If you are new to the world of scooting and have purchased or are thinking about purchasing an electric scooter, you probably have a few questions on how these unique machines work.
One major concern owners have is whether or not you can ride an electric scooter in the rain. This concern is especially legitimate for those who live in wet climates. These are some of the concerns scooter riders have and the answers to put your mind at ease.
Riding an Electric Scooter in the Rain
If you ride your electric scooter in the rain, you are risking two things. The first is how the water will affect the electronic components on your scooter.
Some of the low-grade scooters on the market are able to take a splash or two of water, as well as handle some scattered raindrops. Riding a machine such as this would be a gamble. When an electric machine is not manufactured with quality, it should remain inside during the rain.
The second risk you take when riding your scooter in the rain is how the machine will perform under wet conditions. Just as a bicycle, motorcycle, and even your car handle differently on wet road surfaces, so will the electric scooter.
Tracton is drastically reduced on a wet road and will make it harder to maneuver or stop your scooter. If your scooter is not from a top-brand, it might also have poor handling in the rain.
When you ride on an electric scooter, you have very close contact with the machine. This close contact causes worry in a lot of those new to the scooter world. They become a bit nervous because everyone knows electricity and water do not mix. The truth is, however, the chances of being electrocuted on an electric scooter in the rain are extremely low.
Most manufacturers will recommend you avoid damp or wet conditions whenever it is possible, as both the internal and external parts of the scooter can become compromised.
When this damage occurs, it could affect other parts of the machine, such as the brake system. When exposed to moisture, the shell of the scooter can also be damaged, especially in those models with low-quality chrome plating, or those constructed of other metal types that are known to corrode easily.
If your electric scooter sits outside when you don’t use it, you should cover it in case rain should occur. A waterproof cover is recommended to protect it from moisture and rain. The cover should be high-quality and have the ability to speed up the evaporation process.
Risks of Riding an Electric Scooter in the Rain
There are other concerns to take note of when you are out in wet weather. Manufacturers don’t encourage you to ride your electric scooter in the rain if you have other options to avoid using it.
If you should ride through flooded roadways or deep puddles, you risk damaging the electrical system and damage the battery as well. You should never put your scooter at risk of fully submerging the electrical components and battery in water.
Water-resistant does not have the same meaning as waterproof. If you have to be out in the rain on your scooter, you should avoid high waters or floods at all costs.
If you should get caught in a flash flood, deep puddle, or a stream or river, your electric scooter will become inoperable. If this happens, you risk permanent damage to your scooter.
Driving in the rain is not forbidden, but it should be restricted. If it is a light rain or drizzle, you can use a raincoat and should be able to finish your ride securely.
If it is raining hard, you should take notice of water and how it is collecting on the road or path surfaces as well as what your visibility is like.
Can You Ride an Electric Scooter in Freezing Rain?
If you should get caught out in the rain and it begins to freeze, it is strongly recommended you do not continue your ride. When you operate an electric scooter in freezing rain, it will cause the motor and battery to overwork.
This results in adverse effects on your engine and battery life. Should your electric scooter get cold, you need to warm the battery before trying to power up or recharge.
Suggestions on Preventing Damage to your Electric Scooter in the Rain
These are a few suggestions to help you prevent damaging your electric scooter:
Ideal weather conditions
The best time to use your electric scooter is when the temperatures are above freezing, and it is dry out. Conditions less than this, or when it is wet and cold out, you risk damaging the internal electric system of your scooter.
Wet and cold weather conditions also put your battery at risk. If your scooter does become compromised to either of these weather systems, have your battery checked by a professional to ensure it will still operate properly.
Prevent exposure to moisture
Moisture is able to harm both the internal and external parts of your electric scooter. It could lead to electrical damage and rusting that will impact the basic safety parts of the scooter, such as the tires.
Riding in rain affects visibility
While it may be acceptable to ride your scooter in light rain, you must keep a close eye on the weather, as it could turn into heavier rain. Heavy rains can impact how well you can see what is ahead of you on the road or path.
It also makes it harder for others to see you. Low or bad visibility puts you at serious risk for an accident.
When you try to determine if you should ride your electric scooter in the rain, remember the situations that are likely to cause serious damage to your machine, and put you at personal risk.
There are situations where riding can be a pleasant experience but remain aware of the road conditions, weather conditions, and how well you can see.