Embracing the Elements: E-Biking in the Snow and Beyond
We E-bikers are a passionate bunch. We love our ebikes, and we love to ride, no matter what the weather is like. But when the snow starts to fall, some of us start to think twice about heading out for a ride. After all, riding in the cold and wet can be pretty uncomfortable. And then there's the whole issue of keeping your bike clean and corrosion-free. But don't let a little bit of bad weather keep you from enjoying your e-bike! With a few simple tips, you can easily keep on riding all winter long. Here's how...
Are you ready to ride this winter season safely? In this article, we'll provide you with essential tips on cycling in the snow and information on battery storage and e-bike maintenance so you can make the most out of your YOUNG ELECTRIC Ebike. Learn how you can navigate slick surfaces while biking with confidence and get going on two wheels as soon as possible!
Don't let the snow slow you down - stay safe while biking in winter conditions
Let's make sure you keep safe this winter season when cycling! YOUNG ELECTRIC's top rule for a safe ride is to always wear a helmet. And if you really want to up your safety game, why not try one with integrated lights? They won't only keep you visible in low-to-zero lighting conditions - but also help you make a style statement. It's easy to find the perfect helmet from our selection. Let's get into a few winter tips:
Speed in the snow
Riding in the snow can present unique challenges for ebikers. To stay safe, it's important to always follow local regulations and take it slow. When starting out, go without pedal assist to get used to riding in the snow, then increase your speed slowly as you gain more experience. Make sure you factor in wet and icy roads as these can have an impact on your speed as well as your braking power. Heavier ebikes with motors will require a longer braking distance so keep your hand near the brake lever and be mindful of other vehicles around you. Also, watch out for painted lines on the road that may become slick when wet! Following the rules of the road is essential even during winter - wear a helmet, ride with traffic flow, and stay within ebike lanes where available.
Stopping
Ebikes offer a unique riding experience, but there are certain safety precautions to keep in mind. When riding a heavier e-bike in wet or icy conditions, you should always factor in the additional braking distance needed and keep your hand near the brake lever. Moderate speed is key - start off slowly with no pedal assist and increase as you gain more experience over time. Make sure there’s plenty of room between yourself and other vehicles, and watch for painted lines on the road - they can become especially slick when wet. Wear a helmet, stay within ebike lanes, follow traffic laws, and be aware of surrounding vehicles to ensure your ride is both safe and enjoyable!
Road laws and rules
No matter what time of year or time of day it may be, the rules of the road remain the same. For safe and responsible riding, always wear a helmet, keep to ebike lanes and ride with the flow of traffic. By following these three simple rules, you can ensure an enjoyable and above all else, a safe journey on your electric bike!
Be ready for anything: Prepare for a safe e-bike ride
Electric biking is all about having an adventure - and the best way to ensure you a great time is by being adequately prepared. Make sure to don your helmet, brush up on ebike laws, and get familiar with your route. That way you can leave the worries behind and take in the sights and sounds of your journey!
Front and rear e-bike lights
Say goodbye to dark and dangerous rides! Your YOUNG ELECTRIC bike is equipped with front and rear lights so you can see and be seen at all times. And don't forget about those rear brake lights - they're essential not just for night-time rides or low visibility conditions, but anytime, especially in snowy weather. These lights can warn drivers and other cyclists behind you of your presence. And if you want to add some extra shine to your electric bike during the shorter, darker winter days.
E-bike tires
Don't get stuck in the snow! Make sure your ebike is ready to handle any weather. Not all tires are up to the task of tackling snowy terrain. For optimal performance, we recommend an ebike with 4" fat tires off-road electric bike like our E-Scout Pro and E-Explorer models. These fat tires can easily roll over snowy ground and provide extra stability on slippery surfaces.
Mudguards and splash guards
Stay clean and dry on your ebike during the snowy season with mudguards and splash guards! These nifty little additions to your ebike's underside will keep water, mud, and other debris from splashing up and ruining your ride. Plus, they'll help improve your visibility by deflecting snow and water away from your wheels and brakes. And let's be real - who doesn't love a clean and dry ebike, especially during those slushy winter rides?
