Owners of modern personal transportation often wonder whether they can ride their electric bikes during winter. Broadly speaking, there are no restrictions, though one should be aware that cycling in colder months is significantly different than in the summertime. Proper preparation of the e-bike, a change in riding style, and adequate insulation against the cold are essential.

Many are deterred by the cold. Indeed, when cycling at speeds of 25-30 km/h, even a mild frost up to -5°C can feel much colder due to the wind chill. Therefore, it's vital to choose your attire wisely. Dress warmly but avoid bundling up too much. Synthetic clothing items like nylon thermal wear and fleece sweaters are ideal because they wick away moisture and prevent hypothermia.

Using an electric bicycle in winter is feasible. If you plan to venture out on your e-bike in colder temperatures, ensure it's prepared for such trips and always exercise caution. Remember, roads can be slippery and treacherous.

Why it's necessary to ride bike in winter

Cycling during winter is not only feasible but also beneficial in several ways:

1. Warm-Up and Combating Hypodynamia: Winter cycling begins with a proper warm-up, which is crucial in cold weather to increase blood flow and reduce the risk of injuries. Starting with dynamic exercises, such as leg swings and arm circles, prepares the body for the increased physical demands of cycling in cold conditions. This activity is especially important to counteract hypodynamia, a condition of reduced physical activity common in colder months. By continuing to cycle during winter, individuals maintain their regular physical activity, which is crucial for cardiovascular health and overall well-being. The effort required to pedal through colder, often more resistant environments, such as snowy or icy paths, ensures that the body remains active and energetic, combating the sedentary lifestyle that can easily set in during the winter.

2. Maintaining Physical Fitness: Winter cycling is a robust form of exercise. The additional resistance provided by snowy or wet roads means your body works harder, which maintains or even enhances physical fitness. Riding in cold weather requires more energy, leading to higher calorie burn, which is an effective way to manage weight during a season typically associated with weight gain. The effort to keep balance on slippery roads also engages core muscles, improving overall muscle tone and strength. This consistent physical exertion is essential for maintaining endurance and stamina, ensuring that the fitness levels achieved in warmer months are not lost.

3. Acclimatization and Boosting Immunity: Regularly cycling in cold weather helps the body adapt to lower temperatures, enhancing its ability to regulate temperature in adverse conditions. This acclimatization can lead to improved cold tolerance, which is beneficial not only for winter sports but also for general health. Moreover, engaging in physical activity like cycling during winter is known to boost the immune system. Regular exercise stimulates the immune system, helping it to ward off colds, flu, and other respiratory illnesses that are prevalent in winter. This natural boost to the immune system is a significant advantage of continuing cycling throughout the colder months.

4. Improving Skills for Defensive Cycling: Winter roads present unique challenges, such as slippery surfaces and reduced visibility, which require heightened cycling skills. Navigating these conditions safely enhances one’s ability to control the bike and react to unexpected situations, thus improving defensive cycling skills. Riders learn to be more aware of their surroundings, anticipate potential hazards, and make safer choices, such as reducing speed and using brakes cautiously. This experience is invaluable as it translates to better cycling skills even in normal conditions, making one a more competent and confident cyclist overall.

Overall, winter cycling, with its unique challenges and benefits, is an excellent way to stay active, maintain physical fitness, boost immunity, and enhance cycling skills, making it a worthwhile endeavor for those willing to brave the colder temperatures.

What types of ebikes good for rain or snow time

For cycling in snow or rain, certain types of electric bikes (e-bikes) are more suitable due to their design and features. Here are some of the best types of e-bikes for these conditions:

1. Fat Tire E-Bikes: These bikes have wide, oversized tires that provide excellent traction and stability on snowy and slippery surfaces. The large tire volume allows for lower tire pressure, which helps in better gripping the ground, making them ideal for snow.

2. Mountain E-Bikes: Designed for off-road conditions, mountain e-bikes are also well-suited for snow and rain. They typically feature robust frames, suspension systems, and tires with deep treads for better traction.

