Electric bikes are more popular than ever before. With an E-bike, you can easily cover longer distances with less effort. This makes the electric bike very much in demand, especially the older generations are very keen on an electric folding bike. And for those who ride electric bikes, it's time to pay attention. Cycling safely on an E-bike is no problem if you heed the tips below.
Weight
An electric bike is a lot heavier than a regular bike due to the motor, battery, sturdy frame and other components. As a result, many accidents happen while getting on, off and braking. A electric folding bike with low instep may be a solution. These bikes are smaller, lighter and the centre of gravity is a lot lower.
Speed
And then there's the speed. You easily cycle 25 kilometres per hour, a lot faster than a regular bike. The logical consequence is that the faster you ride, the harder you can fall. And for other road users, the speed of an E-bike is often difficult to estimate. A car quickly overtakes or a pedestrian quickly crosses the road, underestimating the speed.
Beixo has some (often simple) tips below that will help you cycle electric safely and comfortably.
1. Choose the right electric bike
It seems like an open door, but choose the electric bike that suits you. Get good advice and try out many different e-bikes at a test centre. Don't be tempted by a nice offer, but opt for safety and choose the model you feel 100% confident on. Does a bike not feel quite sure? Then there are always adjustments to be made. Think of a different send or saddle.
2. Drive at the right speed
On a normal bike, you ride an average of 18 km/h, but an electric bike easily reaches 25 km/h. You don't need to ride this speed safely on an E-bike. For example, put your bike in low-support mode for quiet support. On a beixo bike, the maximum speed for each support setting can be adjusted by a specialist. Do this especially if 25 km/h is too fast. Make sure you are always at ease when riding an electric bike.
Do you take your electric bicycle on holiday: pay extra attention then. Conditions there can vary considerably. Both in terms of traffic rules, the handling of cyclists, their place on the road and the kind and type of roads.
3. Take care when getting on and off
It is important to keep control of the electric bike while riding off. Prevent the bike from taking off with you as you ride off. Many accidents happen because of this. How to prevent this depends on your bike, the level of assistance and the position of your pedals when you start pedalling. As with a car, it's best to start in a low-level support position. And put your foot on a down pedal. Another tip: when getting on and off the bike, keep the brakes squeezed so the bike doesn't take off.
4. Don't put your saddle too high
Adjust your saddle so that you can easily stand with both feet on the ground. And not just with the tips of your toes, but preferably with your flat feet. An e-bike is significantly heavier and faster than a regular bike. You should therefore be able to get on and off easily. A saddle that is too high is dangerous if you need to get off quickly. Also pay attention to the correct angle of your saddle. If the point is tilted too far forwards or backwards, you could slip off the saddle. The seat should be 100% optimal. At beixo, this can possibly be adjusted with a pin-up or a tour handlebar.
5. Pay extra attention when overtaking and turning off
Higher speeds can make other road users mistake your speed. Therefore, check carefully at exits, side streets, roundabouts and when crossing to make sure no one is coming. You should also always look back when turning or overtaking. Also look out for bollards, kerbs and verges. A rear-view mirror on your handlebars is always a good option. It is important not to pedal or brake when turning, but to have the right speed before the turn to be able to take it properly. This is especially important for electric bikes with front-wheel motors.
6. Ensure proper maintenance
And last but not least: maintain your electric bike properly. No matter how sturdy an electric bike is, parts will always wear out or something vibrates loose. Good maintenance is therefore essential. With regular inspection and maintenance, you can be sure that everything is secure and the brakes work well. As a rule, one annual service no unnecessary luxury.
Want to learn more about riding an E-bike safely? VeiligVerkeerNederland offers a online course on how to use the electric bike safely.
