Testing an e-bike for the first time? Here’s what to look out for and what not to worry about.
If you are testing an e-bike for the first time, but are unsure how to test it properly? Don’t panic—it’s not like buying a car, where you need to pretend you know what torque or catalytic converter means. E-bikes are much simpler, and most shops will be more than happy to give you a spin around the block. However, it helps to know what to look out for—and what you can safely ignore.
Here’s a beginner-friendly guide to testing an e-bike for the first time (no Lycra or jargon required). I would, however, recommend wearing some comfortable trousers or shorts and a pair of trainers. And, ask for a helmet or take one with you.
1. Don’t Be Shy—Ask Questions
Start by telling the salesperson what kind of riding you’ll actually be doing. Are you commuting? Pootling around town? Touring the countryside? Or going on rougher terrain? They can point you to the right type of bike—there’s no one-size-fits-all here. And no question is too silly, honestly.
If you haven’t already, read my blog first so you can be prepared.
The shop team will be prepared to answer any questions you may have, so please don’t hesitate to ask. What kind of questions should you ask? Here are some examples of questions I am asked: How fast does it go? How far can I go? How heavy is it? Which is the motor and which is the battery? What do those two things do? How does the “assist” work? What are the levels of “assist”? How do I change the level of “assist”? Do I have to use the “assist”? What does “assist” actually mean? How many gears does it have? Can you really ride uphill easily? If you are unsure about anything, please ask. This is not a cheap purchase, and it’s one that you want to get right to get all the enjoyment out of this fantastic piece of machinery.
2. Get Comfortable Before Your Test Ride
Before you zoom off, take a moment to get comfy:
- Adjust the saddle height so your leg is slightly bent at the bottom of the pedal stroke.
- Check that you can reach the brakes and handlebars easily.
- If it feels wobbly or too high, ask for a tweak—this isn’t a test of bravery.
Also, make sure you understand how the motor assist works. Most e-bikes have a simple control system with assist levels such as Eco, Tour, and Turbo. Try them all out—you won’t break anything, promise.
3. Test the Assist (This Bit Is Fun!)
The whole point of an e-bike is that little electric boost. So, find a short hill or a long stretch and play around with the different assist levels. (see point 5 for an explanation of the levels). You should feel a noticeable push when you pedal, especially on higher settings. It’s a bit like having someone giving you a steady push along, but they never get tired and don’t moan about it.
Does the motor kick in smoothly? Is it noisy or quiet? Does it feel natural, like your legs just got stronger? That’s what you want.
4. Test the Brakes
E-bikes are heavier than regular bikes, and they go faster, too. Good brakes are essential. Try testing a few gentle stops and then a firm one—nothing dramatic, just make sure it all feels responsive and safe.
5. Look at the Display (But Not Too Much)
Most e-bikes have a little screen showing speed, battery level, and assist mode. A lot of ebikes in Europe use Bosch motor and they have 4 levels of assist – Eco = lowest, Tour = mid, Turbo = highest & EMTB = which is like having an automatic car, it sets what power you need. Don’t worry if it looks like the control panel of a spaceship. You’ll quickly learn the basics, and you don’t need to understand everything on day one.
6. Ride How You Will Ride
This is key. Don’t just go round a car park in circles. Ride it like you would in real life—start, stop, go up a slope, turn corners, go slow, go fast, get on and off it. If you can’t swing your leg over, then go for a step-through frame. There’s no point in throwing out your back or hip just because you are too proud to buy the right bike. Ask yourself if you’re planning to carry bags for a bike trip or from your weekly shop? Then speak to the sales team to see if they can pop something on the rack so you feel the extra weight.
Final Thought
Trust your instincts. If the bike feels good—comfortable, responsive, and fun—you’re onto a winner. Don’t let a pushy salesperson talk you into something that doesn’t feel quite right. If you need time to think, then take it. A good ebike salesperson will be patient and take time to answer all your questions. They will want you to have a great experience so that you can recommend them to others in the future.
Testing an e-bike is meant to be exciting, not intimidating. Take your time, enjoy the ride, and ask as many questions as you like. You’re not just buying a bike—you’re buying more time outdoors, easier hills, and bigger smiles.
