Five Useful Bits of Information if You Are New to E-Bikes

If you’re new to e-bikes you’ll no doubt have some questions before you buy one. So here are five things that you’ll find useful when considering an e-bike.

1. Change your gears…but not in the way you think

The extra power in an e-bike might help you get away with not changing gears, however, you will not be getting the best out of your bike this way. Change gears as you would normally do on your conventional bike and you will find you’ll get more mileage from your battery. If you are someone who likes to ride above the 15.5mph motor cut-off speed, you’ll also need to change gears appropriately as you approach the transition.

2. Get comfortable

E-bikes let you take longer journeys than you normally would on a conventional bike, so make sure the bike is as comfortable as possible. Ask one of our technicians to check your seating position. They will make sure there is no undue tension in the limbs or joints. Also, think about fitting a gel saddle and ergonomic grips which will help deal with ‘pressure spots’ in areas in which you are in contact with the bike.

3. Keep it safe

E-bikes are a good investment and should be protected as such. Don’t rely on a lightweight cord as these can be cut through with little more than garden shears. Thanks to your e-bike’s increased load-carrying capacity, you can use a heavy-duty lock that would be too heavy to ride around with on a conventional bike.

4. Clean, clean, gently, gently

It’s a very good idea to keep your e-bike clean but it’s a very bad idea to use a pressure washer! If water is forced beyond the seals on the motor casing it can do a lot of damage. A bucket of water and a sponge, or a low-pressure hose will be perfect. If you’re going out in wet or muddy conditions, pre-treat your chain with wet lube.

5. Everyone wants an add-on!

The more you use your e-bike the more you’ll start looking for useful accessories that will make those rides even more enjoyable. For example, there are rear racks that can be taken on and off as required, lights that can be powered from your bike battery and ‘dropper’ seat-posts which help get you into the correct position for different riding. Simply ask our technicians if these accessories will work with your bike.