Safety Tips for Riding an Electric Bike in the Snow
You may want to use your electric bicycle as your primary means of transportation but worry that it cannot manage the snow, ice, sleet, and other common forms of winter weather. Bicycling in the winter can be a challenge, but the extra power provided by an electric bike’s motor can make it easier.
That doesn’t mean that you ride an e-bike in the winter the same way you do in the summer. Even if you find the best e bike for snow, it still requires some modification and extra maintenance to endure the winter months without damage. Here are some tips for riding and caring for your electric bike in the winter.
1. Change the Tires
During the winter, many car owners put snow tires on their vehicles. These have deep treads and studs to provide extra traction to prevent the car from slipping. Bicycles, even e-bikes, need special tires for winter riding too, for the same reason. Snow, ice, and moisture can cause the road to becoming slippery, making it easier for you to lose control and have a frightening accident.
2. Take Care of Your Battery
One of the most important components on a ladies electric bike for sale is the battery. A malfunctioning battery negates the benefits that an e-bike has to offer. Cold weather can affect a battery in unpredictable ways. If possible, store your electric bicycle inside to protect the battery from the cold. Otherwise, allow the battery to warm up before charging it. You can damage the power cells by attempting to charge a battery when its temperature is below freezing. You could also damage the battery by attempting to warm it rapidly with a heater. Budget plenty of time before your trip so you can warm up the battery slowly. For a comprehensive selection of reliable e-bikes and expert advice on maintaining your ride in top condition during the winter months, don’t hesitate to check out Go Ride Bikes.
3. Protect From Moisture
Moisture can cause the components of your e-bike to rust. During the winter, the chemicals used on the streets to melt snow and ice can also cause corrosion if allowed to remain on your bicycle. You can protect your bike from moisture and salt by spraying rust preventative products on vulnerable areas, cleaning off your bike with a damp cloth after every ride, and avoiding riding through slush whenever possible.
4. Lower Your Seat
Despite your best efforts, you may hit an icy patch while you are riding your e-bike that causes you to lose your balance. You need to be able to stick your legs out quickly and easily to catch yourself and avoid a crash. When you lower your seat, it puts your feet closer to the ground, which makes it easier to put them out for balance.
5. Dress Against the Wind and Cold
At worst, the cold and wind can put you at risk for medical conditions such as frostbite. At best, they can still make for miserable riding conditions. Protect any areas of exposed skin, such as the hands, face, and ears, with protective gear such as gloves, a balaclava, or at least a headband that you can wear under your helmet. Dress in layers and choose clothes that wick away moisture for those closest to your skin.
Successful e-biking in winter is less a function of the bicycle itself and more how you care for it. Find and buy electric bike online, as well as appropriate accessories for winter.
