Enjoy autumn trips on an electric bike. Faster, further, but above all safely.
An electric bicycle is a great thing, and you will also meet more and more of them on Czech cycle paths. It is not surprising, because even those who are not in great shape will be able to drive further and enjoy more beautiful views. But the electric bike also carries with it more responsibility. For yourself and for everyone else on the trail and road.
Watch the weight
Compared to a classic bike, electric bikes start at a weight of around twenty kilos. You can hardly put it on the roof of the car and it will not be pleasant to drag it up the stairs or onto the balcony. Weight is also important when braking, as an e-bike has a longer braking distance. And in addition, it is a little less agile, for example in corners, which you need to know when driving in traffic.
Count on speed
The faster you drive, the more dangerous you can be to yourself and those around you. It is important to think about this not only when traveling to work or shopping, speed also plays a role on trips to nature. It is therefore important to use aids wisely and not to overpower your strength or bike capabilities.
Don’t neglect service
The greater driving power of the engine puts more stress on the chain, chainring and derailleur. This is also why it is a good idea to have the e-bike checked at a service center once or twice a year. It’s also worth it because of the powertrain software. You can download some updates yourself, others are uploaded directly to the bike by the technician. The expert will also check the battery, engine, brakes and suspension.
Watch the battery
Especially because of her, it is not worth saving money on a bike. The better the battery, the better it is secured. Those from better brands, for example, have a sensor against overheating and thus should not cause a fire. In any case, however, it applies – do not leave the bike standing in direct sunlight and always disconnect the battery at home, especially during off-season storage.
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We spoke with biker and e-bike company ambassador Richard Gasperotti about choosing an e-bike and riding it safely.
How to choose an electric bike?
Think about what you will use it for. Whether for transport to work, or for weekend trips with the family, or you are looking forward to sporty electric cycling. The bikes differ in geometry, construction and electrical technology. City bikes, for example, have so-called easy entry, i.e. they do not have the top tube of the frame and it is easier to jump on them. Sports bikes, on the other hand, tend to have full suspension, have a stronger engine, a larger battery, and thanks to this, they can go further in the terrain.
What to look out for?
It is even more important not to save, to count on the initial investment. Because unlike a regular bike, you also buy the motor part and the battery and expect some reliability and durability from it. But you can’t count on it for too cheap brands.
Is it possible to try riding an electric bike?
Dealers who value their customers offer the opportunity to test the bike and add riding tips. Alternatively, they will recommend their special days when they also have instructors available. For example, we let people try out how the aids work, how the bike is controlled, but I also take clients out into the field to try, for example, movement on forest roads.
You could find this article in the magazine Recipe No. 10/25.
