Ebikes are a new and fun way to enjoy the outdoors and get around town. And while they are certainly exciting to ride, they do come with certain safety risks. So, how dangerous are ebikes? Find out in this post.
What Is An Ebike?
An electric bycicle, also called an “ebike” or “e-bike”, is a bicycle that has an electric motor included. This can be used to assist with propulsion if the rider chooses.
Ebikes rely on rechargeable batteries to provide power to the motor. The motor can be used to assist the rider’s pedaling, or add throttle power to increase speed. At anytime, the rider can be pedal to ebike, so they are not considered electric motorcycles.
Ebike Speed
Ebikes are great ways to ride quickly around a city or neighborhood. Ordinary ebikes’ speed ranges from 0 to 20 mph, but this depends greatly on the model and regulations in the state or country they are ridden in.
Ebike Top Speed
You might be wondering what the top speed of electric bikes are. An ebike’s top speed depends on many factors, but the most important is the size of the electric motor.
Ebikes with very large and powerful electric motors can reach speeds of 50 mph (80 km/h). However, the weight of the rider also has an effect on top speed. Most ebikes can top out at 20-30 mph in either pedal asssist or throttle only speed.
Some ebikes are better suited for the race track, and are made to ride faster than ordinary models. But again, their top speed also depends on the rider’s pedal strength and weight, as well as the terrain and weather conditions (wind, heat, etc.).
Ebikes have spedometers, often in the form of LCD displays which detail the speed they are going.
Can An Ebike Break?
Like other bycicles or scooters, ebikes can break due to poor treatment, age, or when ridden under certain conditions. Specific parts of an ebike are prone to breaking, and these can show up as:
- Broken spokes
- Front hub motor fork collapse
- Lithium battery issues
- Stuck bearings
- Jammed throttle
- Going too fast for the ebike
The Ebike Has Broken Spokes
Like other types of bycicles with spoked wheels, there is a chance the spokes can break. This is not good for the stability of the ebike, as they hold the structure of the wheels together. Fortunately, it is possible to ride an ebike that has a broken spoke or two.
Ebike spokes can break a number of different ways. Perhaps you ride over a pothole or gap in the pavement, or hit a rise in the sidewalk.
If you have one or two broken spokes, you can still ride the ebike safely until you get home or to a repair shop. However, if there are many spokes that break, it is best to dismount and not ride the bike. If you continue to ride the ebike, it could lead to more spokes breaking and the wheels collapsing. The repair costs can escalate as the wheels become more damaged.
The Ebike’s Front Hub Motor Fork Collapses
An ebike front hub motor fork malfunction creates a serious safety risk. This can lead to a head first dive over the handle bars and landing face first (face plant) onto the pavement. Major injuries to the face can result, including cuts and scrapes, knocked out teeth, or a concussion. If there is anything wrong with the motor fork of the ebike, dismount immediately and do not ride it until it is repaired.
The Ebike Has Lithium Battery Issues
The lithium batteries in ebikes need to be well treated and not abused in any way. This includes proper charging and not acquiring any physical damage.
Ebike lithium batteries can cause fires, which often happens when the ebike is charging at home. Ebike batteries have even erupted into flames while the ebike was being ridden! This is the primary reason why taking an ebike on a plane may be difficult.
Also, an older ebike battery could be at the end of lifespan, and not hold as much of a charge. This could leave the rider stranded if it dies sooner than expected.
If you get an ebike battery replacement, it is better to pay extra for a good quality brand, rather than for a cheap and poorly manufactured one.
The Ebike’s Bearings Get Stuck
The mid-drives of ebikes can be quite powerful. And if the bearings that are part of the freewheel get stuck, the ebike can run freely at full speed. This can cause the pedals to hit the rider’s shins and lead to a crash. So, if the wheels show signs of rolling freely when not intended, dismount the ebike and take it to get the bearings looked at.
The Ebike’s Throttle Jams
An ebike with a jammed throttle is very dangerous to the rider and anyone nearby. This is also called a wide open throttle, and happening unexpectadley can lead to a very serious crash.
Make sure your ebike has an emergency cut off or very good disc brakes that are able to stop an ebike riding at full throttle.
The Ebike Goes Too Fast
Ebikes can be modified to make them go faster. This usually involves adding a much more powerful motor. Most ebikes are designed to go 30 mph or less, but modified ebikes are known
However, if the rest of the ebike is not made for more speed, it can result in it going too fast. This can break the wheels or overstress the tires, which can result in the rider losing control and crashing.
