How To Keep an eBike From Rusting Outside (3 Steps)

KnowledgeApr 23, 2025

If you own an eBike, you know how much fun it can be to ride outdoors. But one of the biggest threats to your eBike’s longevity is rust. Whether it’s from rain, humidity, or just being left outside for long periods, rust can slowly eat away at the parts of your bike and leave you with a bike that doesn’t work as smoothly as it should. Fortunately, there are simple steps you can take to keep your eBike in top condition and rust-free. Let’s take a look at how you can protect your bike from rusting while it’s parked outside.

1. Keep It Clean and Dry

Why Clean and Dry Is Key

After a long ride in the rain or through puddles, it’s easy to forget about the condition of your bike. However, leaving dirt, salt, and moisture on your eBike can be a recipe for rust. Water and dirt, when left untreated, can find their way into your bike’s most vulnerable parts—like the chain, gears, and brake components. This can cause rust and corrosion over time, affecting the ebike performance and lifespan.

How to Clean eBike

Make it a habit to clean your ebike after every ride, especially if it’s been exposed to wet conditions. Start by gently spraying down your bike with water to remove mud, dirt, or road salt. Avoid using high-pressure water, as it can force water into areas where it shouldn’t be, like bearings and electrical components.

After washing, use a soft cloth or sponge to wipe down the frame, wheels, and chain. For the chain, you can use a special degreaser if necessary to get rid of any buildup. Cleaning your bike isn’t just about appearance—it helps prevent rust and ensures the components keep working properly.

Drying Your eBike

Once your bike is clean, it’s essential to dry it thoroughly. Wipe down the frame, wheels, and chain with a dry towel or microfiber cloth. Pay extra attention to areas where moisture can collect, such as around the chain and gears. If you want to be extra careful, hang your eBike in a well-ventilated area so that it can air dry. The goal is to remove all traces of moisture, leaving no opportunity for rust to form.

2. Use a Protective Coating

Why a Protective Coating Helps

Even when you clean and dry your bike regularly, there’s always a risk of rust. The solution? Apply a protective coating to keep moisture and dirt from reaching the metal surfaces. A good quality bike-specific lubricant or protective spray creates a barrier that helps prevent rust from taking hold. It’s like giving your bike a layer of armor against the elements.

Which Coating Should You Use?

For the chain and other moving parts, bike-specific lubricants are a must. These products not only keep the chain running smoothly but also help to repel moisture and dirt. When it comes to the frame and other exposed metal parts, consider using a protective spray like Boeshield T-9 or Frame Saver. These products are designed to protect against rust and corrosion, keeping your eBike looking great and working well.

How Often Should You Apply the Coating?

How often you need to reapply the coating depends on your riding conditions. If you frequently ride in wet or salty environments, you’ll need to apply a protective coating more often—about once a month or after every rainy ride. For general use, reapplying every few months should be sufficient.

3. Store It Properly

Why Proper Storage Matters

Where you store your eBike plays a huge role in preventing rust. Leaving your bike outside, especially in damp conditions, increases its chances of rusting. If you live in a region with high humidity or frequent rain, outdoor storage can expose your bike to moisture and weathering, accelerating the rusting process. Therefore, proper storage is essential to keeping your eBike in good shape.

Best Storage Practices

Whenever possible, store your eBike in a dry, indoor location. A garage, shed, or bike storage area is ideal. Keeping your bike out of the elements will prevent it from being exposed to moisture, which is the primary cause of rust. If you must store your bike outside, invest in a high-quality bike cover to protect it from rain and humidity.

If you don’t have an indoor space to store your bike, try to find a sheltered spot, such as under a porch or in a carport. Just make sure your bike is elevated off the ground to avoid contact with standing water, which could promote rust.

Conclusion: Keep Your eBike Rust-Free

Keeping your eBike rust-free isn’t as difficult as it sounds—it just requires a bit of effort and consistency. By cleaning your bike regularly, applying a protective coating, and storing it properly, you can prevent rust and keep your bike in great shape for years to come. It’s an investment that will not only keep your eBike running smoothly but also save you money on repairs down the line.

With a little maintenance, your eBike can remain your reliable companion, whether you're commuting, cycling for fun, or just exploring the outdoors. Follow these three steps, and you’ll be able to enjoy rust-free rides for years!