Safety tips for riding an e-bike

Riding an e-bike is similar to riding a regular bike—all the safety rules that apply to bikes also apply to electric bikes. In addition to standard bike rules, there are a few extra precautions an e-bike rider should be aware of to help them remain safe on the road.

Read your E-bike manual

Get to know your e-bike first by reading your manual. Learning how your e-bike works and its extra power will help you be a more informed rider.

Be careful mounting and dismounting

Because of the extra weight of the e-bike, it's important to get on and off your e-bike carefully, so you don't tip it over and injure yourself. When purchasing your e-bike, try different frames to make sure you can easily mount and dismount the e-bike.

Practice before heading out

Practice riding your e-bike in an empty parking lot or another open space. This will help you learn how to control your e-bike and to travel at a speed you will be comfortable with on busier streets.

Be visible

Equip your e-bike with lights in addition to reflectors that come standard on an e-bike. To be seen at night, use a white front light and a rear red light. You may also consider purchasing a light for your helmet.

Install warning devices

Make sure your e-bike has a bell and a horn. To alert cars to your presence, use your horn and to warn pedestrians, use the bell. These warning devices could help save you from potential collisions.

Add a mirror

Using a mirror in addition to turning your head is another way to stay safe. It can help you make adjustments based on seeing how fast and close cars are coming up from behind you.

Keep your tires at the right pressure

Because e-bikes are heavier than regular bikes, it's important to keep the tires at the right pressure as indicated in your e-bike manual. With the right inflation, you'll have better control over your e-bike.

Slow down ahead of time

As you approach intersections or hazards, because you are traveling at higher speeds, you'll want to be mindful of braking and slowing down ahead of time.

Wear appropriate gear

Purchase a helmet specifically designed for e-bike riders for better impact protection. As far as clothing is concerned, wear clothes that won't get caught in your chain or pedals, and are fluorescent, reflective or light colored, so you are visible to others on the road.

Now that you've learned some safety tips for riding your e-bike, you'll want to consider protecting your e-bike with insurance. Your e-bike is an investment and you want to make sure you have adequate coverage for theft or damage. It's a risky move for your e-bike to be uninsured. Fortunately, there's bicycle insurance specifically for e-bikes. Electric bike insurance provides coverage between auto, home and renters insurances where there are gaps and fine print exclusions.

Markel Specialty can offer a stand-alone electric bike insurance policy that insures e-bikes with power assist up to 750 watts and covers theft, damage and more. Policies start as low as $100 per year and offer a variety of coverage levels and deductible options.

Each policy can be customized to fit you and your riding style. Coverages can include protection for damage caused by theft, crash, collision, fire, attempted theft, vandalism or hitting another object. Coverage of spare parts, cycle apparel, and rental reimbursement can also be included at no additional cost.

Take action today and get a free, no-obligation quote to protect yourself and your e-bike.