Liberty Trikes and the Rain: 5 DO'S AND DON'TS
Wondering if its ok to ride or drive in the rain with your Liberty Trike? The short answer is yes, but we strongly would advise against heavy rainstorms. Like everything though there are some do's and don'ts that will help you to stay safer and trouble-free.
We would not advise storing the eTrike outside or leaving it out in the elements indefinitely as moisture over time will find its way into electronics.
Like everything though there are some do's - and one big don't - that you should bear in mind. There are also some things to consider:
1. THE ONE BIG 'DON'T'
Riding an eTrike in light rain is the same as a normal trike bike except...
If it's a strong rainstorm, we highly advise against it for safety reasons.
Although our eTrike components, motor, battery, and connectors are water-resistant to handle rain and wet conditions, it's best to stay away from heavier rainfalls as to avoid battery damage or other electrical mishaps. Your battery in particular is susceptible to shorting out if submerged for any length of time. Something to be avoided :). Like any vehicle though, avoid riding through flooded water if you can, particularly fast moving water.
We also recommend that you don't leave your Liberty Trike outside in the weather for any length of time. This includes storing it in a dry place at home. And if storage is an issue, we have seen many Liberty Trikers purchase a bike tent for protection!
2. DO BE MORE CAUTIOUS
Being more cautious with how and where you ride sounds like a no-brainer however it is worth repeating. The roads are far more slippery, visibility can be poor and there are also likely to be unexpected objects on the roads.
The key things to be more cautious with are:
- Speed. Riding more slowly than usual gives you time to anticipate and avoid potential problems, plus helps you stop quickly if you need to.
- Braking.
- Much like driving a car, wet weather conditions can make coming to a complete stop for bikes slightly more difficult. It always takes longer than usual when its wet so brake early and brake smoothly to avoid locking up your wheels and skidding.
- Angles eg. try not to lean into corners or ride up gutters and driveways on an angle. Try to keep as much of your tire rubber on the road as possible.
- White lines and metal tracks and potholes. Very slippery in the wet. Also look out for places where there may be oil or petrol, mud and leaf matter on the road and avoid.
- Deep puddles and potholes. If there is or has been running water its hard to know whats in them or whether they have changed. For example, walk across a creek if you have to (and can) vs ride. Best to not even try it if its fast flowing water.
3. DO GET THE RIGHT GEAR
At a minimum the right gear in the wet can make your life a whole more comfortable.
We're talking about things such as:
- Safety gear - for example, lights and high visible clothing. If possible, it will be a good idea to wear neon or luminescent clothing with reflectors. A helmet is an absolute must and has the added benefit of keeping water out of your eyes if it has a visor. Clear glasses or goggles are recommended too (depending on how rainy it is)
- Tire pressures - lowering your tire pressures so you have more traction in the wet can be a huge advantage. Aim for lower to mid pressure, depending on how much load you are carrying.
- Weatherproof gear - having mudguards in the wet can help keep you and your bike clean. (There are lots of good removable options if you don't like to normally carry them so feel free to ask us.) Furthermore having waterproof panniers to hand and some spare ziplock or silicone bags can help protect your valuables, especially if you tend to travel with things such as laptops and tablets.
4. DO CLEAN YOUR LIBERTY TRIKE AND BATTERY POINTS
A quick clean of your LT after riding in the rain only takes a few minutes and will ensure your LT stays in good shape.
A wipe-down cleans it and helps you spot if there is any damage.
5. DO COVER YOUR BATTERY AND DISPLAY IF TRAVELING
If you are traveling somewhere in the rain with your LT mounted on an external carrier then take care with moisture getting into your battery or display. This is more of a concern for longer trips however something to be aware of as when on or behind a moving car the force of the rain is multiplied, a bit like a gurney.
Displays and batteries can be susceptible to getting moisture so for longer trips it is recommended to protect them with a cover.
There are covers available that you can purchase and you can also make your own if handy. For example a neoprene cover with velcro.
RIDING AN EBIKE IN THE WET CAN BE FUN
Rainy weather, even a rain event, is not a reason to stop riding. In fact it can be great fun, granted you don't have an accident or damage your LT!
We hope these tips help make your next (rainy) ride just as enjoyable as your sunny ones.
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