3. All-Terrain E-Bikes: These e-bikes are designed to perform well in a variety of conditions, including snow and rain. They usually combine elements of mountain and fat tire bikes, offering a good balance of stability and maneuverability.

4. Hybrid E-Bikes: For lighter snow and moderate rain, hybrid e-bikes, which blend features of road and mountain bikes, can be a good choice. They offer a comfortable ride and are versatile enough for both city commuting and light off-road conditions.

How to choose the right ebike for snow or rain

Choosing the right e-bike for snow or rain involves considering several key factors to ensure safety, comfort, and performance under these challenging conditions. Here's a guide on what to look for:

1. Tire Type and Size:

   • For snow, fat tires are ideal as they provide better traction and stability. Look for tires that are at least 4 inches wide.
   • For rain, tires with good tread patterns that can expel water efficiently are important to prevent slipping.
   • Invest in tires with a deep tread. If you're venturing out on loose snow, studded tires are the best choice. They provide solid traction in any weather condition.
   • Slightly reduce the tire pressure to increase the contact patch. Regularly check this before every ride, as temperature fluctuations can alter the readings.
   • Thick tires are the safest and best option for wet roads. The reason for their excellent quality on wet roads is because their larger area allows for better traction with the ground which gives you better control of your ride. Not only in rain conditions, your fat tire electric bike can conquer mud, snow, and trails with ease thanks to your fat tires. Thick tires, in general, are much better than thin tires because of their versatility and ability to adapt to any road condition. Wet roads can certainly get slippery and troublesome, the thick tires will be there to help you maintain full control of your ride and keep you Movin’.

2. Water Resistance:

   • Ensure the e-bike is rated for water resistance. The motor, battery, and display should be able to withstand wet conditions.
   • Check for sealed bearings and protected wiring to prevent water damage.
   • Protect the electronics from snow and mud. Use hydrophobic insulating materials designed for this purpose.

3. Brakes:

   • Hydraulic disc brakes are preferable for their better performance in wet and slippery conditions. They offer more consistent braking and require less force.
   • Having the ability to safely brake in any ride condition is so important for any rider. When it comes to bike and e-bike brakes, nothing beats hydraulic disc brakes. You may be wondering, what’s that? Don’t worry, I’ll explain.
   • Disc brakes are a newer form of brakes that are better than rim brakes. On any old style bicycle, the brakes typically work by pinching the sides of the tire (rims), this is what gives the stopping power. With disc brakes, the brake pads actually pinch a separate disc that is attached to the tire and rim. With disc brakes, you get a much stronger and smoother stopping force compared to rim brakes. Now, combine that with hydraulic fluid and that’s an added level of protection and performance! Hydraulic disc brakes use brake fluid so you only have to use very little pressure by pinching on the brakes to stop your e-bike safely and smoothly. Keeping all this in mind - when you’re in slippery or wet conditions, the hydraulic disc brake is your best best and will keep you safe, guaranteed. When braking in rainy conditions, just remember to brake earlier than you usually would.
   • Another important thing to mention is that rim brakes typically catch all sorts of debris from the road such as water and oil and all kinds of dirt. When the braking apparatus is by the center of the wheel, you’re able to brake more effectively and without issues. Many good quality electric bikes come with disc brakes and the best are equipped with hydraulic disc brakes to give you the ultimate stopping power and safety whether you’re taking your e-bike on a ride in a busy city or mountain biking on trails.

4. Frame and Suspension:

   • A sturdy frame is essential. For snow, a mountain e-bike frame can be a good choice due to its robust construction.
   • Front suspension, or even full suspension, can provide better control and comfort on uneven, slippery terrain.

5. Motor and Battery Power:

   • A powerful motor (at least 250 watts) can help navigate through snow and slush.
   • A battery with good range is important, as cold weather can reduce battery efficiency. Consider a removable battery for easy indoor charging.

