I Took The eBike eCourse And Passed With Flying Colors

I Took The eBike eCourse And Passed With Flying Colors

jimmymac

People For Bikes and The Motorcycle Safety Foundation, both industry trade organizations, teamed up to develop an online training course to help new and experienced e-bike riders master riding skills and learn or brush up on safe riding practices. The eBike eCourse costs $35 and takes under two-hours to complete. Well-timed quizzes make sure your are paying attention and I assume determine if you get that coveted diploma at the course’s completion.

IS THE eCOURSE WORTH TAKING?
Absolutely. The material covered in the sub-two-hour course is essential, especially for newer riders. It should be required for any youngster with access to an e-bike. 

The course is structured so students can set their own pace. There are plenty of interactive features to keep students engaged. The videos are well produced and narration is spot on. I really enjoyed myself while taking the course and found that it covered most of the bases.

THE CLASS 2 DELEMMA
I don’t feel that Class 2 e-bikes are adequately represented in the course and that is its weakness. Unlike Class 1 e-bikes that need to be pedaled before assistance kicks in, a Class 2 bike delivers, not assist (because you don’t need to pedal), but speed acceleration as soon as a throttle is twisted or thumb lever is pushed. 

Class 2 e-bikes can be especially tricky when executing a turn from a stop, while riding in mixed groups of Class 1 or traditional bicycles and when accelerating from a stop. People For Bikes and The Motorcycle Safety Foundation could produce another course just for Class 2 e-bike operators. These bikes are closer in the real world to mopeds and motorcycles than traditional bicycles and Class 1 e-bikes and require a modified skill set.

IS THE eCOURSE WORTH THE COST?
Man, that’s a tough one. I have no doubt that this course has the potential to reduce injury and deaths. So why put a $35 barrier on it? This course should be offered free of charge with the purchase of every e-bike. People For Bikes and The Motorcycle Safety Foundation need to search for a course sponsor or apply for a government grant. I say open the flood gates or at least reduce the price so every new e-bike rider can get the wisdom this course has to offer.

Second Class: This type of e-bike will always be an issue for bicyclists because let’s be honest, it is not a bicycle. Design features, like a low bottom bracket, a seat height that is not adjustable and tire widths that rival motorcycles, all prove this is not a traditional bicycle. It needs its own, unique safety course.
The Kids Are Alright: My grandkids will both be required to take the eBike eCourse if they plan to ride an e-bike, even if it sets me back $70. That’s a small investment to get them off safely on their two-wheel adventures.
I Passed: The eBike eCourse was a slam dunk for me and should be for any experienced rider. That doesn’t mean it was a waste of time. I enjoyed every minute and can see how this will greatly benefit a new rider.
E-bikes