Electric Motorcycles | Can I Ride it in the Rain

Can I Get Electrocuted Riding My Electric Motorcycle in the Rain?

One of the concerns motorcycle riders have when thinking of switching to electric motorcycles is whether they’ll be able to ride it in the rain. This is a valid concern, especially in Singapore, where there’s heavy downpours during the monsoon seasons. 

Logically, we know that electricity and water make a deadly combination. So, the main fear for riders is getting electrocuted if they ride their electric motorcycle when it’s raining. But does your electric motorbike become an electrical shock hazard when wet?

The answer is no. Your electric motorbike won’t become a lightning bolt in the rain. In fact, you can even charge your electric motorcycle in the rain, but, of course it’s advisable to protect your charger from moisture and wetness. 

With that said, there are certain precautions that you should keep in mind when riding your electric motorcycle in the rain. In this article, we’ll explain the basic rules to follow and tips to help protect your electric vehicle during a downpour.

Electric Motorcycles - Waterproof or Water-Resistant?

Firstly, you must understand that electric motorcycles are water resistant and not waterproof. Think of it like your mobile phone; you may be able to use it in the rain if it’s water-resistant but you certainly won’t keep it out in the rain for long because there is a chance water could seep into the electrical ports.

The same applies to your electric motorbike. Most electric motorcycles are designed to keep rain and water out of the electrics. So, there’s no need to worry about getting electrocuted when riding it in the rain. But, you definitely don’t want to submerge it in a puddle or leave it under the rain for long. 

Exposure to the rain will not cause your electric motorcycle to become an electric conductor but it can significantly affect the bike’s components. Remember, any vehicle with long-term exposure to water will have serious problems. 

Riding Your Electric Motorcycle in the Rain

Getting electrocuted should not be a major concern when riding your electric motorcycle in the rain or on wet roads.

You don’t even have to worry about not being able to use the touchscreen. Most electric motorbike makers have equipped the bike with a resistive touchscreen that allows riders to operate it even while wearing gloves or when riding in the rain. 

Here’s a video of the Evoke to show you that you can use your electric motorcycle even while it’s raining: 

Tips to help protect your electric motorcycle in the rain:

• Park it in a safe location. Preferably somewhere shaded and where it won’t be submerged in water. If you cannot find a shaded location, then you should protect it with a waterproof motorcycle cover.

• Charge it in a dry area. If you need a fast 30-minute charge at an outdoor charging station, check to make sure that the charger has an IP56 waterproof rating at the very least. Otherwise, we recommend that you head to a covered charging station for a quick charge while it’s raining.

• Always keep your electric motorcycle dry. If you’re caught in the rain while riding, don’t panic! You will not get electric shocked. But, it’s best to immediately wipe off your bike after riding in the rain to avoid any damage due to moisture.

Electric Motorcycles Won’t Shock You in the Rain

We don’t recommend that you take your electric motorbike out when it pours, even if you like riding in the rain. But, at least now you have the peace of mind knowing that you won’t be electrocuted if you’re caught in a thunderstorm.

However, if that happens, you should try to get to a safe, dry spot and wait out the rainstorm. While waiting, you can dry off your bike and get it charged at a covered charging station. 

Is this your main concern as a motorcycle rider? Are you worried about getting electrocuted while riding your electric motorcycle in the rain? Let us know in the comments below!