Electric Bike Riding: A Beginner's Guide To Getting Started

Electric bikes are a fun and healthy way to cover more miles than possible on a regular bicycle. They are similar to a regular bicycle in many ways, but there are also some differences. Before you start riding, check the tire pressure and adjust it to your preferred amount of air. You should also make sure you have a helmet on correctly and that the lights are on. When mounting the bicycle, you can swing your leg over the saddle, or step through the frame on some models. To get started, press the throttle gently to get rolling, then start pedalling.

How to mount an electric bike

Mounting an electric bike is a straightforward process, but it's important to take safety precautions and ensure the bike is compatible with the motor. First, make sure the bike's electrical system is turned off and disconnected. Use insulated tools and gloves to protect yourself from electrical shocks.

Next, choose a compatible motor mounting bracket and secure it to the frame of your bike. You can use zip ties to do this. Once the bracket is attached, connect the electric motor to it by aligning the motor's mounting holes with the corresponding holes on the bracket.

After the motor is securely attached, connect it to the bike's drivetrain using a chain or belt drive, depending on the motor type. Ensure the motor is positioned tightly to avoid any movement or vibrations while riding.

Finally, double-check all connections and fastenings to avoid accidents or malfunctions. You can also step through and slide onto the frame of the bike, but if you can't get your leg or foot high enough, don't force it, as it could be awkward.

How to adjust the settings

Electric bikes are similar to regular bikes in many ways, but there are some differences to be aware of.

Firstly, check the tire pressure for the front and rear tires. You can do this by squeezing the tire to see if it's soft, or by using a pressure gauge if you have one. Adjust the pressure to your preferred amount of air. The tire sidewall will provide the maximum pressure allowed, but you don't need to use the maximum pressure if you prefer a softer ride.

Next, you can turn on your electric bike. Different bicycles will have different styles of power buttons. For example, EVELO bikes have a power button on the handlebar, and the plus and minus buttons on the left-hand side of the handlebar will adjust your pedal assistance level, also known as PAS.

When mounting the bicycle, you can either swing your leg over the saddle, or step through the frame on some models. Straddle the bike, then hop on the seat and prepare to ride. If you've never ridden an e-bike before, start in PAS level 0 to get comfortable with the bike. If you're comfortable riding an e-bike, levels 1 through 3 are a great choice as this will make pedalling easy, but will also ensure a safe start.

When riding, you can adjust your pedal assistance level by pressing the up or down buttons. This will also change the number on the display panel. As an alternative, you can gently press the throttle to get rolling, then start pedalling.

How to check the tire pressure

Riding an electric bike is similar to riding a regular bike, but there are some differences. Before you start, you should check the tire pressure for the front and rear tires. You can do this by squeezing the tire to see if it's soft, or by using a pressure gauge. The preferred method is to use a pressure gauge, which can be found on an air pump. The tire sidewall will provide the maximum pressure allowed, but you do not need to use the maximum pressure if you prefer a softer ride. You can also mark your preferred pressure on your tire pump so you don't have to think about it next time.

To check your pressure, remove your valve cap from your tire and press the gauge firmly onto the valve. You need a good seal without any air leaks for an accurate reading. Check the tire pressure gauge for the PSI or BAR measurement, comparing it to the minimum and maximum recommended pressures listed on your sidewall. Adjust the tire pressure until it falls within the acceptable range. Ideally, you should check the tire pressure before every ride, but once a week is the recommendation.

Once you've checked your tire pressure, you can get started riding your electric bike. To get started, we recommend starting in PAS level 0 if you have never ridden an ebike before to get comfortable with the bike. If you’re comfortable riding an ebike, levels 1 through 3 are a good choice as this will make pedalling easy, but will also ensure a safe start. As an alternative, you can gently press the throttle to get rolling, then start pedalling. When riding, there are a number of settings you can adjust to operate your eBike. Pressing the up or down buttons while riding will affect your Pedal Assistance level. You will also see the number change on the display panel.

How to charge the battery

Charging the battery of an electric bike is simple. When you’re done with your ride and it’s time to park your ebike, you can charge the battery on or off your bicycle. It is recommended that you remove the battery and keep it in a climate-controlled environment for charging and long-term storage. To charge, plug your charger into the battery first, then plug your charger into the wall.

How to wear a helmet

Wearing a helmet is an important part of riding an electric bike. Here are some steps to follow to ensure you are wearing your helmet correctly:

Firstly, it is crucial to choose the right-sized helmet. Most helmets have a range of sizes, typically between 50 to 60cm, which are dictated by your head circumference. To measure your head circumference, use a fabric tape measure and hold the tape horizontally around your head just above your ears and brow. This will give you the circumference of your head, which will dictate the size of helmet you need. It is worth trying on a helmet before you buy it to ensure the fit is comfortable.

Once you have the right-sized helmet, you need to adjust the chin strap so that it sits snugly against your jaw without being restrictive. If the chin strap is too loose, the helmet is less likely to stay in place and protect you in the event of a crash. The helmet should sit level on the top of your head, with only a small sliver of forehead exposed. Some helmets allow for a ponytail or plait to fit through the mechanism at the back.

Remember, wearing a helmet is designed to help reduce the risk of serious injury to your head and brain in the event of an accident. By wearing a helmet correctly, you can significantly reduce the odds of suffering a head injury.

Frequently asked questions