Winter is coming! And sadly, it’s time to replace your cool summer gear with cosy winter blankets. But before you get too comfortable with your hot chocolate snuggling in your bed, it is high time to prep your electric scooter for the upcoming cold breeze. Winter, especially extreme cold weather, can be a hindrance to the performance of your vehicle if not taken care of properly. Whether it’s icy roads, battery inefficiency, or frozen parts, winter presents several challenges for your eco-friendly ride. Don’t worry – we’ve got you covered! Here are some essential tips to prep your electric scooter for the upcoming winter season, ensuring it stays in top shape and ready to tackle snow-covered streets with ease.
Cold weather can reduce your battery efficiency and overall health. The lower temperature can slow down the chemical reaction inside the lithium-ion batteries, making the liquid less viscous and less powerful. To keep your battery health optimal, you can perform these few steps for the upcoming winter:
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Charge your battery indoors to keep it warm and reduce the risk of freezing. This also ensures that your battery stays warm and away from sticky cold weather and snow outdoors.
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Do not overcharge. Keep a check on the battery level and avoid overcharging to keep the battery performance at peak. For optimal performance, always keep your battery between 60-80 %, even if kept unused.
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If you’re not using your electric scooter for a few days, it is better to store it in a covered area or garage to keep it warm.
During the winter season, roads are covered with icy flakes and moisture, leading to a reduction in traction and control. During this, it is advised to keep your tyres in their best condition to stay safe and in control during your rides. If your tyres are losing their tread, you can switch to new tyres with better grip. Also, keep a regular check on the air pressure of your tyres.
The cooler weather can increase the amount of condensation on your scooter, which can seep into the electrical system, causing damage. You can keep it covered when parked outside to prevent condensation from collecting on the surface. Before starting your vehicle, use a dry cloth to wipe down the exposed part.
This is an essential part of winter preparation. The squeaky noise that scooters make in the winter season could be due to a lack of grease or oil, causing friction between parts. Lubricating moving parts like brakes, engines, side stands, etc, is equally important in winter as it is all through the year. You can use special lubricants designed especially for winter on breaks and chains. Also, use grease to smoothen the bearings and wheels for a comfortable ride.
It goes without saying that you should always keep your scooter clean. Regular cleaning helps reduce the accumulation of dirt and grime on the electric vehicle, which can build up over time, causing mechanical issues. You can use an air pressure can or even a simple dry cloth to wipe down visible dust from different parts. While cleaning the whole scooter is important, never travel without wiping down your headlights and mirrors during the winter season. The fog makes it difficult to see, and headlights are a great way to navigate on a busy road.
Your driving should control your braking system, not the other way around. Use cold-weather brake fluids and opt for scooters like the BMW CE 04 that are equipped with an Anti-lock braking system for added safety. When travelling on icy roads, make sure to tighten your brakes for safety and better control. Even with good brakes and smooth navigation, it can be difficult to ride on icy streets. It’s advisable to drive at a slower speed and apply the brakes gradually on foggy nights, as there is an increased risk of slipping.
Wrapping Up
Winters are a great time for people who enjoy cold weather. The chilly mornings and afternoon sun baths are a treat for everyone. A handy electric vehicle like a BMW scooter in India is a great way to navigate through busy streets and get your chores done quickly. They are lightweight, easy to operate, and environmentally friendly, which makes them versatile in every way. Nonetheless, winter can pose challenges for any two-wheeler, yet with careful maintenance and practical measures, you can maintain your scooter’s performance at its best. Follow our maintenance tips for the upcoming chilly season and ride your scooter as smoothly as new.