Ebike Injuries
Riding an ebike can result in injuries, both minor and serious. In fact, ebikes can cause some serious injuries due to the fact they have enhanced power from an electric motor. Also, since many people ride ebikes in conjested cities, injuries can include those suffered in collisions with pedestrians.
Injuries from ebikes can be very serious, with many requiring hospitalization. Internal injuries can be suffered due to severe impacts with objects, other riders, and pedestrians.
People who ride ebikes and get injured tend to be older as well, around 30 years old compared to riders in their mid-20s for electric scooters and regular bycicles. Men are also more likely to be injured riding ebikes than women.
Injuries From Electric Bikes
Injuries an ebike rider can sustain include:
- Concussions, and other head injuries
- Fractured bones
- Cuts, scrapes, and bruises
- Internal injuries
Again, the reason ebikes are so dangerous is their greater speed compared to ordinary bycicles. Their speed makes them comparable to small motorcycles, and cause similar injuries. So, it is important ebike riders wear the right personal protective equipment, especially helmets.
Ebike Dangers
While ebikes can be very fun to ride and provide for enhanced mobility for commuters, they come with dangers to both the rider and nearby pedestrians.
Ebikes come with significant dangers to the rider mostly due to the power of the electric motor. This makes them similar in speed to smaller gas powered motorcycles. The enhanced speed puts the rider at risk of collisions with objects or people, or from falls.
Another reason ebikes are dangerous is that they are so quiet compared to gasoline powered motorcycles or scooters. This means a rider can inadvertantly sneak up on a pedestrian without them knowing it and cause a collision.
Other ebike riders, byciclists, or joggers may not hear them coming around the corner or down a hill until its too late.
Ebikes also lack any bells or warning devices that may give notice to other’s nearby. And even if they do, local laws and regulations likely do not require them to be kept on.
It is recommended that ebike riders be cautious in areas that have pedestrians and do not remove the bell or other noise signaling device.
Ebikes are especially dangerous because their throttle can deliver full power and acceleration when pressed. If you are a beginner, it is important to start with low power and work your way up to higher power and speeds.
Classes of Ebikes
The Class of the ebike determines its speed, and also the safety risks associated with it.
Classes of Ebikes are as follows:
Class 1 (US and Europe)
Class 1 US ebikes are limited to 20 mph (32 km/hr), while Class 1 in Europe maxes out at 15 mph (25 km/hr). Class 1 ebikes are pedal assist only, meaning they cannot only engage the motor for propulsion.
Class 1 ebikes are actually only around 2-3 mph faster than regular bycicles in an urban environment. So, similar dangers exist for both of these types of bikes.
Class 2
Class 2 ebikes have a maximum assisted speed 20 mph (32 km/hr).
Class 3
Class 3 ebikes have a maximum assisted speed of 28 mph (45 km/hr). Class 3 ebikes are around twice as fast as regular bycicles and have more dangers due to higher speeds.
Ebikes For Kids
Ebikes for kids are made for ages 8 and up. There are many different brands and models of ebikes for kids. They have the same mechanical function as ebikes for adults, and use a chain-driven motor and push button throttle.
Ebikes for kids are specially designed for size, weight, motor output, handlebar width, a brake system, and additional safety features. Because children love to experience thrills, ebikes are a great way for them to do so. Most ebikes for children are limited in their top speed, in the 10 mph and less range.
Ebikes for kids are meant to only be ridden on private property, driveways, or residential neighborhoods and parks. Children should not ride ebikes on city streets or public roads.
How Fast Is A 5000w Ebike?
A 5000w ebike is very fast. It will have a top speed between 50-80 mph (80-100 km/h). The fastest commercially available ebikes can reach speeds of 70 mph and up.
How Fast Is A 3000w Ebike?
3000w ebikes are actually quite fast. They can reach speeds of 50 mph and above.
How Fast Is A 2000w Ebike?
2000w ebikes are not as fast as their more powerful siblings, but they can really move. They have a max speed of 30-35 mph (50 km/h). 30 mph is not fast enough for wind to cause speed problems.
How Fast is 500w Ebike?
500w ebikes are great for comfortable riding through parks and neighborhood streets. They have a top speed of around 20 mph (40 km/h).
How Fast Does A 1000w Electric Bike Go?
A 1000w electric bike can go between 25-30 mph. A 1000w ebike has a powerful motor that provides good speed and range. 1000w ebikes can carry a fully grown adult uphill, and the speed can be increased by pedaling.
