Electric bikes, also sometimes written as "ebikes" or "e-bikes," are an exciting and convenient way to travel! They are bicycles equipped with electric motors that provide pedal assistance, making it easier to pedal uphill and cover longer distances with relative ease. If you are new to the world of ebikes, you might be wondering what to expect when you first ride one. Well, in this blog post, we will cover some of the recommended preparation and safety precautions when riding. We'll also discuss the functions of the bike that could make your experience more fun and exciting!
Types of Ebikes
There are about as many ebike variants as there are for regular bikes. There's a whole world of ebikes to choose from, so brouse this list to familiarize yourself with the type of bike that might best fit your needs:
- Mountain bike: An electric mountain bike is designed for off-road terrain and wilderness. The have features like wider tires, full suspension, and a stronger frame. The motor provides extra power for tackling steep inclines and rough terrain, while the battery provides longer-lasting power for extended rides in rough and wild conditions.
- Commuter ebike: An electric commuter bike is designed for getting around town quickly and efficiently. They're typically equipped with features like fenders, lights, and racks for carrying bags, briefcases, panniers, and other small cargo. They also have a more upright riding position for better visibility in traffic.
- City ebike: An electric city bike is similar to an electric commuter bike but is designed for more relaxed riding. They might have a step-through frame, which makes them easier to mount and dismount, and often feature a comfortable saddle and grips. They are perfect for getting around town or running errands.
- Folding ebike: A folding electric bike is designed for easy storage and transportation. They can be folded up and stored in small spaces, making them ideal for commuters or people with limited storage space. They are typically lightweight and easy to carry, making them a popular choice for people who need to take their bike on public transportation.
- Cargo ebike: An electric cargo bike is designed for carrying heavy loads, such as groceries, children, or pets. They are equipped with a sturdy frame, a large cargo area, and powerful brakes. The motor provides extra power for hauling heavy loads, while the battery provides long-lasting power for extended trips.
- Etrike: An electric trike is a three-wheeled bike designed for stability and comfort. They are ideal for people who have trouble balancing on a traditional bike or who want a more stable platform for hauling cargo or passengers. The motor provides extra power for tackling hills or hauling heavy loads, while the battery provides long-lasting power for extended rides.
- Beach cruiser: An electric beach cruiser is designed for casual riding along the beach or boardwalk, and can also be used in the same manner as a city bike. They typically have a step-through frame, wide tires, and a comfortable saddle and grips. The motor provides a little extra power for tackling sandy terrain or gentle inclines, while the battery provides extended, longer-lasting power.
- Road ebike: An electric road bike is designed for speed and efficiency on paved roads. They typically have a lightweight frame, drop handlebars, and narrow tires for reduced rolling resistance. The motor provides extra power for tackling hills or keeping up with traffic. And like the last few bikes, the battery on this type of bike also provides longer-lasting power.
- Touring ebike: An electric touring bike is designed for long-distance riding and touring. They typically have a sturdy frame, a comfortable saddle and grips, and a range of features for carrying gear, such as racks and panniers. The motor and battery provide extra power and longer life for tackling hills or covering long distances.
Preparing to Ride an Ebike
Before you take your ebike out for a spin, there are a few steps you should take to prepare:
- Charge the battery: Make sure the battery is charged before your ride. Depending on your bike, it can take anywhere from 3 to 6 hours or more to reach a full charge, so it's important to plan your trips and charge your bike accordingly.
- Familiarize yourself with the bike: Take some time to get to know your ebike. Read the owner's manual and familiarize yourself with the different components of the bike, including the brakes, gears, and motor.
- Make adjustments: Make sure the bike is adjusted to fit your needs. Adjust the saddle height so that your legs are almost fully extended when pedaling. Adjust the handlebars so that you are comfortable and can reach the brakes and gears easily.
- Do a safety check: Ensure the tires are inflated to the recommended pressure, and check the brakes to make sure they're working properly.
- Wear the right clothing and gear: Wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes. Consider wearing a helmet, gloves, elbow pads, and other protective equipment for added safety.
Safety Precautions
Here's a layout of the basic ebike safety recommendations:
- Observe traffic laws: At the time of this writing, according to the law, ebikes are treated the same as regular bikes (though you may still want to double-check with your local legislature). Obey all standard bicycle traffic laws in your area.
- Be aware of your surroundings: Keep an eye out for pedestrians, other cyclists, and vehicles while on the road.
- Use hand signals: Hand signals indicate your intentions when turning or changing lanes - use them.
- Ride defensively: Assume that other road users might not see you and ride defensively to avoid accidents.
- Stay visible: Particularly when riding at night, or in low-visibility conditions, wear bright or reflective clothing, use lights, and/or use reflectors on your bike to increase your visibility to other road users.
The Sensation of Riding
When riding an ebike for the first time, you might experience some new, exhilirating sensations! It's good to be aware of what to expect. Many new riders report:
- The feeling of ease and assistance: You'll feel the electric motor kick in when you start pedaling, providing extra assistance and making pedaling feel easier. If you're an avid regular biker, this may take some getting used to. But trust me, you'll come to love it quickly.
- The rush of speed: Ebikes can reach speeds of up to 20-28 mph (32-45 km/h), and some can go even faster than that, depending on the model. You might feel a sense of speed that you don't normally experience when riding a regular bike.
- The thrill of acceleration: Ebikes can accelerate pretty quickly. They can be quite zippy, and many people find them fun to ride because of it.
Functions and Features of Ebikes
Ebikes have several user-friendly features and key functions that help you make your ride a more pleasant experience:
- Pedal-assist: The pedal-assist feature provides extra assistance when pedaling, making it easier to pedal uphill and ride longer.
- Throttle: Some ebikes come equipped with a throttle. This allows you to control the speed of the bike without pedaling.
- Display: Many ebikes come with a digital LCD display that shows information such as speed, battery level, distance traveled, and other user data.
- Suspension: Some ebikes come with suspension to provide a smoother ride, especially when riding over bumps or rough terrain.
- Comfortable saddle and grips: A comfortable saddle and good grips can make your ride more comfortable, especially if you planning a longer ride.
- Brakes: The brakes are an important safety feature and are especially important when riding an ebike, which can reach higher speeds than a regular bike.
Riding an ebike can be a fun and convenient way to get around. It's important to prepare before your ride, and to follow basic safety precautions. Be aware of the sensations you'll feel the first time you ride, and know the functions of your new bike. Understanding which type of ebike is best for you, how your ebike works, and what to expect will ensure you have a positive experience. Happy riding!