Good video. I would add that having a rear view mirror is invaluable in traffic. Quiet cars often come up behind me and then gun it to pass me which could throw me off if I didn't see them ahead of time. I also ride with one finger on each brake handle to make it easier to stop quickly if I need to.
Thing that sucks where I live in a suburban, hilly, north american city is that even with a class 3 ebike it's hard to keep up with traffic in a lot of places, even a lot of 25mph roads. People are often trying to go above 30, and if there's a hill you just aren't going fast enough for them to not desperately want to pass you. I pretty much stay to extremally low volume roads, and it feels like every time I deviate from that I have a bad experience. I am not suggesting that e-bikes should go faster, I think 28 is probably the most you can get away with without everyone on shared use paths wanting to ban e-bikes more than they already do. I wish we had safer roads cause it's hard to wholeheartedly recommend biking in my area to very many people
Love all the fantastic tips . I have been riding defensively like you have instructed for around 55 years , always keeping my attention up ahead of me and trying to stay a good distance from parked cars while looking at their brake lights and exhaust for clues as to when they might pull off . Seems that people in other countries are more aware and respectful of bikers in your videos compared to America . I imagine because their are more bikers in these countries than here where almost everyone thinks that they have to have a car or gas guzzling vehicle .
Even in America, these tips are relevant. Although here, you're more likely to encounter car drivers who lack the etiquette to share space with bicycles. Some cities are far better than others about having bike lanes available, and protecting those who use them.
I spent most my life walking or riding a bike. But bikes don’t belong on fast moving traffic roads. It’s so much safer to have spaces for bikes on sidewalk style paths not next to 45mph+ vehicles. I don’t trust cars or especially trucks, not after knowing multiple people who have died on motorcycles.
Along my old commute (here in USA) there was a sign that said "DO NOT PASS BICYCLES -- NEXT 750FT". Motorists didn't even consider obeying that sign. (And of course cops didn't enforce it.) The idea that a car should be even slightly inconvenienced by a bicycle is considered entirely beyond the pale.
@FerrariTeddy this. I ride an ebike and will not ride anywhere that doesn't have a path or a sidewalk. Quit motorcycles years ago after 3 guys I know it got killed. Two within 2 weeks of each other.
I agree. There are not many places in the USA that are bicycle friendly. A bike path completely protected from texting or drunk drivers is exactly what my area needs for bicyclists to safely travel.
@@MrSGL21 exactly. I think the whole “share the road” movement is kinda stupid and seems to be from people who haven’t had those kinds of experiences. Don’t get me wrong I move over for cyclists and shit, I share the road. But FUCK THE ROAD GIVE ME A SIDEWALK/PATH these streets are dangerous.
I have an ebike already, but salute to you Micah for being so kind to give them away to needy folks who couldn't otherwise afford them. You're a champ my man, thanks. Love your channel!
My wife Elisa and I both agree that your E bikes for Good giveaway is amazing. You are a special person for being part of this giveaway that will better someone's life. Thank you so much
Great video, love your videos. Back and riding in my mid 70's after a 11 year off a bike. Recently just picked up a Lectric XP Trike. Good ideas here for even a small rural area.
Over here in Ohio it's illegal to lane split. For anyone that didn't know over here. I'm getting my very first E-bike in a few days, and I'm so excited! Thanks for the tips!
Great tips! One thing I learned from riding motorcycles is to make yourself as visible as possible. That means wearing high visibility clothing. I have a safety green vest that I wear while riding. See and be seen.
I wished it was this simple in Germany… if you go to the front of a lane at a light, many car drivers will feel hurt… they’ll try to pass you as close as possible after the light…
Hi, some useful tips. As someone who's ridden bikes in london for 20 years a couple more. Never undertake a truck/lorry at a junction - you'll be in their blind spot, a large number of cyclist deaths here have been caused by trucks turning at junctions. Secondly keep an eye on the indicators of vehicles, I've seen other cyclists surprised by cars they're undertaking turning even though they've indicated properly.
