Winter Tips for Ebikes and Ebikers

It’s still winter and if you love your bike as much as we love you, you’ll do well to check these points and make them a habit before your next ride:

1. Check your nuts
Before you even think about heading out in cold weather, check your bike. Tighten up all the nuts and bolts. The cold can cause materials to contract, and it’s easy for things to loosen when the weather turns. Ensure your wheels are secured properly - especially the nuts on the axles - as well as anything that could affect your safety like handlebars and brake levers.

2. Lubricate your chain and cogs (but avoid the brakes!)
Winter can be harsh on your bike’s chain and cogs, particularly with the wet, muddy conditions. I always recommend using WD-40, but don’t go near the brake discs with it. It’s great for keeping everything running smoothly, but adding to your braking system is a definite no-no.

3. Don’t overcharge the battery - keep it 50-60%  
If you are not using it much over the colder months and want your e-bike’s battery to last throughout the season, keep it charged at around 50-60%. Cold weather can affect battery performance, and overcharging it can lead to long-term issues. Don’t leave it fully charged for days - instead, top it up when you can. Just like your phone, it needs a little breathing room.

4. Always use your lights
As the days are shorter, don’t just rely on your bike’s natural visibility. Use your lights - front and rear - especially in the early evenings or when the weather is gloomy. Its safer to ride with the lights on day or night, no matter what season. It’s essential for being seen by other road users. Not only is it safer, but at night it’s a legal requirement in the UK, so don’t get caught out!

5. Bring your battery indoors
Storing your battery properly is a big deal. Never leave it out in the cold, as freezing temperatures can damage the cells. Always bring it indoors after every ride. If it gets too cold, it can affect the performance and even reduce its lifespan.

6. Wash off road salt and grit
After a ride in winter conditions, wash the road salt off your bike as soon as possible. Salt can eat away at your bike’s components over time, causing corrosion. It’s easy to overlook, but it’s essential to keep your bike looking good and running well. A quick rinse after a ride goes a long way. 

7. Don’t recharge straight after riding
Let your bike cool down before you plug it in. Charging a hot battery right after a ride can affect the battery’s health. If you ride a long distance, give the bike a bit of a breather before reconnecting it to the charger. It’s a small step that could save you headaches in the long run.