Ebike Speed Limit
Ebike speed limits vary from state to state and city to city. Generally, 30 mph is the top speed allowed for public roads or bike paths.
Ebike Battery – Is It Safe?
An ebike battery can charge between 300-500 times. However, most people do not ride their ebikes that many times, so they are likely to not wear the battery out.
Ebike batteries can become unsafe when they are overcharge, or charged too quickly. This can lead to explosions or or damaging the battery. If you charge the battery for too long, it can become hot and cause a fire. You can tell its too hot by touching it, and if it is only warm, then it is safe.
The power of the charger matters, with lower amperage (2-3 amps) being best for battery safety. A smart charger will be able to charge slow or fast just by selecting it on a dial. It can also allow for choosing partial or full charging. In fact, batteries that are not 100% charged tend to last longer, which is called ‘balanced charging’.
A battery should also not need to be charged after every ride on the ebike.
When charging lithium ion batteries, always have them in a safe place, such as a garage floor or outside. You want to have them charged where they do not become a fire hazard to the surrounding area. Also, do not leave a battery charging with no one around to keep an eye on it.
A damaged battery is at a great risk for starting a fire. Never charge a damaged ebike battery.
Never buy cheap or poorly made ebike batteries. Always purchase them from reliable vendors and reputable brands.
Also, have a smoke and heat detector installed in the room above where the ebike battery is charging.
Each battery will have a high-voltage limit, and this should be adhered to when charging it. Always use a charger that matches the voltage limit of the battery, and will allow a voltage cut-off.
Ebike Battery Safety Components
Lithium ion ebike batteries include battery management systems (BMS) that prevent them from overheating. These are small circuit boards with instructions to maintain a safe temperature and limit the effects of overcharging.
Ebike Tires – Safety Issues
Ebikes have considerable weight, especially while carrying an adult rider. This puts wear and tear on the tires and inner tubes. Ebike tires are susceptible to punctures and tears, and without them working properly, the rider will be at risk of and accident and injury.
Ebike tires can add to safety if they have bright sidewall graphics making the rider more visible to other vehicles.
Ebike performance is also affected by wheel and tire size. Wheel sizes range from 16″, 20″, 24″, 26″, or 28″. The larger the wheel diameter, the better it is for coasting, but the more difficult it is to turn. Larger tires and wheels will add weight to the ebike, but allow it to traverse cracks and bumps in the roadway.
Smaller ebike tires will have more trouble handling obstacles. This could lead to disaster if you ride it into an area that is bumpy or filled with debris, such as rocks, holes, or large sticks. This will then require much more force to overcome than if you were riding with larger wheels and tires.
Ebikes have air-filled tires, and the tire pressure will also affect how it rides. Tires with lower air pressure will perform better on slippery roads and paths, allowing them to grip better. Tires with higher pressure do best on hard, dry and smoothe roadways that favor optimal speeds.
Ebike Wheels – Safety Issues
Ebike wheels come with safety issues. Specifically, parts of the rider’s clothing or shoe laces becomeing caught in them. Never where baggy clothing and make sure your shoe laces are tucked while riding an ebike.
Ebike Recalls
Ebikes have faced recalls due to safety issues. Some ebikes have been recalled due to a faulty front fork, which can break and create a fall hazard for the rider. Or, the ebike could have a faulty acceleration cable that can lead to an accident. Both the Haibike and Pedego brands faced these types of ebike recalls in 2017 and 2020, with models including:
- Haibike Xduro Urban
- Haibike Race
- Haibike Superrace
- Pedego Interceptor
- Pedego Ridge Rider
- Pedego City Commuter
If your ebike is on a recall list, stop using it immediately and either have it repaired or replaced. Other electronic devices have been recalled due to malfunctioning lithium ion batteries, specifically electric scooters. So, it is important to watch out for any recalls that are announced for your ebike.
Ebike Grips – On / Off Switch Safety Benefits
Ebike grips themselves do not provide much safety risks. But not having a good on / off switch on your DIY ebike can lead to safety hazards. DIY ebikes often run a lot of amperage, and this will cause a normal on/off switch to be toasted. Getting your ebike stuck in wide open throttle (WOT) is a serious problem.
A standard on / off near the grips on an ebike is a crucial safety feature. If the rider grabs the ebike by the handlebar grips and it is turned on, it lurch forwards. Kids tend to grab ebike grips when they want to ride them. This can lead it launching out of control and becoming damaged or hurting someone. This also can happen when someone is trying to move the ebike.
