7 Tips for Summer Ebike Rides

It’s the dog days of summer and you might want to stop riding your electric bike because it’s too darn hot out. I know it feels like just yesterday that we were getting our bikes out for the spring. Because of this, I put together a quick list of tips to help you ride more and suffer less.

7 Tips for Summer Ebike Rides

1. Stay hydrated

It’s simple, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t important. Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your ride. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty because thirst is an indication that you’re already dehydrated.

Dehydration can cause serious problems such as heat stroke or exhaustion, especially in hot weather. Plus, sweat evaporates much slower during humid conditions, making it harder for your body to cool off.

When you’re well hydrated, you perform better. A refreshing drink from your water bottle allows your heart to circulate blood more efficiently throughout your entire body. Check out the water bottle adapter from our shop if you are looking for a place to put your water bottle and still keep your step-through here.

2. Bring extra water

Did you know that you need at least 20 ounces of water per hour on an average summer ride? This means that one water bottle won't suffice unless you make several stops along the way for a refill. Even if you intend to ride for a short distance, keep in mind that your plans may change or you may become disoriented.

As a result, it's important to have plenty of water on hand for unplanned detours as well as longer journeys. One solution is to have one bottle of water attached to a cage on the frame of your e-bike and another in a backpack or other bag.

We suggest using an insulated water bottle and freezing them the night before you plan to ride. This way you can start drinking from the unfrozen bottle and have the frozen one as backup water as it melts. This ensures you a refreshing drink as you ride along.

3. Wear sunscreen!

When you're riding, the summer heat can be brutal on your skin. During the summer, sunburn and other damage can occur in less than an hour. This might be an even greater issue if you're riding with minimal clothing to stay cool in the heat.

So, use at least an SPF 30 sunscreen and reapply it frequently. Working up a sweat while riding might cause it to dissipate faster, so don't be surprised if you have to reapply multiple times on a long ride. You can try using sport sunscreens that promise to be more sweat-resistant, but it is critical to pay attention and reapply if it does wear off.

Remember to take specific care on areas of your body that will be directly exposed to the sun during your ride, such as the back of your neck and the top of your hands.

4. Plan ahead

Check the weather forecast the night before you plan to go on a ride to get an idea as to when the temperature will be at its highest. Based on that information, you may decide that it is best to schedule your ride for early morning or around nightfall.

Planning ahead of time also allows you to dress for the weather. If it appears that the heat may be an issue, choose a lightweight, breathable material that allows you to take advantage of the wind. Loose clothes also work as long as it doesn't get tangled up in your bike.

Also, if you normally use a backpack to transport your beach gear or picnic goodies, try leaving it at home. Using a basket will make sure your body gets ventilation and carry all your stuff.

5. Pace yourself

It might be difficult to bike at full speed on the warmest days of the year. So, remember, you don't need to break any speed records during the summer heat. Rather than risking a heat stroke, pace yourself to where you feel comfortable. Take stops to hydrate and relax. Use a little extra pedal assist. Remember getting some exercise is great! Before going on any day-long excursions, it is a good idea to go on a few shorter rides to get acclimated to riding in the heat.

6. Take care of your battery

We recommend storing your ebike indoors but that’s not always possible. If you’re camping or going on a lengthy trip with your ebike attached to the back of your trailer, consider taking the battery out.

Exposing the battery in direct sunlight for extended periods of time can wear down the components used to generate power for your bike, which may result in capacity loss.

Check out our tips on caring for your ebike battery.

7. Wear the right clothes

In the summer, you should think about what you wear when riding your e-bike. Sweating is necessary to keep you cool and maintain your body temperature, and it is especially vital on hot days.

So, instead of wearing full-length bike pants, consider shorts or capris. Some short sleeve bike jerseys provide sun protection while yet allowing the skin to breathe.

Another thing to consider is the material of your clothing. Cotton absorbs your sweat, you want something that draws the sweat away from your body, like Lycra.

Final Thoughts

A well-planned e-bike trip may be the difference between a nice and pleasurable ride and heat exhaustion. So pack sunscreen and try these tips to stay cool riding your e-bike this summer.