When you have an electric trike, you want to look after it to preserve its appearance, performance, and reliability. This is done by regularly cleaning it, which goes a long way toward protecting your investment. Also, when you spend time looking at your electric trike in detail while cleaning, you can spot potential issues that could be dangerous or cost you money in the long run. So, in this blog, we will tell you how to clean electric trikes properly. You will learn how to keep your electric trike looking and running like new.

Why Cleaning Matters

Electric trikes are not cheap; this is because they are more complicated than regular bikes due to their motor, batteries, and more robust components. These features deserve regular care to make sure your electric trike keeps performing as it should.

One of the most common problems electric trike owners experience from not cleaning lies with the drivetrain. Dirt and grime sit on the chain and gears, acting like a grinding paste. Over time, the coarseness of the grime wears out expensive components, forcing you to replace them prematurely. It also makes gear changes less smooth and can cause the chain to slip or pop off the gears under load.

People who take cleaning seriously usually face fewer breakdowns. By learning how to clean electric trikes properly, owners protect their investment and maintain a reliable ride. Regular cleaning also helps when it comes to selling your electric trike, as the potential new owner will be able to tell if it has been looked after.

Tools and Materials Needed

Get these supplies ready before you start to wash your electric trike. This step ensures a smoother process and helps you follow trike maintenance tips effectively.

• Bike stand: This is optional, but when your trike is suspended in the air, you don't have to bend down, and you can get around it easier. But make sure it is heavy-duty and can hold the weight without toppling over.

• Mild, bike-friendly detergent: Gentle on paint and components.

• Soft sponge or cloth: Covers broad surfaces without causing scratches.

• Soft-bristle brush: Removes stubborn dirt in tight spots.

• Stiff-bristle brush: Allows you to scrub grimy drivetrain components.

• Microfiber towels: Soak up moisture without leaving streaks.

• Low-pressure water source: Prevents water from forcing its way into sensitive areas.

• Chain degreaser: Loosens grime on gears and chain links.

• Chain lubricant: Reduces friction and guards against rust.

Most of these tools and materials are often included in bike cleaning kits.

Cleaning Steps for Different Components

Step 1: Power Down and Prep

Switch off the trike and remove its battery if possible. Never wash or work on an electric trike with the power on, as it can be dangerous. If you have one, this is the time to put it onto a bike stand.

Step 2: Gentle Pre-Rinse

Use a low-pressure hose or a bucket of water to loosen surface grime. Keep water away from exposed electronics. Don't squirt high-pressure water onto electrical components and bearings.

Step 3: Apply Mild Cleanser

Spray a bike-friendly detergent or soapy solution onto the trike's frame, tires, and drivetrain. Ensure even coverage, but avoid drenching sensitive parts.

Step 4: Use Soft Brushes and Sponges

Agitate the detergent with a soft sponge or brush to dislodge dirt. Pay attention to corners and crevices. This approach keeps paint and wiring safe while ensuring you don't miss any spots.

Step 5: Degrease the Chain And Drivetrain

Coat the chain, derailleur, chainring, and cassette with a bike-specific degreaser. Let it sit briefly, then use a stiff brush to loosen grit. Rinse thoroughly with low-pressure water.

Step 6: Rinse Methodically

Clear away soap and degreaser residue. Avoid strong sprays that could force water into seals or connectors.

Step 7: Thorough Drying

Pat each section dry with a microfiber towel. Inspect brake pads and gears for lingering moisture. Also, look for signs of damage or wear. Addressing minor problems at this point will prevent them from getting worse, which could be dangerous or costly.

Post-Cleaning Care

Once everything is dry, it's time to lubricate the chain. Choose wet or dry lube according to the current weather conditions. Apply a thin layer of chain lube while slowly pedaling the trike; you'll need to pedal backward if your trike is not on a bike stand. Make sure you coat the entire chain but don't overdo it. Then, let the lube soak into the chain for a few minutes. 

Wipe away any excess fluid to avoid attracting more dirt. This lubrication reduces friction during rides and lengthens chain life. But make sure you don't get any lubrication on the brake pads or discs, as this will affect your braking.

The battery compartment might also need a light coat of contact spray if recommended by the manufacturer. Keep vents or terminals free from grime.

Once you're happy your trike is clean, we recommend checking the tightness of all the bolts. Bolts can loosen with vibrations while riding, so they should be checked every now and then. Use a set of Allen keys to check all bolts, starting at the front wheel and working along the frame to the rear of the trike. Don't overtighten the bolts, as this can cause other problems. Ideally, you should check their tightness with a torque wrench following the manufacturer's guidelines.

Conclusion: The benefits of regular cleaning for extending the trike's lifespan

When you keep your electric trike clean, its parts will last longer and perform as the manufacturer intended. You will experience fewer technical issues and breakdowns that inevitably will occur at the worst moment. 

You don't have to thoroughly clean your electric trike after every ride; it may not need it. However, if time is short, wipe it down after a wet ride or focus on cleaning the chain and drivetrain, as these moving parts are greatly affected by dirt and grime.

Another great thing about cleaning your electric trike is that its paintwork will keep its luster. It will continue to look like it's come straight out of the factory, contributing to a positive ownership experience.

If you're looking for a great electric trike, check out our product page for some great examples.