7 Safety Tips on Electric Bikes
Electric bikes have become a popular choice of transportation.
It saves you gas money, you can get a daily dose of exercise, and you can save the environment too. Not to mention, it’s fun.
Electric bikes (e-bikes) are heavier than conventional bicycles. And because of their motor, they can run a lot faster. This is why some people express their concern over safety on electric bikes.
This doesn’t mean e-bikes are dangerous. Accidents could happen no matter what vehicle you’re riding in. But there are many things you can do to be safe while riding your electric bike.
1 – Wear a Helmet
This is the most basic tip, but can often be overlooked.
Helmets can protect your head from minor falls to serious accidents. It can protect your head from scratches or impact.
No matter how careful you are, accidents can still happen. And you don’t know when. Always wear your helmet when riding your electric bike so your head is always protected.
If your helmet has a tinted screen, it blocks the sun and protects your eyes. And during winter, it can keep you warm.
2 – Be Mindful of Traffic and Other Drivers
Whenever you’re on the road, no matter how slow traffic is, be mindful of other drivers, vehicles, pedestrians, and pets.
Pay attention to the flow of traffic. Look out for other cars, especially at intersections. Don’t depend on their signal light. Many drivers forget to signal before making a turn. Instead, anticipate where they’re going.
Practice defensive driving
Also, be careful when approaching parked cars. Someone might suddenly open their door. Give a safe distance so even if they do, no one will get hit.
3 – Make Sure You’re Visible
When driving at night, make sure others can see you.
The lights that come with your electric bike may not be enough. Expert bikers recommend having a blinking white LED front light and a red LED rear light.
You can also add reflective stickers on the body of your bike. It’s also a great idea to wear clothes with reflective material when biking at night. The more visible, the better.
Being visible is not limited to being seen. It means being heard as well. Having a bell or horn will come in handy if you need to let people know you are coming or you need to pass through.
4 – Use a Mirror
It’s important you are able to see from all sides. It’s easy to see what’s in front of you, but not behind you. This is why you need a mirror.
Before you swerve in any direction, look at your mirror first to be sure it’s clear to proceed even if you don’t hear a car behind you.
5 – Keep Your Tires in Shape
Before you head for the road, make sure your tires are properly inflated. Properly inflated tires run more smoothly and can react quickly.
So you have better chances of avoiding an accident.
6 – Ride with Traffic – Not Against It
I’m sure you’ve been told to ride against traffic so you can see better.
But based on data, you’ll
7 – Be Careful on Uneven Roads
Be prepared to come across potholes, cracks, and gravel.
This is why you should always look ahead when riding your electric bike so you can prepare to avoid them or gradually engage your brakes. If you hit your brakes abruptly you’ll lose balance and fall.