When it rains, many people wonder whether they can continue to ride their electric scooters. This depends on two factors: how heavy the rain is and whether the scooter is waterproof or not. In this article, we will introduce you to the relevant knowledge about riding in the rain, including the introduction of IP rating, waterproofing tips, risks of riding in the rain, and precautions.

Can You Ride an Electric Scooter on a Rainy Day?

What are IP ratings

Not all adult electric scooters are completely waterproof, but some have varying degrees of water resistance. Knowing the IP rating of an off-road electric scooter is essential to determine its protection against dust, solid objects, and moisture.

The IP rating is an international standard that rates the level of protection against dust, solid objects, and moisture that a device can provide. Two digits determine the IP rating of a device; the first digit indicates protection against solid objects, and the second digit indicates protection against moisture. If one of these is not tested, a letter X will be used instead.


Advantages of common IP ratings

  • IP23: Drizzle proof
  • IP54: Excellent in dust and splashproof, suitable for general outdoor electrical equipment and lighting equipment.
  • IP65: It can cope with ordinary rainy weather, but may not work properly in extreme flood environments.

It doesn't mean that the higher the waterproof rating, the better. An excessively high waterproof rating may affect the performance and life of the device. At the same time, when using the device, it is also necessary to use and maintain it according to the actual application scenario and the requirements of the manual. For electric scooters, IPX4 is sufficient to meet the waterproof needs of daily life; for individual components such as batteries and controllers of electric scooters, the waterproof rating can reach higher standards, such as IPX5 or IPX6. But to reach them, the requirements for processing are also higher, and the cost will increase accordingly.

IP ratings and application scenarios

 

IP ratings

 

 Protection against solid objects(the first digit)

 

Protection against liquids(the second digit)

 

 

Protection against solid objects

 

 

Application scenarios

 

 

Protection against liquids

 

Application scenarios

0

       

No protection against solid objects

 

Very dry indoor environment

 

No protection against liquids

 

 

Rarely used, no protection against liquids

1

Protection against objects larger than 50 mm in diameter
Prevent large particles from entering, basic indoor protection

 

Protection against slight falling droplets (upright device)

 

The only protection against vertical dripping water

2

 

Protection against objects larger than 12.5 mm in diameter, such as a finger
 
 

 

Better protection for indoor areas, such as home appliances
 

 

 

Protection against falling drops of water at 15° in 4 fixed positions
 

 

 

Prevent tilt dripping water from entering the device, such as slanting rain
 

3

Protection against objects larger than 2.5 mm
 
Mild outdoor use, such as some lamps

 

 
Low-pressure water spray protection for up to 60° from vertical for 10 minutes, similar to a shower head

 

Suitable for some outdoor environments, such as light rain splashing

4

Protection against objects larger than 1.0 mm, such as a wire
 
Some outdoor applications require a certain degree of protection
 
4-10 minutes of splash-proof protection from low-pressure water spray from any angle
Protected from water spray, but cannot withstand heavy water flow

 5

Dust protection, with some dust entering but not enough to interfere with operation or safety
Industrial environment, protection from particles and spraying objects
 
Protection against a medium-pressure water jet (6.3 mm in diameter, like a garden hose) from any angle for 3 minutes
 
Protect against high pressure water jets, such as cleaning equipment

6

Complete protection against dust
Industrial environments that require high dust protection, such as sandstorm areas
 
Protection against a high-pressure water jet (12.5 mm in diameter) from any angle for 3 minutes
 
High pressure cleaning environments, such as boat cleaning

7

 

/

 

/

 

Protection against temporary immersion in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes

 

 

Underwater use, such as short-term diving

 

8

 

/

 

/

 

Protection against continuous immersion in water

 

 

Prolonged underwater use, such as diving equipment

 

9

 

/

 

/

 

Protection against steam-cleaning, high-pressure, high-temperature water jets

 

 

Designed for use in environments subject to high pressure water jets and steam cleaning, such as food processing.

