When winter comes, many cyclists hang up their helmets. Cold temperatures, snowy weather and slippery ice are among the many reasons why cyclists escape the cold. If only there was an easy and efficient way to get around town without having to drive or take public transport.
The e-bike revolution is coming. E-bikes have long-lasting batteries, powerful motors and pedal assist modes. These components allow you to ride faster and longer with less pedalling effort. Some even come with throttles that eliminate the need to pedal.
Why is winter commuting tough?
There are many reasons why winter commuting can be difficult, one of which is poor weather conditions.
As temperatures drop, you are more likely to experience inclement weather, including heavy rain and snowfall. These conditions increase the risk of slipping on ice or getting stuck in deep snow.
Another issue with winter commuting is limited transportation options. Excessive snow can block roads, pavements and railway tracks. Traffic jams and public transport delays can lead to longer travel times.
Winter storms can also cause power outages, disrupting trams, trains and traffic lights.
What are the benefits of e-bikes for winter commuting?
Here are just a few of the many benefits of using an e-bike for your winter commute.
Health and Wellness
Riding an e-bike in the winter allows you to burn calories and build stamina in cold weather.
In fact, studies have shown that cold weather burns more calories than warm weather. This is because your body has to work harder to maintain your core temperature, which leads to a faster metabolism.
Convenient and reliable
Riding an e-bike in winter avoids many of the potential pitfalls of driving and public transport, including the risk of traffic jams or public transport shutdowns due to snow or power outages.
With an e-bike, you can take short cuts through alleys and side streets. This means you can avoid obstacles on main roads and railway lines. In addition, the electric motor and pedal assist mode help you to climb steep hills more easily.
Stay active all year round
Staying active in the winter can be difficult. Low temperatures and inclement weather favour more sedate activities. Sitting on the couch watching TV or playing video games is an example.
Riding an e-bike in the winter helps keep you fit and active. It's a great way to get an aerobic workout. It can also help you meet the recommended amount of aerobic exercise, which is 150 minutes per week.
Contribute to the environment
Transport accounts for about 24 per cent of the planet's total carbon dioxide emissions. The threat of global warming is a concern for many. As a result, more and more people are looking to use eco-friendly vehicles instead of petrol-driven cars.
E-bikes have a bright future as a sustainable mode of transport. Unlike petrol driven cars, e-bikes do not produce harmful emissions. E-bikes also require far fewer watt-hours (WH) to operate, consuming only 5 to 15 WH of electricity per kilometre travelled.
Potential Challenges of Riding an E-Bike in the Winter
While there are many advantages to riding an e-bike in the winter, there are potential challenges that can hinder the experience.
Battery Performance in Cold Weather
Unfortunately, cold weather can affect battery performance. When exposed to below-freezing temperatures (32°F), e-bike battery range drops by 20 to 30 percent. The result is a lower range on a single charge.
How does cold weather affect e-bike batteries? It slows down the chemical reactions that occur inside lithium-ion batteries. It causes the battery to discharge faster. Frequent riding in sub-zero temperatures can also reduce battery capacity.
Smooth surfaces
When riding in winter, it is important to be aware of slippery surfaces. The most dangerous surface in winter is black ice. This is a clear, invisible layer of water that forms on roads, trails and bridges. Not only is black ice difficult to spot, but it is also very slippery.
Maintenance
There are many things to consider when preparing for a winter e-bike adventure. E-bikes are sensitive to extreme temperature changes. You must take extra precautions to care for them.
To protect your e-bike from inclement weather during the winter months, follow some of these best practices:
Store your e-bike battery indoors at 50° to 70°F
If you plan to take a break from cycling, keep your e-bike battery between 50% and 70% charged. Protect your e-bike battery from rain and snow with a protective cover
Technological advances in winter e-bikes
E-bike technology has come a long way. These include more powerful motors, longer lasting batteries, fast charging capabilities and torque sensors. These advances allow you to ride faster, longer and enjoy a natural pedalling feel.
How do these advancements lead to a better winter riding experience?
Firstly, the more powerful motor makes it easier for you to climb steep hills and maintain speed in deep snow. Second, torque sensors provide a more natural pedal feel. They help reduce the lag between when you use the pedals and when the motor kicks in.
The long-lasting battery helps offset the loss of energy capacity when riding in cold weather. This means you can ride longer on a single charge. There are also batteries with built-in heating. They help protect your battery from the effects of cold weather.
In short, winter is usually associated with staying indoors. Commuting by e-bike in winter has many benefits. It can help you stay healthy and active, avoid traffic jams, and enjoy a more sustainable lifestyle.
Is it worth commuting by e-bike in winter? Absolutely worth it! The best way to ride in the winter is with an e-bike from Bodywel.
Explore Bodywel's full range of e-bikes to enhance your winter cycling experience.