An electric bike is a fun and healthy option for all your commuting and exercise needs. It is a bit similar to conventional bicycles, but with the addition of a few extra features to improve the quality of transit. E-bikes use a battery and motor, which are part of the pedal-assist system that boosts your pedaling when activated. Once you get used to these features, you will see being outdoors in a new light. Use the right bike for your riding style, to enjoy these benefits.
You only need to get the hang of using an e-bike’s controls if you’re already accustomed to using a traditional one. If you are entirely new to the concept of cycling, a fat tire bike is the best way to achieve consistency in usage. It will encourage the practice required to build your riding confidence. To help you begin using your new e-bike, we provide some of our best tips for beginners.
Cycling Tips for Beginners
If you are a novice to using an electric bike, there are many things professionals already know. These all contribute to the safety and consistency of their rides. To get started, here are some cycling tips for electric bicycle beginners:
Perform Routine Inspections
As a beginner, you should understand that carrying out a routine inspection on your e-bike is not because you are a novice. There is no professional level you will achieve where you will not have to ensure your equipment is in prime condition. A faulty machine can easily lead to complications in your trip. To avoid exposing yourself to danger due to negligence, ensure to perform routine inspections on your e-bike.
Before every ride, check to see that your chain is lubricated, the lights are working, and the brake is functional. As you proceed, keep an ear out for any strange sounds that may indicate an underlying condition.
There is enough time after your ride to perform a more careful inspection. If you have been near the beach, check the battery terminals for exposure to salt and the chain for sand. Remember to clean your bike thoroughly while you are at it.
Get the Proper Gear
The proper riding gear is a crucial part of every ride, whether a short one to the store or a longer one to work. Your body is the only defense you have in the case of an accident, so you must do all you can to avoid using it as a shield. The first and most important gear you need on every ride is a helmet.
It protects your head, which can sustain damage if left bare. Even professionals don’t ride without a helmet, however short the trip is, so don’t get cocky while trying to be confident in your budding skills.
Ensure your bike is equipped with the right gear for your commute. Attach rear mirrors if you need them to avoid moving too much. Adorning your e-bike with reflective taping will increase your visibility when riding during dark hours like dawn and dusk. Don’t forget the fenders, which are good for your tires when riding in the rain. Dress appropriately for the weather. Wear light, moisture-wicking material in layers you can remove easily.
Learn the Controls
Electric bikes come with several components aimed at ensuring you enjoy better rides. The more interactive features there are provided, the more time you need to get used to them. You must know enough about your e-bike’s controls before you even think about heading out. This will help you avoid confusion at critical points of your trip that require focus.
The inclusion of a pedal-assist system means there are probably about 3 to 9 assist levels provided. This is the amount of power output from the motor to boost your pedaling. You need to learn how to use this to complement your rides. If there is a throttle included, you need to learn when to switch it on and off.
The same applies to your derailleur system and brakes. The Himiway Zebra provides an LCD display where you can monitor riding stats, such as mileage, speed, battery charge, pedal-assist level, and odometer. A USB port is also available to charge your phone.
Practice Riding
Your first e-bike requires some practice before you go out on the road among pedestrians and other motorists. If you don’t know how to ride at all, whether on a traditional or electric one, try doing it in a controlled space around your home till you’re confident enough.
Adjust the seat to get a perfect fit. Ride for a while till you achieve premium comfort levels. Note that an e-bike is the best option for a novice to build riding confidence quickly.
It provides a more fun experience that helps in staying consistent with the habit. A fat tire electric bike provides enough stability, so you can focus on your ride instead of harboring a fear of losing balance as you proceed.
Observe Battery Range
The battery is an important component of the pedal-assist system, and crucial to your use of electric power during rides. Its range is the entire distance you can possibly travel per single complete charge. Charge it before you embark on any trip, especially long-distance. Maybe not entirely 100%, but ensure that it is at least 70%.
Using pedal-assist, the throttle, or any other electric feature to assist your riding will only deplete the battery further. You will still be able to ride when it is empty, only you will have to keep pedaling to stay in motion.
Use the e-bike’s interactive features only when necessary, so you can rely on the remaining charge when you can’t pedal. If you intend to embark on a trip longer than your battery range, pack the charger, and some extra juice.
Be Aware
On the open road, your attention is one of the most important things you can give to your journey. You need to observe the terrain ahead as you navigate. If you are on smooth city streets, there is a lot to pay attention to, from the traffic signs to the other motorists to the road itself.
Ensure you can be seen by wearing bright or reflective clothing. Watch out for small sharp obstacles that could distort your ride out on the trail or rugged terrains. If you use a fat tire e-bike like the Himiway Cruiser Step-thru, the thicker and puncture-resistant tires ensure you worry less on rough roads.
Conclusion
An electrical bike with fat tires is one of the best options for any beginner to master cycling. The improved traction and ergonomics ensure you can keep having fun while building your riding confidence. However, observing the tips in this article will have you in a good place while your electric bicycle does the rest.
It is already equipped with a battery and motor to power your rides, so ensure to take good care of it by performing routine inspections. Get the right cycling gear, and never leave home without a well-sized helmet. Learn the controls on your new bike as you practice riding it. O
nce you hit the road, pay attention to your surroundings and your battery. With these tips and others you discover along the line, you will be able to enjoy safe rides consistently. Ensure to get the right e-bike for your riding style. Check our online store to see which Himiway e-bike works best for you.
Also read: 5 Questions to Ask Yourself Before Getting a Motorcycle
