Electric bike riding tips:
ride your new electric bike safely
In recent years, electric bicycles have become increasingly popular. Equipped with an electric motor and a powerful battery, EABs are not only a fast and comfortable means of locomotion, but also offer an environmentally-friendly alternative to cars and public transport. However, there are a few important safety aspects to bear in mind when using an electric bike. In this article, you'll find some useful tips for riding and maintaining an electric bike. So you can get around with your EAB with complete peace of mind!
Riding an electric bike: eco-friendly, enjoyable travel for all
For many, electric bikes are an attractive alternative to cars and public transport. They are environmentally friendly and offer a fast, comfortable means of transport for short journeys. Long-distance travel has long been a thing of the past, thanks to state-of-the-art batteries with ever-greater range.
The electric bike's motor provides the necessary assistance during the ride: this makes EABs a good alternative to muscle bikes for neophytes. But MTB and electric racing bikes are also interesting for experienced cycling fans: they allow you to optimize your training and discover new facets of cycling.
Why VAE safety is important
Just as with a conventional bike, safety on an electric bike is always the top priority. In the event of a road accident, the risk of injury is relatively high. The higher your speed, the greater the risk of injury. This is especially true if you're riding alongside cars.
That's why it's important to look after your own safety, and wear a suitable bicycle helmet. As a cyclist, you are also bound by certain traffic rules. You should also know that it's forbidden to ride your bike wearing headphones or with your phone in your hand. If you need to use your phone, opt for a smartphone holder to attach to your VAE. Last but not least, we strongly recommend that you use the bicycle paths that have been specially designed for you.
Electric bike beginners: make the right adjustments before your first outing
Before you ride your electric bike for the first time, you need to make sure it's set up correctly. Here are a few tips to help you do just that:
- Adjust the height of the saddle: it should be positioned so that your leg is almost fully extended when you pedal. This makes pedaling easier and prevents injury.
- Find the right distance between the brake levers and the handlebars: you need to be able to reach the brake levers comfortably and safely. If the distance is too great, you may not brake fast enough in the event of danger.
- Adjust the handlebar height to suit your height: you need to be able to grip the handlebars comfortably while riding. This helps avoid bad posture and back pain.
Driving tips for electric bikes: the basics
Electric bikes aren't just faster than bikes without motors: with an electric bike, there's also a different riding sensation. To enjoy riding your EAB, it's important to know the basics. Before riding your electric bike for the first time in "real-life conditions", try riding it on roads in a quiet area with little traffic.
- Starting and stopping your electric bike: when starting your electric bike, make sure that the assistance function is activated and that your feet are on the pedals. When braking, always apply both brakes at the same time.
- Start your electric bike successfully: when starting, press the gas pedal slowly and carefully to ensure a safe and controlled start with your EAB.
- Speed and level of assistance: it's important to adapt the speed and level of assistance to your riding conditions. For example, a higher level of assistance is particularly useful on uphill gradients.
- Getting off your electric bike safely: when you get off your ebike, make sure it comes to a complete stop.
Practical tips for riding an electric bike
If you've acquired sufficient confidence in the basics, riding on longer, more demanding routes is no problem at all. Here too, the rule is: always pay attention to your surroundings and don't endanger yourself or others with dangerous maneuvers.
- Driving around bends: drive slowly and in a controlled manner around bends, and tilt your body slightly. You also need to look ahead to spot any obstacles in good time.
- Riding uphill and downhill: if the route is uphill, it's advisable to shift to a lower gear. This will reduce the effort for you and your electric bike. If you're going downhill, you'll need to choose a lower assistance level for better speed control.
- Dealing with the wind: strong winds make riding an electric bike more difficult. So choose a low assistance level and ride at a reduced speed. To react quickly to gusts of wind, it's also important to have a firm grip on the handlebars.
The fundamentals of your own safety on a VAE
Safe e-bike riding also depends on using the right equipment. First and foremost, make sure your brakes are working properly - they're your first line of defense in the event of an unforeseen situation. Regular checks on their performance are essential to ensure a smooth ride.
And don't forget that your doorbell is an effective way of signalling your presence to other road users. Its use prevents potential accidents, especially in densely populated areas.
Visibility is another crucial aspect of bicycle safety. Make sure your electric bike is equipped with adequate, functional and clearly visible lighting. What's more, to increase your visibility when riding at night or in low-light conditions, it's a good idea to add reflective elements to your bike or equipment.
It goes without saying that safe cycling requires the use of a helmet! Helmets play a major role in preventing serious head injuries in the event of a collision. No matter how long or how far you ride, wearing a helmet should always be a priority.
Cleaning and maintaining your electric bike
Regular maintenance of your electric bike will extend its life and keep you riding safely. Check that the brakes and lighting are working and that tires has sufficient pressure. When charging the battery, always follow the manufacturer's instructions and handle with care.
Cleaning your electric bike is very simple: after riding, wipe off any heavy dirt with a damp cloth. The accumulation of dust and mud can shorten the life of your bike. However, never clean your ebike with a water jet: it's important to avoid large quantities of water penetrating the ebike's electronics, which could cause serious damage.
Our driving tips to enjoy your electric bike for a long time
Adopting good riding practices will also extend the life of your electric bike.
Try to drive smoothly and evenly. Sudden acceleration and braking, although sometimes necessary for safety, can overload the battery and braking system, shortening their life. So try to drive smoothly and predictably.
Next, get to know your bike. Familiarizing yourself with the different riding modes, braking feel and electric assistance will enable you to optimize their use and avoid possible damage due to improper use.
As for your electric bike's battery, its longevity depends very much on its use and maintenance. Don't let it discharge completely, and avoid frequent rapid charging whenever possible, which can damage it in the long term. Prefer a slow, full charge whenever possible.
Finally, don't forget that even if your bike is electric, it's still a bike. Respect the rules of the road, be aware of your surroundings and always make sure your safety equipment is in good condition. That way, you'll be sure to enjoy your electric bike for many years to come.
Adopting good riding practices will also extend the life of your electric bike.
Try to drive smoothly and evenly. Sudden acceleration and braking, although sometimes necessary for safety, can overload the battery and braking system, shortening their life. So try to drive smoothly and predictably.
Next, get to know your bike. Familiarizing yourself with the different riding modes, braking feel and electric assistance will enable you to optimize their use and avoid possible damage due to improper use.
As for the battery, the central element of your electric bike, its longevity depends very much on its use and maintenance. Don't let it discharge completely, and avoid frequent rapid charging whenever possible, which can damage it over the long term. Prefer a slow, full charge whenever possible.
Finally, don't forget that even if your bike is electric, it's still a bike. Respect the rules of the road, be aware of your surroundings and always make sure your safety equipment is in good condition. That way, you'll be sure to enjoy your electric bike for many years to come.