How do I turn the electrics on?
Electric bikes need to be ‘turned on’ so you can access the power. Think of it like turning on your phone or computer. Your main controls are on the display on your handlebar (pictures #1 & #2) and your initial activation button is on the frame (picture #3).
Once the bike is activated (ie. the button on the frame is turned on – picture #3) then press the power button on your display (picture #2). You will see the display screen come on and now your bike is ready to ‘ride electric’.
What power levels should I ride in?
For your very first time, select the lowest power level so you can get used to what it feels like. You can turn your power up and down – and off – using the ‘+’ and ‘-‘ buttons while you are riding. Our electric bikes have 5, sometimes 6, levels of power, 5 or 6 being the highest. NOTE: If you ride in higher than level 3 all the time you will use up your battery much faster.
How do I make it work after I turn it on?
Pedal! Your pedalling activates a sensor which turns the motor on. As long as your pedals are turning you will have power assistance. There are a couple of things to be aware of though:
- If you are riding downhill and stop pedalling (ie. free-wheeling) then your motor will stop. Once you get to the bottom and start pedalling again your motor will kick in. There are exceptions though so read on…
- If your speed goes above the programmed assistance cut-off point (generally about 25 – 29km/hr per the Australian regulations). In this case your motor will not work until your speed drops below the cut-off point. You can pedal an electric bike as fast as you want, just like you can on a normal bike, but the motor is programmed to stop providing assistance above a certain speed.
- If you use your brakes, even slightly, then it will stop your motor. This is a safety feature.
Do I need to change gears?
Yes, gearing is still important, especially on hills. Plan ahead and select a low gear such as gears 1, 2 or 3 when approaching the hill so that:
- you can turn your pedals easily, and
- so you don’t place too much strain on the motor so it overheats. The motor has a safety cut off for overheating and incorrect gearing on hills is the #1 reason for this.
How do I change gears?
Gears on a bicycle are a bit like gears on a car in that you start off in an easy gear (ie. 1 ) and then change up as you get faster, or down as you need. Our ebikes have up to 9 gears. Most people ride in gears 3 – 6 depending on terrain.
The gear mechanism comprises two levers. Push the closest one (arrow #1) to change to an easier gear; flick the lever (arrow #2) behind to change to a harder gear. With these gears it is better to change while you are pedalling. If you have to change while you are stationary just start pedalling very gently until your gears settle to the right ‘groove’ in the rear hub / wheel. Expect some crunchy noises!
How far can I ride before I run out of battery?
It varies but expect between 60km -100km if using normal power levels. You can still pedal if you run out but the bike is heavy.
Keep an eye on the battery indicator on your display. If you think you will be riding further then take your charger with you for a top up along the way. TIP: Allow at least 1-2 hours for a decent top-up (5-6 hours if your battery is empty).
How do I charge the battery?
You can charge your battery while it is still in the bike (arrow #1) or you can take it out and charge it separately. To take the battery out you need your key to unlock the battery (arrow #2). Red light on the charger indicates the battery is charging.
How do I avoid getting a flat tyre?
You can’t ride if you get a flat tyre. 90% of flat tyres occur because of poor riding and maintenance. Our bikes are running on good tyres and have extra puncture protection, but a flat tyre is still possible.
- Look where you are riding and avoid debris on the street; and
- Make sure you pump up your tyres to about 50psi at least once a week. If you don’t have a bike pump then go to a gas station or drop into a nearby bike shop or Electric Bikes Brisbane.
What happens if I get a flat tyre?
You need to stop riding because it will damage your wheel. We provide you with a can of ‘velox’, which is a puncture sealant. This will seal and inflate your tyre 80-90% of the time.
- If it works – let us know when you drop off your bike that the tyre will be need to be changed. (Note: if you end up using the velox we deduct that from your bond when you return your bike).
- If it doesn’t work you must stop riding and get it repaired. A nearby bike shop should be able to do it but if it is a rear tyre you will probably need to bring it in to us. Let us know as soon as possible and bring it in. We have spares in stock so you won’t be without your bike too long.
What do I do if I have a problem with the bike?
Please email us via our Contact page or call us on 1300 553 110.
Indicative rates for loss or damage
This rarely happens and if it does we deduct from your holding bond. Please be aware though that returning the bike to us in same or similar condition as it left is your responsibility and your waiver authorises us to charge up to the value of the bike ($2,500) if parts or the entire bike is stolen or damaged beyond repair. Indicatives rates for loss or damage are:
- Battery replacement due to damage, loss or theft: up to $900
- Motor wheel replacement eg. if you seriously damage/bend the rim: $250
- Non-motor wheel replacement: $125
- Display replacement eg if damaged or stolen: $125
- Helmets, bags and baskets eg if seriously damaged, lost or stolen: from $55