Now cycling is more than a sport, it is a means of transport that is practical for trips that require urban travel. Now with the electric bike and all its advantages which affect both your energy expenditure and your travel time between point A and B, it is necessary to take into consideration the right equipment adapted for this new discipline. To help you organize your next outing, we have put together a list of 7 essential items to bring with you on your next hike. Before heading into these recommendations, here is a brief description of this growing sport.  

One of the reasons why the electric bike has gained so much enthusiasm in recent years is due to the idea and vision of electric bikes. These were seen some time ago as tools for older people or those who were no longer able to complete their bike rides without the help of assistance. However, the image of this type of bicycle changed when the world understood that this assistance can be useful in another way. With the same effort as with an unassisted bicycle, it is now possible to cover a greater distance. In this way, the excuses that it is too windy or that the terrain is too steep no longer exist since the assistance will be able to help us in more difficult moments to allow us to enjoy our hike without worrying. to expend all our energy in these moments.

Speaking of electric bikes, there are several things to consider. First, it is important to know that these can be divided into different families, and that no one of these families in question is better than the other. They are simply better suited for a certain type of clientele. That of the assistance motors located in the rear wheel is the first. A range of on average 100 km or less as well as a feeling of propulsion by the bike are the main aspects of this type of electric bike. It is intended for people who want to feel the bike more, push them to move forward without covering huge distances and without wanting to break the wallet too much. 

The second large family includes bikes with a motor located at the bottom bracket. This family is intended for people wishing to travel greater distances. Pedal motors consume less energy than wheel motors, allowing them to achieve greater autonomy. Unlike wheel motors, it is necessary to pedal in order to have assistance, unlike the wheel motor where it is possible to let yourself go. The user will also be able to feel assistance from the bike rather than propulsion which will be felt with a wheel motor bike. 

Helmet

In Quebec, the road safety code requires all users to wear a helmet when on their electric bike. People who do not comply with the regulations in force could face a fine between $60 and $100, this is something to think about, because you will spend a similar amount for a helmet! In addition to avoiding a fine, the helmet allows you to protect yourself against head trauma during an accident, remember that we never choose if an accident will happen to us. With a maximum speed of 32 km/h, the electric bike could cause an accident to happen faster than you think if you are less skilled at cycling and could aggravate injuries. This is why we recommend opting for a helmet with a MIPS system, this protection developed by neurosurgeons and other scientists reduces the risk of concussion by 20% during an impact without having any impact on the comfort of the helmet.

Chains 

With the popularity of electric bikes in recent years, thieves have come out of their hiding places. According to Vélo Québec, it is estimated that 15,000 to 25,000 bicycles are stolen annually in Montreal. Since a stolen bicycle is difficult to find, it is essential to ensure the safety of your bicycle against a malicious person by having a tool designed to resist the most widespread and simplest techniques, such as the use of pliers. cutting blade or a cordless drill. The most effective way to protect your bike is to have a wire that passes through both wheels and the frame so that the thief does not run away with one of your two wheels. An integrated alarm system is a feature

Mirror

The mirror is an essential accessory if you have to venture on roads where motorists are omnipresent. As you already know, drivers do not always respect the 1.5m distance rule, so having a mirror installed at the end of your handlebars will, among other things, allow you to anticipate vehicles approaching behind you and shift to the right accordingly. The rearview mirror will also allow you to see your rear if you have to make a left turn, it does not replace the blind spot but it allows you to stay focused on the road in front of you. You will only need one mirror and it is best to install it to the left of your handlebars.

Bag

The bag is essential if you have to bring a change of clothes like a raincoat, or snacks if you have a long way to go. The bag can also allow you to store your charger and tools needed to repair your bike in the event of a puncture or other minor problem. To be able to put a bag on the back of your bike, you will need a luggage rack, it is included on most new bikes. If you don't have a luggage rack, there are different models of bags that can be attached under the saddle, on the frame or in front of the bike, it all depends on the number of accessories you want to bring with you.

Bottle holder 

Who says cycling says hot, who says hot says dehydration. This is why we suggest you have a bottle holder on your bike. Often, bikes will be equipped with two screws on the frame to attach a bottle holder, but on certain electric bikes, the manufacturers have decided to remove the two screws to make room for the battery, so we end up with no attachment on the frame. our bike. This is why we recommend that you choose a bottle holder equipped with a clip that will be placed on your handlebars so that you can enjoy your outing while having water within reach. 

Gloves

Gloves are an item of equipment often underestimated by cyclists. In fact, they help protect your hands during an impact on the ground, they reduce the risk of blisters, improve the grip of the hands on the handles and reduce the vibrations that the hands may experience during your ride. Several models of gloves exist but the key element when choosing a glove is the size of the interior cushions. The thicker the cushion, the more comfort, but this does not suit everyone. The best option is to opt for a glove in which you will feel comfortable while having the appropriate size for your hand.

Lights

Although they are standard with most electric bikes, the law requires all users to be equipped with front lighting (white) and rear lighting (red) on their bicycle, note that this law Apply only as soon as the sun sets. To be clearly visible in urban areas, it is recommended to opt for headlights with a power of around 100 lumens at the front and between 10 and 30 lumens at the rear. If you are in the countryside or outside an urban area, you will then need to go for a power of 500 lumens and more at the front (it all depends on the lighting of the roads you take) and 50 lumens at the rear. Finally, if you intend to venture into the forest or a remote area, you will need to equip yourself with lighting of 1000 lumens or more for the front and 100 lumens or more at the rear in order to have good visibility of the road and being seen by motorists.

Multi-Tools

Imagine having a repair shop in your pocket, with a multi-tool it is now possible. No more need to stop at all the workshops in the region because your saddle is never at the right height, you will have all the tools you need at your fingertips. Depending on the model, they will contain between 15 and 25 tools frequently used in a workshop, such as allen wrenches or a star head screwdriver. In addition to being subtle, versatile and multifunctional, it is essential for any cyclist who wants to repair their bike on the spot during an outing, because remember, we never choose when our bike stops to work.