Riding Your E-Scooter in Wet Weather: A Complete Guide

Rain is inevitable for regular e-scooter riders, especially in cities like Sydney and Melbourne where weather can change rapidly. While the safest approach is always to avoid riding in rain when possible, sometimes you're caught out or need to commute regardless of conditions. This guide covers everything you need to know about wet weather e-scooter riding—from understanding your scooter's water resistance to safe riding techniques and post-ride care.

Understanding Water Resistance Ratings

Not all electric scooters handle water equally. The IP (Ingress Protection) rating tells you how well-protected your scooter is against dust and water.

Most commuter scooters have IP54 or IP55 ratings—meaning they can handle light to moderate rain but shouldn't be submerged or ridden through deep puddles. Check your scooter's manual for its specific rating.

What the Rating Doesn't Tell You

IP ratings test specific conditions in a lab. Real-world riding introduces variables that can compromise water resistance:

• Riding through puddles can force water up into components
• High speed increases water pressure against seals
• Wear and tear degrades seals over time
• After-market modifications may void water resistance

Safe Riding Techniques in Wet Conditions

Wet surfaces dramatically change how your scooter handles. Adapt your riding accordingly.

Reduce Speed

This is the single most important adjustment. Wet surfaces have less grip, and stopping distances increase significantly. If you normally ride at 25km/h, consider 15-18km/h in the wet.

Brake Earlier and More Gently

Wet brakes—whether disc, drum, or electronic—are less effective than dry brakes. Additionally, wet tyres have reduced grip.

Avoid Slippery Surfaces

Some surfaces become extremely slippery when wet:

• Painted road markings: Crosswalk lines, lane markings, arrows
• Metal surfaces: Manhole covers, drain grates, tram tracks
• Polished stone: Some pavement tiles, especially in shopping areas
• Leaves: Wet leaves are like ice
• Oil patches: Often visible as rainbow sheens on water

When you must cross these surfaces, go slowly, keep the scooter upright (no leaning), and avoid braking or accelerating on them.

Increase Following Distance

Give yourself more space from other road users. Your reaction time may be affected by reduced visibility, and your stopping distance is longer.

Take Corners Carefully

Wet conditions reduce the grip available for cornering:

• Slow down before corners, not during them
• Keep the scooter as upright as possible through turns
• Avoid accelerating until you've completed the turn
• Watch for standing water on the apex of corners

Visibility in Rain

Rain reduces visibility for you and for drivers. Make yourself as visible as possible.

Lighting

• Turn on all lights, even during daytime
• Consider additional lights—mounted on helmet or backpack
• Flashing rear lights are more attention-grabbing

Clothing

• Wear bright or high-visibility colours
• Add reflective elements—bands, strips, or vest
• Avoid dark clothing that blends into the grey rain

Eye Protection

Rain hitting your eyes at 20km/h is uncomfortable and dangerous. Options include:

• Clear glasses or goggles
• Helmet visor (if your helmet has one)
• Cap brim under helmet (helps with light rain)

Puddles and Standing Water

Puddles present multiple hazards:

• Unknown depth: What looks shallow could hide a pothole
• Hidden debris: Glass, metal, or other sharp objects
• Water ingress: Splashing up into electrical components
• Spray: Water thrown up from the front wheel hits your feet and the scooter's underside

What to Wear

The right gear makes wet weather riding manageable rather than miserable.

Essential Items

• Waterproof jacket: Breathable fabric prevents you getting wet from sweat inside
• Waterproof pants: Even spray from wheels will soak regular trousers
• Waterproof shoes or overshoes: Your feet are in the splash zone
• Gloves: Wet hands slip on controls; waterproof gloves maintain grip
• Waterproof backpack or bag cover: Protect your belongings

Fenders/Mudguards

If your scooter has optional fender attachments, use them. Front fenders reduce spray hitting your legs; rear fenders keep water off your back and reduce spray for people behind you.

Post-Ride Care

What you do after a wet ride is crucial for your scooter's longevity. Water left on electrical components causes corrosion and can lead to failures.

Immediate Steps

1. Wipe down the scooter: Remove standing water with a dry cloth
2. Pay attention to: Charging port, display, folding mechanism, brake components
3. Dry the deck: Grip tape holds water
4. Check the underside: Wipe any accessible areas underneath

Drying and Storage

• Store in a dry, ventilated area
• Don't fold immediately—let it air-dry in unfolded position
• Don't cover or put in a bag until completely dry
• Don't charge until the scooter is dry, especially around the port

Maintenance After Wet Rides

After riding in rain, check:

• Brakes: May need cleaning or adjustment after wet conditions
• Bearings: Listen for new sounds indicating water contamination
• Bolts: Check tightness—water can cause corrosion that loosens fasteners
• Charging port: Ensure it's completely dry before plugging in

When Not to Ride

Some conditions are too dangerous for e-scooter riding, regardless of your scooter's water resistance:

Your safety is worth more than arriving on time. Have a backup transport plan for severe weather days.

Long-Term Effects of Wet Riding

Frequent wet riding, even with proper aftercare, accelerates wear on your scooter:

• Bearing life may be reduced
• Brake pads and rotors wear faster
• Electrical connections can corrode
• Paint and chrome may deteriorate

If you regularly ride in wet conditions, schedule more frequent maintenance checks and budget for earlier component replacement.

Wet weather riding requires respect for the changed conditions and extra caution in your technique. With the right preparation and riding style, light to moderate rain doesn't have to end your ride—just modify your approach and prioritise safety above all.