Here are a few ideas to make biking a fun-filled experience, even while it rains.
#1 Reduce Tyre Pressure
Slipping is all about traction, surface area and a change in the resistance between the road and your tyre. All the sciencey mumbo-jumbo aside, when you reduce the tyre pressure by about 7-10 psi, you broaden the surface area of the tyres, which significantly increases the grip, despite the slippery road. You may even consider swapping the tyres with wider ones for better grip.
#2 Get Fenders
Installing mudguards and fenders can help save your e-bike and your legs, face and back from road splash. Not only are these inexpensive additions to your e-bike that keep your clothing clean, but they also protect your electric bike from collecting dirt and keep it more weather-resistant.
#3 Lube the drivetrain
The drivetrain consists of your chain, pedals, and derailleurs - all the parts that move the e-bike forward when you pedal. Keeping your drivetrain lubed up is essential for frictionless braking, smooth gear shifting, and pedalling. But, using a lubricant or grease invites all sorts of grime and dirt, which then clogs the drivetrain. In that case, a silicone-based dry lubricant goes a long way to keep your e-bike healthy. The dry lubricant not only keeps your e-bike free from dirt but it also seals the moisture out and protects it from rusting.
#4 Regular cleaning
It can’t be stressed enough- clean your e-bike after riding every time. You can use a microfibre cloth to clean off dirt and grime and wipe your bike dry. Whenever you use your e-bike in the rain, brush off the dirt from the cassette, chain, rims, brake pads, frame, drive train and tyres. This will ensure that your bike does not deteriorate quickly.
#5 Rainproof yourself
Last but not least, rainproof yourself. Which means to be prepared for everything. Ride with a plan in mind for every weather. For instance, your shoes will likely get wet in the rain and can slip from the pedal - which is definitely something you don’t want. And wearing wet shoes while riding your e-bike can be uncomfortable.
Use rainproof, slip-resistant shoes with good grip. Similarly, wearing waterproof clothes made from breathable material will protect you from the rain and keep you from feeling hot and sweaty on your longer rides.
Getting a pair of water-resistant gloves will help you keep your grip even in the rain.
Use rain accessories like riding glasses, which can be worn over spectacles comfortably. Rainproofing involves considering that the visibility will go down with the rain and cloudy weather - so wear jackets with reflective clothing. This helps stand out even in low visibility.
Lastly, it is crucial to change your riding style to better suit the weather. Things that one can do with an electric bike/ conventional bike under normal weather circumstances become difficult when the roads are slippery. Braking earlier than usual when going into a corner is recommended. You should also try to maintain distance between yourself and other vehicles, giving your bike enough room to stop.