6. Fenders and Mudguards:

   • Fenders or mudguards are essential to protect against splashing water and mud, keeping you and the bike cleaner.
   • E-bike and bike fenders are often an overlooked detail that could cause you a lot of headaches and annoyances down the line, as well as potential injuries! Fenders are fundamentally designed to protect you from splashes and debris that is picked up by your tires during your pedaling and riding. Fenders either come in the front, back or both and protect your ebike from water, debris, snow, mud, rain - depending on your riding conditions. Movin’ electric bikes come equipped with full metal fenders, covering the front tire and rear tire. Don’t worry about getting your clothes wet or dealing with the pesky dirt and debris that's on roads, our fenders will keep you fresh and clean and focused on the road.
   • If you’re using your e-bike as a commute vehicle and want to stay clean, make sure to get an electric bike with fenders. And if an e-bike company is trying to sell you fenders as an add-on then stay away! Having fenders on an e-bike should be a bare minimum.

7. Lights and Reflectors:

   • Good lighting is crucial for visibility during overcast conditions common in rainy and snowy weather. Ensure the bike has front and rear lights and reflectors.
   • Equip your bike with a powerful headlight, as winter days are short and darkness falls early.
   •  Visibility in rainy conditions can differ depending on the strength of the rain, time of day or where you’re riding (well lit city or in the countryside). “How to see when riding an ebike in the rain” is one of the most commonly asked questions by riders! The simple answer: make sure your e-bike is equipped with great front and rear lights so that you can see where you’re going and drivers around you can see you as well! Regardless of the weather conditions or where you’re riding, lights are extremely important. At Movin’ we equip our bikes with a strong front 450 lumens light that can be seen hundreds of feet away, and a rear brake light with brake light indicator, so other cyclists and drivers know when you’re pressing the brakes. Our tires are also equipped with reflective indicators to keep you as visible as possible during the night time. There’s no such thing as too much light, so when you can, wear reflective clothing and if you’d like, add extra lights to your e-bike!

8. Gearing:

   • Consider an e-bike with a wide range of gears. Lower gears can be particularly useful in snowy conditions for better control.

9. Seat and Handlebars:

   • Look for an e-bike with a comfortable seat and ergonomic handlebars. Riding in cold and wet conditions can be challenging, and rider comfort becomes even more important.
10. Grips:

• Install heated grips to ensure your hands remain warm while riding

1. Chain and Moving parts

Lastly, always test ride the e-bike in conditions similar to those you expect to encounter. This will give you the best sense of how the bike handles in snow or rain. Also, consider the local laws and regulations regarding e-bike use in your area, especially if you plan to use studded tires for icy conditions.

How to use ebike in snow or rain time

Modern lithium-ion batteries allow for easy operation of electric bikes in winter, but in the cold, their capacity can decrease from 20 to 50% depending on the air temperature. As a result, the range of the trip can be significantly reduced. It is recommended to protect the battery from the cold using a special case or insulating materials. It's not advisable to charge the battery in the cold.

If you bring the electric bike indoors after a ride, do not charge it immediately. Let it sit for 2-3 hours. This time is enough for the condensation, formed due to temperature differences, to evaporate. Otherwise, a short circuit may occur.

Clean the electric bike from contaminants after every ride in winter, especially when traveling in the city. The fact is that streets are often treated with chemicals that can be corrosive and damage the metal.

Having tackled the question of whether it's possible to ride an electric bike in winter, it's essential to know how to do it right. Arm yourself with the following recommendations:

1. After starting the electric motor, let it run idle for 10-20 seconds.
2. Don't start abruptly. In winter, it's better to move smoothly, especially on ice.
3. Refrain from trying to overtake traffic or making sudden maneuvers. Remember, the bike can skid, posing a risk of getting hit by a car.
4. Carefully navigate through potholes and curbs. In cold conditions, the spokes' length decreases, leading to high tension. Even minor shocks can have undesired consequences.
5. Brake gently to avoid skidding.
6. It's advisable not to use regenerative braking in winter or use it sparingly.
7. Smoothness and caution are the primary principles when cycling in cold weather. Avoid speeding, especially on busy city streets. Remember that even a cleared asphalt can be treacherous in winter. Whenever possible, avoid puddles. Wet wheels can easily freeze, making it harder to ride.

