Electric bikes are an excellent mode of transportation and leisure activity. Whether you’re commuting to work or exploring the great outdoors in a convenient way. Unlike traditional bicycles, their electric motor provides an extra boost of power to conquer hills, headwinds, and long distances.
You can simply start riding an electric bike by reading the manufacturer’s instructions and safety guidelines. All you need is to adjust the functions according to your preferences. For example– seat height, start up, handlebar, throttle, acceleration, and brake.
In this article, we’ll be covering the basics of how to ride an electric bike, including important safety tips and guidelines for getting the most out of your ride–
What Is An Electric Bike and How Does It Work?
Before we start with the learn riding, it’s mandatory that you have proper knowledge about e-bike over an conventional bicycle and how does it work actually–
An electric bike is a bicycle that is powered by an electric motor and a rechargeable battery. Here, the DC motor provides assistance to the e-bike rider, making it easier to pedal and allowing the bike to reach faster speed with less effort.
You can control this assistance through a throttle. Which typically remains on the handlebars, or a pedal-assist system that senses the rider’s pedaling and provides additional power accordingly. The battery stores the electrical power to run the motor.
However, you can still ride an electrically assisted pedal cycle (EAPC) like a traditional one without the electric assist. Of course, while running out of charge. And that’s all you need to know before moving on.
Types of E-bike, Classes, and Capacities
There are several types of E-cycles, each with different classes, capacities, and speed limits:
Class 1 e-bike:
These e-bikes have a pedal-assist system and a top speed of 20 mph (32 km/h). They do not have a throttle, meaning the motor only provides assistance when you are pedaling.
Class 2 e-bike: Thesee-bicycles have a throttle and a top speed of 20 mph (32 km/h). The electric motor can be used without pedaling.
Class 3 e-bikes: They have a pedal assistance system and a top speed of 28 mph (45 km/h). They have a speedometer and are designed for use on roads.
High-performance e-bikes: These throttle bikes are designed for off-road use and can have higher top speeds, but are not legally considered bicycles in some countries. Here, you can also experience a hybrid bike in this category.
Battery power and capacity and range vary depending on the type of ebike and usage. But most E-bicycles have a speed range of 20 to 60 miles per hour (32 to 96 km) on a single charge.
Understanding Electric Bike Components
It is also crucial to understand the different components of an electric bike before you start riding one. In this section, we will break down the components of an electric bike to help you better understand how they work:
Battery
This is the main power source of the electric bike, providing energy to the motor. The capacity of the battery determines the range of the bike, with larger batteries allowing for longer rides.
Motor
The motor is responsible for propelling the bike forward. There are two types of motors used in electric bikes: hub motors and mid-drive motors(mid-mounted). Hub motors are located in the wheel hub and are typically more powerful, while mid-drive motors are located near the pedals and offer more precise control.
Controller
This device regulates the power from the battery to the motor, ensuring a smooth and consistent ride.
Display
It provides important information such as speed, distance traveled, and battery level. Some displays also offer the ability to adjust the power level and gear settings.
Pedal Assist Sensor
This sensor detects the amount of effort the rider is putting into pedaling and provides assistance accordingly. It allows the rider to control the level of assistance received from the motor.
Throttle
Throttle is an optional component that provides control over the speed of the bike without requiring pedaling. This can be useful when starting from a stop or when you want to travel at a constant speed without pedaling.
Frame
The frame of the electric bike is designed to support the weight of the components and the rider, while also providing stability and handling.
Tires
The tires are responsible for providing traction and shock absorption, ensuring a comfortable and safe ride.
Brakes
Electric bikes come equipped with either hydraulic or mechanical disc brakes, providing reliable stopping power. Sometimes, they also offer shock absorbent mechanisms on the rough retain.
Gears
Most electric bikes are equipped with gears, which allow the rider to change the gear ratio for more efficient riding in different terrain.
Understanding the different components of an electric bike helps for getting the most out of your riding experience. It can also help you make informed decisions about learning and maintenance.
Preparing Yourself and the Bike for a Ride
Before you hit the street on your electric bike, there are a few steps you should take to prepare yourself and bike. These things ensure you a safe and enjoyable ride. Here are the key steps to follow–
Check Your Battery Level
Make sure your electric bike battery is fully charged before going for a ride. This is very important because this ensures you have enough power to complete your journey. No matter how long the way is, because you never know when a road ends.
Inspect The Bike
Check the tires for proper inflation, the brakes for proper functioning, and the lights for proper operation. Otherwise, you will suffer in the middle of a tip and that is quite frustrating.
Wear Appropriate Clothing
Wear a helmet and bright or reflective clothing to increase your visibility to other road users. This will save you from unexpected happenings on the road, especially while taking a sudden turn.
Plan Your Route
Choose a route that is suitable for electric bike riding and familiarize yourself with any hills or obstacles you may encounter. This will give you a proper mileage as per your current battery status.
Know The Controls
This is also a mandatory point in your pre-trip checklist. Review the operation of the display, throttle, and pedal assist sensor, so you feel confident using them during your ride.
