On two wheels through autumn and winter

Rain, mud, darkness - even the most passionate cyclist has to show stamina in autumn and winter. But with the right equipment and a few tricks, eBike riding can be enjoyed even in the more uncomfortable months. And if you do it right, cycling can help you get through the cold seasons healthy and fit. Because eBiking gets the circulation going, strengthens the immune system, reduces stress and possibly saves you from the next cold. Bosch eBike Systems provides tips on what to consider before, during and after the ride.


1 The right equipment
"There is no such thing as bad weather, only the wrong clothing." This also applies to cycling in the dark season. The best way to be prepared for anything is with the onion look: the bottom layer consists of functional clothing that carries moisture to the outside. On top of that, wind- and waterproof clothing provides the right protection. To prevent cold fingers and to always be able to brake, gloves protect you in winter. A headband, a thin cap or a special inner lining for helmets helps against cold ears. If the cold winter air brings tears to your eyes, it's also best to wear protective goggles. And if it rains or snows? There are solutions for that, too. With a rain cap for the helmet, rain pants or rain leggings for the legs and overshoes for the shoes, you can reach your destination dry.

2 Preparing the eBike for autumn and winter
Even the best equipment for the rider is of no use if the eBike is not in good shape. The tires should have enough tread. If the ground is heavily icy or snowy, spikes can help. They increase the grip, but are only approved for pedelecs with an assistance of up to 25 km/h. It is particularly important to protect the battery on the eBike. The eBiker does not have to worry about rain and splashing water, which cannot harm the components. For longer rides in sub-zero temperatures, a neoprene cover from a specialist retailer is recommended for the battery.

3 See and be seen
In the dark season, it is particularly important that the eBiker is clearly visible to other road users. For bicycles and pedelecs (up to 25 km/h) is required by law: Lighting with front headlight and white front reflector, rear light with integrated reflector and red reflector, reflective stripes on front and rear tires or reflectors in the spokes and two yellow reflectors on each pedal. In addition, bright clothing can help to draw attention to yourself. However, reflectors are most effective here as well: they significantly increase visibility.

4 Drive appropriately
Anticipatory and careful driving is the top priority on slippery roads. Abrupt steering movements and sharp braking should always be avoided in difficult road conditions. On snow, ice or leaves in particular, it is important to use the front brake in moderation and ideally not to pedal or brake when cornering. When starting off and on slippery surfaces, you should avoid strong motor assistance - for example, the turbo mode on the Bosch drive system. Cyclists belong on bike paths. This does not always apply: If the bike path is insufficiently cleared, the rider may swerve onto the road.

5 Important things to do after the tour
Once the biker has arrived at his destination, he would prefer to go straight into the warmth. Understandably. But before that, there are a few things to do: The battery should be removed from the bike and ideally stored indoors at temperatures between 15 and 20 degrees. This also applies to batteries integrated into the frame, such as the Bosch PowerTube 500. Dirt, such as salt from splash water, mud or snow that sticks to the eBike after a ride, should ideally be washed off directly after each tour. This way, the dirt can't get stuck in the first place. To protect the eBike from wind and weather, it should ideally be stored in the garage or cellar after the ride. If there is no storage space for the pedelec, a bike cover can protect the bike from snow and rain.

6 "Mothballing" theeBike
According to a forsa survey, 28 percent of German cyclists ride their bike year-round. To all those who leave their eBike standing over the winter, Harald Sterzl, expert advisor from Bosch eBike Systems, advises: "You should clean the pedelec and grease it lightly. I would also treat the chain and free aluminum parts accordingly with care products.
Battery and display should be removed and stored in a dry place at room temperature. It is important that the battery still has a charge capacity of between 30 and 60 percent."

What do I have to pay attention to with the battery in winter:

1. Remove the battery after each journey and only reinsert it shortly before the start of the journey.
2. Protect the battery during longer trips in the cold with thermal covers
3. In winter, expect a reduced range of the battery.
4. Store and charge the battery at room temperature