Tips for using an electric bike in daily life

Electric bikes make it easier than ever to ditch the car and choose an active mode of transportation. Whether you’re using your e-bike to travel a few blocks to the grocery store or are making a daily 10+ mile commute to work and back, a few simple tips can make it easier and more enjoyable. Here are some things to consider as you integrate the e-bike into your daily life.

Make it yours

Regardless of price, no e-bike is perfectly equipped out of the box. There’s simply no way for the manufacturer to know exactly how you intend to use your electric bike, so it’s important to consider your needs and accessorize appropriately.

If you’re using your e-bike for commuting and running errands, it makes sense to invest in the appropriate accessories to carry your gear, groceries and anything else you might need to bring along. One popular option is panniers, which are rack-mounted bags. Panniers are great for frequent commuters, because they keep the weight of your stuff off your body.

A backpack or hip pack can be a good option for as well, however they typically work best for lighter loads and shorter distances. On the body carry options are generally less suitable for riders who commute in the same clothes they work in, or for carrying groceries or other heavy loads, particularly over long distances.

Once you’ve spent time making your e-bike truly yours, the last thing you want is for it to be stolen. That’s why it’s important to invest in a good lock, be sure to lock your electric bike up whenever it is parked out of your sight.

Comfort is key

Making your e-bike as comfortable as possible for you and the riding you do should also be a top priority. The touch points on your e-bike, including the pedals, seat and handlebar grips are essential to your comfort on the bike. You want touch points to be as comfortable as possible for your unique anatomy, so take time to consider where your body hurts during or after rides. This knowledge can help you dial into opportunities to change up touch points to improve your comfort on the bike.

For each touch point, a wide range of aftermarket options are available, so it’s a good idea to try a few popular options before buying, if possible.

Keep it charged

While modern electric bikes get more miles out of each battery charge than ever, it’s still a good idea to keep your battery topped off before every ride. Make it a habit to put your bike on the charger as soon as you get home every time to ensure you’ll never be caught out with a dead battery on a ride.

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