Electric bikes are extremely simple and accessible to use. On electric bikes, the electric motor that comes into play when you pedal supports the rider and allows sudden acceleration. This helps users climb steep hills, cover long distances in a short time, and move through traffic faster. At the same time, if desired, you can drive calmly with just physical pedal power by using the pedal assist mode. These vehicles require less physical effort compared to traditional bicycles. This allows the user to reach the destination more energetically and vigorously.
How to use an electric bike?
Electric bicycles are bicycles that obtain power by pedaling or using an electric motor. Electric bikes let you travel faster and easier than traditional bikes. Before you start using your electric bike, make sure you know all the features of your bike; It is important that you understand your bike’s controls, speed and range.
The use of electric bicycles is suitable for people of all age groups. Everyone, from young people to the elderly, can enjoy an environmentally friendly means of transportation thanks to these vehicles. In addition, thanks to their rechargeable batteries, they offer a reliable option for long-term driving in the city or in rural areas. The steps that can be followed to use an electric bike are as follows:
- Before you start using your electric bike, check the charge status of the battery. If the charge level is low, connect the battery to an outlet to charge it.
- Choose the speed of your electric bike.
- Most electric bikes have a control to adjust your speed. Adjust your speed according to the road and conditions.
- Pedal your electric bike.
- The electric motor is activated when you start pedaling.
- Your electric bike has brakes similar to traditional bikes. Check that the electric motor has stopped before using the brakes.
Electric bikes usually have a control panel or display. From this panel, you can make controls such as turning the electric motor on or off and selecting the driving mode. On some models, you can also view information such as speedometer, odometer and charge level. Electric bikes often offer different riding modes. Pedal assist mode can be electric only mode or combinations thereof. Changing the riding mode helps you adjust the performance of the bike according to usage purposes and preferences. There are some situations you should pay attention to when using an electric bike. The requirements for using an electric bike can be listed as follows:
- Always wear a helmet.
- Check your bike’s surroundings thoroughly and pay attention to other road users.
- Obey local laws regarding the speed of your electric bike.
- Do not overcharge or overdischarge your electric bike’s battery.
Do I need a license to use an electric bike?
In most countries, a driver’s license is not required to use an electric bike. Electric bikes generally have low engine power and are generally light transportation vehicles that do not fall into the category of motor vehicles. For this reason, in many places, a special driver’s license is not required, especially for models that do not exceed a certain engine power. Electric bicycles are considered within the same scope as bicycles according to the Highway Traffic Law. That’s why you don’t need a driver’s license to use an electric bike. However, this may vary depending on the engine power of the bikes:
- Electric bikes up to 0.25 kW are considered bicycles and do not require a driver’s license.
- Electric bikes from 0.26 kW to 4 kW are considered mopeds and require a class M driver’s license.
- Electric bikes with more than 4 kW are considered motorcycles and require a class B licence.