One factor you must consider when you buy and ride an electric bike is where you will travel. Many think they can just cruise around their neighborhood or local community without worry. But these routes often come with snafus. In this article, we help you consider all the things you need to know when planning your e-bike routes to ensure your safety before you ride or buy an e-bike.
Consider Using an App
There are a variety of mobile applications that assist in route planning and mapping. These provide ideal routes to take in your area while considering vehicular traffic patterns. Before you invest in an electric bike, consider researching your local area to figure out if you need an app for assistance or can ride without.
Additionally, they can provide routes at parks where cyclists enjoy riding, and you can connect with other members for route tips and suggestions. Once you find a suitable application for your needs, you can begin finessing the settings to create a desirable route.
Designate Your Start and End Location
Whether you use a mobile app or wing it, it’s vital you designate your start and end location to ensure you create the most ease between the two locations. If your start and end location is your home, the focus will be on the route to and from.
Where you start and end are two different destinations. You must be mindful of the route as a whole to ensure your safety and access to manageable traffic patterns. Some roads offer more accommodations for bikes, while others require you to ride alongside traffic.
Identify Your Waypoints
Your waypoints are essentially your mid-route destinations. Identifying these for your route before you go keeps you on track while riding and provides rest stops. If you choose to use an app to help you along your travels, include these waypoints so that the app can work with you rather than against you.
When you choose to set your own waypoints, consider landmarks, well-known intersections, or familiar cross streets so that you can make your own to or from the destinations safely and monitor your progress.
Make Use of Designated Bike Lanes
Not every route you take will come with designated bike lanes. But when there are lanes available, make use of them as much as possible. These typically run parallel to standard traffic lanes and assist in ensuring comfort and safety while riding, giving you complete freedom in your route.
When it comes to appropriately planning your e-bike routes, always consider your general safety. Follow all local guidelines regarding cycling and get comfortable with your e-bike before you join traffic.
