Complete Guide To Riding in The Rain: How To Check Your Bike's Waterproof Rating? 3 Essential Post-Ride Maintenance Steps

With the arrival of the rainy season, it's both a test and a crucial period for extending the life of your electric bicycle, especially for those who rely on it for commuting. After a rain, some bikes remain powerful, while others begin to experience unusual noises, power outages, or even malfunctions. The difference lies not only in the vehicle's waterproof capabilities but also in whether you performed proper maintenance after riding.

Today, we will provide you with a complete guide to riding in the rain, from pre-battle knowledge (understanding waterproof ratings) to post-battle handling (standard maintenance procedures), so that your electric vehicle can withstand wind and rain and stay as good as new for a long time.

Step 1 : Understanding Your "Electric Vehicle Raincoat" - Detailed Explanation of IP Protection Levels

When choosing an electric vehicle or evaluating the wading capability of an existing vehicle, the most scientific standard is to look at its... "IP protection rating" . This rating directly defines the dust and water resistance of vehicle electrical components (such as controllers, motors, and instruments).

A complete IP address class code is usually written as "IPXX" , such as IP65, IPX5, etc. Its meaning is explained below:

Interpretation of IP Protection Ratings for Core Components of Electric Vehicles

Important Note :

•     "IPX" indicates that the dustproof rating was not assessed in this test, only the waterproof rating was assessed.

•      The waterproof rating of the battery compartment is usually listed separately and is generally higher than that of other   parts of the vehicle, but its charging port is a weak point and must be kept dry.

•      Even with a high rating, it doesn't mean it can be operated like a "submarine ." Prolonged immersion or direct high- pressure water jets hitting the joints of core components can still lead to water ingress.

Step Two : The "Golden Hour" After Riding in the Rain – 3 Essential Maintenance Steps

No matter how waterproof your bike is, rainwater is always a mixture of acidic substances and sediment. Proper post-ride maintenance is crucial to prevent corrosion, short circuits, and component wear. Please follow these steps within one hour of riding:

First tip: Dry your skin scientifically, rather than exposing it to direct sunlight

Core objective : To remove surface moisture and prevent short circuits and rust on metal parts.

1. The order is key : use a dry, soft cloth or absorbent chamois cloth to wipe the surfaces from top to bottom and from inside to outside . First, wipe the dashboard and control panel (which are most susceptible to water damage), then the handlebars and seat, and finally the body, wheels, and mudguards.

2. Pay special attention to the gaps : the connection between the handlebars and the frame, the inside of the brake lever, the seat lock hole, the gap in the battery compartment cover, and the edges of the lights, etc. These places are prone to water accumulation and need to be wiped dry carefully.

3. Avoid extreme dryness : Never use a heat gun or open flame to dry the car, as high temperatures will damage plastic parts and cables. Also, do not expose the car to direct sunlight , as this will accelerate the aging of the outer shell and tires, and the moisture trapped in the enclosed space can actually corrode the interior.

Second item: In-depth inspection and drying of key areas

Core objective : Eliminate potential hazards and ensure the safety of core electrical systems.

1. Check the battery and charging port : This is of utmost importance! Open the under-seat storage compartment or battery compartment, and carefully wipe the battery surface, battery terminals, and vehicle charging port dry with a dry cloth or paper towel . Ensure both are completely dry before charging, otherwise it could easily cause a short circuit and fire.

2. Check the braking system : Rainwater can reduce braking performance. Drive at low speed and lightly apply the brakes to check for any unusual noises, slippage, or loss of braking force. For disc brake systems, check for any oil-water mixture on the discs; for drum brake systems, after driving through water, lightly brake several times to allow friction to generate heat and evaporate the moisture.

3. Check the lights and horn : Turn on the headlights and taillights, turn signals, and press the horn once to ensure they are all working properly. If the lights are flickering or the horn is not working, the wiring connections may be damp; wait for them to dry or have them repaired.

Third item: Post-maintenance of chain/drive and vehicle body

Core objective : To prevent mechanical wear and paint corrosion.

1. Transmission system maintenance (for vehicles with chains or exposed gears) :

Cleaning : If the chain is covered in dirt and sand, first clean it with an old toothbrush or dry cloth.

Lubrication : After the chain is completely dry , spray evenly with a special electric vehicle or bicycle chain lubricant . After spraying, let the bike idle slowly for a few revolutions to allow the lubricant to penetrate. Finally, wipe away any excess oil with a cloth to prevent dust accumulation.

Note: This step can be simplified for fully enclosed hub motors and drive systems, but it is still necessary to check for any unusual noises.

2. Corrosion protection for car body and metal parts :

After thoroughly drying the car body, you can spray a layer of "dashboard wax" onto the plastic exterior . This will form a protective film, preventing UV aging and enhancing the gloss.

For exposed metal parts such as frames and brackets (especially welded areas), a thin layer of "grease" or "metal protectant" can be applied to effectively isolate air and moisture and prevent rust from spreading.

Safety Tips for Riding in the Rain: "Three Dos and Three Don'ts"

While doing your research beforehand and taking care of your bike afterward, good cycling habits are equally important:

✅Three essentials:

1. Slow down : Braking distance is doubled on wet and slippery roads, and skidding is very easy when turning.

2. Anticipate potential problems : Avoid areas with deep water (ideally no more than half the height of the wheel rim), as there may be potholes or sharp objects underwater.

3. Turn on your lights : Even during the day, turn on your low beam headlights or daytime running lights to improve your visibility in dark, rainy conditions.

❌Three things to avoid:

1. Avoid sudden braking and acceleration : This prevents tire slippage and protects the motor and controller from electrical shocks.

2. Do not venture into deep water : if the water level is above the center of the wheel hub, there is an extremely high risk of water entering the motor bearings and controller.

3. Do not charge immediately : Wait at least 30 minutes after riding to ensure the battery and charging port are completely dry.

   

In summary, the reliability of an electric vehicle in the rain is the result of both its inherent characteristics (IP protection rating) and its maintenance practices (riding habits). Spending ten minutes performing this standard post-rain maintenance routine can not only avoid high repair costs but also ensure that your travel companion becomes your most reliable support on every rainy day.

If you are unsure about your bike's specific waterproof rating, or encounter any problems during actual use, please visit our official website https://www.flywocitycoco.com/ .

Here, you can find detailed product protection information, obtain professional maintenance guidelines, or contact our customer service for one-on-one support , ensuring professional protection accompanies you on every worry-free ride.