Good video. Probably more suitable for young males who might otherwise be on a motorcycle than for the rest of us. Years of bike riding have made me conservative. Not only do I try to use bike paths, I'll avoid busy streets and iffy situations. I'll be very careful at dawn or dusk, when drivers may be blinded. Or in rainy weather.
I have another tip that is important to where I ride. I ride in a suburban area where people drive and ride on the right. I ride in the car lane for two reasons. The first reason is that cars push all of the debris outside the lane. Riding outside the lane means I have to deal with glass, screws and anything else that fell off a car as well has storm drains. The second reason, is that I can't swerve into the car lane but I can swerve out. If there is something in my path that I need to avoid, I can't swerve to the left into the car lane because there might be a car there but I can swerve to the right away from the car lane. If I am outside the car lane, I have no options for avoiding anything things in my path. Put another way, it is easier to give up room than to gain room.
This is the most important post you’ve ever made Mica, I just hope everyone hangs onto every word you’ve spoken, all so true. I wear a luminous band around my waist for extra visibility, but agree with your first rule: Stay off the road whenever possible! As well as calling out to make others aware, use a bell as much as possible too. Also, I would never ride a bike now without a fitted mirror. Regarding keeping up with the speed of traffic, try explaining that to the U.K. government, I’m sure you’ll be aware of our pathetic restrictions. Very interesting ride. Your transcript could be offered to your bike dealer contacts as a free booklet. Best wishes, Art
Yes a mirror is a huge added value. I used to ride with one, but I found that the added width on the end of my bar limited my nimbleness and also i accidentally clipped a couple people's side view mirrors. Mounting it inside of the width of my bars just meant I was looking at my own shoulder, unfortunately. So I don't use one and prefer to just keep my head on a swivel. But for folks that don't ride as close to cars and can spare the extra few inches of width on the side of the handlebar, a mirror is GREAT!
Some drivers are completely dangerous though. I had a person in a newer civic (5pm and very light out) who was heading south as I was going north on a greenway street, perform a u-turn (to park on northbound of street) almost hit me as I was traveling about 15-18mph. I yelled; a profanity & “idiot!” in the moment. The drivers front bumper was literally 6” or so from nailing my left leg/knee. I have bright flashing red lights front/back. I think I’m going to upgrade to a bright fade low fade high headlight from now forward. In most situations you think a accident will occur in a intersection or from a side street/ driveway, but sometimes drivers just do stupid maneuvers that we can’t always plan for.
How about using a mirror? When I first rode in traffic I was petrified by not knowing what was coming up on my rear/left. The addition of a horizontally-shaped left mirror was a game changer for my situational awareness and confidence.
In many areas lane splitting is definitely frowned upon. Most bicycle clubs will absolutely recommend against it, and not allow members to do it on club rides. This is because we get enough hate from car drivers as it is. We don't need even more reasons for them to complain and argue against bike infrastructure (even though more bike infrastructure would reduce the number of bikes in the road). Also, folks in other countries are far more used to there being lots of bikes and scooters on the roads. Here in the US, it is still relatively rare in a lot of areas.
Thanks for all the tips!! I have an Autistic stepson who is over weight and wants an ebike to lose weight, thanks for the opportunity and as always have a great day!!!
In Pennsylvania you're limited to class 2 ebikes (20 mph). When I ride around downtown I often can keep up with traffic. More often though I'm riding on the side of the road with cars zipping by at 40 mph+. It's illegal to filter through traffic on my scooter but, since you're expected to ride to the right of traffic on a bike, I pass stopped traffic on my bike to the right until I reach the front. I'll pull into the lane of traffic at the front if there is a turning lane I don't want to block. I often have the experience off passing the same cars that zipped past me at each light....
My bike is pedal-sssist but also has a throttle, which gets me up that occasional uphill when the light turns green. It's invaluable to me since the motor takes a few seconds to engage with pedalling. The mirror is a lifesaver. I can't physically look around or shoulder-check, so that wee view prevents many would-be collisions with impatient riders who don't indicate. If I see one bearing down, I try to let them pass if it's safe. Cheers, thanks for the informative lessons!!
