1. Choose the right riding position

Comfort and control begin with how you sit on the bike. A riding position that is too stretched out can strain your back and shoulders, while a position that is too cramped can make the bike feel unstable and difficult to steer.

• Handlebar height: If possible, keep the handlebar at or slightly above the height of the saddle. This helps you sit more upright and reduces neck and lower back strain.
• Saddle height: When sitting on the saddle with one heel on the pedal at its lowest point, your leg should be almost straight but not locked. This helps protect your knees and improves balance when pedaling.
• Step-through frames: If lifting your leg over a high top tube is difficult, a step-through frame can make getting on and off the bike much easier and safer.

Take time to adjust your bike slowly, making small changes and testing each one. A comfortable position is one where you can sit relaxed, see clearly and reach the brakes and controls without stretching.

2. Start in low-assist modes

The extra power of an electric motor is very helpful – but it can feel surprising at first. High assist levels can make the bike accelerate quickly, especially when starting from a standstill or riding up a slope.

To build confidence, use the lowest assist level at the beginning. Get used to:

• How the bike responds when you begin to pedal.
• How quickly it gathers speed.
• How it feels when you stop pedaling and the motor cuts off.

Only increase the assist level once you feel fully in control. Many riders find a medium assist level to be ideal for everyday use, saving the strongest mode for steeper hills or days when they feel tired.

3. Practice braking before real-world rides

Safe stopping is one of the most important skills you can develop. Modern e-bikes often have powerful disc brakes that can stop the bike quickly, but they need to be used correctly.

Find a quiet place – such as an empty parking lot or a wide, calm side street – and practice:

• Braking gently from low speed using both front and rear brakes together.
• Gradually increasing speed and learning how much pressure is needed to stop smoothly.
• Feeling how the bike behaves when you brake while turning slightly.

Avoid squeezing only the front brake very hard, especially at high speed, as this can cause the front wheel to lock. Smooth, balanced braking with both brakes is the safest and most controlled approach.

4. Build your skills in safe environments

There is no need to go straight into busy streets or crowded paths on your first rides. Instead, think of your e-bike journey as a gentle progression:

1. First rides: Use quiet streets, paths or car parks to practice starting, stopping, turning, using your assist levels and reading your display.
2. Short local trips: Once you feel comfortable, ride short routes you know well – perhaps to a nearby shop, park or friend’s home.
3. Longer excursions: Gradually extend your distances as your confidence and fitness grow, always choosing routes where you feel safe.

This step-by-step approach allows your reflexes and balance to adapt without unnecessary stress.

5. Make visibility a priority

Seeing and being seen is essential, especially for older riders who may prefer riding early in the morning, later in the day or in mixed weather.

• Use your lights: Ride with your front and rear lights on whenever visibility is not perfect – not only at night, but also on cloudy days or in shade.
• Wear brighter colours: Even a simple light-coloured jacket or reflective vest can make a big difference in how quickly drivers notice you.
• Choose visible routes: Roads and paths with good lighting and fewer blind corners are always preferable.

Remember that drivers do not always expect bikes to be moving as quickly as e-bikes can. Good lights and visible clothing help them judge your presence and speed more accurately.

6. Listen to your body

One of the great advantages of an e-bike is the ability to adjust effort. If your knees, hips or back start to complain, you can increase the assist level and let the motor do more of the work. This helps you stay active without forcing your body beyond what feels comfortable.

Pay attention to:

• Any joint pain that appears during or after rides.
• Persistent numbness in hands, feet or seat area.
• Unusual fatigue that does not improve with rest.

Often, these issues can be reduced by minor adjustments to saddle height, handlebar position, tire pressure or assist level. If problems continue, it can be helpful to speak with a health professional or a bike fitter.

7. Keep your e-bike in good condition

A well-maintained bike is a safer bike. Simple, regular checks can prevent unexpected problems on the road:

• Tires: Check that they are properly inflated and free from obvious cuts or damage.
• Brakes: Squeeze the levers before every ride to ensure they feel firm, not spongy. Listen for scraping or grinding noises.
• Battery and display: Make sure the battery is securely locked in place and your display turns on without error messages.
• Chain and gears: A lightly lubricated, clean chain shifts more smoothly and reduces the risk of sudden slips.

If you are unsure about any mechanical issue, do not hesitate to ask for help from a local workshop or a family member familiar with bicycles.

8. Ride at your own pace

Perhaps the most important safety tip for older riders is to ignore pressure to ride faster or further than feels comfortable. E-bikes can easily keep up with younger riders, but that does not mean you have to match their pace.

Choose quiet times of day, routes you enjoy and speeds where you feel calm, aware and in full control. If you ride with others, let them know you prefer a comfortable pace and clear communication when approaching junctions or obstacles.

Enjoy the journey, not just the destination

With a thoughtful approach, an e-bike can be a long-term companion that supports your health, independence and social life. Start gently, build your skills in safe spaces, keep visibility and maintenance in mind and listen carefully to your body.

Confidence grows with each relaxed ride. Over time, the e-bike becomes less of a “new machine” and more of a familiar friend – one that helps you stay active and enjoy the simple pleasure of moving under your own control, with just the right amount of help when you need it.