Our top electric bike riding tips 

2024 is well and truly upon us - and with Spring just around the corner, many of us are looking ahead to a great year of cycling.

Whether you already own an electric bike, or if you’re considering buying one, you’re part of a growing fanbase: 14% of cyclists are considering switching to electric this year.

It’s no shock that electric bikes are becoming more and more popular as a means of transportation and recreation. They are an eco-friendly and cost-effective way to get around, and they offer a unique riding experience.

However, whether you’re an experienced and regular cyclist, or just getting back into the saddle, it’s worth swotting up on some e-bike bike riding tips as there are some nuances to be aware of when it comes to going electric.

Get to know your bike

If you’ve had a chance to browse our online UK electric bike store, you’ll see there’s a huge range of types, models, and brands available.

Get to know the specifics of your bike. Familiarize yourself with its features and controls, such as the power assist levels, throttle, brakes, and battery range. 

Understanding your bike's capabilities and limitations can help you ride more efficiently and safely.

If you haven’t yet purchased your bike, we’ve put together a handy guide to choosing the perfect e-bike for you. Our team are on hand to help you ensure you buy the right bike for your needs.

Wear proper gear

Just like riding a traditional bike, wearing proper gear is crucial for both safety and comfort.

Always wear a helmet and choose clothing that is comfortable and appropriate for the weather. If you're riding at night or in low-light conditions, wear reflective clothing and add reflective accessories to your bike.

At Eco Bike Co. we sell a range of high-quality cycling helmets and weather-resistant clothing along with plenty of other handy accessories. Trust us, after a long rainy cycle, you’re not going to regret having invested in a genuinely waterproof cycling jacket.

Protect yourself, but also protect your bike. Although price points do vary, e-bikes are generally more expensive than their traditional cousins - making the purchase of a bike lock a no-brainer. Check out our range of locks here.

Whatever your level, start slowly

If you're new to electric bikes, start slowly and get a feel for how the bike handles. 

Electric bikes can accelerate faster than traditional bikes, so it's important to get used to the speed and power assist levels. Begin by using the lower power assist levels and gradually increase them as you become more comfortable.

If possible, start out on a quieter route, so you can comfortably get a feel for the bike without worrying about other road users. On that note…

Be mindful of traffic

Be aware that electric bikes can reach higher speeds than traditional bikes, so it's important to be mindful of traffic and follow the same traffic laws as other vehicles. 

Ride in bike lanes, signal your turns, and obey traffic lights and signs. Also, be aware of your surroundings and anticipate the actions of other vehicles and pedestrians.

Without being too preachy, if you haven’t cycled on the road in some time, a quick refresher of the Highway Code never goes amiss.

Check out our guide to using an e-bike safely on the road for more info.

Monitor and maintain your battery

E-bikes rely on a battery to power the motor, so it's important to keep an eye on the battery level - and have a good idea of what it is capable of before heading out. 

Be aware of how far you can ride on a single charge and plan your route accordingly. If you're going on a longer ride, consider bringing a spare battery or charging your battery along the way.

If you look after your battery, it’ll last longer - and you may get more mileage out of it.

We’ve written a guide to e-bike battery maintenance. Give it a read before your next ride.

Don’t skip e-bike maintenance

Just like any other vehicle, electric bikes require regular maintenance to keep them running smoothly. 

Make sure to keep your bike clean, check the tyre pressure, and keep the chain lubricated. It's also a good idea to periodically check the brake pads and make any necessary adjustments or replacements.

Not only will this help avoid issues while out on the road,  but you’ll enjoy a smoother ride, too.

If you do run into trouble while out and about, it’s worth being prepared. Always carry a small toolkit with you in case you need to make any minor repairs or adjustments while you're out. It's also a good idea to carry a spare tyre tube and a pump in case of a flat tyre.

Electric bike riding guide: Final thoughts

There’s simply no denying it, electric bikes are a great way to get around and enjoy the outdoors. 

By following these electric bike riding tips, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable riding experience. 

Remember to wear proper gear, start slowly, be mindful of traffic - and know the rules of the road -  monitor your battery, and do keep your bike in good knick.

If you’ve got any questions at all about e-bike riding, why not reach out to our team of expert riders? We’d love to help.

Happy riding!