Electric bikes or e-bikes have become a choice of transportation for many people. Not only are e-bikes affordable, but they’re also an excellent way to exercise and to prevent you from commuting with other people and thus lower your risk of contracting Covid-19 or spreading it. 

But before you ride an electric bike, there are things you need to know, especially when riding it in the rain. Get to know about the e-bike set-up, type of clothing, accessories for e-bikes, or what-not to have a safe ride during the rainy season. Here are some tips to consider. 

Use Bike Fenders

While e-bikes are generally water-resistant, using fenders is a smart way to prevent splashes and debris from getting on your clothing. Fenders also help to protect the battery and other electronic components against water and mud splashes. 

Wear Waterproof Clothing

It’s a no-brainer to wear waterproof clothing when you’re riding your electric bike in the rain. With waterproof clothing, you can keep yourself dry and warm. 

The best choice for riding on a rainy day is a waterproof jacket or a light raincoat. Don’t wear clothes made of cotton when biking in wet conditions. It’s also advisable to wear glasses to aid your vision when riding your e-bike in the rain. 

Weatherproof Your Gear

Aside from wearing clothes that keep you warm and dry, it’s also important to prevent your gear from getting wet. In other words, you should make sure that you weatherproof your gear as much as possible. 

Probably, you bring a laptop, cellphone, camera, GPS, or notebook with you when you’re biking. In this case, make sure to keep them dry inside waterproof bags. There are affordable waterproof bags that you can buy online. So, make sure to check them out! 

Fit Your E-Bike with Headlights and Taillights 

Headlights and taillights are essential to use when biking on a rainy day to keep the road visible to your sight and avoid accidents. Keep in mind that you’re not the only rider on the road. There are also other motorists or cyclists sharing the road with you. So, it’s really crucial to fit your electric bike with headlights and taillights to keep you and other motorists safe. 


Before going for a ride, make sure that your headlights and taillights are functioning. Use those blinking lights that are commonly installed on the handlebars of a bike or on your helmet. 

You can also install reflectors into your e-bike to keep yourself visible to other motorists on the road. Read e-bike reviews on the internet to know more about what type of lights you should install to your e-bike. 

Beware of Corners

Many people choose e-bikes over traditional bikes because of their additional power. But make sure to be aware of the amount of power you’re using when approaching a corner with your e-bike, especially when it’s raining. 

When you’re turning a corner, see to it that you slow down and not lean too much around the corner to keep your balance and prevent skidding. 

Brake Early

It takes some effort to take a bike to a complete halt when the road is wet. Although e-bikes have disk brakes, you still need to be extra careful when using your brakes on a rainy day. It’s advisable to use the brake earlier than usual when riding your electric bike in the rain. Braking early is also crucial to prevent hydroplaning. 

Clean Your E-Bike After a Ride

Don’t forget to clean your electric bike after a ride. Like any other type of vehicle, your e-bike needs a clean-up and maintenance to keep it functioning properly. Make sure to wash any mud or debris off your e-bike, especially after a bout of riding on a rainy day. Then, after washing, dry your e-bike. 

Takeaway

A rainy day isn’t a problem for e-bike riders. But there are important things to consider when riding your electric bike in the rain. The tips mentioned above can help you prepare yourself and your e-bike before taking on a rainy day ride. 

Image Source: BigStockPhoto.com (Licensed)

 

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