If you ride an E-Bike and use the assistance you will have noticed that it takes you longer to warm up and that it is harder to stay warm.  This can become a real issue in colder weather (winter riding) but you also have to give more thought to your warmth whatever the time of year.

Because your body is not working as hard as someone riding a standard bike you are less likely to need to remove layers.  Your temperature will remain quite stable.  You may even need to wear more clothing than a cyclist on a standard bike to remain warm and be comfortable throughout the length of your ride, particularly if you are riding in cooler weather. 

You need to keep dry, protect yourself from cold wind drafts, keep your core and chest warm and make sure your extremities are getting the insulation they need (hands, feet, ears).  The trick is doing all this to maintain a constant or warm body temperature. 

Stay Dry

Your temperature will quickly drop on an E-Bike if you are wet as the airflow will chill you down rapidly.  This is particularly important in cold temperatures!

• Stay dry by managing rain. Use a waterproof or a water resistant jacket.   If you are not wearing one make sure your are at least carrying one
• Stay dry by managing sweat.  If you do sweat on your E-Bike use performance fabrics that wick moisture pulling it off your skin and through your clothing layers

Keep your core and chest warm

The best way to keep your chest and core warm is to use layers. We recommend 3 layers in cold temperatures. Layers trap air and warm this air up keeping you toasty.   Once riding, you can adjust your temperature by adding or removing a layer.  As I said above E-Bike riders are less likely to need to remove layers so choose your layers wisely.  For more on this topic read Bike in Comfort – Use Layers

• A base layer that wicks away moisture and keeps you warm. A merino/thermal base layer, usually a singlet/tank or tee.  Merino will always be warmer
• A long sleeve mid layer with thermal properties to retain heat.  This layer could be a thermal jacket. On an E-Bike this layer can be heavier or have greater insulation
• An outer layer with wind stopper fabric to block cold air such as a thermal jacket or a waterproof jacket or vest to protect your upper body/chest area.  Again E-Bike riders can choose warmer outer layers rather than just a shell.  Please read The Best E-Bike Jacket Options

Keep your extremities covered and insulated

Cold extremities can make your time on the bike very uncomfortable.  E-Bike riders may need to turn to this kind of protection earlier in the shoulder season than standard bike riders.  If you are riding through a cold winter choose very well insulated products to help with your warmth

• Wear a headband or beanie to keep you ears & head warm under your helmet
• Winter gloves are ideal or at least a full finger glove
• A neck warmer or scarf to reduce the cold drafts around you neck & upper chest
• Thermal socks – a merino sock is a good option, if you have problems with cold feet, try two layers!
• If the weather is cool wear full length thermal tights or warm tapered trousers.  goUnders (Padded Bike Underwear) offer the flexibility to maintain comfort on the saddle and adjust what you wear on your legs to suit the conditions

View our  Extremities Be Warm Range

Choose the time of day to ride

Now I understand this is not practical for everyone but if you are able to alter your schedule or have the ability to control when in a day you can ride then choosing the warmest part of the day is a great way to keep you riding without the worry of how to stay warm.

Some days you might need all of these things and wonder if it’s worth the effort?? Most times you will arrive at your destination with a smile and happily beating heart because riding just does that, it makes us feel better.