In the last few years, a new generation of electric cycles has revolutionized the idea of environmentally friendly transportation. electric cycles are eco-friendly, convenient, and easy means of commutation. Before hopping on your electric cycle get familiar with some precautions and safety measures to follow for a fun and safe ride.
Here is a safety guide for those riding an electric cycle for the first time:
An electric cycle is a modified regular bike aiming for improvising the comfort of the rider. Every electric cycle contains a motor, a chargeable battery, a drivetrain, and a throttle.Â
- Electric cycles have rechargeable batteries. The batteries differ by the power variance. Lighter ones range between 16 to 20 mph and heavier ones more than 28 mph. The battery sizes vary with the price. Bulky lead-acid batteries are less expensive, whereas lithium-ion batteries and few other batteries are way lighter but a bit costlier.Â
- When it comes to motors, there are two types to choose from. Pedal-assist motors and motors that provide power on demand. As you pedal, the motors increase the speed of the bike. This motor automatically starts you start Break activation disables the motor. It is just like any regular bike with greater speed. The power on demand motor can be controlled and activated with the help of a throttle.
To safely ride your electric cycle you should know your controls.
Any electric cycle has one of these two controllers,
- Pedal activated
- Throttle based
Pedal activated controllers are easier and more comfortable. As you pedal, the speed increases and continues for a short time even after you have stopped pedaling. A controller screen is provided so you can adjust the assistance you receive while pedaling. You can also use this as a regular bicycle without any assistance.
 Throttle based ones are similar to regular motorcycles. They come with a twist grip, which controls the speed of the bike. You can start the bike just by a press of a button or by pulling back the throttle. It’s possible to ride these bikes even with zero pedaling.
You can activate or use three modes while riding an electric cycle. You can either pedal or activate the pedal-assist mode, where you can combine manual and electrical power and relax while riding. The third mode is electric or electric-only, where there is no need to pedal.
Electric cycles are comfortable and easy to ride but without certain precautions and practices, it can be dangerous. Keep in mind these precautions while riding an electric cycle.
- Keep your eye on the road all the time and be attentive:
Electric cycles are smooth to ride and calmer when compared to other vehicles making them not so noticeable and prone to accidents. So be alert while ride on the road.
- Track your speed:
Electric cycles, especially with pedal activated motors, speed up automatically while you ride. It can make you lose track of how fast you are riding. People often forget to check the speed of the bike which can be extremely dangerous.
- Be careful while cycling up or downhill:
One of the advantages of electric cycles is they make mounting a hill easier. Sometimes it can be a little risky at times due to obstacles on the way. So keep an eye out on the road. It is advisable to turn off the motor and pedal slowly when going downhill.
- Always wear a helmet.
- Check out the traffic and other vehicles.
- Use headlights at night.
- Horn frequently.
- Charge the battery before starting your ride.
