Beginner's Guide to Riding an E-Bike
What Is an E-Bike?
An electric bicycle (e-bike) is a bicycle equipped with a rechargeable battery and an electric motor that assists while you pedal. The motor makes riding easier by reducing the effort needed to travel longer distances, climb hills, carry cargo, or ride into strong headwinds.
Unlike motorcycles or mopeds, most e-bikes are designed to be pedaled. The motor assists your effort, allowing you to ride farther while still getting the health benefits of physical activity.
E-bikes are becoming increasingly popular in New Orleans because they offer an affordable, convenient, and environmentally friendly way to travel to work, school, parks, shopping, and other destinations.
Understanding E-Bike Classes
Not all e-bikes operate the same way. Most fall into one of three classes based on how the motor provides assistance and the maximum assisted speed.
Bike Features
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Class 1
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Class 2
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Class 3
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Motor Assistance
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The motor helps when you pedal
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The motor helps when you pedal, and the throttle can power the bike without pedaling
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The motor helps when you pedal
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Maximum Assisted Speed
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20 mph
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20 mph
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28 mph
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Throttle
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No
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Yes
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No
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Best For
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First-time riders, recreation, neighborhood riding, and shared-use paths
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Daily commuting, carrying groceries or cargo, and easier starts from a stop
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Longer commutes, experienced riders, higher-speed roadway travel
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Pre-Ride Safety Check
Before every ride, make sure you have:
✔ Properly fitted helmet
✔ Tires inflated
✔ Brakes are working properly
✔ Battery adequately charged
✔ Front and rear lights working
✔ Bell or horn functioning
✔ Bike lock packed
✔ Bright or reflective clothing if riding at dawn, dusk, or night
✔ Phone secured and set aside—never use it while riding
Ready to Learn More?
Take the free E-Bike Smart course from the League of American Bicyclists to build your skills and confidence — covers e-bike classes, safe riding techniques, local laws, and battery care in about 30 minutes.
Take the E-Bike Smart Course
Battery Safety
Lithium-ion batteries are safe when used properly, but damaged or improperly charged batteries can present a fire risk.
Always:
- Use only the manufacturer's approved charger.
- Inspect batteries regularly for cracks, swelling, leaks, or unusual odors.
- Keep batteries clean and dry.
- Protect batteries from extreme heat.
- Never use damaged batteries or chargers.
- Never puncture or drop a battery.
If a battery becomes damaged or has been submerged in water, stop using it and have it inspected before charging.
Charging Your E-Bike Safely
Proper charging improves battery life and reduces the risk of fire.
Charge Safely
- Charge indoors in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area.
- Place the charger on a hard, nonflammable surface.
- Keep chargers away from furniture, curtains, paper, and other combustible materials.
- Do not charge overnight or leave batteries charging unattended.
- Unplug the charger when charging is complete.
- Store batteries between 40°F and 80°F whenever possible.
Riding Safely in New Orleans
Watch for potholes
Road conditions can change quickly.
Stay alert by:
- Looking 20-30 feet ahead
- Leaving room to maneuver around hazards
- Slowing down at night
Be Alert Near Buses.
Buses have large blind spots and make frequent stops.
- Stay where the driver can see you
- Never pass a stopped bus on the right
- Expect buses to pull in and out of traffic frequently
Ride with Extra Caution
The following corridors carry higher traffic volumes or include features such as streetcar tracks, multiple travel lanes, or complex intersections that require additional attention:
- St. Charles Avenue
- St. Claude Avenue
- Canal Street
- South Carrollton Avenue
- North Rampart Street
- South Claiborne Avenue
- Broad Street
- Elysian Fields Avenue
Stay alert, reduce your speed when needed, and anticipate the actions of drivers, pedestrians, and transit vehicles.
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