Solutions to a lack of an on/off switch can be twist throttles, or thumb throttles. Its also possible to install an LCD dash panel that has an on / off switch integrated with it.
Can Ebikes Go On Sidewalks?
Ebikes have slowly been allowed more leway as to where they can be ridden within cities. Today, ebikes are on par with traditional bicycles in terms of which locations are off limits.
States that a allow non-motorized riding on sidewalks do allow ebikes to be ridden on them. However, this also depends on the classification of the ebike.
Ebikes fall into classes 1, 2, and 3, with the higher number being the ebike with the highest top speed. This influences the local laws and ordinances regarding what streets or trails the ebike is allowed to ride on.
Class 1 ebikes are slower and pedal assist and are allowed where traditional bikes can go. Classes 2 and 3 ebikes are usually only allowed on mountain biking trails and paved roadways within cities. This also depends on the speed limit of such streets and if the ebike can stay within them.
When riding an ebike on a sidewalk or near one, it is important to always be aware of and respectful towards pedestrians and other cyclists. This will help prevent accidents or seriously hurting someone in a collision.
Owners of ebikes should check with their state and city they live in regarding any regulations on useage in their area.
Ebikes On Hiking Trails
Ebikes have the ability to descend and climb steep terrain at higher speeds than normal mountain bikes. This puts others at risk of being run into or driven off the trail.
Ebike riders also tend to get addicted to such high speeds and the adrenaline that comes with it. This can lead to reckless riding and cause accidents on the trail. New ebike riders may not know the trail etiquette as well and how to handle the ebike on rought terrain and steep inclines.
Hikers, mountain bike or ebike riders all face similar challenges when traveling far outdoors. They must have proper clothing, safety gear, food, water, and backup equipment in case situations change for the worse. Getting lost or injured in backcountry can lead to disaster for anyone traveling away from civilization.
Do Ebikes Damage Trails?
Ebikes do not necessarily damage trails any more than regular mountain bikes riders do. However, the real issue becomes a matter of safety for anyone on the trail sharing it with an ebike.
Ebike Tricks – How To Stay Safe
Jumping ebikes, doing wheelies, hopping off obstacles, these are all possible on ebikes. However, just like doing tricks on regular bikes, safety is key to preventing injuries. Doing tricks, especially at high speeds is bound to lead to accidents from time to time. So, remember to wear safety gear and be in an open space, not in the street with vehicles when you attempt tricks.
Ebike Races – Are they Dangerous?
There are official ebike races held each year in certain locations. These will require safety gear. They do not compete with pedal only bikes, and racing ebikes are availalble to buy.
Ebike Competitions
Since ebike racing is fairly new, not much regulation has been put in place regarding which classes can compete with eachother. Serious ebike racing injuries have not yet been documented, but there is no reason why this cannot happen. They typically run in 5, 7 or more ebikes per race, and they can each weigh close to 200 pounds with modifications.
In fact, ebikes can be quicker going out of turns and on straightaways than gas powered motorcycles. This puts all riders at risk of accidents and injuries if something goes wrong.
Can A Kid Ride An Electric Bike?
Whether a kid can ride an electric bike depends on a number of factors, including:
- Whether the ebike is pedal or throttle assist.
- The location where the ebike is ridden.
- The age of the child riding the ebike.
- The ebike’s classification.
Ebikes that are throttle assist and be ridden without engaging the pedal will require the child to be older to legally ride it. It may even require a license to ride in public, just like any other vehicle. However, this depends on the location, with most ages being limited to 14-16 and up. Some locations even make it illegal to ride an ebike entirely.
You can find out more on your local or state ebike age limits on the state’s DMV and city websites.
Why Are Electric Bikes Limited To 15 Mph?
Most places to do not prevent ebikes from passing 15 mph. However, some locations require any vehicle that exceeds 15 mph be registered and licensed as a motor vehicle or motor cycle. This includes having the appopriate label attached to the ebike.
Some ebikes are designed to cut off power when they reach 15 mph to match the traffic laws. However, this is expected to evolve as more commuters rely on ebikes to get to work. Manufacturers will eventually remove this mechanism.
How Do I Keep My Ebike From Being Stolen?
Keeping an ebike from being stolen is just like keeping a normal bike from being stolen. You can use the following:
- Ulock
- Chains
- Multiple locks
- Remove the battery from the ebike (so it also does not get stolen).
- Lock the ebike battery
- Having a GPS tracker for your ebike.
- Register and insure your ebike.
- Do not leave your ebike outside your house or apartment.