My first tip would be to get a motorcycle helmet. Doesn't have to be a full face one either (I wear one of those 50's style half head ones). The padding in them and the thickness of the plastic shell is more substantial than on a regular bicycle helmet. Only problem is they make the top of your head sweat on hot days due to the lack of ventilation holes. I can live with that knowing that I have extra head protection though.
Have you considered using a rear view camera? I installed one on my bike over a year ago and the view is sharp and clear, it even has an infrared setting for night riding. I found that the view from my rear view mirror is too subject to vibration and the images are not clear. I also don't have to twist around to see who is coming.
WOW! such great tips :) yeah driving the car I am in the habit of using mirrors, BUT sure to LOOK to be sure as each has their blind spots, pros n cons, ect So using both when possible is best. #1 the advice is to look ahead - plan your path is super important ! both car, truck, Bike (all kinds) even walking or running that is great advice to look ahead & think about your path options (being ready for the unexpected) :o
Great instructional video. Lots of handy tips. What i'd like to know is how you managed to shoot this video. Also, it would be good if you had covered riding at night. See and be seen is my moto.
The fear just keeps me away from public roads whenever possible. If a careless/bad driver hit me, he got minor scratches while I got mid-serious level injuries. It’s just not worth the risk unfortunately.
Glad to see that works over there. Now if only it worked like it should in FL. Don't need to tell Micha that, I'm sure he knows. FL drivers oblivious and DGAF. I'm staying on the sidewalk.
Yes Florida riding always makes me feel more worried. I can be inches from a huge truck in Tel Aviv and feel fine, but in Florida I feel like I’m taking a much bigger risk each time I hit the road.
I noticed you didn't use lights. I always put my lights on even in daylight. Ebike lights are basically to see you anyway and for night I use auxiliary lights. Not the biggest thing, but becomes a habit when done as routine.
I find lifting off the saddle even a small amount to put more weight on the pedals makes it easier to make quick and tight maneuvers through traffic or to dodge road debris or potholes.
Appreciate that you clarified at the start of the video about lane splitting. All your video contents are very informative. Keep up the good work and good vibes.
Great video and a ebike would really help me get out and get moving again I was injured in 2004 and broke my back and have had 4 surgeries and 6mo later I was assaulted an lost my right eye so it's been a rough time and depression is a real thing. Hope I could be picked to win a bike. I never win anything. Keep up ur vids
If only bike / Escooter rides in Tel Aviv will ride like this... You are the best biker in all of TLV! As you went under Migdal Shalom, you reminded me on a time years ago when I saw a motorcycle hit a car and go down because he wasn't paying attention (everyone was ok but it looked bad)
Good video on an important subject. I ride in the beach cities near Los Angles and have to ride with traffic fairly often. I got rid of my car a couple of years ago and the fast majority of my transport needs are handled on my ebike. Your's and other videos were influential in my making that decision. Thanks. Our bike lanes are getting better but many are just painted on busy streets. Slowly but surely they are moving car parking outside the bike lanes which provides some protection from the flow of traffic and also from getting doored since most cars only have one person in them. Im 77 yo so you wont find me dooing a lot of lane splitting both for my own safety and out of concern that I might scratch someone's Tesla and maybe get shot. You make a very brief reference to yellow vests. I almost always wear one, or a fluorescent yellow hoodie when its chilly. Does it work? Its hard to tell. It sort of like testing birth control pills where the desired end point is something not happening. I ran into a guy in Trander Joes who thought I was wearing it in solidarty with French strikers. My helmit was in my shopping cart so he did not realize I was a cyclist. Getting doored is a very real threat on streets with those painted on bike lanes. Avoiding getting doored is reallyl helped by having a mirror on the left side of my bike. I can monitor the traffic behind me and move over into the car lane when its empty. I can do this without taking my eyes off the parked cars. Saying "on your left" is very ineffective. A high pitched bell is much easier to hear. I dowloaded an app to test my hearing so dont think that "on your left" does not work on me because Im 77 yo. My hearing is fine. Its hard to hear someone speaking from behind and it takes a tiny fraction of a second to process the spoken words. The sound of a bell does not require any processing time. Right turners are also a pretty big threat. Many drivers dont look in the direction their car is headed when turning right on red. They are looking to their left to see if anyone is coming and start their turn without seeing if anyone is in crosswalk they are driving through. I wont move in front of a right turning car unless I have eyecontact with the driver.
