Electric bikes, or e-bikes as they’ve been recently called, have skyrocketed in popularity, and it’s obvious why. People consider them the perfect balance between a motorbike and a regular cycle.
But what many people might not know is the knowledge required to buy a suitable electric bike for themselves or the riding essentials needed for one.
Fortunately, we’re here to help. Let’s look at everything you need to consider before purchasing and setting off on your electric bike.
Buying an Electric Bike
Determine Your Needs
This initial part depends solely on the buyer, their situation, and the purpose for buying the electric bike in the first place.
For instance, if you’re looking to carry more than a few shopping bags along with your bike, then you should opt for a cargo e-bike, or if you need a bike for long daily commutes for your job, then buying one with a higher battery range should be your primary concern. There are other various types of electric bikes that you could purchase:
- Road bikes
- Mountain bikes
- Hybrid bikes
- Foldable bikes
Check Its Warranty
Undoubtedly, purchasing an electric bike is a huge investment for most people, but it’s necessary to buy one that comes with a warranty regardless of its price. A bike warranty will assure you that your investment doesn’t go wasted. A valid warranty would be at least two years for the bike’s parts, battery, and motor.
Riding an Electric Bike
Pay Attention to the Battery
An electric bike’s battery is its most crucial part. Though it may seem obvious to charge your battery before going out for another commute, most people tend to forget about charging it after a hard day of work or a long ride.
Taking care of the battery might be difficult at first, but you’ll learn to get used to it. Store the battery in a place at room temperature, not too hot nor too cold. Try not to leave it plugged in for any more than 24 hours at a time. If you aren’t riding the electric bike much during the winter season, make sure to completely charge it every month.
Consider Buying a Second Charger
If you often find yourself on long journeys or running constant errands without having time to recharge, then you would need more range than what’s provided by your battery. The ideal solution is to buy a spare charger to power up the bike when you’re outside.
Another option would be to buy a second battery to double your bike’s range, although that option may not be available for every individual. Get more information about an additional battery to your bike from the electric bike’s manufacturing company.
Maintain Your Bike’s Parts
As with any motor vehicle, looking after its components is vital, and if not done correctly, it could end up with you spending hundreds on repairs or new replacement parts. Maintaining its features can not only increase its lifespan, but it will help optimize your bike riding experience.
For instance, keeping your tire pressure high can significantly reduce the amount of energy your bike requires to move around. Low tire pressure can make the electric bike seem flat, sluggish, and difficult to ride. Additionally, applying oil to your bike’s chain will increase your pedaling efficiency, so you won’t have to peddle as hard.
Be Careful
Many people don’t realize this, but riding an electric bike is vastly different from riding a typical bike, largely due to their power and speed differences. Some people may find it difficult to balance the e-bike at first.
All in all, just remember to follow the proper safety practices like looking before you head into traffic, signal before turning, and give enough space for other people to pass.
