Most e-bikes (electric bikes) have problems with water ingress into the motors. This can cause a few problems with the motor electrics, as we all know water and electricity do not go well together.
Most E-bikes will go either into safety mode (limp mode), or completely stop working. When water gets into the motor wires, gears and other components start to rust and rapidly wear out, which means it would then need to be replaced by a brand specialist and can be quite costly at some dealerships for labour and new parts.
This can be prevented in different ways, but it all depends on where you like to ride your E-bike, either off-road or on-road. It also especially depends on the different terrains with water build-up or even just boggy and muddy terrains.
These little tips may help a lot of people as it has with me and friends. Below I will write down a step-by-step guide on how to try and prevent these faults from happening to you when you’re riding in wet conditions on your E-bike.
Methods to preventing water ingress in your E-bike
1. Clean & protect
All bikes should be cleaned and protected with the product of your choice before you go out on a ride. (Most people prefer their own choice of products).
2. Check all connectors
Visually check all connectors. Check to see if the seals look okay and are not perished or broken.
3. ‘O’ Rings petroleum jelly application
All ‘O’ rings and connectors should have a little bit of petroleum jelly (vaseline) or red rubber grease to help protect the ‘O’ ring, pins in the connector, and motor. It acts as an extra seal to the connector and motor to prevent water ingress.
4. Connectors petroleum jelly application
Apply a bit of petroleum jelly on the outside of the connectors when they are still plugged in and also apply it around the bearing seals. This will stop most of the dirt and water from getting in where you don’t want it to. Plus, it will make it a lot easier when it comes to cleaning your e-bike after a ride, especially when it’s muddy.
5. Do not jetwash
DO NOT jet wash or use high-pressure water close to any electrical components, seals on the bearings, motor and battery. This will force water and dirt into the seals and then into the motor or electrical components. This will make the bike either fail instantly or gradually fade out and fail to cause permanent damage.
6. Do not submerge in water
I know it’s quite obvious, but DO NOT submerge the motor or electrical components in water at all as this can cause the electrics to short out and fail.
7. Store in a dry warm place
When storing your e-bike or if you’re not using it for a while, it is best to keep the e-bike indoors at room temperature or in a garage away from dampness. It’s best to remove the battery if you are leaving it in a garage or somewhere that is prone to coldness/dampness.
8. Always remove the battery if not used for some time
Always remove the battery so no dampness or condensation can cause shortages. which can find its way into the motherboards and corrode components, If you are leaving it for long periods of time, don’t leave any battery connected as this can cause damage by leaking, which is quite rare but can happen.
Summary
Hopefully, these steps help you prevent your E-bike from getting water damaged. If you have any other suggestions, please feel free to drop me an email!