Great tips! Although I am a survivor of a traumatic brain injury from riding my new ebike into an accident which I recovered and bought a big tire himiway to compensate my loss 😅 good video bcuz I been trying to make my own ebike for years now I’m too old to make one😂
Interesting point about faster bikes being safer, I have a class 3 that can go up to 28mph. In my little neighborhood it's over kill, but then I road it to work one day and quickly realized you do not want cars riding up on you for a LOT of reasons, so I'm glad I got a bike that has a lot of torque and top end speed, also a huge battery too lol. But before this (40 years old) I haven't road a bike since I was probably a teenager. But definitely you would rather keep pace vs being passed, the same actually goes for driving a car on the highway as well, you don't want to be the car that is constantly being passed. Keep pace and it's more for your safety than you may think.
Exactly. That's why I won't ride on a road where the speed limit is over 25mph. If I can't keep up with the traffic, I stay off that road or use bike lane if there is one.
I liked your video. There is one thing that disturbs me. That is lane splitting and going between cars. I'm not saying that you should not do it, especially if it is considered normal at your location. But I am looking at this from the standpoint of the driver of a vehicle. I drive a courtesy shuttle. I see a lot of the situations in your video. As a driver, I try my best to be on the lookout for bicyclists, scooters, and pedestrians. There are blind spots where the driver would not see a cyclist coming up on the side of the vehicle. There was one case where a bicyclist made a right turn at an intersection. He came up to my right just as I was going to make a right turn at the next intersection. He would have ran into my vehicle as I would have been making the right turn. I considered the cyclist an idiot because I had signaled a right turn before the intersection, the cyclist was accelerating instead of slowing, and I could have easily not seen the cyclist and he would have ran into my vehicle. I feel the lane splitting is dangerous and it also irritates the driver because the passing cyclist is doing something that is unexpected. What is to protect you if the driver of the car that you are passing decides to turn into you? When I come to a stop at an intersection, and there is no bike lane, I move to the right to keep cyclists from trying to pass me on the right where I might not see the cyclist. This might upset the cyclist, but at least there would not be an accident.
another safety tip to prevent being doored is if you have a signal device like a horn or a bell to use that to signal that also goes for when approaching people from behind so there are aware of you arriving. the inflating helmets are like airbags for the head.
There should be something said about the weight / power / battery of a bike, especially if you are not a heavier person. I am 6 foot and heavy 250 lbs and I have a 750W with a massive battery and it's totally over kill. I thought since I was heavier I should lean for value on a more powerful bike but I mean this thing just GOES and GOES and GOES and it just doesnt seem to stop really. I think I can get 90 miles pas 1 while pedaling lol it's just out of control. But I love it and agree I'd rather put the bike on pas 1 knowing I can always crank it up when I need too. totally agree. These things are the future, though I can't tell you how much fun I've had on it and I got my dad one too and he's out there riding around and we meet up at parks and restaurants and go fishing etc it's just... wildly worth the money.
Lot of great tips. As for safety gear all my helmets have visors to protect my eyes (even though I wear glasses) and I used fingerless gloves to protect my hands in case I go down. Oh and my favorite color to wear when riding is Neon Yellow ;-). Keep up the good work, and may I as if you could do something on the EV culture there in Tel Aviv? Watching your video I saw other e-bikers and scooter riders in the background, are one wheels or electric unicycles popular as well?
