Getting caught in the rain isn't the end of the world. You don’t need pro-level gear to handle it—you just need to know how to ride smart and keep your bike from rusting out. Here is how I handle wet weather.
1. How to Dress for the Ride
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No Ponchos: Seriously, don't use them. They catch the wind, block your controls, and get sucked into your wheels. Get a two-piece rain suit instead. Just make sure your pant legs are tight so they stay away from the chain.
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Keep Your Vision Open: Rain-streaked glasses are a nightmare. Wear a baseball cap or a brimmed cap under your helmet. It keeps the water off your face and glasses.
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More Than Just Lights: The bike lights are great, but add some reflective tape to your helmet or shoes. That little bit of movement grabs a driver’s attention way better than a static light.
2. How to Prep the Bike
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Fix Your Fenders: If you're on a fat-tire bike and your back is covered in mud, it is because your fender is too short. Buy a cheap mud-flap extension. It keeps the road grit out of your hub motor housing and saves you from a messy back.
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Drop the PSI: Let a little air out of your tires—stay at the lower end of your recommended PSI. It gives the tire a bit more "cush" and helps it grip the slick road rather than sliding over it.
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Use "Wet" Lube: Forget the dry lube you use in the summer. It’ll be gone in ten minutes. Buy a bottle of "Wet" chain lube. It’s sticky, stays on the chain, and won't wash off the second it starts pouring.
3. How to Ride Without Sliding
E-bikes have a lot of torque. In the rain, that power is your biggest enemy if you aren't careful.
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Drop the Assist: If you’re usually in PAS 4 or 5, switch down to PAS 1 or 2. If you hit the throttle hard at a green light, your rear tire will spin out on wet paint. Take it easy.
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Avoid the "Slick Spots": Road paint, Manhole covers and metal grates are coated in ice. Do not turn, speed up, or hit the brakes on them. Just keep the bike straight and Let the bike smoothly across the road.
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Brake Way Early: You’re on a heavy e-bike, and it won't stop as fast as you’re used to. Start braking three times earlier than you normally would. Always hit the rear brake first to stay stable, then ease into the front.
4. How to Clean Up
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Battery First: Don’t plug your bike in the second when you get home. Wipe the charging port dry and leave it alone for 30 minutes. Let it air out before you plug it in.
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Dry the Screen: If your display gets soaked, wipe it dry immediately. Water getting into the buttons or under the screen seal is the fastest way to overheat and ruin the controller.
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Wipe the Chain: Rain carries grit and road salt, which act like abrasive sandpaper on your drivetrain. Once you get indoors, grab a dry cloth and wipe away the grimy black sludge from your chain. This quick 30-second wipe keeps your gears shifting smoothly.
Pro-Tip
If your screen starts flickering or acting weird while you're out, stop immediately. Take the battery out and let everything dry out completely. Do not try to force it to work. Just let it air dry and it should be okay. But if you keep riding while it’s still wet, your controller could end up dead.
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