Introduction
Winter e-bike rides can be as beautiful as they are challenging, particularly in busy cities preparing for the festive season.
The great news is that with a high-quality e-bike and proper preparation, you’ll be ready and able to tackle winter rides with ease (and enjoyment).
In this blog, we’ll be covering our best tips and tricks for visibility, warmth, control, and e-bike maintenance for winter.
Let’s take a look!
Safety first: how to prepare your e-bike and route
The best way to tackle the unpredictable nature of winter riding is to be prepared!
- Pre-ride checks: Check brakes and tires for wear and tear, as moisture reduces braking efficiency, and tires can wear quickly.
- Charge: Your lights and e-bike battery need to be fully charged, as visibility is essential and cold weather can drain batteries quickly (We’d advise packing a spare!)
- Stay on top of maintenance: You’ll need to check your chain for rust and lubricate it, if needed. Mudguards will also need to be regularly cleaned to avoid buildup.
- Plan your route: Reduced visibility in winter can make your usual route risky. Choose safety over shortcuts: plan your travel along main roads and well-lit paths.
- Keep things running smoothly: Keep your riding habits consistent and reliable. Stick to smooth braking and maintain an increased distance from traffic (and walk in any particularly icy conditions, if needed).
Remember that daily checks make a massive difference in your peace of mind and ease of riding! Taking a few minutes to ensure everything is in working order means that you can proceed with confidence.
Opt for smart layering (comfort = control)
Don’t get caught out by bad weather — check your weather app before leaving for the temperature and wind to layer up accordingly, and pack lightweight waterproofs to stay dry in case of sudden shifts in conditions.
A 3-layer principle is key: a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating mid layer, and a windproof outer shell. Accessories can also help keep you warm and dry, including gloves, shoe covers, and a buff or scarf for face and neck warmth.
Post-ride maintenance is just as important. Dry and clean your e-bike after each ride to avoid salt and water damage.
Top TENWAYS tip: The best way to avoid stiffness and discomfort from the cold is to start pedalling gently before increasing your speed, giving your body time to adjust to the temperature.
E-bike care: protecting your battery and components
Simple but consistent is the best approach to e-bike care!
- Wipe your e-bike after each use
- Store your e-bike indoors to avoid harsh temperatures
- Store and charge your battery at room temperature
- Top up your battery charge periodically to prevent deep discharge
Keep in mind that colder conditions can reduce range and deplete batteries faster, so staying on top of charging is essential.
Stay energized and enjoy your winter journey!
Mindset is just as important as the technical elements of e-bike riding. Keeping yourself energised by hydrating and bringing snacks is one of the best ways to stay motivated and invigorated.
Plus, winter e-bike rides offer the chance to experience festively-lit quieter streets, crisp air, and frosty scenic views you can’t see any other time of year.
Prepare, fuel yourself, and you’ll be taking to the streets with renewed energy in no time!
