Spring is a time for outdoors and activity. For those fortunate enough to own women’s or mens electric bikes, it is time for riding. However, as you prepare to explore your surroundings, it’s important to remember that preparation and precaution are crucial to safety. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t get outside; it only suggests that you take a breath before rushing out the door. While not an electric bike buying guide, this article’s remainder will focus on the five spring riding tips for all e-bike riders.
1. Purchase All Essential Safety Gear
While every person who has ever ridden a bicycle has had the idea of wearing a helmet drilled into them repeatedly, it still bears repeating. Too many cyclists ride without a helmet, and many states don’t even require cyclists to wear a helmet, which is insane. The most severe injuries a rider can have while riding a men’s or womens electric bike are head traumas. Why wouldn’t you want to protect your noggin when you can? Wearing a properly fitted helmet is crucial to ensuring your safety, even when you’re involved in an accident.
In addition to wearing a helmet, it’s not a bad idea to wear elbow and knee pads. All of these pads may make you feel a little insecure, but it’s all in your best interest. You don’t want your first spring bike ride to be your last.
2. Follow All Traffic Laws
When you are riding in the street, you need to follow fundamental traffic laws, stopping for every stop sign and stopping for every traffic light. You also need to make sure that you’re using hand signals to show other drivers on the road and pedestrians that you’re planning on turning. You also must remember that when you are riding an e-bike, pedestrians have the right of way.
3. Use Bike Lanes Where Permissable
When there are bike lanes available, you should use them. Granted, not every state has legalized electric bikes on bike paths. Some parks deliberately mandate that e-bikes are not permitted. While these rules seem trivial and don’t make a lot of sense, you have to obey them. However, when you are allowed to use a bike path, make sure that you do. It is for your safety and the safety of others.
4. Decelerate When Going Downhill
Because of the ease of using e-bikes, people often get comfortable using the accelerator and not letting up. It is fun to pick up speed, but remember that you have to consider other’s safety as well as your own. An e-bike can pick up speed quicker than a traditional bicycle when going downhill because the electric motor helps it. Be sure to use your brakes as you go downhill.
5. Eliminate Distractions
While there is nothing more fun than listening to a good playlist on a cool spring day, it is likely best to leave the headphones at home and pay attention to your surroundings. If you plan to ride in the road or take a populated trail, you will need all of your senses to ensure that you and others remain safe.
If you’re geeked about going spring riding with your e-bike, make sure that you have all the gear you need. Stop in at your local bike shop and ask about spring riding essentials.
