Electric bikes are known to feature a blend of traditional cycling with powerful electronic components. Interestingly, these electrical components (the motor, battery, display, and wiring) are what make you achieve those long and exciting rides. Additionally, these parts are also susceptible to water and grime, especially on wet and muddy days.
Since most e-bikes are designed to be water-resistant, you can safely ride them in light rain. However, proper cleaning with additional waterproofing measures can prolong the life of your e-bike electronics. Plus, this helps to prevent costly repairs while ensuring a reliable performance of your electric bike in all weather conditions.
This guide will help you with the tips to clean and waterproof your e-bike’s electronic components safely and effectively.
Tips to Clean and Waterproof Your E-bike Electronics
There are important things to know before cleaning and waterproofing the electronics of your e-bike from dirt, grime, and corrosion. Additionally, this will significantly reduce the wear and tear on your e-bike’s components, resulting in fewer costly repairs and replacements.
Know Your E-Bike’s Water Resistance
It’s essential to understand your e-bike’s inherent water resistance, as most e-bikes come with an IP (Ingress Protection) rating. Moreover, the IP rating indicates the e-bike’s resistance to dust and water for proper maintenance and care. Here are four different IP ratings for e-bikes;
- IPX4: this rating is ideal for light rain and water splashes (from any direction)
- IPX5: Can withstand moderate rain and more direct splashes of water while riding.
- IPX6: Resistant to heavy rain and some hosing, not high-pressure ones.
- IPX7: Can handle temporary immersion in water (which is rare for entire e-bikes).
Know the Safe Cleaning Practices for Your E-Bike Electronics
Cleaning your e-bike’s electrical components requires a delicate approach. Moreover, the goal is to remove dirt and grime from the electronics without forcing water into the sealed areas. Here are safe cleaning practices to help you;
- Always remember to turn off your e-bike and remove the battery to prevent accidental activation while cleaning it. You should store the removed battery in a dry, safe place.
- Cover your electronics (motor, display, or exposed wiring connections) with plastic bags and tape, but avoid trapping moisture underneath.
- Avoid using high-pressure washers as the water can force its way past the sealed areas to damage the e-bike electronics. You can use a garden hose with a gentle spray nozzle instead.
- Use a soft brush, an old toothbrush, to remove the dirt from your electrical connectors, followed by a dry cloth.
- Clean the display with a microfiber cloth that is slightly dampened with water.
- After cleaning, make sure you air dry your e-bike thoroughly while paying attention to the battery terminals and connector points.
- After air-drying, apply a thin layer of dielectric grease to the battery terminals and other electrical connection points to prevent moisture and corrosion.
Know the Waterproofing tips for your E-Bike Electronics
Even with careful cleaning, proactive waterproofing of your e-bike electronics adds an extra layer of protection, especially if you ride in wet conditions. However, it is essential to inspect the rubber seals around your battery compartment regularly, as they tend to degrade over time.
- Use a silicone sealant to enhance the seal of the battery compartment while ensuring it doesn’t interfere with battery insertion or removal.
- Apply liquid electrical tape or dielectric grease around the entry points and connector housings for a barrier against water ingress.
- The exposed areas of your motors (hub or mid-drive) can also be sealed with dielectric grease or liquid electrical tape. Additionally, avoid spraying water directly at the motor, especially from underneath.
- Consider using a rain cover specifically designed for e-bike displays, especially when you park outside in the rain.
- You can also use a clear silicone sealant to seal tiny openings on permanently mounted displays or controllers. However, you should be careful not to obstruct buttons or cooling vents.
- You can also apply a light spray of anti-corrosion lubricants (like ACF-50 or Boeshield T-9) on exposed metal electrical connections after cleaning and drying. This provides long-term protection against moisture and salt.
Things to Avoid for your e-bike electronics
- Do not leave your e-bike outside uncovered, especially in heavy rain for extended periods. Besides, well-sealed electric bikes can eventually succumb to persistent moisture.
- Avoid the use of petroleum-based greases on the electrical connectors of your e-bike, unless they are specifically designed for it. As they increase the risk of degradation in rubber seals.
- Do not fully submerge your electric bike in water deeper than or subject it to high-pressure washing to prevent damage to your electrical components.
The Tools to Clean and Waterproof Your E-bike Electronics
- Soft brush (an old toothbrush or a detailing brush)
- Cloth (damp, dry, and microfiber)
- Dielectric grease
- Silicon tape/sealant
- Rain cover
- Garden hose
Conclusion
Since the electronic heart of your e-bike is key to enjoying more exciting rides, it requires careful attention. Moreover, adopting these safe cleaning practices and waterproofing measures extends the life of your e-bike’s delicate components (its electronics). Plus, the key to preserving your e-bike’s electronics lies in gentle cleaning and strategic sealing for your all-weather adventures.
Furthermore, understanding your bike’s IP rating helps you know the best way to clean it while identifying additional waterproofing areas. Additionally, use the right tools to prevent the risk of electronic failure (such as a soft sponge and a low-flow hose). Besides that, the use of dielectric grease is your best defense against moisture ingress and corrosion of your electrical components.
Whether you ride an e-bike with a mid-drive or a hub motor, dedicate your time to these practices. This will yield high returns in terms of reliability, performance, and longevity of the electronics in your e-bike.
Master these practices to enjoy smooth and worry-free electric-powered adventure!