Micah. As always with great tips that can be followed around the world. Still with my Single Speed (no e-bike yet... too expensive for me... maybe someday) in Portugal and and I follow this channel for tips that can be used for every kind of bike and reviews on e-bikes. Keep the great work.
An extra tip, don't ride in traffic with wide MTB handlebars, they're useless and it (greatly) limits the spots you can squeeze into and it increases the risk from cars imo (getting clipped)
Lane splitting is illegal here... I solved the problem with 2 folders that fit in my car so my wife and I can safely ride parks and trails w/o getting run over by Semi trucks and 5:00 traffic
This does nothing for distracted drivers, which I see around here all the time. Even though there are laws re. texting and driving , lots of drivers do it anyway. Don't even keep their eyes on the road, but on their phones.
Great video! I teach riding skills in santa fe NM. Its a good little city to develop skills.. Having a teardrop rear view mirror is a very good idea. And a bell. USe it every 10 seconds.. I'd like to make some as well but need a second camera...
I am an uber eats delivery rider and I have rheumatoid arthritis and fibromyalgia. I ride a Rad City commuter bike and it's not quite fast enough to ride in the street. If traffic is slow, I can handle it but as soon as it's moving at the speed limit I ditch off the street for the sidewalk. Back when I was human, I rode a schwinn aluminum road bike and I used to be tough enough to keep up.
Lots of great tips here, but importantly I think not riding with cars whenever you can avoid it and being visible are the two biggies (besides making sure the bike is actually safe to ride). When I am at busy 4 ways or really any corner for that matter, I pull RIGHT up to the curb and stand up strong and tall and I will lock eyes with people in the left turn lane and people making right hand turns in front of me. I will even flash my lights during the day so that I make SURE that they see me. People who are on e-bikes need to realize that you're really on a glorified moped. It's fun, it's a toy, it can be useful in daily life, but you best respect it or you're going to have some major issues.
I thought I remembered your saying you were in Isreal. I looked through the videos to make sure. You and your family are in my prayers. I hope you are ok.
Here in the US we have freeways with like 10' shoulders that make for nice riding. However off ramps can be a little difficult to judge. If the traffic is too tight it is often safer to take the off ramp and connect to the up coming on ramp (assuming there is one). That and safety glasses will give you a great place to hang a glasses mounted mirror for much improved rear vision.
😊 Yeah Yes there are Free ways around There are no 10 foot shoulders on my freeways here. when there is it's usually just shoulders that are all littered up or that they have rumble strips on them. that would be a death sentence to do that which is why my area to ride on the freeway besides there are signs everywhere that have motor vehicles only and the state police patrol the freeway around here would pull you over and lock you in jail forever for being stupid.Especially with the posted signs.
Maybe in your area it's legal for bikes to be on freeways, but not in California. We do have things like expressways that often have a wide verge that's good for riding.
@@BartAnderson_writer Of course there are forbidden zones around congested city areas, but large swaths beyond that here are available for bikes (Washington State, your mileage may vary, offers implied not available in all areas, see your dealer for better weed.)
Lane splitting is not only a bad idea it is dangerous! I can not even count how many people I know personally that have sustained in some cases life-threatening injuries because of accidents precipitated by lane splitting!!!!! Even though it is allowed, I believe it should be illegal!
New to your channel. First video about ebike scams. Of course gave you a like and subscribe. This second video once again proves how great a teacher you are! Great job.
I looked it up and lane splitting is only legal in California...and they really only talk about motorcycles. I've been trying to ride my bike more often, and when things are narrow it totally helps to become a vehicle in traffic. I don't have an ebike, so I can't really match the speed of traffic, but I'll trying to take more indirect routes away from the main busier roads when possible.
@@jimmypautz I dont think you understand bicycle laws in your state. If you are riding on the right shoulder, you generally have the right to pass on the right. Not true with motorcycles but absolutely true with bicycles and absolutely true with ebikes that are classified as bicycles. Please reach out to your local authorities, and ask more questions.
Id like to ask you some 21700 and 18650 questions specifically the Lego company name used in the construction of ebike batteries your also associated with.
