Winter riding on an electric bike: what I learned
I rode a Himiway Zebra through a whole winter. Here is what you need, in order of importance, to ride safely and stay warm.
1. Studded tires come first
This is the priority, because of the danger: on ice, without studs, you fall. If your budget is tight, a single studded tire on the front may be enough. On my Zebra, I studded the rear tire myself.
2. Dressing to ride
- Ski-style helmet with an integrated visor: waterproof, with a top vent against fogging.
- Warm, windproof coat.
- Waterproof pants against slush.
- Boots that are not too big: you pedal better and avoid lace or chain problems.
3. Warm hands, good brakes
I prefer gloves over mittens: you brake much better. Add sleeves that cover both grips and brake levers: hands stay warm and dry, and you don’t slip on the grips or brakes.
4. Maintenance: salt is the enemy
- Wash the bike with water once or twice a week to remove road salt and calcium. Otherwise the frame and derailleur rust quickly.
- Winter chain lubricant (not WD-40): more viscous, it stays on the chain, protects it from rust and keeps it from breaking.
- Storage: overnight, neither too hot nor too cold.
5. Be seen, and film it
On top of the bike’s own light, I add a USB-rechargeable clip-on light on the handlebar: I take it off at night to charge indoors. And I use a GoPro camera to film my winter rides on wide studded tires.
Need advice?
Write to me and I’ll tell you what I would do in your place. For your bike’s battery and charger, see accessories and parts. To pick a fat-tire model, see electric fat bikes.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need studded tires to ride in winter?
In my experience, yes: it is the safety priority. At the very least, a studded front tire.
How do I protect my bike from salt?
Rinse it with water once or twice a week and use a winter chain lubricant rather than WD-40.
How do I pay for my order?
No payment is taken on the website. After you send your order, Guillaume confirms the final price with taxes, then you pay by PayPal (invoice or link, with a pay-in-4 option subject to eligibility) or by Interac e-Transfer.
How does delivery work?
Delivery is included in the listed price and usually takes 3 to 7 business days. E-bikeQC does not hold stock: your order ships directly to you from our supplier. Guillaume confirms the delivery time for your province when he confirms your order.