Seasonal eBike Care: How to Prep Your Electric Bike for Summer

As warmer temperatures roll into Central Virginia, riders everywhere are dusting off their electric bikes and gearing up for longer rides, daily commutes, and outdoor adventures. But before you hop on your Mokwheel eBike for the first sunny spin of the season, a little preparation goes a long way. Just like cars or traditional bikes, eBikes benefit from regular seasonal maintenance—especially after winter storage.

In this guide, we’ll walk through essential eBike seasonal care tips to help you get the most out of your ride this summer. From battery protection and tire pressure to cleaning, storage, and more, these steps will help you avoid unexpected issues and extend the life of your electric bike.

Why Seasonal Maintenance Matters for eBikes

Electric bikes combine mechanical components with sensitive electronics—making routine care essential for performance, safety, and longevity. Seasonal temperature changes can affect everything from tire pressure to battery health. After a period of limited use, it’s crucial to perform a thorough inspection before regular riding resumes.

By integrating summer riding tips and seasonal upkeep into your routine, you’ll enjoy smoother rides, reduce the risk of breakdowns, and protect your investment over time.

Step 1: Post-Winter Inspection

If your eBike has been sitting unused during colder months, start your summer prep with a full inspection. Even if you performed eBike winter maintenance before storage, double-checking components ensures your bike is ready for the season ahead.

Key Areas to Inspect:

• Tires and wheels: Check for cracks in the rubber, flat spots, or embedded debris. Inflate tires to the manufacturer’s recommended PSI (listed on the tire sidewall).
• Brakes: Inspect brake pads for wear and test both front and rear brakes for responsiveness.
• Chain and drivetrain: Look for rust, dirt buildup, or dry links. Clean and lubricate the chain as needed.
• Frame and hardware: Look for loose bolts, corrosion, or frame damage—especially if your bike was stored in a garage or shed.
• Display and controls: Turn on your display, test pedal assist settings, throttle responsiveness, and lights.

If any issues are found—or if you’re unsure about mechanical parts—schedule a tune-up with a local bike shop or stop by Perry Pools for assistance.

Step 2: Battery Care for Hot Weather

Your eBike’s battery is the most expensive and sensitive component—making battery care a top priority as temperatures rise. While eBikes are designed to function in a wide range of conditions, heat can accelerate battery wear if not managed properly.

Battery Tips for Summer:

• Avoid direct sunlight during storage or breaks. Excessive heat can damage lithium-ion battery cells.
• Store indoors in a cool, dry space when not in use, ideally between 50–75°F.
• Charge at room temperature. Don’t plug in immediately after a hot ride or after being left in the sun.
• Keep the battery clean. Use a dry cloth to remove dust and debris from the terminals and casing.
• Check for firmware updates. Some battery systems (like Mokwheel’s smart system) may receive updates to optimize performance.

If your bike was stored long-term during winter, charge the battery fully before your first ride and test its range to confirm it’s holding a full charge.

Step 3: Clean and Lubricate Your eBike

Winter storage—especially in dusty or damp environments—can leave your bike with residue or corrosion. A thorough cleaning helps restore the bike’s appearance and prevents wear from grime or rust.

Summer Cleaning Routine:

1. Rinse gently. Use a damp sponge or low-pressure hose (avoid direct pressure on the motor or electrical components).
2. Use bike-specific cleaners. Mild, non-abrasive cleaners are best. Avoid degreasers on electric components.
3. Dry completely. Use a microfiber towel and allow the bike to air dry before storing or charging.
4. Lubricate the chain. Apply a bike-specific lubricant and wipe off the excess to prevent grime buildup.
5. Inspect cables and wires. Look for fraying or corrosion on connectors, especially near the controller and battery port.

Avoid using pressure washers or soaking the bike. While Mokwheel eBikes are built to be weather-resistant, excessive moisture can still lead to damage.

Step 4: Adjust for Summer Terrain and Usage

Summer riding often means longer distances, more frequent use, and exposure to varied terrain—from pavement and gravel to off-road trails. Consider adjusting your setup to suit your riding habits.

Tire Adjustments:

• Inflate to proper PSI. Warmer temperatures can increase tire pressure, so check your PSI before every ride.
• Switch to summer tires if you used winter or all-season tires with deeper tread. Smoother tires reduce rolling resistance and increase speed on paved roads.
• Inspect for dry rot or cracking. Summer heat can dry out rubber—especially if stored near concrete or asphalt.

Suspension and Comfort:

• If you’re planning longer trail rides, check your suspension fork and seat post comfort.
• Adjust saddle height and handlebar positioning for better ergonomics on extended trips.

Step 5: Recalibrate for Performance and Safety

Before heading out for that first summer adventure, recalibrate and test all systems under real-world conditions.

• Check motor response and pedal assist levels. Make sure they engage smoothly and match your preferences.
• Test the throttle. Make sure it responds quickly and consistently.
• Update the display settings. Many Mokwheel eBikes let you adjust speed limits, assist levels, and trip data.
• Test lights and reflectors. Ensure all visibility equipment is clean, working, and pointed correctly for dusk or nighttime rides.

This is also a great time to reset your trip meter and start fresh tracking your summer mileage.

Step 6: Update or Add Accessories for Summer Riding

Take advantage of seasonal riding with the right gear. Accessories not only enhance comfort but also expand your eBike’s versatility.

Summer Must-Haves:

• Rear rack and panniers for errands, beach gear, or picnic supplies
• Front baskets or handlebar bags for daily commutes
• Bike bell or horn for increased visibility on busier summer trails
• Phone mounts with USB charging for navigation
• Hydration solutions like frame-mounted water bottle cages

Need suggestions? Perry Pools offers a full lineup of Mokwheel-compatible accessories to help you ride farther, safer, and smarter.

Bonus Tips: Riding in Summer Conditions

While warm-weather riding can be exhilarating, be mindful of sun, heat, and hydration.

• Ride early or late in the day to avoid peak sun exposure.
• Wear UV-protective gear, including sunglasses and ventilated helmets.
• Bring water on every ride—even short ones.
• Apply sunscreen to arms, legs, and neck if riding in exposed areas.
• Store your eBike in the shade whenever possible during rides or stops.

Make eBike Care a Seasonal Habit

Much like cars and traditional bicycles, eBikes perform best when cared for regularly. A simple seasonal routine—just twice a year—can add years to your eBike’s lifespan and save you money on repairs. Summer is also a great time to book a professional tune-up or battery test to catch small issues before they turn into bigger ones.

If you’re unsure where to start or would prefer a checkup from an expert, the team at Perry Pools is always here to help you keep your eBike in top shape.

Ride into Summer with Confidence

With the right preparation, your Mokwheel eBike is ready to take on everything summer has to offer—scenic trails, sunny commutes, and spontaneous rides with friends or family.

👉 Explore Mokwheel eBikes and Accessories at Perry Pools
📍 Visit our Fort Avenue location for in-person help, test rides, and maintenance tips
💬 Have questions? Let us help you make this your best summer ride yet.