Yes, electric bikes are incredibly water resistant and are designed to withstand rainy or snowy riding conditions. After a ride, you can take a minute to wipe or dry your bike off after riding in the snow to remove any built-up grime and avoid any residual moisture from staying on the bike.
Slushy Season: How to Ride an E-Bike in the Snow
Written by: Rémy Rossi | March 3, 2025 | Time to read 6 min
Electric bikes can be a secret weapon when riding through snow, but there are a few tips you should keep in mind to stay safe and comfortable on your chilly winter expeditions.
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.
I’m lucky that I can cycle in sunny weather on dry roads nearly all year long— though it gets chilly in winter, I have to climb a lot to make it to the snow. But I called my dad the other day and was reminded that the harsh Northern Michigan weather keeps him off his bike in the colder months. He doesn’t ride in the winter because he’s a road cyclist and he’d much rather do some cross-country skiing anyway— but tons of riders brave the cold and continue biking during this time of the year.
Riding a bicycle or electric bike in the snow requires a bit of preparation and practice, but it’s a seriously cool experience on two wheels. Whether you cycle through the snow for pleasure or necessity, here are some tips on how to safely ride an electric bike during winter.
Riding a bicycle or electric bike in the snow requires a bit of preparation and practice, but it’s a seriously cool experience on two wheels. Whether you cycle through the snow for pleasure or necessity, here are some tips on how to safely ride an electric bike during winter.
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Get the right set of tires
Tires are super important in the winter to have enough traction over snowy conditions or icy surfaces. Studded winter tires are appropriate if you constantly ride over snow-covered or icy paths, but aren’t recommended for dry roads (the metal spikes will dull too fast). Studded tires may be overkill in milder winter conditions, but many cyclists swear by them. Regardless, a heavy tread pattern is recommended.
You’ll want to have wide or fat tires to ride through soft snow, but narrower tires are fine for hardpack surfaces. Fat tire bikes and their oversized tires have the ability to “float” over loose surfaces like fresh snow. That said, the boost from the e-Bike motor can also help you get through that softer terrain, even without as wide of tires. It’s also a good idea to run lower tire pressures for better grip.
You’ll want to have wide or fat tires to ride through soft snow, but narrower tires are fine for hardpack surfaces. Fat tire bikes and their oversized tires have the ability to “float” over loose surfaces like fresh snow. That said, the boost from the e-Bike motor can also help you get through that softer terrain, even without as wide of tires. It’s also a good idea to run lower tire pressures for better grip.
Ride safely and maybe even slowly (*gasp*)
Take it easy when riding in the winter. There can be hidden patches of ice, slippery conditions, and snowy terrain that are different from normal riding conditions. I remember falling on my bike as I approached a snow-covered bridge— even though I was rolling slowly, the elevated bridge was colder than the surrounding paths and the ice brought me down during a turn.
Avoid riding too fast and take extra precautions in case there are potholes or other obstacles hidden beneath the snow’s surface. And make sure you’re riding with a bright front and rear light on these short, sun-sparse winter days.
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Don’t go overboard with the power
The boost from an electric bike can make winter riding through sticky snow and slush easier, but too much power can be dangerous. Hitting the throttle suddenly or accelerating quickly can cause the wheels to spin out since there’s less traction. Get going with controlled starts and don’t pedal too hard while cornering which could lead to a boost in the pedal assist, especially on rear-heavy or rear hub-drive e-Bikes.
Be prepared that battery range will decrease
Cold weather will reduce your e-Bike’s battery range, as cold temperatures decrease battery performance. While your battery will still function properly, you may notice a drop in overall range when riding in very cold road conditions.
To maximize battery life, store and charge it indoors— keeping it in a chilly garage or outside takes a serious toll on e-Bike battery efficiency. You might hear people talk about insulation sleeves to keep the battery warm and from the cold, but batteries heat up during use, so the temperature is not as much of a problem while riding. Another note— phone batteries are the same way so keep your phone in a pocket that's close to your skin to maintain an ideal temperature.
To maximize battery life, store and charge it indoors— keeping it in a chilly garage or outside takes a serious toll on e-Bike battery efficiency. You might hear people talk about insulation sleeves to keep the battery warm and from the cold, but batteries heat up during use, so the temperature is not as much of a problem while riding. Another note— phone batteries are the same way so keep your phone in a pocket that's close to your skin to maintain an ideal temperature.
Keep your electric bike clean
In winter, don’t mistake a wet bike for a clean one—rain, slush, and road grime can actually make it dirtier. Cities often add salt or sand to their roads to prevent ice formation, but all that material can wreak havoc on your drivetrain, so regular cleaning is essential.
Wash or wipe down your entire bike after riding it and dry it thoroughly to minimize moisture exposure and prevent damage. It’s a smart idea to winterize your electric bicycle to ensure optimal performance in colder weather.
Fat bikes vs. e-Bikes
Perhaps the spiciest of winter wars, the choice between fat bikes and electric bikes has been heating up over the past few years. Fat-tire bikes are an excellent option for winter cycling because of their wider tires that provide superior traction and stability on deep snow. Their low-pressure tires and large contact patch with the ground help distribute weight evenly, allowing riders to float over snow-covered trails.
But fat bikes aren’t the only option. Their wide tires provide sufficient traction to be able to pedal through the snow, but e-Bike with added power can help overcome those same challenges that come with soft snow. Some riders don’t like the cumbersome feel of fat tires and may prefer an electric bike to take on winter rides. Both styles of bikes have increased in popularity in recent years and it’s great to see more winter-ready setups than ever.
Upway has a large selection of fat tire electric bikes that are ready for the winter. Or if you’re looking for a commuter e-Bike or used electric bike, we offer deep discounts on models from the top brands! As mentioned, e-Bikes are especially suited to power through tricky snow-covered trails and may just be your ticket to fun, safe riding this winter season.
But fat bikes aren’t the only option. Their wide tires provide sufficient traction to be able to pedal through the snow, but e-Bike with added power can help overcome those same challenges that come with soft snow. Some riders don’t like the cumbersome feel of fat tires and may prefer an electric bike to take on winter rides. Both styles of bikes have increased in popularity in recent years and it’s great to see more winter-ready setups than ever.
Upway has a large selection of fat tire electric bikes that are ready for the winter. Or if you’re looking for a commuter e-Bike or used electric bike, we offer deep discounts on models from the top brands! As mentioned, e-Bikes are especially suited to power through tricky snow-covered trails and may just be your ticket to fun, safe riding this winter season.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you ride an electric bike in the rain and snow?
Do you need a winter bike?
A dedicated “winter bike” isn’t required to ride during the colder months. Some riders enjoy the convenience of having an additional bike that’s already prepared with wider tires and fenders, but you can winterize your e-Bike with just a few tweaks.
Are electric bikes waterproof?
Yes, e-Bikes are designed to withstand rain and frequent washes. The motor and battery are protected by heavy-duty seals and channels to draw away any moisture. Avoid leaving your e-Bike out in downpours for an extended period and don’t use a power washer around the electrical components.
Key Takeaways
- Tires and Traction Are Key: Studded tires provide exceptional grip, while fat tires help float over snow. Lower tire pressure improves winter traction.
- Ride Carefully and Control Power: Snow and ice hide hazards, so ride cautiously. Sudden acceleration can cause wheel spin—smooth starts and steady pedaling help.
- Cold Affects Battery and Maintenance: Cold reduces battery range, so store and charge it indoors. Clean your e-Bike regularly to prevent salt and slush damage.