How To Ride An Electric Bike?
Riding an electric bike is similar to riding a regular one. But with the added electric power you need a different operational skill. Here are the steps to ride an electric bike:
Adjust the bike
Before you start riding, make sure the seat height is adjusted to your comfort level. You should be able to touch the ground with both feet when you’re seated. It’s also important that you adjust the pedals as well.
Adjusting the Power Settings
The power settings on an electric bike allow you to customize the level of assistance coming from the motor while riding. Adjusting the power settings help you optimize the performance of your electric bike and make your ride more comfortable and enjoyable. However, you can also do it later, after even starting the bike.
Turn on the bike
The electric bike is usually turned on by pressing a power button on the display or the handlebars.
Assistance Levels
Most electric bicycles have different modes of assistance, from low to high. Choose the level of assistance that suits your riding needs and the types of terrain.
Start pedaling
Begin pedaling, and the electric motor kicks in to provide extra power. The motor will automatically stop assisting once you reach the maximum speed limit or if you stop pedaling.
Shift gears
If your electric bike has gears, shift to a lower gear when riding uphill and to a higher gear when riding downhill or on flat surfaces.
Use the brakes
Electric bikes have both regular bike brakes and an electric brake that slows down the bike when you stop pedaling. Always use both brakes to slow down and come to a stop.
With the added power of the electric motor, you can enjoy a smooth and efficient ride.
Essential Safety Tips On Riding An E-biking
Safety is crucial when riding an electric bike because it involves the electric motor’s power. Unlike conventional bikes, throttle bikes can reach higher speeds, making it important to follow proper safety guidelines to avoid accidents.
Here are some essential safety tips for e-biking:
- Obey traffic laws. Treat your E-cycle like a bicycle and follow the same rules of the road.
- Charge the battery regularly. It’s recommended to charge the battery after every ride or at least once a week to ensure it remains in good condition. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for charging the battery.
When not in use, store the battery in a cool, dry place and avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures.
- Check your equipment. Regularly inspect your bike, including the tires, brakes, and lights, to ensure it’s in good working condition.
- Keep the bike clean. Clean the frame, tires, and components of your electric bike regularly to prevent corrosion and ensure optimal performance.
- Lubricate the moving parts. Regularly lubricate the chain, derailleur, and other moving parts to ensure smooth operation and extend the lifespan of the components. You should also check the bolts and nuts regularly. This will secure the components to the frame to ensure they are tight and secure.
- Stay alert: Avoid distractions like texting or listening to music, and be aware of your surroundings at all times.
- Avoid riding in bad weather. Wet roads, strong winds, and poor visibility can make riding a-bicycle dangerous.
- Be mindful of speed. The motor on a Pedelec bike can make it go faster than a traditional bicycle. Therefore, it’s important to be mindful of your speed and control your bike at all times.
- Know your bike’s capabilities. Electric motorized bikes come in different styles and with varying levels of power, so it’s important to understand your bike’s capabilities and limitations.
- Keep software up-to-date. If your electric bike is equipped with software, such as a display or pedal assist sensor. Make sure to keep it updated with the latest software versions to avoid failure in the middle of the journey.
Remember, safety should always be a top priority when riding an automatic electric bike.
Common Problems and Troubleshooting Tips
Even with proper maintenance, you may experience some issues from time to time. Being familiar with the common problems and troubleshooting tips can help you run smoothly and avoid disruptions to your ride.
Here are some common problems and troubleshooting tips to consider:
- Low Battery: If the battery level is low, try to find a bike charging station next to your tips. Besides, you can search on google to navigate them with no time. We know how difficult it is to charge an electric bike in an alternative way, without the original charging adapter.
- Flat Tire: Check for damage to the tire or rim and repair or replace as necessary. You should have those necessary tools in your backpack, in that case.
- Brake Issues: If your brakes are not functioning properly, check the brake pads and cables for wear and replace as needed.
- Power problems: If the motor is not providing adequate assistance, check the battery level and power settings to ensure you properly configured it.
- Noisy chain: In case of a noisy chain, a lubricant can fix these issues. Otherwise, you may tighten the chain properly as per chainring requirement.
- Display issues: You display on the bike may face a starting issue, try restarting the bike or updating the software.
- Unresponsive throttle: If the throttle fails to respond, check the connections and cables to ensure they are properly attached.
Awareness of these common problems and tips, you can keep your electric bike in good working order and minimize disruptions to your ride. If you encounter any issues that you are unable to resolve, consult the manufacturer or a qualified technician for assistance.
Final Thoughts
Riding an electric bike is a fun and convenient way to get around. With the help of an electric motor, it’s easier to tackle hills and longer distances. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can safely and comfortably enjoy the ride. It’s important to keep in mind that safety should always be your top priority, so always wear a helmet and follow traffic laws.
Additionally, proper maintenance is crucial to ensure the longevity and performance of your electric bike. With a little bit of knowledge and preparation, you’ll be well on your way to a great e-biking experience!
