E-Bike Riding Skills and Techniques are a la mode today. From sleek, trendy designs to extreme functions, you can find a gazillion models of e-bikes in the market. With all this variety, there is something available for everyone! Riding an e-bike is similar to riding a bicycle (with a few added switches, of course) – but its upkeep and technique are slightly different.
On an e-bike, certain components require periodic attention. Mastering the knowledge of how things come together and work helps you be a better, more efficient e-bike rider. It also helps you care better for your bike, enabling it to last longer and perform optimally each time you take it for a spin.
This blog discusses some techniques and skills for you to polish to better utilize your e-bike and become a blazing rider! Read on.
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Lesson One: The Batteries
Much like your mobile phone, folding electric bikes need to be recharged from time to time. This can be done at home or at dedicated charging stations where you can leave your e-bike to recharge while you run other errands.
The skill here is time and space management between charges. It is a smart move to charge your e-bike each time you return from your day out on it so that the next time you need it, it is charged and ready to roll.
Additionally, you can learn to detach and reattach its batteries so that charging it at home (indoors, basically) does not require you to bring the whole e-bike inside. All e-bikes come with instruction and care manuals, so make sure you thoroughly go through the battery-care section.
Skill in handling the battery will help you become a better rider.
Lesson Two: The Tires
Tires are one of the primary factors that impact your ride quality. When you decide to purchase an electric trail bike, make sure you read up all there is to know about tires.
Tires on e-bikes are broader and larger than your traditional bicycles – this creates more “drag” with the ground while pedaling. It hardly matters, though, because you have a motor to assist you if pedaling gets hard. In any case, it pays well to choose the right tire width that lets you optimally utilize your own effort and the battery power in tandem such that it lasts you your entire adventure.
Normally, if off-roading is majorly how you’re going to use your e-bike, broader tires would give you better traction and stability. Professional e-bike riders always make sure they have the right kind of tires for the terrain they will be riding their bike on.
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Another thing to keep in mind is the tire pressure. As you ride your e-bike more and more, you will come to understand the subtle nuances that change with tire pressure and let you know it is time to get it checked. Always have the tires in top condition before taking your e-bike out on an adventure.
Lesson Three: The Centre of Gravity
By the laws of physics, the lower the center of gravity, the stabler the vehicle. This is the reason why the cargo holds in a ship is typically in its belly. The same concept applies to e-bikes: their batteries and motor are placed lower on the body to shift the CG downwards for a stable ride.
If you observe, traditional bicycles have a more evenly distributed weight profile, being lighter. Handling them is easy whichever way you are seated. However, with e-bikes, the added weight makes them difficult to be handled in a standing position – because the CG moves higher with your weight.
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Professional e-bikers make sure they are seated comfortably whilst handling e-bikes on challenging terrains because of this very reason. If you plan to look cool on an e-bike, plan to do it somewhere safe and with safety gear!
Lesson Four: The Turns
One tip for honing your e-bike skills is to polish the way you navigate turns. The most seasoned of e-bikers stop pedaling as they enter a turn and pick it back up as they leave it. Not only does this make sure that your feet stay ready to stabilize any imbalances, but it also helps you manage the speed of the e-bike.
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Lesson Five: Stay Safe!
Always make sure you are following the law of the land and traffic regulations as they apply. Read the instruction manual thoroughly to understand how the electronics on your e-bike work and how to prevent any hazards. Maintain your e-bike periodically yourself, or get help from your service center.
Wrapping Up
E-bikes are changing the way people commute. They are a great alternative to four-wheeled vehicles and help people navigate traffic better. Additionally, they can be used by people of any fitness level because of the electric propulsion system.
The key lies in using e-bikes with care and consideration. Like with any machine, these machines need upkeep too. Use the skills listed above to make sure you are getting the best out of your e-bike experience.