Electric bikes are becoming more popular daily because they are a great new way to commute and contribute to reducing gas emissions and human footprints. With this increase in e-bike users, new rules and regulations must also increase, both legally and socially to prevent any type of issues. There are important and very useful details you need to know about electric bike etiquette that will make your experience and that of those around you better. It is essential to keep in mind information on what the best practices are, how to handle certain situations, and make it enjoyable for everyone. Watch for Vehicles Some cities have assigned lanes for people walking, running, and cycling. You can use an e-bike in the bicycle lane without problems as long as you follow safety regulations and your city allows it. If you decide to ride on the streets and use your motorized assistance, make sure to yield to cars and other vehicles. By doing this, you will also increase drivers’ awareness, keeping them alert and ready. Stay Safe Your e-bike gives you benefits and advantages over regular bikes, as you will also have opportunities to do more and go for longer rides. You need to experiment with your e-bike and learn how far you can go and what the safest practice is for you and those around you. Always wear a helmet and the necessary equipment to prevent accidents and follow the safety guidelines for your e-bike. It is not uncommon to get a little dehydrated or tired after riding for a while, so make sure you take water with you and rest for a few minutes before continuing. Watch Your Speed One of the advantages of an e-bike is that it allows you to increase and keep a constant speed thanks to the motor. If you are traveling in the bicycle lane, stay within the speed limit and watch for pedestrians crossing and other bikes. Deciding to ride on a regular lane has pros and cons; you get to enjoy a faster experience, but cars and other vehicles may have problems dealing with you if you’re not going at a higher speed. Learn your limits, especially the speed limits, and stay safe. Don’t Go Against the Flow It is a basic and simple rule to always ride in the same direction everyone else is going, especially cars, to avoid accidents and problems. In some states, it is illegal to go against the flow, even on small or narrow streets. Always trace your route before starting your trip to ensure that your path is the correct one flowing with traffic. Using Google Maps can help you accurately select a course, avoid traffic and accidents, and know about possible detours. Follow Traffic Signals It is important to understand that riding an e-bike is sometimes considered riding a vehicle like a moped, which increases your responsibilities and duties on the road. Always look out for traffic signals to comply with what other drivers are doing. Traffic signals ensure that every vehicle on the streets follows safety regulations, and e-bike riders must do the same. Riding your e-bike as safely as possible will enhance your experience and keep everyone safe. If you have a driver’s license, you know most or all of the signals, but if you don’t, you need to learn why they are so important and what each one means. Know the Difference There are significant differences between a traditional bike and an e-bike, which you can create with an electric bicycle mid-drive conversion kit, that you need to be aware of. A regular bike gives you a traditional commute with a moderate speed and simple but good benefits for health and recreation. An e-bike upgrades your bike for a longer commute and more power, assisting you when you need the help and allowing you to outpace the regular riders. You need to know and learn where the appropriate places to ride are and how to live the best experience. Hand Signals If you’re a frequent rider, you must learn the most common hand signals and why they are important. In the same way that cars use their blinkers to warn other drivers of their actions, riders use hand signals to do the same. Bikers can signal other riders, cars, or pedestrians. Hand signals are simple, easy-to-learn movements that could prevent you from getting into an accident or causing an accident for someone else. Doing these shows people that you care about safety and gives the right awareness to other riders. Learn How To Pass It is not uncommon to see e-bikes riding at different speeds; not everyone feels comfortable or confident going too fast, which is understandable, but sometimes, people get desperate. If you want to pass another rider, it is important to do it to the left of the other rider, leaving at least three feet in between. Always alert people in front of you who can directly see you about your intentions to pass by yelling “on your left.” This is a common practice to let the person in front of you know so they don’t make any sudden moves that could block you. Wear the Right Clothes To get the most out of your ride, comfortably commute, and ride safely, you need to wear the right clothes that will let you perform and manipulate your e-bike in the best way possible. Wearing tight clothing will limit your movement and reduce your focus. You can wear a wide range of clothing as long as you are comfortable and protected. Bright colors are also a good idea to improve your visibility to others. Wave at Other Riders A fun and important e-bike rider etiquette to know is to always wave or nod to your fellow e-bike riders. This acknowledgment will let other people know that you care and that you are all in this together. Working toward the same goal where everyone feels safe and accepted is important, especially with something simple and easy to achieve, like riding an e-bike. Also, if you see another biker or anyone who needs help, this is a great opportunity to put kindness out into the world and make sure everyone is getting home safely. An e-bike is a great way to experience everything that happens outdoors and take action in different situations.
