Riding an e-bike
Riding an e-bike is a wonderful experience opening up the joy of cycling to a wider audience than ever before. For many, riding an e-bike will be the first time they have ridden a bike since they were young — and in many ways riding an e-bike is just like riding a standard bike. Pedaling is usually involved (unless you are using an e-bike with a throttle-only option), and it involves forward motion and balance to stay upright just like a standard bike. Depending upon the model, it also can involve shifting the rear cluster of gears to maximize your effort according to the terrain you're riding.
What's Ohio legislation say?
Bike vs. e-bike
Although there are some similarities, there are also some significant differences between bikes and e-bikes. Whereas a competition road bike can weigh less than 20 lbs., a typical e-bike weighs anywhere from 45 to 65 lbs. depending upon the size and style of the bike. An e-bike can sustain 20 mph on a Class II and up to 28 mph on most Class III models — speeds you only hit on a standard bike when you're topped out or going downhill.
Our bikes will not exceed 28 mph on flat land.
Always keep in mind how to safely operate your e-bike. Below are the important items to be aware of.
Gear & protection
Helmets
Always wear a properly fitted bike helmet. Helmets are provided with every Cruise the Creek rental.
Eye Protection
Wear prescription glasses or sport glasses. Insects at e-bike speed can do real damage. Eyewear is provided with every rental.
Skin Exposure
Out for several hours? Use SPF 30+ unless your clothing covers your arms.
Cycling Apparel
Padded shorts (or a padded insert) help on longer rides. We also stock e-bikes with a suspension seat post that softens the ride.
Rules of the road
Class II and III e-bikes follow the same rules as standard bikes. In any collision with a vehicle, the cyclist is at a major disadvantage — stay vigilant and presume the driver hasn't seen you until they've yielded.
Ride in the bike lane when available, with the flow of traffic, single file, and obey all signs and signals.
Sizing
Frame sized mainly by inseam and your ability to put feet down at a stop.
Two frame styles: step-through (no top tube) or standard. Pick what's most comfortable.
Shifting
Most e-bikes have seven gears on the rear hub with a trigger shifter on the right side. Shift one gear at a time with a slight pause in pedaling, and confirm the gear changed before shifting again — clicking through several without easing off can throw the chain.
E-bike controller
Left-side controller with on/off and + / – buttons selecting power assist: Eco, Tour, Moderate, Sport, Turbo. The display also shows speed, miles, and battery.
Battery & motor
Lithium-powered, with a max range of 28 to 55 miles. Eco/Tour at moderate speed gets the high end; Sport/Turbo drops you to 25–30 miles per cycle. Recharge in roughly 4 to 6 hours.
For maximum range, stay in lower assist modes. Save Sport and Turbo for hills and headwinds.
Braking
Front and rear disc brakes — left lever is the front, right lever is the rear. Apply the rear brake before the front to maintain stability while braking.
Closing thoughts
Our team fits you to the right size and style, makes the seat and handlebar adjustments, and walks you through these guidelines before you ride. Digital maps of local rides are available. If you break down on the road during a rental, we'll send a tech to fix it or bring you back — and we'll either swap you onto another bike or revise the rental charge.
Guest safety is our number one concern. We reserve the right to refuse rental to anyone we feel is unfit to ride an electric bike.
Questions before you ride?
Reach out — we'll walk you through anything that's still unclear.