The best e-bikes for snow: a guide to winter cycling

The best e-bikes for snow: a guide to winter cycling

The best electric bikes for snow riding allow you to ride safely and comfortably through white powder snow. They usually feature sturdy frames, wide tyres, powerful motors and durable suspension systems. These qualities allow you to absorb violent shocks and travel through deep snow, keeping you stable and comfortable in unpredictable terrain.

However, with so many e-bikes on the market, it can be difficult to know which model is best for you. That's where the experts at Bodywel can help! Read on to find out which e-bike is best for snow and how to prepare for winter riding.

Why are e-bikes suitable for snow?

There are many reasons why e-bikes are suitable for snow riding. Some of the most important factors are wide tyres, powerful motors, strong brakes, long range batteries and weather resistant components. Let's discuss these components in more detail.

E-bikes with wide tyres

Wide tyre e-bikes excel in maintaining grip on deep snow and icy roads. Winter commuter tyres have a strong tread pattern and a wide profile. These features help you to cut through deep snow, allowing the tyres to cover a larger surface area for extra grip and stability.

E-bikes fitted with studded tyres offer greater stability when travelling on snow. These bikes have metal studs embedded in the winter tyres that ‘bite’ through ice and snow. This configuration provides better traction and support.

High-power motors

Another reason why e-bikes are suitable for snow is their high-powered motors. Motors rated at 750 watts or higher perform best on snow and off-road surfaces.

The extra power helps you accelerate faster and climb steep hills more easily. You can also more easily maintain a consistent speed in deep snow. What's more, an e-bike with throttle lets you maintain speed without pedalling, helping you sweat less and save energy.

Powerful brakes

The two most common braking options for e-bikes are mechanical disc brakes and hydraulic disc brakes.

On the one hand, mechanical brakes are cheaper and easier to repair and maintain. However, hydraulic disc brakes are more precise in their braking force and make it easier to control how hard (or hard) you come to a complete stop.

Hydraulic disc brakes are also sealed, keeping contaminants out and thus reducing maintenance.

High Performance Battery

All e-bikes come with batteries. They power the motor and enable the pedal assist and, if equipped, the throttle to function properly. The average battery capacity is between 25 watt-hours (Wh) and 1,000Wh. The higher the battery capacity, the longer you can ride on a single charge.

Since cold weather can shorten the distance travelled by an e-bike battery, it is best to purchase a high capacity battery. This helps to compensate for the loss of battery capacity when riding in snow.

Weather-resistant components

Most e-bikes are weather-resistant so you can ride in rain and snow.

To achieve this weather resistance, electrical components, including cables and batteries, are housed in IP-rated enclosures. The highest rating is IP68, which provides maximum protection against dust and water.

In addition, e-bike frames are made from durable materials, the most popular of which are aluminium and carbon fibre. Both materials are lightweight and corrosion-resistant, which means they retain their original shape and appearance even in winter.

Top electric bikes for snow and winter riding

In order to conquer the harsh winter weather, you need the best snow e-bike. However, with so many models on the market, it can be difficult to make an informed decision.

Here is a breakdown of the best electric bikes for travelling in the snow.

Bodywel F20SE Wide Tyre Electric Bike

The F20SE is a wide tyre e-bike with a 250W motor 55N.m peak torque, a top speed of 25km/h and speeds of up to 32MPH with throttle.

Bodywel F20 SE Foldable Fat Tire Electric Bike - Bodywel UK

The foldable design means you can store the frame in compact spaces, such as on public transport or in the boot of your vehicle, while the 20*4’ wide tyres and front suspension help to soak up bumps and ensure a comfortable ride on rough and uneven snow.

The removable battery design allows you to charge it anywhere, ensuring you have plenty of range wherever you go.48V 15.6Ah battery capacity, up to 100km range on a single charge.

Bodywel F20PRO Wide Tyre Electric Bike

The F20PRO is similar to the F20SE in that it has a modest folding aluminium frame, a powerful 55N.m/250W motor and 20*4’ wide tyres, there are still differences between the two.

Bodywel F20 Pro Folding Fat Tire E-Bike - Bodywel UK

The first choice is the F20PRO's 120km range, which is 20km more than the F20SE, followed by the built-in removable battery, and best of all is the F20Pro's four-link full suspension system, which means better damping than the F20SE, and dual front and rear hydraulic disc brakes, which provide a strong guarantee of your riding safety, so if you're on a budget. The F20PRO is the ideal companion for snow travellers.

How to prepare your e-bike for winter riding

During the winter months, exposing your e-bike to the elements can be dangerous. Over-exposure to the cold can quickly shorten the life of the battery. Riding with the wrong tyre pressure increases the risk of slips and falls.

Here's how to prepare your e-bike for winter riding:

Fully charge the battery before setting off
Store the battery indoors with proper climate control
Adjust tyre pressure to the correct level
Use a rear mudguard to prevent debris from staining your clothes
Essential accessories for snowy rides

When riding an e-bike in winter, safety should be the primary consideration. Especially when riding at night or in foggy conditions. Here are some essential accessories to keep you safe and comfortable during the winter months:

Riding goggles to keep your eyes clear and dry
Waterproof clothing to keep you dry in rain and snow
Mobile phone holder for GPS navigation
Waterproof battery cover to protect your battery from excess moisture, dust and snow
Tips for safe riding in the snow
Riding safely in the snow requires more than just the right accessories. You also need to follow some basic riding tips and common sense rules. Follow these tips to ride safely in the snow.

Slow down to maintain control when riding on icy terrain
Avoid making sudden manoeuvres such as accelerating, braking or swerving
Avoid riding on black ice, which can be very slippery
Wear brightly coloured clothing and use a headlamp to improve visibility

Discover the best e-bikes for winter

Most people store their e-bikes during the winter months. However, riding in cold weather (especially snow) is a unique experience. It allows you to enjoy the outdoors in a whole new way.

Of course, you need the right e-bike to stay safe and comfortable in cold weather. Luckily, Bodywel offers a wide range of models to suit your needs. Explore our full line of electric bikes to enhance your e-bike experience.