It’s a good idea to check the tire pressure before every ride to see if the tires need to be inflated. Other maintenance tasks like looking over the gears and brakes are recommended after every several rides. Bigger projects like suspension can happen as needed.
E-Bike Safety Checklist: What to Check Before You Ride
Written by: Rémy Rossi | November 8, 2024 | Time to read 5 min
Completing a quick inspection of your electric bike gives the green light to enjoy the ride. Follow this brief pre-ride checklist and safety recommendations to stay ahead of any maintenance tasks down the road.
I know you probably don’t need another checklist to add to your already busy schedule, but giving your e-Bike a rapid once-over before you ride can reap big benefits. A quick inspection can save you from getting a ride-ending mechanical or flat tire that leaves you stranded. Plus, keeping tabs on your bike’s health lets you catch any issues early before they turn into bigger problems.
More about the Author: Remy Rossi
Rémy Rossi is a bike writer, mechanic, and educator who got his start in community-based bike shops and co-ops. With a decade in the industry, he still wrenches on bikes when he can and plays bike polo on a fixie.
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How to Do a Pre-Ride Bike Inspection
For the most part, inspecting an electric bike is exactly the same as a standard bicycle, but you’ll want to take extra care of the battery to extend its lifespan. Some steps on this checklist you’ve likely heard before, but safety comes first and that’s something always worth repeating.
There are many moving and electrical parts on an e-Bike, so the simple steps below are an abridged version of more comprehensive bike maintenance. Enjoy your e-Bike outing to the fullest and pedal safely by following these five pre-ride tips:
Fit
Making sure your bike fits you properly comes first. This step is mostly a set-it-and-forget-it kind of thing (assuming you get it right), so you won’t have to make adjustments every time you ride. But maybe you share the bike with someone that’s a different height or you noticed the saddle felt too low during the last time you rode the bike. Now’s the time to adjust the seat height.
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ABC Check: Air, Brakes, Chain
From Bike Mechanics 101 to the ABCs of bike safety, the ABC check is the champion of any pre-ride routine. Are your tires inflated? Check. Brakes working? Check. Is the chain lubricated? Check. Give your tires a squeeze to see if they require air and roll your bike forward while engaging the brakes to make sure they’re operating properly.
I’m personally a big fan of the ABC check, deeming it doubly necessary for my brakeless fixed-gear bike. With no brakes to inspect, I have to pay extra attention to the chain (it essentially acts as my brakes) and correct tire pressure on my far-too-skinny tires. And while I wouldn’t recommend brakeless fixes to anyone in their right mind, I fully endorse the ABC bike check for all cyclists!
Always wear a helmet
Electric bikes are heavier and capable of faster speeds than standard bicycles, so wearing a helmet is even more important to protect your head in the event of a crash. It can be tempting to treat e-Bikes differently to traditional bikes and I’ve noticed that some recreational e-Bike users have a bit of a blindspot when it comes to wearing a helmet. Always ride with a helmet and keep it snug and fastened on your noggin.
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Wardrobe check
Believe it or not, fashion can be functional too. Wearing bright, reflective clothing significantly increases your ability to be seen by others. Weather-appropriate clothing also helps you stay warm and dry as you ride your city e-Bike. Have you ever wondered why bike commuters have their right pant leg rolled up? It’s because the cuffed pant leg will stay clear of any grease or getting caught in the chain and crank.
E-Bike battery check
Having enough charge to get where you’re going is crucial for electric bikes. If you need a bit more juice, you can plug it in as you get ready to head out the door. For the best performance, keep the battery away from extreme temperatures and moisture. Checking your battery charge levels right before a ride is probably too late if you’re in a rush, so remember to plug your e-Bike in to charge after every ride.
Preparation pays off
Safety and preparation go hand in hand. Do a bit of route planning and carry a handful of cycling essentials to start your two-wheeled adventure off on the right foot.
- Plan your ride: Have a good understanding of the route before you head off. Of course, there’s always room for spontaneous adventure, but knowing details about the weather and terrain ensures you’re ready to have the most fun.
- Essential items: Carrying things like a puncture repair kit, water, sunscreen, and the like can prevent small disasters when out on the road. These small items can easily fit into compact bike bags or baskets.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to check my e-Bike every time I ride?
Are electric bikes safe?
Yes, e-Bikes are safe to ride and they continue to get even safer due to better battery technology and safety certifications. Riders should keep in mind, however, the additional weight and higher speeds of electric bikes. Upway recommends against purchasing low-quality e-Bikes or used models that haven’t been inspected by a professional.
What happens if my e-Bike battery runs out of charge?
If your e-Bike runs out of juice, you’ll have to pedal the old-fashioned way to make it back home. You’ll notice it takes slightly more effort to pedal due to the added weight and slight motor resistance. There are long-range electric bikes with higher capacity batteries so there’s less of a chance you’ll run out of charge.
How do I need to ride an e-Bike?
To ride an electric bike, start by familiarizing yourself with the controls, including the throttle, pedal-assist settings, and brakes. Begin in a low-assist mode to get comfortable, especially if you’re new to e-Bikes. Pedal normally, and the motor will provide extra power based on your chosen assist level, making it easier to climb hills or ride longer distances. Remember to wear a helmet, follow local traffic laws, and regularly check your battery charge and tire pressure to ensure a safe and enjoyable ride.
Key Takeaways
- Pre-Ride Safety Matters: A quick pre-ride check can prevent breakdowns and ensure your e-Bike is safe and ready to go.
- Essential Checks: Follow the ABCs—Air, Brakes, and Chain—to keep your ride smooth. Don’t forget to check your e-Bike battery for sufficient charge.
- Helmet and Visibility: Always wear a helmet and consider reflective clothing to increase safety and visibility on the road.
- Preparation is Key: Plan your route and pack essentials like a repair kit, water, and weather-appropriate gear to avoid unexpected issues.
- Upway Advantage: All Upway e-Bikes are inspected and come with a 1-year warranty, ensuring a safe, hassle-free riding experience.
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