@EbikeSchool thank you for replying 😀 the only thing I wish my town had was bike lanes, I can't drive on the sidewalk, so I have to drive on the road l, but I have a jetson bolt pro , and it only goes 15.5 mph I love the bike it was gift from my wife but it juat to slow for traffic
Tip # 11, avoid doing it whenever possible. The amount of damage and the severity of injuries involved when cars collide with motorcycles and bikes is absolutely staggering.
@@user-rr4fr8pf3j That's like saying if everyone rode a unicycle things would be different. But everyone doesn't ride a unicycle or an e-bike so its all a mote point.
Very helpful video. I agree with you about faster bikes being safer because they can keep up with the traffic. I would try to avoid lane splitting though. Also drivers in Orlando tend to be huge jerks about sharing the road.
Good video. I would add that having a rear view mirror is invaluable in traffic. Quiet cars often come up behind me and then gun it to pass me which could throw me off if I didn't see them ahead of time. I also ride with one finger on each brake handle to make it easier to stop quickly if I need to.
Thing that sucks where I live in a suburban, hilly, north american city is that even with a class 3 ebike it's hard to keep up with traffic in a lot of places, even a lot of 25mph roads. People are often trying to go above 30, and if there's a hill you just aren't going fast enough for them to not desperately want to pass you. I pretty much stay to extremally low volume roads, and it feels like every time I deviate from that I have a bad experience. I am not suggesting that e-bikes should go faster, I think 28 is probably the most you can get away with without everyone on shared use paths wanting to ban e-bikes more than they already do. I wish we had safer roads cause it's hard to wholeheartedly recommend biking in my area to very many people
Love all the fantastic tips . I have been riding defensively like you have instructed for around 55 years , always keeping my attention up ahead of me and trying to stay a good distance from parked cars while looking at their brake lights and exhaust for clues as to when they might pull off . Seems that people in other countries are more aware and respectful of bikers in your videos compared to America . I imagine because their are more bikers in these countries than here where almost everyone thinks that they have to have a car or gas guzzling vehicle .
Even in America, these tips are relevant. Although here, you're more likely to encounter car drivers who lack the etiquette to share space with bicycles. Some cities are far better than others about having bike lanes available, and protecting those who use them.
I spent most my life walking or riding a bike. But bikes don’t belong on fast moving traffic roads. It’s so much safer to have spaces for bikes on sidewalk style paths not next to 45mph+ vehicles.
I don’t trust cars or especially trucks, not after knowing multiple people who have died on motorcycles.
Along my old commute (here in USA) there was a sign that said "DO NOT PASS BICYCLES -- NEXT 750FT". Motorists didn't even consider obeying that sign. (And of course cops didn't enforce it.) The idea that a car should be even slightly inconvenienced by a bicycle is considered entirely beyond the pale.
@FerrariTeddy this. I ride an ebike and will not ride anywhere that doesn't have a path or a sidewalk. Quit motorcycles years ago after 3 guys I know it got killed. Two within 2 weeks of each other.
I agree. There are not many places in the USA that are bicycle friendly. A bike path completely protected from texting or drunk drivers is exactly what my area needs for bicyclists to safely travel.
@@MrSGL21 exactly. I think the whole “share the road” movement is kinda stupid and seems to be from people who haven’t had those kinds of experiences. Don’t get me wrong I move over for cyclists and shit, I share the road. But FUCK THE ROAD GIVE ME A SIDEWALK/PATH these streets are dangerous.
the amount of effort that went into making this video is through the roof! way to get the message through. safety! in an adventurous approach.
I have an ebike already, but salute to you Micah for being so kind to give them away to needy folks who couldn't otherwise afford them. You're a champ my man, thanks. Love your channel!
“Needy folks” 💀
My wife Elisa and I both agree that your E bikes for Good giveaway is amazing. You are a special person for being part of this giveaway that will better someone's life. Thank you so much
Thanks for the kind words, Carlos!
