It's a good idea to rinse off any grime, dirt, and corrosive debris like salt (if riding in the winter) after every ride while they're still easy to remove. Under normal conditions, though, cleaning your bike every other week or so should be sufficient, depending on how often you ride. Remember that keeping your bike clean helps extend the lifespan of its components.
Easy Peasy: How To Clean Your Electric Bike
Written by: Rémy Rossi | March 14, 2025 | Time to read min
Take good care of your electric bike and it’ll take good care of you. Here’s everything you need to know about how to properly clean your e-Bike.
More about the Author: Remy Rossi
Rémy Rossi is a bike writer, mechanic, and educator who got his start in community-based bike shops and co-ops. With a decade in the industry, he still wrenches on bikes when he can and plays bike polo on a fixie.
Even if you’re not a mud-loving mountain biker, your e-Bike will need a thorough wash at some point. And for my fellow trail shredders out there, y’all already know the importance of cleaning dirt, grime, and other debris from your bikes. A quick wash should only take a couple of minutes after an especially dirty ride, and you can save longer cleanings for every once in a while.
A well-maintained e-Bike is more enjoyable to ride and will last longer than one that doesn’t receive the TLC it deserves. This article gives a gentle nudge to go and clean your used electric bike and— for those who need more of a push— come on now, wash your bike!
What you’ll need
- Bucket of soapy water
- Sponge, cloth, or soft brush
- Bicycle degreaser
- Toothbrush or plastic bristle brush
- Bike chain lubricant
- Dry cloth or towel
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How to wash your e-Bike
Washing an electric bike is pretty much the same procedure as a standard bike, but there are a few extra things to keep in mind:
- Secure or remove the battery: Manufacturers like Trek and Canyon recommend that you remove the battery before washing your bike, but others like Liv only mention ensuring the battery is locked into place— this prevents water from getting into undesired areas.
- Don’t use a high-pressure washer: A hose or bike-specific power washer is alright, but standing too close to the bike with a high-pressure washer could penetrate the seals around the electrical components or suspension.
- Dry your e-Bike after washing: This isn’t required on standard bikes, but it’s a good idea for e-Bikes to remove residual water near the display, controller, or battery. Just give it a wipe-down with a dry towel and you’re good to go.
1. Rinse cycle
Wet the entire bike using a hose or start with soapy water and a large sponge (or cloth or soft brush). Scrub away dirt, ensuring to get into hard-to-reach spots on the frame, pedals, and wheels. Rinse the bike with clean water to remove the sudsy water.
2. Degrease the drivetrain
Clean the drivetrain with a bike-specific degreaser— including the chain, chainrings, cassette, and derailleur areas. Allow the degreaser to work its magic for a minute, then clean it with a cloth (preferably one that’s not already covered in bike grease). Then lubricate the chain with the appropriate bike lube.
3. Dry the e-Bike
As mentioned, it’s important to dry e-Bikes after washing, since we want to limit the amount of moisture near the electrical components. The battery ports and compartments are designed to channel water away and drain automatically, but it’s best to pay special attention. Thoroughly drying the bike also prevents any streaking or caked-on soap or half-washed areas you may have missed.
Cleaning tips are crucial for all riders, whether you’re washing your commuter e-Bike or keeping your road bike in tip-top shape. Upway has got you covered with the biggest deals on new and 2nd hand e-Bike for sale!
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I clean my e-Bike?
How should I clean my bike in the winter?
A wet bike in the winter doesn’t mean it’s getting cleaned— in fact, it’s likely accumulating even more corrosive debris. Road slush, mud, and salt can coat your bike, speeding up wear on its components. When riding in the winter, wash your bike frequently and dry it thoroughly afterward to minimize moisture exposure.
Key Takeaways
- Regular Cleaning Extends Your e-Bike’s Lifespan: Keeping your electric bike clean prevents dirt, grime, and corrosive debris like salt from causing premature wear on components.
- Use the Right Cleaning Methods: Avoid high-pressure washers, secure or remove the battery, and use proper cleaning products to safely wash your e-Bike.
- Always Dry Your e-Bike After Washing: Unlike standard bikes, e-Bikes require thorough drying to prevent residual moisture from affecting electrical parts like the battery and display.
