Ride with Caution, Arrive with Pride! Your Ultimate Safety Guide When Riding
In recent years, the popularity of e-bikes has soared, offering an exhilarating and eco-friendly mode of transportation. However, like any activity, e-bike riding comes with its own set of risks and potential injuries.
Real Case shared by EBike Rider Bruce Lavoie
"I was riding on a sidewalk and came up to some low hanging branches. Instead of ducking under them I swerved off the sidewalk onto the grass and went around. I didn’t feel any bump or depression in the grass so when I turned back onto the sidewalk I thought it would be a smooth transition. The front time caught the edge of the sidewalk and I flipped over."
An EBike rider may have an accident when he/she suddenly turns back onto the sidewalk or when a pedestrian steps in front of him/her. There are also other certain risks and potential injuries, both for the rider and pedestrians.
By understanding these risks and adopting safety measures, we can enjoy the freedom of e-bike riding while minimizing the chances of accidents. Let's explore some inspiring tips and tricks to ensure a safe and enjoyable e-bike riding experience.
The angle back onto the sidewalk is the trick.
It doesn't have to be fully perpendicular, but considerable. It also helps to pull upward on the handlebars right at the crucial moment.
Maintain control and balance
When riding near grassy areas, maintain control and balance of your e-bike. Avoid sudden turns or maneuvers that could cause you to veer off the sidewalk and onto the grass.
Stick to designated bike lanes or paths
Whenever possible, use designated bike lanes or paths instead of riding on the sidewalk. This helps ensure the safety of both pedestrians and cyclists and reduces the need to transition between different surfaces.
"I barely controlled my bike after trying to re enter a path when avoiding pedestrians. Never ever try and re enter a sidewalk or path as the incline can be deceiving. All it takes is 1/2 inch to lose control, especially when trying parallel re entry." -- Jim Sondell
"I learned the same lesson this spring... just scrapes and bruises for me. Bent brake lever and fender on the Breeze. Since then, if I ever get forced off the sidewalk, I'll either swing out wide so I can get more perpendicular to the sidewalk or I'll just stop in the grass." -- Alan Hanel
Wear your helmet
Helmets are designed to absorb and distribute the force of an impact, minimizing the direct impact on your head. In the event of a fall or collision, a helmet acts as a protective shell that helps to prevent skull fractures or other serious injuries to the skull.
Ride Mindfully and Be Aware of Your Surroundings
Stay present and attentive while riding your e-bike. Scan the environment for potential hazards, such as pedestrians, vehicles, or road conditions. Anticipate the actions of others and be prepared to adjust your speed or direction accordingly. By adopting a mindful approach, you can react promptly and avoid potential accidents.
Maintain a Reasonable Riding Speed
While e-bikes offer thrilling speeds, it's essential to ride at a pace that matches the environment and your level of expertise. Excessive speed increases the risk of accidents and reduces your ability to react to sudden obstacles or changes in the road. Find a comfortable and safe speed that allows you to enjoy the ride while maintaining control.
Conclusion
While e-bikes offer thrilling speeds, it's essential to ride at a pace that matches the environment and your level of expertise. Excessive speed increases the risk of accidents and reduces your ability to react to sudden obstacles or changes in the road. Find a comfortable and safe speed that allows you to enjoy the ride while maintaining control.