Using a bike in winter will bring a wealth of new positive emotions and experiences if you prepare correctly. When going on long rides, always bring a thermos with tea, so you have the option to warm up if needed.

After Your Electric Bike Ride  

If you take your electric bike through the ringer during your ride it'll be covered in all sorts of debris, mud, snow etc. Especially if it gets wet, you want to wipe it down with a nice cloth and make sure it's all dry before parking it for the night. You want to make sure you get the entire bike, but especially the tires, frame, derailleur, and chain before it dries up and becomes rigid, possibly leading to more problems in the future. Keep a small towel or cloth with you if you live in a rainy area or at your workplace and give your e-bike a nice dry down.

Rain has this pesky quality of washing debris into your tire more likely, so after a busy ride in the city or elsewhere, make sure you check your tire for debris, especially sharp objects. Use tweezers to remove anything you find.

Using your electric bike in rainy or other harsher weather conditions can seem like a daunting task. But hopefully with these tips and knowledge on riding in the rain, you’ll be better equipped to ride safely and ensure your e-bike doesn’t take any damage. Electric bikes work in the rain just fine, but you want to avoid extremely heavy rain conditions that could submerge critical parts of your ebike such as the controller, motor or battery connector.

What can help to repair your ebike in snow or rain

Repairing an e-bike in snow or rain poses unique challenges, not just because of the discomfort but also due to the risk of damaging sensitive electrical components. Here are tips and tools that can help manage repairs under such conditions, ensuring both your safety and the integrity of the e-bike:

1. Waterproof Cover or Tarp

• Carry a lightweight, foldable waterproof cover or tarp. This can provide temporary shelter for you and your e-bike during repairs, protecting you from the elements.

2. Insulated, Waterproof Gloves

• Use insulated, waterproof gloves for warmth and to keep your hands dry while working on your e-bike. Ensure they offer enough dexterity to handle tools effectively.

3. Portable, Waterproof Lights

• Have a waterproof headlamp or bike light to illuminate your workspace, especially crucial during low visibility conditions in snow or rain.

4. Water-Resistant Tool Kit

• Keep a basic e-bike repair kit in a water-resistant or waterproof bag. Essential tools include Allen keys, a multi-tool for bikes, screwdrivers, a portable tire pump, and patch kits. Consider adding dielectric grease to protect electrical connections after repairs.

5. Dry Lubricant

• Use a dry lubricant for the chain and moving parts post-repair, as it's less likely to attract moisture and debris, reducing the risk of rust and corrosion.

6. Rust Inhibitor

• After repairing, apply a rust inhibitor to exposed metal parts to protect against moisture-induced corrosion, which is a higher risk in snowy and rainy conditions.

7. Silica Gel Packs

• Keep silica gel packs in your tool bag and near any electronic components you've exposed during repairs to help absorb any moisture that may have infiltrated.

8. Emergency Contact Information

• In conditions where repairs are challenging or if the weather worsens, have a backup plan. Keep a list of local e-bike shops or roadside assistance that can help in emergencies.

9. Protective Components Covers

• If you anticipate needing to stop for repairs in adverse weather conditions, consider installing protective covers over the e-bike's display, battery, and controller. This precaution can prevent water ingress and electrical shorts.

10. Quick-Drying Cloth or Towel

• Carry a quick-drying cloth or towel to dry off the e-bike, especially around the electrical components and connections, before starting repairs.

11. Spare Parts

• For longer trips, carry spare parts that are more likely to fail, such as inner tubes, brake pads, and a spare chain link. These can be crucial in getting you moving again.

