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Did your phone get wet while cycling?
Time to read 6 min
Time to read 6 min
Many cyclists see it as a party pooper, but that doesn't have to be the case. A sudden shower can make your ride a bit difficult, especially if your phone gets wet or your gear soaked. However, you can protect yourself and your electronics, even when it's pouring.
With a few smart adjustments, you can stay safe, dry, and comfortable on the road—and keep your phone intact. This article will show you how to prevent water damage, protect your belongings, and enjoy your bike ride even in rainy weather.
Your phone is probably your most important companion on your bike. Whether it's navigating, sending a message, or capturing a beautiful view, without a smartphone, you feel like you're missing out. But rain and electronics aren't friends. In this article, we'll explain what to do if your phone gets wet !
A single heavy downpour can be enough to cause water damage to your phone. A wet phone often stops working properly and can even short-circuit, rendering it unusable.
Modern smartphones are sometimes splash-proof, but not designed to withstand a heavy rain shower or if your phone accidentally falls into a puddle of water.
A waterproof phone holder is therefore a truly smart investment. It prevents your device from getting wet and protects the internal components from moisture and residual rainwater. If you don't have a holder handy, immediately put your phone in a sturdy waterproof bag as soon as the first drops fall. This way, it stays dry, even during a heavy downpour. View the waterproof bike phone holder here.
If your phone does get wet, turn it off immediately. Gently dab it with absorbent paper or a soft cloth to remove as much moisture as possible. Then place the device in a bowl of rice or special desiccant bags to remove any remaining moisture. Let your phone dry longer than you think is necessary to prevent further damage or a short circuit. Only turn it back on when you are sure it is completely dry. This minimizes the risk of permanent damage and prevents you from having to buy a new phone.
Besides your phone, you'll also want to keep other belongings dry. A wet wallet, soaked papers, or a damaged device can seriously ruin your trip. Especially if you have valuable electronics or documents in your bag, it's wise to ensure everything is well-protected from rain or splashing water beforehand.
Panniers with a water-repellent coating are a handy base, as they keep most moisture out. If water does spill or falls on your bike, you'll prevent further damage to your belongings. If you prefer a backpack, a separate rain cover is ideal. You can quickly pull it over your bag, keeping everything inside dry, even during a heavy downpour.
For truly essential items, like a waterproof phone, power bank, or other electronic devices, consider using a dry bag. This way, you can be sure that not a single drop of moisture will get inside, eliminating the risk of a short circuit or a wet device. Even if your bag tips over or you cycle through heavy rain, all your belongings will remain safe and dry.
Wet roads require some extra attention. Rain makes the road surface more slippery, making it easier to slip or even fall. This not only prevents injury but also damage to your bike or device. A fall where your smartphone falls into water or gets wet can immediately cause water damage to the internal components. Naturally, you want to avoid that.
Therefore, ensure your visibility remains optimal. Rain and dark clouds quickly make the streets gloomy, making it harder for other road users to see you. Working lights are essential, as are reflective clothing or accessories. This way, you stay visible and prevent accidents or further damage.
Also, pay close attention to your tires. A strong tread disperses water more quickly, reducing the risk of skidding. Brakes often work less effectively in wet weather, as water can affect the brake pads. So always test everything before setting off to ensure proper response and try to adjust your speed accordingly. A fall or a slippery corner can quickly result in your belongings, including your phone, getting wet or damaged.
R2B tip: Check your bike regularly and keep it dry and clean after a ride in the rain. This reduces the risk of rust and other problems. With good preparation, you'll stay safe on the road even in a downpour, protecting not only yourself but also your valuables from unexpected damage.
Getting wet while cycling isn't just unpleasant; it can also cause further damage to your health or equipment. A cold wind on a soaked jacket is a recipe for catching a cold, and wet clothing can seriously ruin your ride. With good rain gear, you'll stay dry and comfortable, even if you've had a heavy downpour. Choose a rain jacket and pants that are fully waterproof, so moisture can't penetrate.
Your hands and feet also deserve extra attention. Waterproof gloves and overshoes help retain your body heat, even in chilly weather. This prevents you from tensing up on the bike, which can compromise your balance and increase the risk of falling.
Under rain gear, it's wise to wear quick-drying layers. Materials that wick moisture away quickly help keep your body dry and at the right temperature. Cotton, on the other hand, can stay wet for extended periods, cooling you down and making your ride less enjoyable. Remember that your helmet—an important safety device—also needs to stay dry. A rain cover protects not only yourself but also your helmet from moisture and potential wear and tear from prolonged moisture.
With these smart choices, you'll avoid nasty surprises along the way and ensure a rain shower doesn't spoil your plans. This way, you can cycle comfortably, without the cold, wetness, or further damage to your gear.
Good preparation prevents surprises along the way. Think about both your own comfort and protecting your device from water damage. This checklist will help you travel safely and dry, even in pouring rain:
Waterproof rainwear – check for tears to prevent moisture from entering and keep your clothing completely dry
Waterproof phone holder or case – this keeps your phone dry and prevents short circuits or water damage to your phone
Good lighting – check that the lights are working and are still securely fastened, especially after a fallen bike
Rain cover for your bag or backpack – protects loose items and prevents wet documents or electronic devices
Quick-drying clothing – wear layers that dry quickly so you stay comfortable even after a heavy downpour
Helmet with rain cover – keeps your head dry and prevents moisture from running down your neck
Maintenance kit – a cloth and chain oil will help get your bike back in top condition after a rainy ride
Extra protection for your device – a sturdy pouch or dry bag can help as a backup, so that your device stays dry even in water-logged situations
Let everything dry thoroughly after the ride – hang up your gear and check your equipment to prevent further damage
With these steps you will be perfectly prepared and rain will not be a spoilsport, but simply part of the adventure.
A heavy rain shower doesn't have to stop you. In fact, cycling in the rain can be a unique experience. The road surface is often quieter, the air feels fresh, and you experience a sense of freedom along the way that's hard to come by on dry days. Provided you're well prepared, a little water shouldn't be a problem at all.
With a waterproof jacket and sturdy protection for your device, everything stays dry and safe. Even if you fall or get caught in bad weather, drying your gear immediately and checking for water damage will prevent unpleasant surprises later. A rainy ride sometimes requires a little more attention to maintenance, but the enjoyment you get from it more than makes up for it.
Give yourself the freedom to keep moving, no matter the weather. Don't let rain or wetness deter you. Remember: every ride, even in the rain, improves your fitness and confidence. And if your phone does get wet, remember to take the right steps, such as turning it off immediately, letting it dry carefully, and having it checked if necessary. This will prevent short circuits or further damage to the internal components.
Keep enjoying the fresh air and the freedom of cycling, whether it's dry or not. And remember: with a little preparation and smart handling of your belongings, even a heavy rain shower isn't a reason to stay indoors.
