As an avid cyclist who loves exploring new trails by bike, safety has always been one of my top concerns when embarking on any ride.
But after being involved in a serious accident while riding my beloved eBike, it became clear that understanding proper safety precautions was essential not only for me but also others in our community. And as more people take advantage of electric bikes for everyday transportation or just cruising around town at a faster clip than walking pace, staying safe must remain paramount.
In sharing my experience with fellow riders and friends alike, here are some simple tips that should serve us all well before climbing aboard our favorite machines—and perhaps even encourage those who’ve yet to embrace the joys of eBiking because they worry too much about their personal safety.
First things first, let’s talk helmets since head injuries aren’t limited solely to cycling accidents. No matter what speed you travel or how short your journey might be, protecting your brain from unforeseen hazards will make for a happier outcome should worst case scenarios materialize into emergencies—like mine did. When purchasing a helmet, consider investing in a high quality model designed specifically for eBiking (you may see them marketed as “electric”), which includes features such as better ventilation for hotter conditions and increased coverage over standard lids due to longer handlebars typical found on ebikes today.
And don’t forget lights; adding front & rear visibility makes nighttime outings exponentially safer whether you find yourself pedaling solo or part of a group. Lightweight battery powered versions work great since you won’t want anything extra cluttering up handlebars already full with GPS devices plus additional grips for brakes/shifters. Or, for fancier options still sporting built-in batteries, simply swap between two sets during day vs evening use so you never run low or encounter dead spots mid-ride
When taking to the road on an eBike, it is important to follow traffic laws and regulations. This means wearing a properly fitting helmet, obeying stop signs and traffic signals, signaling turns with hand signals, following lanes rules, and respecting other drivers on the road.
It is also important to avoid imitating YouTube videos that feature high-speed maneuvers and stunts on eBikes. Instead, focus on learning how to operate your eBike safely and confidently through practice and familiarizing yourself with its handling characteristics.
To improve your skills, check out channels like Global Cycling Network (GCN) and watch tutorials featuring experienced cyclists like Lanterne Rouge. While these videos can be entertaining, remember that they are not meant to promote reckless behavior on two wheels. As an amateur enthusiast, it's important to prioritize safety above all else whenever you go out for a spin on your eBike.