A bit of bad design on my Kona Ebike

[lightning]

So l've discovered a piece of poor design on my Kona Ebike, which is worth fixing if you have similar on your bike (Shimano downtube battery) the battery is fitted in the down tube as on many similar bikes.
l don't know if other bikes with the Shimano battery are similar, but the battery/frame is not sealed and water/mud etc can get between.
Also there's a hole in the cover where you insert the allen key to remove the battery.

This doesn't seem to be a problem with water, as it just drains away (but why not fit a seal?)
The thing is, mud gets into the top of the battery and clogs up the release mechanism, making it difficult to get the battery out.
ln fact yesterday the battery wouldn't release and l had to use a water spray to get the mud out before it would release.

For now l've put black tape over the hole and around the top of the battery cover, while l think of a better solution.

Picture shows top of battery with the spring clip removed, showing the mechanism clogged with mud.

 

[Mikerb]

Yes a completely stupid design but by no means the only bike with that design.
Some options to consider are creating a seal between the cover and the downtube using liquid gasket or possibly draught excluder type strip. For the top of the cover another option may be to create a neoprene cover secured using self adhesive HD velcro.

 

[lightning]

Yes that is an idea, l am tempted to use a bead of black silicone (or liquid gasket as you described it) right round the edge of the plastic battery cover.
Plus a rubber grommet in the allen key hole.

lt does mean l would have to cut the silicone seal with a craft knife to get the battery out, but TBH l can't see a reason to remove the battery as it can be charged while on the bike.

ln fact the only reason l've ever removed it is to clean the mud out and dry it.
Which wouldn't be necessary if it was sealed properly.

 

[Mikerb]

If you use liquid gasket you can put a light smear of grease on the downtube contact face and the gasket will then only stick to the cover.

 

[lightning]

Thank you, never thought of that, will do.