Keep warm with water supply
Ebike riders, don't let the cold weather cramp your hydration game! Make sure to bring plenty of fluids with you on your rides, and consider using an insulated water bottle to keep your drink from turning into an icicle. Just because it's chilly out doesn't mean you don't need to hydrate - especially if you're tackling long commutes. And if you're just taking a leisurely ride around the block, why not bring along some hot coffee or chocolate to keep you extra cozy? Keep hydrated and warm on your ebike adventures this winter!
Protect your ebike after your ride
Keep Your YOUNG ELECTRIC E-Bike in Top Shape with These Post-Ride Protection Tips
While all YOUNG ELECTRIC ebikes are designed to be water-resistant and able to handle light water splashes (thanks to their IPX5 rating), they're not completely impervious to pressurized water and other elements that could potentially cause damage. So, what can you do to protect your ebike and keep it running at its best? Here are some simple tips to help prevent long-lasting damage and keep your ebike performing at its peak.
Corrosion and wash down
It's cold and wet out there, ebike riders! And if you live in a city where it snows, you know all about the salt that's used to help clear the icy roads and prevent moisture from freezing again. Unfortunately, this salt can cause corrosion and damage to all the metal parts of your ebike over time if you don't properly clean it after each ride. Don't let your trusty ebike suffer - make sure to give it a good wash and rinse after every ride to keep it running smoothly and looking its best. Trust us, and your ebike will thank you.
How to wash down your YOUNG ELECTRIC ebikes
Washing down your e-bike is an important part of maintaining it and keeping it running smoothly. Here are some steps you can follow to wash your e-bike:
- First, gather your supplies. You'll need a bucket of warm water, a mild soap or ebike wash solution, a sponge or soft cloth, and a hose or spray bottle.
- Begin by removing any loose dirt and debris from your e-bike. This can be done with a soft brush or cloth.
- Next, mix up a solution of warm water and mild soap or ebike wash. You can use a sponge or cloth to apply the solution to your e-bike, making sure to scrub away any grime or dirt. Be extra careful when washing the electronic components and battery, as they are sensitive to water. Avoid getting these areas too wet, or consider using a dry cloth to wipe them down.
- Rinse your e-bike thoroughly withwet cloth to remove any dust
- Once your e-bike is clean and rinsed, dry it off with a soft cloth or towel.
- Finally, make sure to lubricate any moving parts on your e-bike, such as the chain, pedals, and derailleurs, to keep them running smoothly.
By following these steps, you can keep your e-bike clean and well-maintained, helping it to last longer and perform at its best.
Proper care and storage of your e-bike's lithium-ion battery
The battery is the beating heart of your e-bike, so it's essential to take proper care of it to maximize its longevity. Here are some tips for storing and maintaining your battery:
- First, remove the battery from your e-bike and store it in a cool, dry place, away from freezing temperatures. A wood surface in the garage is a good option, but if you live somewhere extremely cold (below freezing), it's best to bring the battery inside and store it somewhere warmand safe. Keep in mind that batteries perform best when stored at a temperature of 32°F-104°F, but they can handle extreme temperatures for a short amount of time before the temperature starts to affect their chemistry and damage the battery.
- It's essential to store your battery at a charge level of 75%-80%. Lithium-ion batteries should never be stored with a completely depleted charge, as they may be unrecoverable after storage. Check the charge level on a monthly basis to ensure it doesn't drop below 75%.
- Don't store your battery on the charger or attached it to your e-bikeif you won't ride for a while. When you're putting your battery down for winter storage, make sure it's charged within the recommended range of 75%-80%, off the charger, and in a cool (but not cold) and dry location.
Time to hit the trails and get out there in the most exciting conditions (Snow and Ice)
And there you have it, ebike riders! Now that you know all about how to keep your ebike running smoothly and safely in the winter months, it's time to hit the road (or the snowy trails). Remember, your safety is our top priority, so make sure to check all your ebike's systems before each ride and pay attention to the effects of freezing temperatures on your ebike. With these tips in mind, you can enjoy the freedom and happiness that each ride brings, no matter what the weather. So go ahead, let it snow! Let it snow! Let it snow and enjoy your winter ebike adventures. Happy riding!