Filipinos can enjoy riding an e-bike even during the rainy season. These roads stay crowded even when it pours. E-bikes perform well on wet streets, just be sure to take special precautions!

Rainy season typically runs from June to November, and for many of us, e-bikes serve as our primary connection to the world. I generally perform a safety check—brakes, lights, and tires—before I leave.

The sections below demonstrate how to remain safe and prolong the life of your e-bike.

What is E-bike Water Resistance?

E-bike water resistance indicates how your bike will hold up to rainy weather. Essentially, this allows the bike, or its components, to continue functioning when you’re commuting in the rain or rolling through a puddle. Quality water resistance just means you won’t have to worry as much when the rainy season rolls around.

Most importantly, it protects sensitive electric components, such as the motor and battery. This is NOT the same thing as being waterproof. No e-bike is completely waterproof. So yes, you can ride through light to moderate rain, but not in a deep flood. Understanding will allow you to get the most life and use out of your e-bike.

Defining Water Resistance vs Waterproof

Water resistant e-bikes can keep out moisture to an extent, but not if you’re soaked or submerged for an extended period. Waterproof means zero ingress, including underwater. That means float-around-the-park-in-torrential-downpour models, as seen on most e-bikes, including Aventon models.

An IPX4 rating, for instance, indicates that the motor will be protected from splashes coming from any direction. The new Aventon Ramblas motor is IP67 rated. That rating guarantees that water won’t get in, even in the case that the bike is completely underwater in one meter of water for up to 30 minutes.

Understanding IP Rating Codes

Your e-bike’s IP rating should indicate how resistant to dust and water it is. The first number is dust ingress protection, the second is water resistance. The further the score is from zero, the more dangerous it is.

Having this rating increases your confidence in knowing how your bike will perform in rainy conditions.

Common IP Ratings on E-bikes

Advanced ratings that most e-bikes use are IPX4, IPX7 or IP67. IPX4, or equivalent, is sufficient for someone who rides through rain and puddles. IPX7 and IP67 cover deeper water submersion for up to 30 minutes.

IPX8 indicates even greater protection against water intrusion.

Real-World Meaning of IP Ratings

With an IPX4 rating, you could confidently ride in a light drizzle or splash through shallow puddles. On e-bikes rated IP67, you’ll be able to ride over flooded roads without as much fear of damaging your bike.

Learn to avoid these common hazards to ride more safely.

Key Limitations of Water Resistance

Despite water resistance, prolonged or deep immersion still damages e-bikes. This is still going to allow water to get in wiring or connectors.

Make it a habit to dry your bike off after rides in wet conditions and inspect for damage.

Can E-bikes Handle Philippine Rain?

Smart design E-bikes in the Philippines are equipped with weather-resistant features. As long as they have integrated lights and sealed motors, the storms won’t slow them down at all. IP65 rating Nakto e-bikes provide enough protection for most models to ride even in light or moderate rain.

Now we all can have fun on our rides without a care! Riding during the rainy season comes with its own set of challenges. Tropical weather often leads to heavier, sudden shower downpours, more slick roads, and even roads with standing water.

By learning about how these conditions affect our rides, we can make the most of our e-bike adventures. At the same time, safety is our chief concern.

1. Riding Through Light Showers Safely

In light rain, consistent traction and good sightlines go a long way. It’s important to maintain a moderate pace, because quick stops or aggressive movements can cause an e-bike rider to lose traction and slide.
Most e-bikes with weather-resistant or maritime-grade builds will provide sufficient protection, but fenders protect your most important parts and wiring from heavy rain. Wearing a light raincoat, using the built-in lights, and keeping a bit more space from other vehicles can boost safety.

2. Navigating Steady Moderate Rainfall

Even moderate rain requires a heightened sense of awareness. Reducing tire pressure by a few psi (~5–10 psi) gives you a little better grip.
Going to wider tires or tires with a more wet-weather oriented tread pattern makes a difference as well. You can mitigate this risk by wearing bright or reflective gear, regularly checking brakes, and drying vulnerable components after every ride.
A leisurely speed and an emphasis on flowing rather than jolting through space contribute to reduced risk.

3. Assessing Risks in Heavy Downpours

Torrential downpours reduce visibility and turn roadways into a dangerous and murky landscape. Slick areas, strong gusty wind, and deep puddles can all appear without warning.
When the rain becomes a torrent and municipal drains become overwhelmed and clogged, sometimes waiting it out is the best course of action.

