BRAKING CORRECTLY ON YOUR E-BIKE – SLOW DOWN SAFELY


E-bikes have experienced an enormous boom in recent years. And no wonder: they combine the comfort of a normal bicycle with the independence and comfort of an electric vehicle. However, even if riding an e-bike is no different from riding a classic bicycle at first glance, there are still a few factors that you should bear in mind. Braking is just one example. In this article, we will explain the correct way to slow down on an e-bike.

RIDING A NORMAL BICYCLE COMPARED TO RIDING AN E-BIKE

Pull the brake handle and slow down – before we address the issue of correct braking, it is important to understand the differences between riding an e-bike and riding a classic bicycle. Because even if both types of bicycles basically do the same thing – get you from A to B – there are still some differences that need to be taken into account. For example, e-bikes are generally heavier than classic bicycles. Their weight is increased by their electric motor. What's more, they often have larger and stronger tires, which also leads to more mass. A number of e-bikes often weigh more than 20 kilograms, while unmotorized bicycles usually weigh between 10 and 15 kilograms. This additional weight therefore affects their handling and braking. We are familiar with the principle from physics: A higher mass means a higher kinetic energy. Consequently, either the braking distance will be longer with the same braking force – or more braking force is required.

But weight is not the only factor that influences braking with an e-bike. Pedelecs are also generally faster than classic bikes. They can reach higher speeds thanks to their motor assistance. S-pedelecs in particular can reach speeds of up to 45 kilometers per hour, making them significantly faster than you would expect from your normal bicycle. This is something that has to be taken into account when braking correctly with an electric bicycle.

WHAT TYPES OF BRAKES ARE AVAILABLE ON AN E-BIKE?

In order to understand the topic of “Correct braking with an e-bike,” it also makes sense to look at the different types of brakes on an electric bicycle. You can usually find two types of brakes on bicycles: rim brakes or disc brakes. The rim brake is the classic brake: it is actuated by a brake lever on the handlebar and slows the bike down by “gripping” the rim flanks. The disc brake, on the other hand, is a modern brake that is mainly used in mountain biking, but is also becoming increasingly popular f or e-bikes. It works in a similar way to a rim brake, but does not work on the rims, but rather on the hub. The brake pads of a disc brake press against a brake disc resting on the hub.

The disc brake is now the brake of choice for most e-bike models. This is because although the disc brake is more expensive to buy, it has a number of advantages. For example, it is less susceptible to wear and offers better braking performance, even in wet conditions. The stronger overall braking performance compared to rim brakes also helps to compensate the higher bicycle weight and higher speeds of the e-bike (i.e. higher kinetic energy). In the entry-level models, disc brakes usually work mechanically. More expensive models, on the other hand, operate hydraulically. Both types of brakes are offered by manufacturers such as Shimano, Sram, Tektro and Magura.

FIT Inhaltbild  Akku im warme Temperaturen
FIT Inhaltbild E-Bike Reichweite

OTHER THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT YOUR E-BIKE BRAKES

In general: the larger the brake disc on an e-bike, the greater the braking power of the electric bicycle. In this context, it is essential to check which size disc is specified as the maximum size by the wheel manufacturer and the fork manufacturer. There is even more room for improvement when it comes to brake pads: different pad mixtures are available that can have different properties. The brake pads themselves are usually already pre-assembled. If you want to replace your brake pads, you can choose between factors such as durability and braking performance.

the larger the brake disc on an e-bike, the greater the braking power of the electric bicycle. In this context, it is essential to check which size disc is specified as the maximum size by the wheel manufacturer and the fork manufacturer. There is even more room for improvement when it comes to brake pads: different pad mixtures are available that can have different properties. The brake pads themselves are usually already pre-assembled. If you want to replace your brake pads, you can choose between factors such as durability and braking performance.

THE RIGHT WAY TO BRAKE WITH AN E-BIKE – HOW TO BRAKE CORRECTLY

As already explained at the beginning, the braking behavior of an e-bike is different to that of a classic bicycle. In particular, the higher speeds, additional weight and motor are factors that make it harder to slow down on a pedelec. However, the rule of thumb “brake harder at the front and gentler at the back” also applies to e-bikes. The reason for this is that if the front brake is used correctly, it has a greater braking effect than the rear brake. This is due to the weight distribution, which shifts forward when braking. If you apply the front brake harder (for example at a ratio of 60:40), the braking distance will be shorter. In general, it helps to pull on the brake lever slowly and only apply maximum force shortly before you come to a standstill. Otherwise you could risk coming to an abrupt stop – and suddenly fly over the handlebars.

Braking correctly with an e-bike is therefore a matter of practice. The best method is to practice on a road without traffic and develop your own feel for the brakes. If you are unsure, you can also attend a riding skills course, where you will learn how to control your e-bike correctly – and thus feel safer on the road.

SIX TIPS FOR CORRECT BRAKING WITH AN E-BIKE

1. To learn how to brake correctly on an e-bike, it is advisable to practice on a road without traffic. This will give you a feeling for how your brakes work and how powerful they are.

2. It is also important to practice braking downhill at speed. As a result of the gradient and the associated higher kinetic energy, the braking distance is much longer.

3. The intermittent braking principle is a tried-and-tested method of downhill braking. This means that it is better to brake hard several times rather than gentler constantly.

4. Modern mountain e-bikes have adjustable seat posts that allow you to lower your center of gravity. This makes for greater stability when braking downhill.

5. You should also familiarize yourself with the technical aspects of your e-bike brakes. This gives you a better idea of how your brakes work and gives you greater safety.

6. Have your e-bike serviced regularly by your local dealer. This ensures that your e-bike brakes are in perfect working order at all times.

You can find more tips and tricks for e-bikes in other blog posts:

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02.05.2022