How Long Do Ebike Batteries Last?
Most ebike batteries last between 3-5 years before they lose their storage capacity. However, this also depends on how often the ebike is charged and how it is treated.
Most ebike batteriesa are Lithium Ion and have 300-500 total recharging cycles in their lifespan. However, other types of batteries, such as Lead-acid (SLA), Lithium Cobalt (LCO), Lithium Manganese (LiMg204), Lithium-ion Polymer (Li-pol), and Nickel-cadmium (NiCd) may have different lifespans.
Do You Have To Wear A Helmet On An Electric Bike?
Ebikes must comply with the same safety rules as normal bycicles. This includes wearing a helmet on all ebikes, even those that are the lowest speed rating.
You can buy a purpose made ebike helmet or use a bycicle helmet. As ebikes and the laws associated with them continue to evolve, it will become clearere which type of helmet or safety gear is best.
Regardless of whether the laws requires it, wearing a helmet every time you ride an ebike is highly recommended.
Is An Electric Bike Considered A Motorized Vehicle?
Electrical bikes were considered motorized vehicles in the early days. However, since 2002, federal law changed their definition to fit a 3 tiered classification system. This means that ebikes are classed as 1, 2, or 3 and the laws are more in line with ordinary bycicles.
This new law only applies to ebikes with fully operable pedals and an electric motor of less than 750 watts (1 h.p.) that can reach a maximum speed of less than 20 mph on a paved and level roadway.
However, each state and municipality will have its own unique regulations for ebikes.
Are Ebikes Street Legal?
Ebikes may nor may not be street legal, depending on the regulations of the state and local authorities. You can check your state’ vehicle code online to see if ebikes are legal on public roads in your area.
Traffic signs, stop signs, and red lights all still have to be followed by ebike riders. Many riders will seek higher speeds for a thrill and ignore these, at their own peril. In fact, ebike riders tend to run through red lights as much or more than regular bycicle riders. This puts them, other riders, and pedestrians nearby at risk.
Whether ebikes are street legal in your area also depends on the ebike’s classification, and whether it is pedal or throttle assist. States across the U.S. use a 3-tiered ebike class system. These include:
- Class 1 – Pedal assist, and best for bike paths, walkways, parks, or anywhere traditional bikes are allowed.
- Class 2 – Faster than class 1 and may be limited to bike paths and roadways.
- Class 3 – Fastest classification and allowed only on paved roads. These are best for commuters.
Why Are Ebikes Banned On Trails?
Ebikes are not banned on trails, atleast in most parks. The U.S. National Park system does not prohibit ebikes from being ridden on paths, trails, and roads. Their rules have been updated to accomodate visitors that wish to ride ebikes through the national parks. Ebikes are not categorized as motor vehicles by the U.S. National Park Service.
However, different cities may or may not limit the use of ebikes within city parks. So, check with your city or state laws regarding ebike use on trails.
Can You Leave An Electric Bike Outside?
Yes, but it is not recommended. They can become wet and damaged in heavy rain, or be stolen. It is best to store your ebike indoors and only leave it outside during the day for short times with a lock.
Can Electric Bikes Be Used Manually?
Electric bikes are designed to be used both manually and with a throttle. Most ebikes today include pedals that can be engaged at anytime in tandem, or separate from the motor. This can allow for riders to get exercise on their ebike if they choose to, or relax and let the motor do all the work. This is especially helpful riding up steep inclines to say save energy and leg strength.
Ebike pedals come in several forms:
- Regular bike pedals – flat pedals that fit any type of shoe.
- Pedals with toe clips and straps – includes a small metal frame that wraps around the top of the foot.
- Clip mounted bike pedals – uses a metal clip attached to the sole of the shoe.
Can Electric Bikes Get Wet?
Electric bikes are water resistant, but at all times you want to avoid water damage. This can be done by avoiding puddles, creeks, lawn sprinklers, and other water sources.
You can wipe down your ebike after your ride, which can help stop grime and moisture from getting into your ebike motor or controller.
It is best to also store your ebike in a cool and dry place and not leave it outside without a cover. Also consider, taking off the LCD screen and battery if you believe it will be rained upon.
Are Ebike Batteries Waterproof?
Ebikes are made to be very water resistant. They are designed for robust use on difficult and varied terrain in changing conditions. However, there are delicated electronics inside which cannot get wet. This means you must be sure your ebike can handle the wet conditions you ride it through.
Ebike manufacturers have classified their ebikes according to the weather they handle. Most ebikes are not truly 100% waterproof, where they can handle full submersion underwater. They can handle light mist, fog, and some droplets from rain or sprinklers.
