Electric bikes are like pedal models in the sense that once you learn how to ride them you don't forget. It requires balance and once you get that, you just have to learn to keep that balance as the motor propels you forward. That said, there are some other differences you need to keep in mind in order to operate them safely. Here are some tips to help.
E-bike Riding Tips
• Longer Braking Times — Ebikes are heavier than their pedal-powered cousins and because of this, you'll need a little more time to come to a complete stop. They are also much faster than pedal pushers, so you need to keep your hand close to the brake while you ride.
• Faster Cadence — The faster you pedal the better your e-bike will perform. This is true when climbing hills. It's also better for battery life and allows for a smoother ride. It will get you a better cardio workout too.
• Use Low-assist When Possible — Your e-bike battery appreciates low-assist modes so use them as much as you can. The battery will last longer, and you'll get more exercise when using an eco or turbo mode.
How Far Can You Travel on an Electric Bike?
If you're wondering how far you can go on a single charge, the answer is, it varies. Using a low-assist pedal mode prolongs battery life, but there are other factors at play as well. It's important to keep in mind that a bigger motor may give you more power but will have a decreased range than a smaller one. If you live in a hilly area, or just like tackling hills in general, this lessens the range as you will need to use higher modes.
Weight also impacts range and that includes the weight of the rider and any gear they carry in addition to the electric bicycle itself. Cold weather decreases battery life too. Low tire pressure makes you work harder and drains the battery. This is true for pedal models too, but in that case, the battery is the human that's powering it.
Some electric bicycle models advertise a range of between 30 to 50 miles on a single charge. This would be for a model of about 265 pounds with a rear-hub motor, 20-inch tires, and a fully integrated battery. The best electric bikes might get well over 100 miles on a charge.
A model with a 500-watt motor paired with a 48-volt, 13-amp hour battery pack might get you as far as 60 miles on a charge. For best results, charge the battery indoors if you can. A removable battery makes this easier. Store your bicycle inside during cold weather too if you are able.
Battery charge times vary a bit among different models but the typical charge time for a full charge is from three to five hours. The larger the battery the longer the charging time required. If you commute to work having an additional battery at your workplace is a good investment. Your bike shop will have several types available.
