Riding mopeds and e-bikes safely

By the end of this topic you can

• You can carry out a quick check before every ride.
• You can choose a safe position on the road or in a bike lane.
• You can handle intersections, turning vehicles and parked car doors.
• You can brake smoothly and avoid common surface hazards.
• You can make yourself visible day and night.

What you need to know and understand

• Mopeds and e-bikes are much slower than cars on many roads, so drivers may misjudge your speed.
• Turning vehicles and opening car doors are common dangers for small two-wheelers.
• A heavier e-bike or moped takes longer to stop than an ordinary bicycle.
• Light, quiet vehicles are hard to hear, so pedestrians may step out without noticing you.
• Most states require lights at night on mopeds and e-bikes; exact equipment rules vary by state.
• Many mopeds may not be allowed on freeways or high-speed roads; check your state rules.

A quick check before you set off

• Tires: pressure and tread, with no cuts or bulges.
• Brakes: both levers firm and working.
• Lights and horn or bell working; battery charged on an e-bike.
• Helmet fastened and eye protection on.
• Bags and loads secure and not hanging near the wheels.

Where to ride in the lane

Ride far enough from parked cars to stay out of the door zone, the space where a door could suddenly open. Hugging the curb can invite drivers to squeeze past too closely. Where the lane is too narrow to share safely, moving toward the center of the lane can stop unsafe passing, where your state allows this.

Stay out of drivers' blind spots, especially next to trucks and buses. Be careful when riding past a line of stopped cars, as a driver may let someone turn across your path.

Getting through intersections

1. Slow down and cover your brakes as you approach.
2. Scan left, right and ahead for turning vehicles and pedestrians.
3. Watch for drivers turning right across your path, especially from beside or behind you.
4. Watch oncoming drivers turning left, who may not judge your speed.
5. Make eye contact where possible, but be ready to stop even if a driver seems to see you.

Surfaces, weather and darkness

Small wheels react more to potholes, gravel, wet leaves, painted lines and drain grates. Slow down, keep upright and avoid braking on them. In rain, brake earlier and more gently. At night, use a white front light and a red rear light or reflector, and wear bright or reflective clothing.

Common mistakes

• Riding in the door zone beside parked cars: leave space for a door to open.
• Assuming drivers know how fast you are going: be ready for them to pull out or turn.
• Braking hard on wet paint or leaves: brake before the hazard while upright.
• Riding at night with weak or no lights: check your lights before every evening ride.

Test yourself: Riding mopeds and e-bikes safely

Answer each question, then read the explanation. Questions come in a random order each time.