s accessories will also do the trick. They keep snow and debris from ruining visibility on the road. In addition, the problem of sun glare will be easily solved.
To keep your face warm, wear a balaclava mask. It will allow you to breathe freely and easily. Take care of your neck as well, so you’ll be warm and you won’t catch a cold.
Headgear for e-bikes
A must-have accessory for the owners of e-bikes is a helmet. It can also be worn over the hood. This is done so that your head does not get too cold. For winter riding on an electric bike, a ski or snowboard helmet is ideal.
Equipment for the hands
Gloves are a great piece of equipment for e-bike owners. Of course, you want to keep your hands warm in cold weather, and you do not feel discomfort from riding a bike. For this purpose perfectly suitable special outfit with windproof qualities. We recommend buying two pairs: one for the moment when temperatures drop and one for warmer winter weather.
What is the value of windproof and waterproof clothing
As we said before, waterproof and windproof clothing is an important attribute of a cyclist’s outfit on a winter ride. It not only reduces the negative effects of cold weather but also keeps you warm.
Windproof jackets have this property, but you mustn’t sweat.
Pay attention to the pants in which you ride an electric bike in the winter. There are special pants that will protect you from moisture and snow buildup.
Take care of shoes that repel water. Give preference to waterproof shoes that will keep your feet dry.
When choosing things for winter travel, it is best to emphasize layering. This will allow you to reduce and add layers to your outfit as the weather changes. Particular attention should be paid to the type of fabrics.
The material should prevent the accumulation of moisture and provide the proper level of comfort for e-bike owners. The fabrics should be of good quality and not cause allergies.
How to ride an electric bike in winter
Cold ride in winter requires somewhat different skills than in summer. At a minimum, you will need to stick to low speeds and be more careful on the roads. It is worth taking into account the peculiarities of the road surface in winter, which is now covered with snow, then becomes slippery with ice, then slush is formed on it. On the ice, you should move slowly and confidently.
Using the throttle alone is much better than pedaling electrically because the tires spin a little each time you press down. To achieve better braking power it is recommended to use two brakes. Keep in mind that the front brake is stronger than the rear brake. When cornering, slow down rather than trying to brake into a corner.
When navigating snow-covered winter roads, never drive on the side of the road. The normal road debris that accumulates in these areas can seriously harm you. You could end up getting a flat tire.
Since winter riding is characterized by a fast sunset, it is worth equipping your electric bike with quality, powerful headlights. We recommend switching the taillight to flashing mode, as it increases visibility.
You can also attach auxiliary lights to your backpack, handlebar, or helmet.
Check here for more useful tips.
Final Thoughts
In cold weather, electric bikes require more care:
– it is recommended to keep the bike battery warm, it is be stored and charged at room temperature;
– The electric bike should be stored in a dry place;
– If the place where the electric bike is stored is not heated, then the battery should be removed and stored separately in warmth;
– Avoid riding into the water and excessive moisture;
– Do not submerge your bike in water, as this can cause damage to some parts;
– Clean your bike regularly after riding outdoors. Use a special product for treating the chain. Do not use a product that destroys the lubrication of your brakes;
– Do not ride your electric bicycle in subzero temperatures.
– Reliability and safety on the road will ensure the front and rear lights. Be especially attentive to obstacles on the road. Slow down on corners.
So, are electric bikes designed for winter riding? Yes, they are!
Do not leave the chance of winter to leave your favorite pastime – e-bike riding. Properly selected equipment and observance of riding rules, as we discussed in this article, will ensure you a good ride and physical activity all year round.
Any responsible and sensible owner of this vehicle should understand that to extend the life and safety of the road in winter, you should be more careful than ever. Remember all the important nuances: helmet, extra lights, wider tires, and equipment.
Always carefully read the user manual of your electric bicycle and adhere to the safety instructions.