Electric
bike safety

As with any kind of cycling, it's really important to follow the safety guidelines when you're riding an electric bike. There are a few different things to remember to make sure you're getting the best out of your cycles, from electrical safety and maintenance to repairs and even general bike road rules. So, read on for our top electric bike safety tips.

Electric bike battery safety

Obviously, taking care of the electrical components, like the battery, is one of the most important parts of e-bike ownership. After all, once you understand how electric bikes work, you’ll know they’re just like any other electrical goods, so knowing how to charge batteries and monitor power levels is essential. Making sure the charging process is done correctly isn't just an important safety issue; it will also ensure the longevity and durability of your equipment.

Use the right charger for your bike

It might sound obvious, but make sure you're using the right chargers or battery packs for your bike; the one that came with the bike from the manufacturer is obviously always the best option. If something happens to that one, get in touch with the manufacturer to see how to get your hands on a like-for-like replacement. Even if a generic charger seems the same, using unapproved products comes with the potential risk of damaging your bike's battery. Of course, using anything other than the manufacturer's equipment is also a huge fire risk, so make sure to contact your local e-bike specialist or your bike maker for any replacement chargers.

Avoid overcharging your e-bike

It's really important to pay attention to your battery levels, as overcharging can have a huge impact on how long your battery life lasts. Overcharging can also lead to overheating and the potential risk of fire, so make sure to check your manufacturer's instructions and adhere to the proper charging time.

That means avoiding leaving the battery unattended while it's charging and keeping an eye on the battery percentage level to know when to unplug. On that note, also make sure to remove the charger from both the battery and the socket when you're done.

Battery damage and disposal

If you've got an older e-bike battery that's ready to be thrown away, you'll need to make sure you follow the proper end-of-life battery disposal steps. Lithium-ion batteries can be a real fire hazard, so they can't be thrown away with your regular household recycling. Get in touch with your bike manufacturer or call your local council to find out the best way to dispose of the battery.

To find a safe replacement battery for an existing bike, you'll need to check with the manufacturer to find out if it can be replaced and check any warranties.

Electric bike maintenance and safety

As with regular bikes, electric bike maintenance is a key step in making sure your setup is performing at its best. Of course, because there are electrical parts like the battery and motor to consider, you will have to pay attention to these parts.

Cleaning electric bike components

Electric bikes are designed to be used outside, so of course they can withstand a bit of water. After you've gone out on a bike ride, make sure to clean off any dirt, dust, mud, or debris. You can usually use a brush to scrape most of it off. Use a degreaser on the drive train, and give the rest of the bike a careful clean.

Make sure to avoid using a jet wash or powerful stream of water, which can damage the bearings and corrode the electrical components. Because the battery and motor are housed in a strong casing, they should withstand all your bumps and tumbles on the trails, but give the display screen a wipe with a dry cloth to make sure it's visible.

Storing your electric bike safely

Once you've finished cycling, it's important to make sure you're storing the bike properly. Make sure to charge the battery correctly, as above, and pay attention not to overcharge or leave the cable plugged in. Avoid keeping the bike in particularly cold temperatures - for example, outside or in a shed during the winter - as this can damage the battery.

Safety tips for riding an electric bike

Now for the fun part! For the most part, electric bike safety is much the same as general cycling advice. So, pay attention to traffic, always make sure to wear a helmet, and check that all the components are in full working order before and after every ride.

One of the main benefits of e-bikes is the pedal assist function, which makes powering away from a standing start at traffic lights or tackling tricky hills that little bit easier. However, it's really important to make sure you're still adhering to the rules of the road and don't get too close to cars or other traffic. The e-bike boost is powerful, but make sure to still watch your limits!

Browse the full range of Raleigh electric bikes. Check out our e-bike buying guide to find the right model for you.