1. Winterize your eBike
Prep your eBike for the challenges of winter with these maintenance tips:
- Complete winter check: Inspect lights, brakes, gears, tires, and all other elements of your bike for damage and imperfections ahead of the deep cold of winter to ensure smooth operation in all weather conditions.
- Proper after-ride care: Clean your eBike with warm water after exposure to precipitation, mud, and snow to reduce the risk of rust and other damage caused by harsh weather conditions. Wipe dry and avoid the use of pressure washers or harsh chemicals as these could damage the bike’s electrical components. Ensure your chain is clean, well-lubricated, and ready to go for your next ride.
- Storage: Where possible, keep your eBike safely in a garage, shed, or undercover storage during the winter months to protect it from damage due to freezing temperatures and harsh weather.
2. Crucial Component Care in Winter: Battery & Tire
The cold weather can take a toll on your eBike battery, here are some tips to ensure it stays in top condition:
- Read the instructions: Familiarize yourself with the specific care instructions issued by your bike/battery’s manufacturer.
- Avoid deep discharge: Never store your battery empty. Check the charge levels regularly and keep it at least half charged to prevent deep discharge. Remember that the battery may need more frequent charging in cooler temperatures.
-
Regular use: Bundle up warm and get those wheels turning! On milder
days it’s recommended to let your eBike see some action to keep its components
in tip-top working condition. You may experience a drop in your battery’s
performance over the winter months, don’t worry! This is normal and with proper
care, your battery should return to optimal performance levels in warmer
temperatures.
- Protect from freezing temperatures: Exposure to extreme hot or cold temperatures increases the risk of battery capacity loss. It is recommended to store your eBike battery at room temperature and to ensure the battery is brought back to room temperature before charging. You can also invest in a thermal cover to protect the battery on long rides.
- If you plan to store your eBike battery for a long time, read our 10 essential tips for e-bike owners on the .
- Regular checks: Cold temperatures can affect tire pressure, so ensure your tires are properly inflated before each ride.
- Be prepared: Travel with a tire pump in case the unexpected should happen on your journey.
3. Enhance Visibility for Safety
Winter brings darker days and visibility is crucial for your safety, especially when cycling on public roads:- Light up: Ensure your eBike has functioning and legally compliant front and rear lights and reflectors. A seen cyclist is a safer cyclist.
- Dress the part: Reflective and light-coloured clothing and accessories such as high-visibility jackets and armbands also add an extra layer of visibility and safety.
- For more cycling safety tips for winter and the whole year round read our .
4. Plan Ahead
Anticipate and prepare for winter cycling with these forward-thinking tips:- Check weather and traffic conditions: Stay informed about the external factors that may influence your ride to prepare for rain, snow, or other challenges ahead of time. Consider investing in panniers or a waterproof backpack to carry your layers and waterproofs, extra snacks and water, and spare equipment such as a bike multi-tool, tire pump, puncture repair kit, or a spare inner tube. You’ll thank yourself when you need them most!
- Be cautious: Stay alert to potential hazards like ice and snow on the road, as well as other road users. Adjust your riding style accordingly, brake early and gently, and ride with care.
- Time management: Consider factoring in extra time for your journey, as winter conditions may slow down your ride and rushing may lead to recklessness and increased risk of an accident.