Great video, love your videos. Back and riding in my mid 70's after a 11 year off a bike. Recently just picked up a Lectric XP Trike. Good ideas here for even a small rural area.
Over here in Ohio it's illegal to lane split. For anyone that didn't know over here.
I'm getting my very first E-bike in a few days, and I'm so excited! Thanks for the tips!
Great tips! One thing I learned from riding motorcycles is to make yourself as visible as possible. That means wearing high visibility clothing. I have a safety green vest that I wear while riding. See and be seen.
I wished it was this simple in Germany… if you go to the front of a lane at a light, many car drivers will feel hurt… they’ll try to pass you as close as possible after the light…
Hi, some useful tips. As someone who's ridden bikes in london for 20 years a couple more. Never undertake a truck/lorry at a junction - you'll be in their blind spot, a large number of cyclist deaths here have been caused by trucks turning at junctions. Secondly keep an eye on the indicators of vehicles, I've seen other cyclists surprised by cars they're undertaking turning even though they've indicated properly.
Not sure what you mean by 'undertaking'. That's not something I've heard before.
Good video. Probably more suitable for young males who might otherwise be on a motorcycle than for the rest of us.
Years of bike riding have made me conservative. Not only do I try to use bike paths, I'll avoid busy streets and iffy situations. I'll be very careful at dawn or dusk, when drivers may be blinded. Or in rainy weather.
8:10 best advice imo,
I only use one earbud at a time, specifically for biking.
14:43 also Based AF
Very nice information.
I wish that more people use bikes insted of cars
I have another tip that is important to where I ride. I ride in a suburban area where people drive and ride on the right. I ride in the car lane for two reasons. The first reason is that cars push all of the debris outside the lane. Riding outside the lane means I have to deal with glass, screws and anything else that fell off a car as well has storm drains. The second reason, is that I can't swerve into the car lane but I can swerve out. If there is something in my path that I need to avoid, I can't swerve to the left into the car lane because there might be a car there but I can swerve to the right away from the car lane. If I am outside the car lane, I have no options for avoiding anything things in my path. Put another way, it is easier to give up room than to gain room.
This is the most important post you’ve ever made Mica, I just hope everyone hangs onto every word you’ve spoken, all so true.
I wear a luminous band around my waist for extra visibility, but agree with your first rule: Stay off the road whenever possible!
As well as calling out to make others aware, use a bell as much as possible too.
Also, I would never ride a bike now without a fitted mirror.
Regarding keeping up with the speed of traffic, try explaining that to the U.K. government, I’m sure you’ll be aware of our pathetic restrictions.
Very interesting ride. Your transcript could be offered to your bike dealer contacts as a free booklet. Best wishes, Art
Yes a mirror is a huge added value. I used to ride with one, but I found that the added width on the end of my bar limited my nimbleness and also i accidentally clipped a couple people's side view mirrors. Mounting it inside of the width of my bars just meant I was looking at my own shoulder, unfortunately. So I don't use one and prefer to just keep my head on a swivel. But for folks that don't ride as close to cars and can spare the extra few inches of width on the side of the handlebar, a mirror is GREAT!
Some drivers are completely dangerous though.
I had a person in a newer civic (5pm and very light out) who was heading south as I was going north on a greenway street, perform a u-turn (to park on northbound of street) almost hit me as I was traveling about 15-18mph. I yelled; a profanity & “idiot!” in the moment. The drivers front bumper was literally 6” or so from nailing my left leg/knee. I have bright flashing red lights front/back. I think I’m going to upgrade to a bright fade low fade high headlight from now forward. In most situations you think a accident will occur in a intersection or from a side street/ driveway, but sometimes drivers just do stupid maneuvers that we can’t always plan for.
11 Tips. Tip number one, avoiding biking with traffic at all costs, but if you have to, then watch the other 10 tips.
WOW! Great job! Excellent amazing tutorial and should be required viewing for all bike riders! THANK YOU!
Great tips. Just got an e-bike for commuting and will be riding in traffic more often, so these were helpful.