4. Why Avoid Deep Puddles and Floods

These deep puddles often hide sharp debris and can completely flood e-bike parts. Once water enters the motor or battery, it can lead to damage that preventive maintenance cannot address.
Avoiding lower ground or familiar wet routes saves valuable time and penny rather than dime repair costs.

5. How Rain Affects Battery Efficiency

Moist climates tend to deplete your battery range and performance. Humidity increases corrosion on battery connectors.
Immediately drying off the battery and inspecting the seals after a ride greatly reduces this damage.

6. Wet Weather Impact on Motor Power

While rain helps cool motors, it can reduce output if water gets inside wiring. Ensuring connectors stay watertight and leak testing after every ride would go a long way toward maintaining a consistent flow of power.

7. Long-Term Durability Concerns

The damage from regular wet rides can quickly rust a chain and even weaken a brake cable. Few things clear as day, but every e-bike gets a quick clean/lube/check IP rating after every trip and is in great shape.

Vulnerable E-bike Parts in Rain

Improperly protected e-bike parts are at greater risk from water during the rainy season. Some parts, like the battery and display, are easy to identify, but others, like the motor, might not be as obvious. Don’t forget about the rear wheel, drivetrain and rear gears!

These electronic components can become damaged due to excessive water and mud. Washing your bicycle following each wet trek is less than a ten minute task. This easy routine will do wonders to maintain the quality of your bike components and save you money on service down the road.

Protecting the Battery Unit

The battery is literally at the center of your e-bike. Keeping it dry is vital because water is a key enemy of electric batteries. To protect the e-bike further, use a fitted cover or plastic wrap especially when not in use.

Ensure the battery compartment is properly sealed, with no openings where moisture can sneak in. If you end up in heavy rain, remove the battery and set it aside for a few hours to fully dry. Inspect your contacts and take a look at the connectors to see if there’s any dirt or moisture.

Shielding Motor Components

The motor requires additional attention when riding in the rain. Some e-bike motors do come with specialized seals meant to slow the ingress of water. Keep an eye out for these and equip mudguards as a second line of defense.

Don’t ride through deep puddles, as motors aren’t designed for complete submersion. If water seeps in, the manufacturer’s motor might suddenly cease functioning.

Display and Controller Care

Displays and controllers are prone to malfunction if moisture finds its way in. Use waterproof covers and inspect them frequently for cracks or degraded seals. Make a habit of wiping down screens, touch buttons, etc after rides.

If you notice fogging or a sluggish response, dry and check them immediately.

Wiring and Connection Integrity

Wire joins are the weakest points. Examine wiring and find any frayed wires or loose connectors. Water in this area can create shorts or immediate loss of power.

Make sure all plugs are tight, and joint plugs with electrical tape to seal if necessary. Regular inspection and maintenance can identify issues before they become dangerous.

Master Wet Weather Riding Skills

Riding in wet weather requires a different skill set. Others just question whether or not it’s safe or smart. Riding an ebike in the rain is pretty similar to riding a non-ebike in inclement weather, so don’t let wet conditions deter you.

Most new e-bikes have at least a degree of water resistance, denoted by an IP rating. Even so, the biggest impact is from your technique on the bike and how you ride on wet pavement. Practical skills, frequent practice, and understanding your limits are essential to becoming a confident rider in any weather.

Maximize Your Visibility Now

Bright white lights in the front, red in back along with reflective vests or stickers help ensure you stay visible. Trees along infrastructure negatively impact a driver’s view. Experiment by standing on your pedals more while riding, so you’re looking over top of puddles and other riders can identify you earlier.

With the right gear and riding position, you can significantly reduce the chances of an accident.

Increase Braking Distance Significantly

Wet, slippery roads mean you’ll need to brake at least 20-30 feet sooner. Using that brake lever with a feathering touch rather than a death grip means you’ll be able to stay in control. Make it a habit to begin braking sooner than you normally would on sunny days.

More slow and steady braking prevents wheel lock up or sliding.

Handle Slippery Roads with Caution

Calm, composed, deliberate and smooth make for steady hands on the bars and smooth moves. Avoid quick turns of the steering wheel or abrupt changes in body position. If you encounter a particularly greasy strip, pass over it smoothly and perpendicularly.

Plan Safer Routes During Rain

Avoid roads unfamiliar to you, or those without proper shoulders, or roads that are not flat and homogenous. When given the choice, ride on flat ground and smooth surfaces.

Experience helps too, knowing in advance where puddles are likely to form, or where the pavement will get slippery, reduces the danger significantly.

Moderate Your Speed Always

There’s no need to go fast when it’s raining. Slower speeds allow you to react sooner, and stop in time. If it begins to really come down, or if the road becomes dangerous, stop to further reduce your speed.

