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.
How to Perform a Basic E-Bike Safety Check Before Every Ride
Written by: Rémy Rossi | June 8, 2025 | Time to read 4 min
You don’t have to be a bike doctor to conduct an e-Bike check-up before every ride. Here’s how to perform a basic e-Bike safety inspection to ensure a smooth ride.
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.
Cycling is all about anticipation. Look ahead into traffic, change gears before the actual climb starts, and check your electric bike prior to going out for a ride. My bike safety check is so ingrained into my pre-ride routine that I barely have to think about it, and it’s saved me from plenty of potential issues down the road.
Here’s how to perform a simple and quick e-Bike safety check and a few other top tips, whether you’re rolling on a cargo e-Bike or an electric mountain bike!
Always wear a helmet
Come on, it’s 2025— bicycle helmets have been cool for a while. Seriously, long gone are the days when people believed helmets cramped their style and, instead, helmets are a sweet accessory and fashion statement. Of course— the coolest thing of all— they can still save your life.
Helmets are lighter, better ventilated, and nicer on the eyes than ever before, so there’s no excuse to ride unprotected. Do yourself a favor and always wear your helmet whenever you ride.
Helmets are lighter, better ventilated, and nicer on the eyes than ever before, so there’s no excuse to ride unprotected. Do yourself a favor and always wear your helmet whenever you ride.
Fit check
I’m talking about checking both your bike fit and cycling outfit here. If you haven’t grown recently, your bike likely fits you the same time you rode it, but seat posts can slip down, or maybe you share your bike with another person. Adjust the seat height so that your knee has just a slight bend at the bottom of the pedal stroke.
Now, for that outfit of yours. You can wear anything you like, but appropriate clothing can make a bike ride much more comfortable and enjoyable. You don’t have to go full-Lycra by any means, but wicking fabrics and clothes that match the weather are a great start. There are tons of bike-specific clothes designed for commuter e-Bike riders, for example.
Cuff that right pant leg to keep it away from the chain and score extra cyclist style points, too. Is it raining? Grab that rain jacket before you head out…
Now, for that outfit of yours. You can wear anything you like, but appropriate clothing can make a bike ride much more comfortable and enjoyable. You don’t have to go full-Lycra by any means, but wicking fabrics and clothes that match the weather are a great start. There are tons of bike-specific clothes designed for commuter e-Bike riders, for example.
Cuff that right pant leg to keep it away from the chain and score extra cyclist style points, too. Is it raining? Grab that rain jacket before you head out…
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ABC Check: Air, Brakes, Chain
The famous ABC check is the meat and potatoes of a pre-ride bike inspection. Named for the most important parts to revise before you ride, this healthy habit has you check over the tire air pressure, brakes, and chain.
- Air: Make sure your tires are properly inflated. Under-inflated tires are at risk of pinch flats and are less efficient to ride.
- Brakes: Squeeze the brakes one at a time, rocking the bike forward to confirm the brakes are doing their job.
- Chain: Inspect the chain, checking to see that it’s aligned on the gears and has sufficient lubrication.
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Before you ride…
Safety and preparation are inseparable when it comes to cycling. Before completing the e-Bike safety checklist, take time to map your route, pack a few key items, and check the battery charge levels to ensure a smooth start to your ride.
While spontaneous detours can be part of the fun, having a solid grasp of your planned path, along with weather and terrain conditions, helps you ride confidently and avoid surprises.
Pack the essentials like a puncture kit, water bottle, sunscreen, and other ride-saving tools, which can make all the difference. These necessities tuck neatly into bike bags or baskets and help keep minor issues from becoming major problems out on the trail.
Don’t get stuck with a low battery mid-ride. Take a second to check your e-Bike battery’s charge level before you go out, leaving yourself with enough time to charge the e-Bike battery if necessary.
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
- Always Wear a Helmet: Modern helmets are stylish, comfortable, and can save your life—don’t ride without one.
- Do the ABC Check: Check Air, Brakes, and Chain every time to prevent mechanical issues and ride safely.
- Prep for the Ride: Ensure your battery is charged, your bike fits right, and you're carrying key essentials like water, sunscreen, and a repair kit.
