What you need to know about riding an electric bike in the rain
Everyone knows: electricity and water don't mix! But don't worry, you can ride your electric bike in the rain. There is no risk of electrocution.
E-bikes are perfectly designed to be used even in bad weather. However, there are precautions to be taken to ensure that you can ride safely in the rain without damaging your e-bike. We explain how to adapt your equipment and your behaviour.
Check that the rain does not damage the battery of your EAB
The manufacturers have thought of everything: whether the battery of your electric bicycle is located on the luggage rack, on the frame or integrated into the frame, it is always protected by a waterproof case. This is designed to minimise water ingress that could damage the battery.
On the other hand, when it rains, it is important to check that your battery is properly secured. If it is not, it could allow water to seep in and cause damage. The battery must not be able to move during the journey, so that the case can do its job properly.
Anticipate braking when riding an electric bike in the rain
It is important in all circumstances to always anticipate braking when riding an electric bicycle. But if it rains, you need to be extra vigilant and potentially anticipate puddles. As with driving, these weather conditions make the distance to stop longer. Rainwater makes the brake pads less efficient, so we advise you to brake in advance, even if you are still far from the obstacle in question.
To brake effectively in the rain with your EAB, you must avoid sudden slowing down. Rain makes the road wet: it becomes more slippery than usual, and therefore more dangerous. The best habit to adopt is to apply the brakes lightly several times to decelerate efficiently and safely.
Of course, don't forget to regularly check the condition of the brakes of your electric bike, but also the condition of the tires. If the weather conditions are bad for a long period of time, don't hesitate to equip yourself with tires all-weather tyres, thanks to which you will have a strong grip on wet roads. Tip: slightly under-inflated tires tires allow more of the rubber to come into contact with the road, giving your electric bike a better grip.
If you frequently travel in the rain, aluminium rims are the best choice. Unlike steel rims, they are not very sensitive to the effect of water on the brakes. Braking will also be less affected by rain if you have a disc or hub brake system.
E-bike in bad weather: adapt your speed
E-bikes can go up to 25 km/h. This is a pleasant speed, which allows you to move quickly, but it is necessary to adapt it to the weather conditions. In case of rain, reduce your usual speed to better anticipate potential slipping.
We also advise you to avoid driving on white lines, which become very slippery in the rain. This also applies to metal surfaces (tram rails, manhole covers, etc.) and muddy or leafy areas.
As showers reduce your visibility and your riding comfort, riding slower with your EAB will also make it easier for you to avoid puddles and any hazards that may appear in front of you. When riding, make sure you keep your eyes on the horizon and not on the ground.
Choose the right rain gear for cycling in any weather
Cycling in the rain is not exactly pleasant. But if you have no other choice for riding, there are of course very effective equipment to protect you from water and improve your comfort.
You can equip your bike with mudguards if it doesn't have them. This will prevent you from arriving at work covered in water. For more comfort, don't hesitate to buy a waterproof top case that can hold your belongings and keep them dry for the duration of the journey, or to buy a waterproof pannier.
Finally, to protect your phone, there are waterproof smartphone holders. This way you can continue to use it while riding your electric bike without the risk of it getting wet and damaged.
On your EAB, opt for rain gear
With the right rain gear, your outings in bad weather will be more enjoyable. There is now a wide range of waterproof clothing that is comfortable to wear and above all very effective. To stay dry on your electric bike, don't hesitate to invest in :
- a well-covered rain jacket or rain poncho,
- gloves to protect your hands or sleeves to place on the handlebars,
- rain trousers to protect your legs.
There are also full-body rain protectors for cyclists, which cover both the upper and lower body. There's nothing worse than arriving at work with wet feet and spending the day in discomfort.
Protect your head from the weather on an electric bike
The primary purpose of your helmet is of course to protect your head in the event of an impact, but the helmet is also a tool to keep you safe. In case of rain, it is therefore best to take a helmet with limited ventilation, to avoid water infiltration.
Choosing a helmet with a visor is also a very good option as it will help you to keep a better view of the road, especially if you wear glasses.
Finally, if the helmet you are using on your bike is not equipped with an integrated cover, it is possible to add a universal rain cover. It can be easily slipped into a jacket pocket or bag and will keep your head dry.
Install a protective tarp if you park your bike in the rain
It is always best to park your e-bike in a safe place. But if you have no other solution, it is also possible to leave it outside, taking care to protect your e-bike from theft. In case of rain, we also encourage you to cover it with a protective tarpaulin.
This is especially important so that you don't have to get on a completely soaked bike. The protective tarpaulins cover your EAB completely, ensuring that you ride a dry bike from the start.
Electric bikes in the rain: make sure you are visible
When you are cycling, rain affects your visibility, but also that of other road users, whether they are in a car, on foot or on a two-wheeler. It is therefore important to be clearly visible, to ensure your safety.
To do this, make sure that your lights make sure your lights work, especially the headlight. It is best to use a 40 lux headlamp, which will allow you to be seen from several hundred metres away, even in the rain. You should also choose clothing with reflective strips or a yellow safety waistcoat. You can also equip your helmet with a light, flashing or not. This way, no one can miss you in the rain!
VAE and rain: find out about your IP certification
All electric bicycles have an IP rating (protection index). There are different levels: the higher the number that follows, the more waterproof your e-bike is. This is particularly useful if you intend to use your e-bike in extreme conditions on a regular basis.
For example, if your electric bike has an IP5 certification, it indicates that it is resistant to a low pressure water jet. Whereas an IP56 certification ensures protection against high-pressure water jets from all directions. However, regardless of the IP rating of your EAB, we recommend that you avoid spraying it with high-pressure water or immersing it completely in liquid.
As you can see, there's nothing to stop you riding your electric bike in the rain. Thanks to all these tips, you can even arrive at your destination perfectly dry. After a rainy ride, remember to leave your device tilted to let the water drain out of it. Also take a few minutes to dry it off. A habit that can help you increase its longevity.