Learn Local Rider Adaptations

Quizzing experienced riders on their methods for coping with area downpours. Participate in local or online riding communities to exchange advice.

Some riders drop tire pressure to about 0.7 kg/cm² for better grip, much lower than the 6.3 kg/cm² used on hard roads. If you become seriously wet within a short distance, return. Don’t ride when the temperature is below zero Celsius.

Essential Gear for Rainy Rides

Riding an e-bike during the rainy season means you can stay dry, stay safe, stay comfortable. Even so, the right gear goes a long way in rainy conditions. Proper gear keeps you dry, increases your visibility, and reduces the chance of slipping.

Besides making you safer and more comfortable, good gear will help you keep your e-bike in better condition. Not only does it improve your bike’s handling on slippery roads, it smooths out the ride on bumpy pavement.

Must-Have Rider Rain Protection

Rain jackets and pants help to cut wind and prevent water from penetrating. Choose sweat-wicking and breathable fabrics so you don’t heat up from the inside out.

Waterproof jersey or gloves are also important. Maintaining grip on the handlebars is especially crucial in inclement weather. Climate-friendly, high-top rubber boots or waterproof shoe covers keep feet dry while pedaling.

Helmets with visors help keep rain and road spray off your eyes.

E-bike Specific Protective Accessories

A waterproof bike cover is essential if you park your e-bike outdoors, particularly during monsoon-like conditions. Covers help keep water off the frame and the battery pack.

Fenders block water and mud from flying up, helping you stay dry and keeping grit away from gears and brakes. Whether you’re riding at night or during the day when it’s raining, use additional lights.

Rain reduces visibility both for you and others on the road, making bright, effective front and rear lights essential.

Choose Optimal Wet-Weather Tires

Wider tires with deeper treads offer more grip-surfacing area and channel water away from the tires. When you throw on tires to switch to the mud season, choose ones that are designed for greasy conditions, not just dry pavement.

Address Regularly Check tire tread depth before every ride. Shallow or worn treads will slip on wet roads.

Install Effective Fenders

Fenders protect you from water splashing up as well as your e-bike components. On most e-bikes it’s pretty customary to be able to bolt or clip-on fenders to a front fork and rear triangle.

If you absolutely must ride in a deluge though, full-length fenders with mudflaps do the best job.

Post-Ride E-bike Care Routine

Wet weather rides require even more attention to post-ride care. Nothing replaces a thorough cleaning and drying routine, but small steps can go a long way after a wet ride. Simply taking a few minutes to address the needs of your e-bike keeps it in prime condition and avoids expensive repair costs down the line.

A thorough wipedown will reveal whatever fresh damage you might have incurred on your ride, as well as prevent dirt from accumulating. By consistently checking your bike after every wet ride, you ensure the longevity of your e-bike and the optimal performance of your ride. Most people skip this step—about 80% of e-bike owners don’t clean up after riding in the rain, so you get ahead by keeping a routine.

Dry Your E-bike Thoroughly

Begin with drying your e-bike immediately after leaving your e-bike. Spray on with a high pressure sprayer, or use a clean, smooth rag and wipe down frame, fork, and wheels. Make sure to dry the chain and gears as well, since moisture causes rust from the inside out.

Give special care to any bolts or other exposed metal. Park the bike in a place that is relatively dry—under a roof or in a garage. If you can’t bring your bike indoors, consider a waterproof cover to protect it from the elements.

Clean Grime After Wet Rides

Remove mud and dirt by gently spraying off with a stream of water. A damp sponge and mild soap will remove any residual junk that gets caked on. Stay away from pressure washers, since they force water into the bearings.

Has it been a while since you gave your ebike some TLC? Wiping everything down after a wet ride will go a long way towards maintaining your e-bike.

Lubricate Chain and Drivetrain

After the bike is fully dry, apply lubricant to the chain and drivetrain. Rain tends to wash away oil, which causes chains to squeak and wear out quickly. Apply a wet-condition chain lube that adheres more in humid conditions.

Be sure to wipe away any excess oil so it doesn’t just collect dirt.

Inspect Brakes and Electronics

Inspect brakes to make sure they have proper grip and aren’t worn down. Note that wet conditions will shorten the lifespan of your brake pads. Inspect around the wires and battery compartment for any moisture accumulation.

If you identify moisture or rusting, allow the bike to dry thoroughly before the next ride.

Specific Battery Care Post-Rain

Remove the battery and store it out of the e-bike for several hours. This will ensure both the battery and the battery compartment dry completely. Examine it closely for any moisture intrusion or other signs of damage.