 


How to waterproof your electric scooter

Here are some common e-scooter waterproofing tips:

  1. Check and seal entry points: Check your scooter for gaps and openings where water could seep in, such as the charging port, battery compartment, and control panel. Invest in high-quality waterproof tape or silicone sealant to cover these areas and prevent water from seeping in. However, be careful not to cover any vents or sensors required for the scooter to function.
  2. Protect the battery and connectors: A waterproof case or battery bag is a good way to protect the scooter's power source from moisture. You can use dielectric grease on the battery terminals to prevent moisture-induced corrosion; it also acts as an antioxidant, helping to insulate the connector from moisture and air.
  3. Cover the control panel: The scooter's control panel, including the throttle, display, and button switches, is susceptible to water damage. Use a waterproof cover or silicone cover to protect these electronic devices from rain and splashes.
Ausom Gallop Fastest Electric Scooter with Dual 1200W Motors

Both Leopard and Gallop are IP54. Both Leopard and Gallop are IP54. Dustproof level 5: cannot completely prevent dust intrusion, but the amount of dust intrusion will not affect the normal operation of the product; waterproof level 4: prevents all-round splashing water from intruding; can be used safely in light and moderate rain, long-term exposure to heavy rain or immersion in water may still cause damage to the scooter's electrical components.

What are the risks of riding an electric scooter on rainy days

  • Reduced traction: A slippery surface will significantly reduce the traction between the tire and the ground, resulting in reduced ability to handle and an increased tendency to skid or slide.
  • Increased braking distance: In slippery conditions, braking distance becomes longer due to reduced friction. This may result in delayed braking response or brake failure, increasing the risk of an accident.
  • Poor visibility: Rainy days often lead to reduced visibility. Water droplets and splashes from passing vehicles can obstruct your vision, making it difficult to spot obstacles or dangers ahead. And it is not easy for cars coming from behind to notice the rider and the vehicle.
  • Risk of electrical damage: The electronic components of electric scooters are susceptible to water damage. Rainwater can seep into electrical systems such as batteries and controllers, causing failure or downtime, and repairing or replacing these components is expensive and time-consuming.

What should you pay attention to when riding an electric scooter on rainy days

 

 

 

 

 

Precautions

 

Measures  

 

Before riding

 

Check the waterproof level
Before riding in the rain, you need to confirm the waterproof rating of the scooter, which can usually be found in the user manual or instruction manual.

Check and maintain tires

 
Proper tire pressure is essential to maintain performance and safety on slippery roads and it needs to be checked regularly and adjusted to manufacturer specifications.
Wear appropriate rain gear
Wear adequate rainproof clothing, raincoats, waterproof gloves and helmets to stay dry and warm, and choose shoes with non-slip soles.

 

When riding

 

 
Safe riding style

 

Reduce riding speed in slippery conditions, avoid sharp turns and sudden braking, and maintain a safe distance.
 
Use lights to improve visibility

 

Use the front and rear lights of the electric scooter when riding in the rain, and wear reflective clothing to increase visibility.

 

Keep a clear sight

 

Keep your eyes on the road and pay attention to the surrounding environment at all times, making sure your vision is not affected by raindrops.
Brake appropriately
Brake in advance and slow down gradually to avoid sliding and locking the wheels.
Increase distance from the vehicle ahead
Keep a safer distance from the vehicle in front in slippery conditions to react to unexpected situations
Adjust brake pressure
Adjust the brake pressure according to the wetness of the road and the riding surface.
Steady speed
Avoid sudden acceleration or deceleration to avoid losing traction.

 

Avoid potential obstacles
Be aware of deep puddles and slippery roads, choose a safe path, and slow down when encountering slippery surfaces.

 

After riding
Regular inspection and maintenance
Check the brake wear and function, as well as electrical components such as batteries, controllers and wiring, to ensure that the connection is secure and the waterproof performance is intact.
Clean and dry after riding
Clean the electric scooter and make sure it is completely dry to prevent rust and short circuits caused by long-term seeper.

There are many risks when riding an electric scooter in rainy days. We need to take correct waterproof measures and pay attention to safety. In order to ensure a safe and enjoyable riding experience, it is recommended to use the electric scooter when the weather is fine.