The first time you’re out and about with your e-bike on the streets you may find yourself a bit disoriented. Though the cycling community is very welcoming and friendly there are some written and unwritten rules to follow to keep you and your fellow cyclists safe. Here are a few tips to help you hit the road confidently and safely.
Be predictable
It’s always good to remember that an electric bike is treated like a vehicle on the road and has to obey the same rules of the road. Ride your line allowing other road users to expect where you’re going and make any changes in direction gradually. This simply means don’t swerve unexpectedly or brake quickly without signalling so other cyclists or drivers aren’t forced to make dangerous decisions for their own safety.
Signals
Cyclists do most of their communicating with other road users using hand signals. Before any change in direction be sure to look that it’s safe to do so before signalling and then manoeuvre. It’s also good practice to signal well before you make a turn so other cyclists will know not to pass or undercut you.
Credit: https://lumintrail.com/blogs/bicycle/bicycle-riding-etiquette-top-10-rules-for-riders
Passing
When you pass other cyclists on your e-bike, the first thing to do is to look that it’s safe, signal and then pass. Make sure you give the other cyclists as much space as possible, usually an arm’s length. If the other cyclist is in the middle of the lane, you can ring your bell or call out “on your left” to let them know you are passing.
Give 2-3 bike lengths before merging back into your line so the cyclist doesn’t have to stop suddenly.
Keep your distance
In the same vein, when following another cyclist make sure your front wheel isn’t up against their rear wheel. Give yourself some space, which gives you time to brake if something unexpected comes up.
Speed
Keep in mind that bicycle lanes are used by cyclists of different abilities. Make sure to not treat them like highways by zooming by unexpectedly next to other cyclists. If you’re travelling at a higher speed than most cyclists in the bike lane, you may want to go on the road, you have the right to do so.
Be patient
At red lights or stop signs, it is the etiquette to stop behind the other cyclists in front of you. Don’t go to the front of the line, wait your turn and you will have ample time to pass once you get moving again.
Parking
It’s always best to use the city’s existing bike infrastructure to park your bike. When using bike parking on sidewalks or near roads make sure to keep your bike close to the bike ring so it will not slip and slide onto the road or sidewalk. This not only keeps your bike safe from being hit, but it’s also a courtesy to pedestrians. Lock your bike considerately so other bikers can use the same spot as well. If a rack is full, don’t smush your bike in the foray potentially damaging your bike or others, just look for the next spot.
Stay on the road
Whenever possible keep your bike on the road, it is best to not cycle on sidewalks (as it is illegal and you could get fined) but it also could lead to accidents with pedestrians who are not expecting you to be on the sidewalk.
Be friendly!
The cycling community is a great one to be a part of, we’re friendly and helpful and keep an eye out for each other. If you see another cyclist trying to repair his bike, it’s always nice to give a helping hand, even if you don’t know how to repair it, maybe they just needed an extra pair of hands!
A little extra
The Toronto Bicycling Network also details some terms you may hear while riding such as:
Car back ... move to single file on the right hand side of the road or shoulder. Give way to the car... they are bigger than you and they will win.
On your left ... allow the person coming up behind you to pass safely within the lane; not crossing over into the other lane. If necessary move to the right.