5 More Tips For Riding Your E-bike in the Winter

We have already learned some of the Tips for Owning and Riding E-Bikes in the winter, but there were some things we missed that are worth a mention. If you’re like us, you won’t let the cold get the best of you this winter. Despite the temperatures outside, we’re determined to keep riding through the winter and we encourage you to do the same! Because it’s much more difficult to have an enjoyable winter ride, we’ve developed a few more tips to keep safe and warm while e-bike commuting in the cold…

1. Charge your batteries inside

One of the only problems with Lithium batteries is their 30% loss of performance in the cold. Do you store your electric bike outside? If so, take the extra step and remove the battery to charge indoors. If you don’t have a removable battery, it might be a good idea to inquire about a bike room at home or in the workplace. Keeping a battery warm will ensure a longer trip. You don’t want your battery to die before you reach your destination, especially when it’s below freezing-outside!

2. Take it slow

Electric bikes are great because you can zip around traffic with little effort. This time of the year, however, you’re going to encounter both ice and rock salt. Both of these are dangerous for bicycles. If you see anything on the road, approach slowly or avoid it if you can. Riding at full throttle through an icy patch could have disastrous results!

3. Clean your bike often

Salt and aluminium are not friends. In fact, they dislike each other very much. If you find your bike covered in a white powdery substance after a ride, take some anti-corrosion spray and a rag and wipe down the frame. Your bike will love you for it, and you won’t get that messy salt on your clothes.

4. Bring your bike in for a check-up

It’s much more relaxed this winter, but there is still plenty of road spray around. If you haven’t had your bike in for a tune-up for over a year, now is a good time to do it. Like any other mechanical vehicle, a bicycle needs tender loving care if you want to build a lasting relationship. You can do this yourself by watching a few videos, or you can take it into a bike shop.

5. Last but not least, DRESS WARM!!!

Yeah, I know this one is pretty obvious. But seriously, lots of people don’t know the secret to keeping warm while riding a bike. Thermal base layers will work wonders and will keep you from wearing 6 undershirts. Also, a good jacket with a hood, or a thermal balaclava, keeps most of that body heat from escaping out of the top of your head. Gloves, gloves, gloves! Get a good pair, you won’t regret it! Get two pairs if necessary. Your hands will be the coldest part of your body, so don’t be afraid to go overboard in this department.

Riding a bike in the winter can be miserable without taking proper care of yourself and your trusty steed. There’s no reason to store your bike for the winter, but you should take extra care of it.