Lithium ion batteries that power the ebike are in sealed containers and can handle some dirt or moisture. However, it is best to keep your ebike dry and not let it get too wet.
Can You Ride An Electric Bike Through Puddles?
Yes, ebikes are made to be very water resistant, but not water proof. Riding ebikes through puddles will cause them to get splashed on, but this should not damage them. Make sure to wipe your ebike down with a cloth after using it.
Can You Ride An Electric Bike Through A Flowing Stream?
An ebike can handle riding through a flowing stream if it is not submerged. Ebikes have sensitive electronincs inside that are protected, but not fully water proof. It is best to avoid riding them through rivers or streams.
Can You Ride An Electric Bike In The Rain?
Yes, you can ride an ebike in the rain as they are water resistant and designed to carry a person to a dry location. You should check the ebike’s water rating just to be sure.
Are Ebikes Legal In NYC
Yes, NYC currently allows ebikes to be ridden within city limits. These include all classes of electric bikes.
In 2020, New York state allows ebikes to be ridden on some streets and highways. The following limits apply:
- Ebikes are only allowed on highways with a posted speed of 30 mph or less.
- NYC may have unique requirements regarding ebikes.
- Ebikes are not allowed on sidewalks unless authorized by NYC.
Class 3 ebikes are only allowed in cities with a population of 1 million or more. NYC law does not specify if class 3 ebikes have to be pedal or throttle assist. Class 1 and 2 ebikes are the only ones allowed outside of NYC.
Licenses are not required to ride ebikes in New York state. Helmets are required for ages 14 and under for classes 1 and 2, and for all riders for class 3.
All classes of ebikes in New York state are limited to 750 watts in max power. The ebike also cannot be wider than 36 inches and must include functioning pedals. The speed, class, and watt power must be labeled on it.
Speed limits for ebikes in New York state are 20 mph for Classes 1 and 2, and 28 mph for class 3 ebikes. Ebikes are limited to riding on roads with speed limits of 30 mph.
Ebikes in New York do not need a license plate, but must have labels with their class, watt power, and top speed. You are not required to buy insurance for your ebike in New York, but it is recommended for liability coverage due to accidents, theft, or any sort of damage.
The minimum age to legally ride an ebike in New York is 16 for all ebike classes. Throttle ebikes are also legal in New York if they are class 2 or 3.
NY Ebike Fines
In New York state, all ebike riders under the age of 14 must wear a helmet, as do all class 3 ebike riders, or else they face a fine of $50.
Previous fines for ebike riding reached to $500, however, the laws have been updated and the fines now are $250 for riding a prohibited ebike.
Intoxicated riding (drinking and riding) comes with a $300-500 fine and / or 15 days in jail. A standard breath test is 0.8 BAC along with “visible intoxication” will result in a misdemeanor.
Riding an Ebike on A Sidewalk in New York
Ebikes are not allowed on sidewalks in New York, but parking one might be. Check with the state’s regulations for any updates.
Riding an Ebike on Bikepaths in New York
Ebikes are allowed on bike lanes on the side of the road where ordinary bycicles are ridden.
DIY Ebikes In New York
DIY ebikes, such as built from scratch or kits, or modified ebikes are allowed in New York. However, they must still be operated within the ebike classification system and follow all applicable laws. A new label with the ebike’s top speed, class, and watt power must be afixed to it.
Ebike Battery Problems
Battery-related issues are some of the most common problems that most e-bike owners deal with regularly. These can lead to some serious safety issues.
Many issues are caused by improper charging, or charger malfunctions. Check the wiring on both the charger and the battery. The battery management system (BMS), which keeps it from overheating, may also be damaged.
Do not over charge your ebike battery or it could lead to melting or explode. Also, do not let your battery sit uncharged for too long.
Ebike Safety Tips
Some ebike safety tips you can remember include:
- Do not apply too much throttle when at a dead stop (very important!)
- Be careful when dismounting or mounting your ebike
- Make sure you are not too heavy for the ebike.
- Avoid steep declines or hazards on the path.
- Always watch out for pedestrians and other riders.
- Try to avoid riding through streets with cars or heavy traffic.
- Always wear a helmet when riding an ebike, regardless of where you ride it.
In Closing
While ebikes certainly provide speed and excitement to riders, they do come with some safety risks. So, when riding an ebike, always wear proper safety gear, especially a helmet, and keep your eyes on the road in front of you.
