Can I Ride Electric Bike in Rain? 

Electric bikes are highly convenient in a variety of different scenarios. From commuting to work to longer bike rides, they allow you to cover further distances without tiring you out!

However, if you’re new to riding an electric bike you might be wondering: Can I ride electric bike in rain?

In this article, I cover some key information about riding your electric bike, including whether you can ride your electric bike in the rain and precautions to take when riding your electric bike in the rain.

Keep reading to find out more.

Can I ride electric bike in rain?

Yes, in theory, you can ride your electric bike in the rain. That being said, you should be aware that while electric bikes are water-resistant, they are far from being entirely waterproof.

Even if it claims to be waterproof, you should be aware that taking your electric bike out in the rain consistently can significantly reduce your electric bike’s lifespan if you’re not sensible.

Thanks to the fact that electric bikes are water-resistant, they are more than capable of getting wet and will be able to take on the rain without much trouble.

Light rain shouldn’t phase you, as a good quality and water-resistant electric bike is equipped with the proper features to accommodate this type of weather.

That being said, the main scenarios that will take their toll on your bike are if there is damage to the casing of your battery or if your bike is fully submerged in water.

Bearing this in mind, then, you wouldn’t want to wade your way through any deep puddles or streams with your electric bike.

In addition to this, if you’re taking your electric bike out in heavy rain on a regular basis, as the bike becomes older and takes on more wear and tear, it could affect how long your electric bike lasts.

When you’re out with your electric bike in the rain, you should treat it as you would treat your other electronics, such as your smartphone in the rain.

Short term, your electric bike can get wet and withstand light rainfall, but any long-term exposure can cause serious problems that will result in a hefty bill if your e-bike breaks.

To keep your electric bike safe, you should also make sure that you’re taking the following precautions.

Precautions to take when riding electric bike in the rain

Avoid excessive rain

The most important precaution to take to ensure your bike lasts is to avoid excessive rain. While it’s fine to ride in the rain, as a precautionary measure, make sure that you avoid riding in excessive rain. 

A walk in the rain with a good quality umbrella is much less hassle and money than having to buy a new electric bike because you decided to risk it. Electric bikes are expensive and jeopardizing your bike for a ride in heavy rainfall is never going to be worth it. 

To be safe, it’s always better to wait out the rain if you are able to.

Wipe your electric bike down after a ride in the rain

Regardless of how long your ride in the rain is, when you complete your ride, you should never allow your bike to sit wet or dry on its own.

While it might feel like an effort to begin with, you should always make the effort to wipe your bike down with a clean towel to wick the moisture away as soon as possible. 

Once you incorporate this into your routine, it’ll become like second nature. Not only will it help you to keep your bike in better condition, but it will also increase its longevity.

Dry the battery

Just like with the bike itself, drying your electric bike’s battery is a crucial step once you’ve gotten home after a ride in the rain.

Even if you were just in light rain, you never want to risk your electric bike’s battery becoming wet, as this will significantly damage your electric bike and could even stop it from working.

Once you’re home from your ride, take the bike’s battery out of the bike and dry it off with a towel. In addition to this, you should make sure that the battery’s cabin is clear of water or moisture as well before replacing the battery.

Apply dielectric grease to your electric bike

Another precautionary measure to take is to apply dielectric grease to the electrical contact points of your electric bike. While this won’t make your bike any more waterproof, this is a precautionary measure that can help to prevent corrosion and contamination. 

Bearing this in mind, taking this step will provide your electric bike with the best chance of sustaining all of its positive functions despite the wet conditions of your ride.

Are there any waterproof electric bikes?

No, while electric bikes are water-resistant, they are not entirely waterproof. That being said, some types of electric bikes are better suited for harsh weather conditions, such as mountain electric bikes and fat tire electric bikes.

These particular bikes have been designed to withstand more extreme conditions, helping to ensure that your bike lasts when you’re putting it to the test outside.

However, again, they are not waterproof and should not be used as if they are. If you’re in the market for a bike you don’t need to worry about getting wet, then a traditional bike is much more convenient for that.

In summary 

Yes, you can theoretically ride your electric bike in the rain and it isn’t going to fail if it is splashed with a little water. However, while electric bikes are water-resistant, they are not waterproof.

Therefore, you will need to use your own judgment, and take the necessary precautions when it comes to heavy rainfall.

In addition to this, always make sure that you are maintaining your bike by wiping it down after any ride in the rain, regardless of the length of time that you are out.