Getting Started with Your New E-Bike: 6 Things to Know Before Your First Ride

Congratulations on your new electric bike! Before you head out, take a few minutes to set yourself up for a safe and enjoyable first ride. Here are six things every new e-bike rider should know.

1. Read Your Owner's Manual

It's tempting to skip straight to riding, but your owner's manual contains critical information specific to your model — battery charging instructions, display settings, PAS configuration, and safety guidelines. Pay particular attention to the advanced display settings, where you can adjust pedal assist sensitivity and slow-start behavior to suit your riding style.

2. Choose the Right Starting Terrain

For your first few rides, pick a flat, open area with minimal traffic — an empty parking lot or quiet neighborhood street is ideal. You'll have enough to think about getting comfortable with the controls without adding hills, obstacles, or traffic to the mix.

3. Check Your Brakes Before Every Ride

Before mounting, walk alongside your bike and squeeze each brake lever individually to confirm both front and rear brakes stop the bike cleanly. If either brake feels weak or unresponsive, don't ride until it's been adjusted. E-bikes are heavier than regular bikes and require reliable stopping power.

4. Start Slow — Use Low Assist

Set your pedal assist to level 0 or 1 and your gears to a low setting for your first ride. If your bike has a throttle, use it gently to get moving before you start pedaling — this lets you focus on balance without the added complexity of pedaling from a dead stop. E-bike pedal assist can feel surprisingly powerful at first, so ease into higher levels gradually as you build confidence.

5. Always Wear a Helmet

E-bikes can reach speeds of 20–28 mph depending on the class. A quality helmet is non-negotiable — it doesn't need to be expensive, but it does need to fit properly and be CPSC-certified. Consider additional protective gear like gloves and padded shorts for longer rides.

6. Use the Throttle to Your Advantage

If your e-bike has a throttle, use it when starting from a stop and when making turns. This lets you focus on balance and steering without worrying about pedaling at the same time. As you gain experience, you'll naturally find the right balance between throttle and pedal assist for your riding style.

You're Ready to Ride

E-biking is one of the most enjoyable ways to get around — take the time to start safely and you'll be hooked for life. Browse our full range of electric bikes at eBike Haul, and don't hesitate to reach out to our team if you have any questions about your new ride.