So, you’re thinking about getting an e-bike, or maybe you just got one and you’re diving into all the fun. Either way, I’ve got something for you today that I wish I had when I was just starting out.
Because, let’s be honest—e-bikes are awesome—but they come with a bit of a learning curve and a few surprises. In this post, I’m sharing the top 10 things I wish I knew before getting my first e-bike. Some are practical, some are unexpected, but they’re all lessons I learned the hard way so you don’t have to.
1. Yes, You Still Have to Pedal
Let’s start with the basics. A lot of people assume riding an e-bike is just like cruising on a scooter. While some models include a throttle, most rely on pedal assist. That means the motor only kicks in when you’re pedaling.
The ride is definitely easier than a regular bike, especially on hills or long routes, but it still requires effort. You’ll engage your legs, your core, and depending on your assist level, it can still be a solid workout.
The good news? You get to decide how much work you put in. Crank up the assist for a breezy ride, or dial it down if you want to break a sweat.
2. Charging Takes Time
This one caught me off guard. Charging an e-bike isn’t like topping off your phone at the coffee shop. A full charge usually takes 4 to 6 hours.
If you forget to plug it in the night before, your spontaneous morning ride could turn into an unplanned walk. Plus, charging slows down as batteries age, and cold temperatures can mess with charging speed and performance.
My tip: plug in your battery as soon as you get home. It’s just like charging your phone. Don’t wait until the next day when it might be too late.
3. Pedal Assist and Throttle Are Not the Same
This was confusing at first. Pedal assist gives you a boost as you pedal. The more you put in, the more you get back—depending on your assist level.
Throttle, on the other hand, lets you ride without pedaling. You twist or push a button and the bike goes. It’s super handy for starting from a stop or getting up a steep driveway.
Not all e-bikes come with a throttle. Some have only pedal assist, some have both. And depending on where you live, throttle use might not be legal. Make sure you understand what your bike offers and what’s allowed in your area.
4. Hills Aren’t the Enemy Anymore
One of the best things about e-bikes? Hills don’t ruin your ride anymore.
That dreaded steep climb that used to kill your legs? Now it’s just part of the route. You’ll still feel it, especially if your assist level is low, but you won’t avoid it like you used to. It’s a game-changer.
5. You’ll Ride Farther Than You Think
E-bikes make long rides feel easy. You’re not wiped out after 5 miles—you feel great. So you keep going… and going…
But here’s the catch: you still have to come back. And depending on your route and battery level, the return trip might not feel so breezy. Keep an eye on your range and maybe carry a charger if you’ll be near an outlet.
6. E-Bikes Need More Maintenance Than You Think
An e-bike is still a bike. That means inflating tires, cleaning chains, and adjusting brakes. But now you’ve got wires, a motor, and a lithium battery in the mix.
Batteries need care. Don’t store them in extreme temperatures. Don’t let them fully drain all the time. If you’re not riding for a while, store them around 50% charge. Check connections regularly, especially if you ride in wet weather.
A little care goes a long way.
7. Local Laws Can Be Confusing
E-bike rules vary a lot from place to place. Some trails don’t allow certain classes of e-bikes. Some areas ban throttles. Some parks ban e-bikes entirely.
Do your research before you ride, especially if you’re traveling. And always be courteous. E-bike riders sometimes get a bad rap from traditional cyclists—let’s show them we belong.
8. These Bikes Are Heavy
Most e-bikes weigh between 50 and 70 pounds. Some cargo or fat tire models can weigh over 80. You won’t notice it while riding, but you will when you try to lift it into a car, up stairs, or onto a rack.
If lifting is a concern, consider foldable models, step-through frames, or using a ramp for loading. Your back will thank you.
Check out my favorite lightweight e-bikes:
- Ride1Up Roadster V3 (40 lbs)
- Vvolt Alpha (44 lbs)
- Velotric Breeze (48 lbs)
- Aventon Pace 4 (58 lbs)
- Prodigy v2 Mid-Drive (58 lbs)
- Ride1Up Portola Folding E-bike (60 lbs)
9. You’ll Be a Magnet for Questions
I didn’t expect how curious people would be. At coffee shops, red lights, or even parking lots, people will ask:
How fast does it go?
What brand is it?
How far can it ride?
How much did it cost?
If you’re shy, prepare for some attention. If you’re social, it’s a great way to strike up a conversation. Either way, your e-bike will turn heads.
10. Comfort Isn’t Guaranteed
Just because an e-bike looks sleek online doesn’t mean it’ll feel great in real life. My first few rides left me sore—not from the ride itself, but from bad posture, low handlebars, and the wrong saddle.
You might need to tweak the seat, raise the bars, or swap the grips. These are easy, inexpensive upgrades that make a huge difference in your comfort and how often you ride.
Final Thoughts
There you have it—10 things I wish I knew before getting an e-bike. I hope this helped you feel more prepared, and maybe even more excited for your e-bike journey.
If you found this post helpful, like it, subscribe to the newsletter (in the pop-up window), or share it with a fellow rider. Until next time—enjoy your ride.
