Safety Tips for Riding an Electric Bike for the First Time
What mode of exercise or transportation can beat the bountiful benefits of bike riding? Even Sir Arthur Conan Doyle noted the perks of cycling back in the 19th century. He wrote, “When the spirits are low, when the day appears dark, when work becomes monotonous, when hope hardly seems worth having, just mount a bicycle and go out for a spin down the road, without thought on anything but the ride you are taking.”
In our modern world of digitalization, electrified biking is becoming the new riding standard for folks of all ages and abilities. All the same safety rules apply here, whether you’re commuting in the city or taking a spin around the neighborhood. Let’s take a closer look at a few precautions new riders should take before hitting the road. Here are some key safety tips for riding an electric bike for the first time.
Be Prepared: Check the Standard ABCs
Out of all the safety tips for riding an electric bike for the first time, preparing well tops the list. As with standard biking, you must wear protective gear and ensure a proper tune-up for safety on the road. So check the standard ABCs: air, brakes, and chains. Inflate your tires with enough air, check that the brakes work well, and ensure the chain is in good condition.
This once-over isn’t merely for safety’s sake; it's also for functionality assurance. You won’t get too far without any of these components. From this point forward, make performing a pre-ride checkup into a habit each time you pick up your bike.
Get a Good Handle on the Controls
Systematically understanding your boosted ride is the next step to achieving safe operation when out and about. An e-bike functions similar to a conventional two-wheeler. Yet, take careful note of the main differences. This includes its ability to reach higher speeds at a faster rate in diverse terrains. Another core discrepancy is weight. Many electric bikes models are heavier due to their integrated features.
For this reason, you should remember that practice makes perfect. Start slow. You should aim to get an accurate feel of the necessary handling requirements beforehand. This includes correctly controlling your upper body and riding position to ensure a smoother and safer ride. Don’t forget to test any possible settings, solutions, and speeds to help prevent or remedy dangerous riding scenarios.
Be Aware of Riding Etiquette and Traffic Rules
As mentioned, a prime perk of electric biking is the ability to ride swiftly and speedily. That said, awareness of the right etiquette remains essential. Remember to ride defensively and keep an eye out for drivers, pedestrians, and other cyclists. Not everyone you pass by understands what safe bicycling demands. Be mindful of the local traffic and surrounding terrain to avoid hazards or obstacles.
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