With the popularity of E-bikes on the rise, it is crucial to understand the rules of the road. The staff at Electrified e-bikes want everyone to be safe on the road. Follow these ten essential tips for electric bike safety.
- Safety Gear
The most important item for electric bike safety is wearing a helmet. A properly fitted helmet that meets all safety standards is a must, regardless of age or riding ability.
- The helmet should fit snugly and cover your forehead.
- Cycling helmets must meet the ASTM F1492 or CPSC guidelines.
Dress appropriately for riding. Always wear closed-toe shoes and shoes that provide a good grip on the pedals. Consider comfortable clothing that gives you visibility. Reflective clothes or accessories will allow vehicles to see you.
- Know the Rules of the Road
Every state and local area could have different laws pertaining to where you can ride an e-bike. Don’t assume all laws are identical—speed limits, licensing, and permits may vary by location.
- Know what all the safety signs mean and follow them. They aren’t just for vehicles.
- Follow the speed limit.
- Obey all traffic signals and ride responsibly.
- Electric Bike Maintenance
Lighting. Make sure you have the proper functional lighting for day and night use. The best lighting setup is a white front light and a red tail light. Reflectors will also enhance your visibility.
Regular E-bike maintenance. Regular maintenance ensures electric bike safety by keeping everything in proper working order.
- Schedule regular times to check tires and tire pressure, brakes, lights, batteries, and cables.
- Maintain a yearly service appointment with a qualified e-bike mechanic to ensure your bike is properly maintained and in good working order.
- Weather Conditions
Pay attention to weather conditions and understand how to ride in different situations. Avoid riding in harsh weather like heavy rain, high winds, or snow. If you must ride, take the necessary precautions to stay safe in inclement weather.
- Ride Within your Ability
Build your confidence and riding expertise gradually. Learn to handle speed and terrain as you build your expertise; don’t go beyond your current ability without practice.
- Ride Defensibly
Don’t assume vehicles are paying attention to you or the road. Riding proactively increases your safety. Use caution at intersections, yield to pedestrians, and obey traffic signals.
Also, regulate your speed for the area, ride predictably, don’t make sudden erratic changes, and use proper hand signals. Expect the unexpected.
- Understand Blind Spots
Making eye contact with drivers will help you be on their radar. Signal your intentions with the proper hand signals. Proactively realize vehicles have blind spots. You must take the necessary precautions to stay safe if riding in one.
- Be a Courteous Rider
Road rage has no place on an e-bike. Be respectful of pedestrians and vehicles. Share the road responsibly.
- Ride at a Safe Distance
Maintain the proper distance when riding in traffic. Pay attention to motorcycles, drives, and pedestrians, and be predictable.
- Intersections pose the most hazards. Proceed with caution through intersections and crosswalks.
- Slow down, make eye contact with drivers, and watch for pedestrians crossing the road.
- Ride Sober
An electric bike is still a vehicle and shouldn’t be driven while cognitively impaired. Avoid e-bikes if you are drinking or have taken drugs. Also, avoid distractions like your phone or listening to music while riding.
At Electrified E-bikes, we want you to hit the open road and experience the fun, thrills, and adventure electric bikes offer. Following these safety tips will prepare you for any riding: city, country, or off-road.
The adventure awaits!
