Part of my bike commuter journey has included learning how to wash an electric bike. It is my goal to wash “Sandy” (my Aventon Pace 500 first generation) every 200 miles. I learning how to care and maintain my bike, and really diving into the practice of self-reliance. Here are some quick tips for bike commuters who are learning to take care of their own electric bike.
I set a goal to clean my electric bike every 200 miles.
Where I live and commute – Sandy actually does not get that dirty. In Summit County, Colorado my commute is less than 20 miles a day – 5 days a week. The recreation path stays decently dry and clean. I am very impressed at how well the factory waxed chain has held up. The electric bike runs smoothly with surprisingly little cleaning or maintenance. That being said, that is why I am going to check in every 200 miles.
Aventon, the bike company I purchased from recommends a regular wipe down after all rides.
Aventon’s blog has an extensive guide on how to care for their bike – I will link here. I have found a middle ground on my approach. I am very attentive to to the condition to the bike and I will list the steps I have done below.
The Aventon blog recommends leaving the battery in the bike. I did not do this -oops! I did however, stuff a micro-fiber cloth in and around the electric port. Essentially protecting it the same way.
I then used hot soapy water to clean the frame, under the frame, peddles, front wheel and rear wheel set. I was careful not to get the back hub too wet unnecessarily.
Rinse very well.
Dry frame very well with a soft cloth.
Pay attention to chain and sprocket. I use a small brush and rag to really degrease the chain.
Lube chain and back sprockets immediately after cleaning and drying.
Do not get to overwhelmed – do your best and do not doubt yourself!
Use a 4mm key to tighten small connection points, fenders, and commuter rack. Check the larger bolts, quick-releases or connections on the rear and front wheel.
It is not a bad idea of take note of the condition of the spokes on the wheels. When I worked at the downhill park that was one of the majorly ignored bike parts that really needs to be checked and tightened regularly. If you do not have a spoke key, ask a friend or shop to do it occasionally. At this point check the handlebar connections as well.
Great job cleaning your bike! Building bike maintenance skills takes time – and learning through trial and error.
I am still medium-novice …if thats a term! I have some experience but look forward to being more self-reliant. Just by washing your bike regularly you will be familiarizing yourself with the different parts.
Please connect with me if you are a new bike commuter – I would love to encourage you along the way!
Happy Biking – Emily
When Life Gives You Bike 