E-BIKE SAFETY
Essential tips for a happy ride
19 January, 2024
The wind is against you, but you still arrive at the restaurant unbothered and on time. You get 15 more minutes of glorious sleep each day because your commute time has halved. There’s a week’s worth of groceries in your basket, but it’s no drag. There are many reasons why having an e-bike can make life easier and more enjoyable. But as they say... with great power, comes great responsibility.
As e-bike riders, it's important we take some extra steps to make sure we’re speeding along on the road safely. Not just for ourselves, but for all the other people that we’re sharing the road with. Whether you're a proud owner of a Veloretti electric bike or thinking about upgrading, it's good to consider these e-bike safety tips.
Understand your e-bike’s safety features
First things first. Properly take the time to read the manual and understand the features, controls, and power modes of your e-bike. Veloretti electric bikes have hydraulic hand brakes, so if you're familiar with the back-pedal brakes on your classic city bike, you'll want to practise this new way of braking before hitting the main road.
Can I take my friend for a ride?
A solo ride is a safe ride. While carrying someone on the back or front of your bike looks romantic in the movies, it’s pretty dangerous in real life. Especially if you’re riding at the max speed of 25 km/h. The same goes for letting people on other bikes hold onto you to benefit from the drag of your e-bike’s motor. Does your buddy not yet ride an e-bike? Switch to the lowest level of support and go at their pace. All while telling them about how amazing it would be if they joined the e-bike revolution too, of course!
Visibility for safe e-bike riding
Ride safe, rain or shine
Don't let a little rain dampen the ease and freedom that comes with commuting by bike. E-bikes are safe to ride in the rain, but you’ll need to reduce your speed and be mindful of your surroundings. To account for delayed braking times, keep a bigger distance than usual between your bike and others on the road. Look out for slippery surfaces, painted road markings, and metal surfaces that can get extra slippery when wet. Rushing and rain don’t mix – so if you can, try to leave a little earlier than usual if rain is forecasted. For more wet weather tips, read our article about bike maintenance for winter.
Eyes on the road
Just like you would if you were driving a car, it’s key to avoid distractions while riding your e-bike. The biggest distraction is often our phones. One useful design feature of Veloretti electric bikes is that everything can be controlled from the bike’s integrated buttons and display in the centre of the handlebar. So even when it comes to navigation, there shouldn’t be any need to look down at your phone. We also advise against noise-cancelling headphones, so you’re more aware of what’s going on around you.
Don't drink and ride
Beers and biking are a pretty common pair in the Netherlands. Still, we can't forget that alcohol impairs judgement, coordination and reaction time. How many times have you heard of people falling off their bikes late at night? The legal limit for biking in the Netherlands is 0.05% BAC, which for many people (depending on factors like gender, weight and age) is around one small beer per hour. Better safe than sorry, friends – if you’re having a big night, leave your bike at home. We won’t judge you for getting a taxi.
Don’t forget a helmet: Protect your head
By law, you don’t yet have to wear a helmet to ride an e-bike in Germany, the Netherlands or Belgium. However, it is highly recommended to wear a helmet for your protection, especially when riding at higher speeds or in busy traffic. Not all journeys have safe cycle lanes, and not all car drivers are familiar with sharing the road with cyclists. For headgear that’s modern, minimalist and fits your look, check out Veloretti’s range of adjustable headgear for adults.
A safe ride is a happy ride, and that’s why we designed our latest generation Ivy and Ace Two electric bikes with safety features such as an automatic rear brake light, hydraulic brakes for instant stopping power and GPS safety tracking. By investing in a bike with safety features and keeping best practices in mind, you can confidently tackle the roads, embracing both the speed and safety of e-bike travel. Ride smart, stay safe, and enjoy the countless benefits of your e-bike.
FAQs
E-bikes are generally as safe as regular bicycles. The key to safety lies in understanding and using their unique features responsibly, such as electric assist and braking systems.
Yes, e-bikes are safe to ride in the rain, but it's crucial to adjust your riding style. Reduce speed, maintain a safe distance from other vehicles, and be cautious on slippery surfaces.
Key safety tips include wearing a helmet, understanding your e-bike's features, maintaining visibility, avoiding distractions, and not riding under the influence of alcohol.
While you don't need special training, familiarising yourself with the e-bike's controls and handling, especially if you're transitioning from a traditional bike, is recommended for safe riding.