Once completely dry, charge your e-bike as normal, and always ensure all connections are clean.

Storing Your E-bike Properly

Storing your e-bike indoors is the best way to avoid wear and tear from damaging elements. Moisture from the air and rain will damage your bike’s components. Extreme temperature changes can affect the rideability of your bike. By keeping your bike smartly stored you reduce rust, a drained battery, and electric failure.

Whether you ride every day or just on weekends, how and where you store your e-bike can extend its life by years.

Why Avoid Outdoor Rain Exposure

Don’t underestimate the impact of improper storage. Leaving your e-bike out in the rain can lead to serious damage. Moisture from rain can quickly make its way into the battery, motor, or controller.

These components are usually placed at locations that receive puddle spray or road splash. In just a few weeks, moisture can corrode metal, destroy electrical wires, and create dangerous short circuits. Even brief rain, if it is consistent, can be damaging to electrical components or end up with you having tacky brakes.

Protect your investment by storing your bike under a roof, in an enclosed garage, or a weatherproof bike shed or locker. An Asgard shed is ideal for this purpose! You can kit these sheds out with plug sockets. That way, you can charge your bike and keep your bike out of the rain!

Best Indoor Storage Practices

Regardless of what indoor environment you’re in, the best case scenario air is cool and dry. Stay away from spaces prone to extreme heat or humidity. Whenever possible, rack or stand your bike, keeping it stable and upright to prevent it from toppling over.

This prevents it from tipping over or getting roughed up. If you’re limited on space, a wall-mounted rack will clear up valuable floor space. If you’ve been caught in the rain during a ride, allow the battery to sit out for a few hours and dry things out.

Use Protective Bike Covers

A waterproof radar Victoria cover is a required item if you park outside, even for a single night. Pick a cover that is form-fitting and allows airflow, which prevents condensation from accumulating within.

A well-fitting cover will keep rain from getting in without trapping moisture so your bike doesn’t develop a musty smell.

Clean Your E-bike Without Damage

E-bike maintenance

Keeping your e-bike clean during the rainy season is especially important. Wet rainy rides will wash away the dirt with mud and crud caked on the frame, chain, and gears. If neglected, this collection can damage components and result in more expensive repairs down the line.

Most new e-bikes come with some water resistance, shown by the IP rating, but water can still mess with electrical bits if cleaning isn’t done right. Clean your e-bike immediately after riding during wet weather. It takes just a few minutes and will make it last much longer!

Dangers of Pressure Washing

Never use a pressure washer on an e-bike, though—this does way more harm than good. High-pressure water can drive water into your bearings, connectors, and motor. This can cause rust, short circuits, or even damage components inside.

A soft wash with a bucket or hose on low is far more effective. Mud caked on your bike can be removed with a soft brush and sponge. In this manner, you prevent water from approaching critical components, such as the battery port and display.

Recommended Gentle Cleaning Steps

Remove your battery. Remove your e-bike’s battery and allow it to dry for several hours. A clean, non-abrasive sponge or cloth and a solution of mild soap and water will help you wipe down your frame.

For the drivetrain, including the chain and gears, employ a brush with plush bristles.

Step 1: Clean the bike with water. Use low-pressure water to rinse the bike off, being careful not to spray directly into any openings. Inverting the bike and allowing it to rest on the ground can allow water pooled within the frame to drain out.

This two-step process cleans thoroughly and ensures you detect beveled edges, cracks, and other concealed damage.

Focus Cleaning on Key Areas

Make sure to pay special attention to cleaning the chain, gears/brakes, and electrical areas. Clean these areas thoroughly, but gently.
Replacing the seat and seat post, and then upside-downing the bike allows water to evaporate. Routine cleaning helps ensure that all of your components are dialed in and operating properly and prevents dirt from creating future problems.

Conclusion

Riding an e-bike in the rain back home here in the Philippines seems manageable with these precautions taken. Rain can hit hard, but good gear, a sharp eye on your parts, and a quick clean after a ride keep things smooth. A good raincoat, wide boots, and a dry bag can take you a long way. Wipe down the battery, dry your chain, and store your bike in a dry location. Many of the people who do experience rainy seasons without incident by following just a few simple guidelines. To ensure the smoothest riding experience, be prepared with e-bike maintenance to get you rolling before the torrential rains start. If you’re looking for quality e-bike solutions, Emcor has you covered. Let us help you stay on the road, rain or shine! Contact Us today to learn more or share your own riding tips. We’d love to hear from you!