E-bike Smarts: Ride safe with confidence

Tom’s unwritten rules of e-biking safely on the trail

Ohio to Erie Trail north of Sunbury

Warm days, green trees, and sunny days tell me it’s time for my annual reminder to follow trail rules, be safe, and enjoy your ride. Let’s start with the basics that need no explanation.

• Keep to the right and pass on the left.

• Give an audible signal when passing.

• Move off the trail when stopped.

• Control your dog on a short leash.

• Wheels yield to heels.

• Be alert to the unpredictability of others.

I am devoting the remainder of this year’s reminder to e-bikes and e-cyclists. Sales of E-bikes have grown 400% between 2019 and 2022. This trend is forecasted to continue. This shift is more evident on trails.

The shift enables anyone to get on a bike and ride. Remember my mantra, “If you ride a bike, you are a cyclist.” E-bikes remove the barriers that prevent people from experiencing the freedom of a bike. Cycling Savvy framed removing these barriers perfectly as the Too Barriers.

• Too far

• Too long

• Too hard

• Too hilly

• Too sweaty or fatigued

• Too hot or windy

Tom’s unwritten e-biking rules

1. Practice is not optional. E-bike marketing paints the picture of hitting a button and cycling carefree into the sunset. Reality is knowing the power at your fingertips to keep yourself and others safe. Make your driveway your e-bike classroom before tackling a trail shared with others.

2. More speed means more risk. An e-cyclist typically cycles 2-5 mph faster than on a pedal bike. Just as speed increases the risk of injury and accidents in a car; the same rule applies to more speed on an e-bike.

3. Know your speed. Strength and physical ability limit the cyclist’s speed on a pedal bike. Those factors disappear with the assistance of a motor. Don’t let that power and freedom keep you from watching, being consistent, and being respectful with your speed.

4. Allow more time and distance to stop. Remember that diagram of assured clear distance in driver's ed? It applies to bikes and cyclists and is of more importance to e-cyclists. E-bikes are heavier and can travel faster than pedal bikes. This results in more distance and time for a stop.

5. Know your abilities. The motor can elevate your speed to rival the Lycra-clad cyclist you admire or envy. Take inventory of your mental and physical prowess, cycling skills and knowledge, and motivation to ride. Adjust your speed to match these factors.

6. Be watchful and aware. The absence of the too’s creates a sense of ease but can also make you less vigilant. Know that there are walkers, dogs, and other cyclists who are going at a slower pace. Own the safety of all in front, behind, or beside you.

7. Don’t leave them in the dust. Riding with friends and groups comes with advantages and challenges. You don’t struggle to keep up with the pack. Be conscious of your speed and match the pace of others. These are who you choose to ride with and share the cycling experience.

8. Know your controls. Gears and brakes control the ride. The e-bike comes with more controls. Locating and properly using on/off and speed up/down controls quickly without hesitance at unexpected times keeps you from putting yourself and others in danger.

9. Love the haters. E-bikes are not welcomed by all cyclists with some seeing e-bikes as cheating. There is nothing to cheat at as an e-cyclist. Be the bigger person and change agent through friendliness and respect for all. Don’t let others’ negativity and lack of knowledge dampen your ride.

10. Prepare for more. The power of an e-bike opens new doors and opportunities. This translates to more miles and more time on the bike outdoors. It leads to more experiences, places, and challenges. Grow your cycling knowledge, spirit of adventure, and spontaneity with these mores.

11. The helmet is not optional. I am a fervent advocate for cycling with a helmet. My helmet minimized my injuries in two cycling accidents. The sane voice of the helmet is the equalizer when you overestimate your mental and physical abilities and safe speed at a given space and time.

Harley, my Serial 1 Rush city on St. Pete Pier

I have a stable of bikes from the sleek road bike to a heavy touring warrior. The technology and design of an e-bike caught my eye a few years back. That led to an e-bike that added a new dimension to my life on the bike. I hope the above rules add to your enjoyment and safety when that door opens for you.