Top 10 Mistakes New E-Bike Riders Make (And How to Avoid Them)

Riding an e-bike is exciting, but many beginners make common mistakes that can lead to safety issues, poor performance, or unnecessary costs. To help you get the most out of your ride, here are the top 10 mistakes new e-bike riders make—and how to avoid them.

1. Ignoring Local E-Bike Laws

🚫 Mistake: Not checking speed limits, bike lane rules, or helmet requirements in your area.

✅ Fix: Research local e-bike regulations to avoid fines or restrictions. Some cities restrict Class 3 e-bikes from bike paths, while others require helmets for all riders.

💡 Tip: Check local laws on PeopleForBikes’ E-Bike Law Guide for state-specific regulations.

2. Choosing the Wrong E-Bike for Their Needs

🚫 Mistake: Buying an e-bike that doesn’t match your lifestyle (e.g., a lightweight city bike for off-road trails).

✅ Fix: Identify how you’ll use your e-bike—commuting, fitness, off-road, or cargo hauling—before purchasing.

💡 Best Options:

Commuters: Aventon Level 2
Trail Riders: Trek Powerfly
Cargo Haulers: RadWagon 4

3. Underestimating E-Bike Weight

🚫 Mistake: Assuming an e-bike is as light as a traditional bicycle and struggling with lifting or handling.

✅ Fix: Know your e-bike’s weight before buying—some models exceed 60 lbs, making them difficult to carry upstairs or transport.

💡 Tip: Look for folding e-bikes (like the Lectric XP 3.0) if portability is a priority.

4. Not Locking the E-Bike Properly

🚫 Mistake: Using a cheap lock or only securing the frame, leaving the wheels and battery at risk.

✅ Fix: Use two locks—a high-quality U-lock and a secondary chain lock—to secure both frame and wheels.

💡 Recommended Lock: Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit U-Lock.

5. Draining the Battery Too Often

🚫 Mistake: Waiting until the battery is completely empty before recharging.

✅ Fix: Recharge before the battery drops below 20% to extend lifespan. Storing the battery at room temperature also helps.

💡 Tip: Bosch eBike batteries last longer when charged between 20-80%.

6. Ignoring Regular Maintenance

🚫 Mistake: Assuming e-bikes don’t need maintenance like regular bikes.

✅ Fix: Clean and lubricate the chain, check tire pressure, and inspect brake pads regularly.

💡 Tip: Schedule a professional tune-up every 6 months if you ride daily.

7. Not Using the Correct Assist Level

🚫 Mistake: Keeping pedal assist on high all the time, draining the battery too quickly.

✅ Fix: Use lower assist levels on flat roads and higher levels only on hills or long rides.

💡 Tip: Mid-drive motors like Bosch Performance Line are more efficient at conserving battery.

8. Wearing the Wrong Helmet

🚫 Mistake: Using a standard bicycle helmet instead of one certified for e-bike speeds.

✅ Fix: Choose a helmet with NTA 8776 certification, which protects riders at speeds up to 28 mph.

💡 Recommended Helmet: Xnito Helmet (NTA 8776-certified with integrated lights).

9. Not Practicing Before Riding in Traffic

🚫 Mistake: Jumping straight into city traffic without practicing on quiet roads first.

✅ Fix: Start on bike paths or empty parking lots before riding in high-traffic areas.

💡 Tip: Take an e-bike safety course for urban riding skills.

10. Forgetting About Insurance

🚫 Mistake: Assuming homeowners insurance covers e-bike theft—many policies exclude high-value e-bikes.

✅ Fix: Get specialized e-bike insurance for theft, damage, and liability coverage.

💡 Recommended Providers: Velosurance or Markel Insurance.

Final Thoughts

Avoiding these common mistakes helps new e-bike riders stay safe, protect their investment, and get the most out of their ride. Whether it’s choosing the right bike, maintaining the battery, or securing it properly, these tips will set you up for a smooth e-bike experience.