12. Instruction Manual or Mobile Device

• Have your e-bike's instruction manual in a waterproof bag or digital copies on your mobile device for quick reference during repairs. Some manufacturers also offer repair guides or troubleshooting tips online that can be accessed via smartphone.

By preparing with these tools and tips, you can mitigate the challenges of repairing an e-bike in snow or rain, ensuring that you can safely complete repairs and continue your ride.

Where to get your ebike for winter

Buying an e-bike for winter use involves looking for models that can handle cold, icy, and snowy conditions. Here are places where you can find such e-bikes, along with tips on what to look for:

1. Local Bike Shops

• Pros: You can get personalized advice and find e-bikes specifically suited for winter riding. Staff can recommend models with features important for winter, such as fat tires for snow and ice. Plus, you can often test ride different e-bikes.
• Tip: Look for shops that specialize in e-bikes or have a good selection of all-terrain and mountain e-bikes, as these types are more likely to have winter-friendly features.

2. Specialized E-Bike Stores

• Pros: Stores dedicated to e-bikes will have a wide range of options and knowledgeable staff. They may also offer winter-specific models or be able to order them for you.
• Tip: Ask about the availability of winter tires or customization options to prepare the bike for colder weather.

3. Online Retailers

• Pros: A broader selection and often better deals. You can shop from home and have the e-bike delivered to your door.
• Tip: Read reviews carefully, especially those related to winter use. Look for information on battery performance in cold weather and overall durability.

4. Direct from Manufacturers

• Pros: Buying directly can sometimes offer the best price. Some manufacturers offer models specifically designed for challenging conditions, including winter.
• Tip: Check the manufacturer's website for information on how well their e-bikes perform in various climates and under different riding conditions.

5. Second-Hand Platforms

• Pros: Platforms like eBay, Craigslist, or Facebook Marketplace can be sources for high-quality e-bikes at a lower cost. Sometimes you can find an e-bike already equipped for winter.
• Tip: Be cautious about the condition of the e-bike. Check for rust or damage from salt and slush if it's been used in winter conditions before.

When don't use your ebike in winter

1. Extreme Cold

• Battery Performance: Extreme cold can significantly reduce battery performance, potentially leaving you with a much shorter range than expected.
• Personal Safety: Exposure to very low temperatures can lead to hypothermia or frostbite, especially on longer rides.

2. Heavy Snowfall

• Riding during or immediately after heavy snowfall can be dangerous due to reduced visibility and the high likelihood of sliding on unpacked snow or getting stuck.

3. Icy Conditions

• Even with studded tires, black ice and highly icy conditions can be treacherous for biking. The risk of slipping and falling increases significantly on ice, which can lead to serious injuries.

4. Blizzard Conditions

• Besides the obvious visibility issues, blizzard conditions can change rapidly, and you may find yourself caught in a situation where it's unsafe to continue or return home.

5. Salted Roads

• While salt helps to melt ice and improve traction for vehicles, it can be corrosive to your e-bike's metal components. Frequent exposure to salted roads without proper cleaning and maintenance can accelerate wear and tear.

6. Poor Visibility

• In conditions of fog, heavy snow, or sleet, your visibility to other road users decreases significantly, as does your ability to see the road ahead clearly. These situations increase the risk of accidents.

7. Mechanical Concerns

• If your e-bike is not specifically outfitted for winter use (with appropriate tires, lights, and so on) or if it's not in good working condition, it's safer to avoid riding in winter conditions.

Conclusion

Riding in winter is quite an extreme venture, where you need to be attentive and experienced. But the pleasure from it is no less than in summer. You will definitely need fat tires for less sliding and appropriate clothing, protecting all parts of the body. The cold always affects battery charge, but if it's a quality brand like Samsung or LG, their susceptibility is reduced. A large percentage of our customers are Food Delivery guys, with their peak working season in winter. On average, they cover 1000-1500 km a month, so we can proudly say our bikes handle winter frosts well. Come visit us at 654 College street and see the quality of our e-bikes for yourself.