Electric bikes are the perfect way to get around town in style and with ease. They’re eco-friendly, cost effective, and surprisingly easy to operate.
All you need to do is switch on the power and start pedaling. If you want to go faster, you can choose one of the bike’s several power settings. To stop, just squeeze the brakes and the bike will start to slow down. If you want to go even faster, you can switch to the highest power setting and really get moving.
Riding an electric bike is also incredibly fun. The combination of motor power and pedaling makes it a thrilling ride, and you can feel the wind in your hair as you fly down the road. Riding your electric bike on throttle is, in particular, absolute joy!
But as an e-biker, there are certain skills that every rider should master. Not only do they make you a better rider, but they can also help keep you safe on the roads. So, here are some basic electric bike skills all beginners should know!
Braking
It’s important to remember to apply the brakes in a timely manner to stay safe, especially when you are riding off the road on a fat tire e-bike.
Applying brakes too late or too early can be dangerous. So it’s best to apply the brakes before you anticipate needing to stop. This could mean slowing down a few seconds before a stop sign or coming to a gradual stop before a red light.
Not only will this help you stay safe, but it will also give you more control over your electric bike. Knowing how to stop quickly and efficiently can also be helpful in emergency situations.
Cornering
Taking a corner while riding an electric bike is a skill that can take some practice and finesse. The key is to make sure you enter the corner with the right speed and angle.
To start, approach the corner at a speed that you’re comfortable with. Then, as you reach the corner, turn the handlebars in the direction of the turn, and lean your body in the same direction. This will help you stay balanced and keep your wheels on the ground.
As you enter the corner, start to apply the brakes. Once you’re out of the corner, you can start to accelerate again. With a bit of practice, you’ll be riding like a pro in no time!
Descending
Descending a hill on your electric bike can be a thrilling experience. But it’s important to do it safely.
First, you’ll want to adjust your posture by leaning back and pointing your toes inward, so that you can maintain balance and control as you descend. It’s also important to keep your hands firmly on the handlebars, as this will give you more stability and control.
You should also reduce your speed gradually before the descent – the faster you go, the more difficult it will be to maintain control. And if it’s a particularly steep hill, you can use the brakes to slow down even more.
Once you reach the bottom of the hill, you should maintain a moderate speed and adjust your posture to be more upright. With a little bit of practice, you’ll be able to safely and confidently descend any hill with ease.
Riding in Group
Group rides are a great way to stay active, have fun, and make some friends. But if you’ve never done one before, the prospect of e-biking with a group can be intimidating.
It’s important for you to find a path that is safe, enjoyable, and suitable for all levels of riders. Once you have it, communicate it to your group. Finally, when you’re riding, be sure to follow proper cycling etiquette.
Signal your intentions, ride in single-file when there’s not enough room, and give way to pedestrians. If you keep these tips in mind, you’ll be sure to have a great ride with your group.
Before You Go…
Besides the above-mentioned skills, it’s important to learn how to properly adjust your bike for a comfortable fit. This means making sure the seat and handlebars are at the right height for you.
You should also practice shifting gears and different power modes to become a more confident and skilled rider. It’s also important to learn how to maintain your electric bike. This includes fixing punctures, adjusting derailleurs, oiling the chain, and checking for any loose bolts or parts.
Most importantly, you need to wear a helmet and any other safety equipment you feel comfortable with, at all times. You also need to check your air pressure before every ride and make sure your brakes are in good condition!
If you master the basic skills we mentioned above, you can hit any road you fancy!