Can Electric Bikes Get Wet? What You Need to Know About Riding in Wet Conditions

Electricity and water don’t mesh, and the same principle applies to electric bikes. Thus, whether you're caught in an unexpected downpour or planning to ride over shallow creeks, understanding how water affects your e-bike is crucial. 

While most electric bikes are designed to handle a bit of rain, the electrical components are still vulnerable to water exposure. Thus, it's important to know the limits and how to care for your ride to ensure it stays in top condition. 

Today, we'll explore the water resistance level of e-bikes, what to watch out for, and how you can ride safely and confidently, rain or shine.

Are There E-Bikes That Are Waterproof?

In the world of electric rides, “waterproof” is a myth. While some models feature high water-resistance ratings, no electric bikes on the market today are entirely waterproof. Even with high IP ratings, they will still suffer some damage if submerged in water.

That said, a high IP rating is still important because it indicates a good level of protection against dust and water. In other words, while an e-bike with a high IP rating is not immune to water damage, you can expect it to be better equipped to withstand unexpected weather conditions.

What Do IP Ratings Mean?

Your electric bike's Ingress Protection (IP) rating indicates its level of defence against solids and liquids. In the real world, this rating gives you a solid understanding of how well your ride can handle rain, splashes, and puddles.

The rating consists of two digits: the first digit represents protection against dust and solid particles, while the second digit relates to water resistance. 

Here are some sample IP ratings and what they mean:

Note: An IP rating with an X in place of the first digit may mean the e-bike has not been officially rated for dust protection. 

You can expect certain types of electric bikes to come with higher IP ratings. For example, electric mountain bikes, electric gravel bikes, and fat-tyre electric bikes are meant to be used in rugged conditions and, thus, often afforded with a higher level of protection than other types of e-bikes. 

With their high IP ratings, these electric bikes are better suited to withstand exposure to the elements and are less likely to suffer damage from being in wet or dusty environments.

Then again, even if you’re primarily using your e-bike to commute, you will still benefit from an e-bike with a good IP rating, as it will offer better protection against unexpected rain. 

How to Ride in the Rain

To keep your electric bike in great shape, it's important to know how to ride it in less-than-ideal weather conditions. Here are some tips you should remember:

Use Protective Accessories

When riding on wet roads, fenders or mudguards will protect both you and your e-bike's components from splashes. Some models come with integrated fenders, but if yours doesn't, consider adding them to keep your ride clean and reduce the risk of water damage.

In addition, if you have to park your e-bike outdoors, we also recommend using a high-quality waterproof bike cover to shield your e-bike from rain and dust.

Use Lights and Reflectors

Visibility is important, but it becomes even more crucial when riding in low-light or wet conditions. Always equip your e-bike with proper lights (most Australian states require a white front light and a red rear light) as well as reflectors. 

Aside from being visible to other road users, a good lighting system will allow you to steer clear of obstacles, potholes, and other hazards that can be more dangerous when riding in the rain. 

Avoid Puddles and Standing Water

Speaking of obstacles, roads often become slippery after rain, leaving puddles and standing water that can pose significant risks to both you and your e-bike. Aside from potentially causing water damage, puddles and standing water may hide deep holes, uneven surfaces, or even sharp objects that can puncture your tyres or cause an accident. 

To ride in—or after—the rain safely, it’s best to avoid water whenever possible. If you have no choice but to ride through one, make sure to ride slowly and cautiously. 

Clean and Store in a Dry Environment

Finally, after riding in wet or muddy conditions, take time to clean your e-bike as soon as possible. Using a soft cloth or brush, remove water, dirt, and mud from the frame, tyres, and components. Make sure the drivetrain and electric parts are free of debris that could cause damage or corrosion.

Once your e-bike is clean and dry, store it in a safe environment where it’s not exposed to extreme temperatures. It’s best to store your ride indoors, but if this is not possible, consider using the aforementioned waterproof bike cover. 

How to Safely Clean Your Electric Bike

Aside from riding in the rain safely, proper cleaning will prolong your e-bike’s lifespan and keep it in great condition. Here are the basic things to remember when cleaning your electric bike:

• Turn your e-bike off: Because electricity and water don’t mix, you need to turn your e-bike off before cleaning. 

• Wash off loose dirt: We recommend using a wet cloth or soft brush to wash off any loose dirt. 

• Use bike-specific lubricant: Apply lubricant to your e-bike’s chain and other moving parts to repel moisture and reduce the risk of rust and corrosion.

• Dry your e-bike completely: After removing the dirt, use a soft towel or microfibre cloth to wipe down your e-bike, particularly around the electrical components, and remove any remaining water.

Note: Pressure washers may be excellent cleaning tools, but you should not use them for your e-bike. It can produce enough force to penetrate sensitive areas like the motor, battery, and connectors, potentially causing damage. 

Identifying Water Damage and What to Do Afterwards

Submersion in water is a no-no, but if this happens, you must immediately turn your e-bike off and remove the battery. Then, inspect for tell-tale signs of water damage, such as dampness, corrosion, and mould. Pay close attention to the electrical components, namely the battery, battery terminal, connectors, and cables, and watch out for frayed wires. 

Some signs may not be as obvious and may manifest later on as electrical issues, malfunctioning components, or sudden power loss. 

If you suspect your electric bike has sustained water damage, the best course of action is to have it inspected by a qualified technician. Avoid attempting repairs on your own, as water damage is a complex and risky issue that requires professional expertise. 

Here at Electric Kicks, our team of experienced technicians is ready to assess and repair your electric bike with expert care.

Wrapping Up

The electric ride industry has come a long way, and we’ve come to a point where most electric bikes are able to handle exposure to water and rain. However, it's still crucial to protect your e-bike from the elements to maintain its durability and prevent water damage, which, by the way, isn’t covered by warranty.

By following these simple yet effective tips—using lights and protective accessories, avoiding puddles, and cleaning your ride properly—you can make sure your e-bike delivers excellent performance in any weather condition.