1. Choose a riding position that feels stable

Before thinking about traffic or speed, start with comfort and control. A stable riding position helps you react calmly to anything that happens on the road.

• Adjust the saddle height: When sitting on the saddle, the ball of your foot should reach the ground on at least one side. While pedaling, your knee should be slightly bent at the bottom of the stroke, not fully straight.
• Set the handlebar height: Higher handlebars can reduce strain on your back, neck and wrists. Many riders, especially older riders, prefer an upright position rather than leaning forward.
• Use a step-through frame if needed: If lifting your leg over a high frame feels difficult, a lower step makes getting on and off much safer.

Take a few minutes at home to adjust your bike before riding. Small changes can make the bike feel much more secure.

2. Start in an empty, quiet place

It can be tempting to go straight onto busy streets, but a calmer place is a kinder way to learn. A quiet car park, smooth path or empty side street lets you get used to the weight and power of the bike without pressure.

• Practice starting and stopping several times at low speed.
• Try each pedal assist level and notice how strongly the bike pushes.
• Test the brakes gently, then a little more firmly, so you learn how they feel.

When the bike feels natural to you in a quiet space, riding in traffic becomes much less stressful.

3. Use assist levels wisely

Most e-bikes offer different pedal-assist levels, and sometimes a throttle. Learning how to use them calmly is a key part of safe riding.

• Begin on a low assist level: This makes the bike’s response softer and easier to control, especially when you are still getting used to it.
• Increase assist gradually: Move to a higher level only when you are comfortable and need extra help, such as on a hill or against strong wind.
• Use the throttle carefully (if you have one): Think of it as a gentle helper for starting or short bursts, not something to hold fully open for long periods.

The goal is smooth, predictable movement, not sudden jumps in speed.

4. Make yourself easy to see

Many riders are surprised by how quietly e-bikes move. Because other road users may not hear you, it is important that they can see you clearly.

• Use the front headlight and rear light whenever you ride, even during the day.
• Wear clothing with bright or reflective areas if possible.
• A small, gentle “ding” of the bell when passing others can prevent surprises.
• Avoid staying in drivers’ blind spots. If you cannot see their mirrors, they may not see you.

The easier you are to notice, the more time others have to react safely around you.

5. Ride at a speed that feels calm, not rushed

E-bikes can reach higher speeds than regular bicycles with less effort. While this is helpful on hills and long stretches, it is not necessary to ride at the top speed all the time.

• Slow down near junctions, crossings, parked cars and pedestrians.
• Give yourself extra time to react – you do not need to “keep up” with traffic.
• On shared paths, ride slowly and leave plenty of room when passing others.

A slightly slower, steady pace is often the safest and most enjoyable way to ride, especially for everyday trips.

6. Use both brakes smoothly

Proper braking is one of the most important safety skills. E-bikes are heavier than ordinary bikes, so they need a bit more distance to stop.

• Use both front and rear brakes together for controlled stopping.
• Begin braking earlier than you would when walking or driving.
• On wet or loose surfaces, apply the brakes gently and steadily rather than sharply.
• Keep two fingers resting on the brake levers when riding in busy areas.

Practicing emergency stops in a safe, quiet space can build confidence quickly.

7. Follow simple road rules and show clear intentions

You do not need to know every detail of traffic law to ride safely, but a few habits make a big difference.

• Always ride in the same direction as traffic, not against it.
• Stop at red lights and stop signs, just as cars do.
• Signal turns with clear hand gestures well before you move.
• Make eye contact where possible – if you see a driver looking at you, you know they have noticed you.

Calm, predictable riding helps everyone share the road more easily.

8. Respect your own limits and listen to your body

One of the biggest advantages of an e-bike is that you control how hard you work. There is no need to push to exhaustion or discomfort.

• Choose route lengths that feel pleasant, not demanding.
• Use higher assist levels on days when you feel tired or less steady.
• Take breaks on longer rides – sit down, drink water and stretch gently.
• If you ever feel unwell, dizzy or unsure, stop riding and rest.

The aim is enjoyable movement and independence, not performance sport.

9. Make a simple pre-ride checklist

A quick check before each ride can prevent minor issues from turning into problems on the road. A simple routine might include:

• Battery: Is there enough charge for your planned trip?
• Tyres: Do they feel firm to the touch, not soft or flat?
• Brakes: Do they respond quickly and without strange noises?
• Lights: Do the front and rear lights turn on correctly?
• Helmet: Is it adjusted comfortably and sitting level on your head?

This whole check can take less than a minute but adds a lot of peace of mind.

10. Build confidence step by step

It is normal to feel a little nervous when starting with an e-bike, especially if you have not ridden for a long time. Confidence grows with gentle repetition, not with forcing yourself into stressful situations too quickly.

• Begin with short rides on familiar, quiet streets.
• Add slightly longer routes as you feel more comfortable.
• Introduce new types of roads or light traffic only when you are ready.

Over time, many riders find that what once felt challenging becomes simple and natural.

Safe riding is calm, not complicated

E-bike safety is not about memorising complex rules. It is about a few steady habits: a comfortable position, smooth control of assist and brakes, clear signals to others and respect for your own limits.

With these practices in place, your e-bike can be a reliable partner for everyday life – helping you stay active, independent and connected, one calm ride at a time.