How about using a mirror? When I first rode in traffic I was petrified by not knowing what was coming up on my rear/left. The addition of a horizontally-shaped left mirror was a game changer for my situational awareness and confidence.
Good point about holding your lane. Use your bell also
In many areas lane splitting is definitely frowned upon. Most bicycle clubs will absolutely recommend against it, and not allow members to do it on club rides. This is because we get enough hate from car drivers as it is. We don't need even more reasons for them to complain and argue against bike infrastructure (even though more bike infrastructure would reduce the number of bikes in the road). Also, folks in other countries are far more used to there being lots of bikes and scooters on the roads. Here in the US, it is still relatively rare in a lot of areas.
Are you referring to lane splitting exclusively, or are you also including lane filtering?
Thanks for all the tips!! I have an Autistic stepson who is over weight and wants an ebike to lose weight, thanks for the opportunity and as always have a great day!!!
In Pennsylvania you're limited to class 2 ebikes (20 mph). When I ride around downtown I often can keep up with traffic. More often though I'm riding on the side of the road with cars zipping by at 40 mph+. It's illegal to filter through traffic on my scooter but, since you're expected to ride to the right of traffic on a bike, I pass stopped traffic on my bike to the right until I reach the front. I'll pull into the lane of traffic at the front if there is a turning lane I don't want to block. I often have the experience off passing the same cars that zipped past me at each light....
My bike is pedal-sssist but also has a throttle, which gets me up that occasional uphill when the light turns green. It's invaluable to me since the motor takes a few seconds to engage with pedalling.
The mirror is a lifesaver. I can't physically look around or shoulder-check, so that wee view prevents many would-be collisions with impatient riders who don't indicate. If I see one bearing down, I try to let them pass if it's safe.
Cheers, thanks for the informative lessons!!
My first tip would be to get a motorcycle helmet. Doesn't have to be a full face one either (I wear one of those 50's style half head ones). The padding in them and the thickness of the plastic shell is more substantial than on a regular bicycle helmet. Only problem is they make the top of your head sweat on hot days due to the lack of ventilation holes. I can live with that knowing that I have extra head protection though.
Have you considered using a rear view camera? I installed one on my bike over a year ago and the view is sharp and clear, it even has an infrared setting for night riding. I found that the view from my rear view mirror is too subject to vibration and the images are not clear. I also don't have to twist around to see who is coming.
You can also mount your smart phone on the handlebar and use the front camera
WOW! such great tips :)
yeah driving the car I am in the habit of using mirrors, BUT sure to LOOK to be sure as each has their blind spots, pros n cons, ect
So using both when possible is best.
#1 the advice is to look ahead - plan your path is super important ! both car, truck, Bike (all kinds)
even walking or running that is great advice to look ahead & think about your path options (being ready for the unexpected) :o
Hey, just want to say thanks for all you give the ebike community! You are appreciated.
Great instructional video. Lots of handy tips. What i'd like to know is how you managed to shoot this video. Also, it would be good if you had covered riding at night. See and be seen is my moto.
The fear just keeps me away from public roads whenever possible. If a careless/bad driver hit me, he got minor scratches while I got mid-serious level injuries. It’s just not worth the risk unfortunately.
other cyclists are more dangerous than car drivers.
i know coz I cycle everywhere.
Glad to see that works over there. Now if only it worked like it should in FL. Don't need to tell Micha that, I'm sure he knows. FL drivers oblivious and DGAF. I'm staying on the sidewalk.
Yes Florida riding always makes me feel more worried. I can be inches from a huge truck in Tel Aviv and feel fine, but in Florida I feel like I’m taking a much bigger risk each time I hit the road.
I noticed you didn't use lights. I always put my lights on even in daylight. Ebike lights are basically to see you anyway and for night I use auxiliary lights. Not the biggest thing, but becomes a habit when done as routine.
I find lifting off the saddle even a small amount to put more weight on the pedals makes it easier to make quick and tight maneuvers through traffic or to dodge road debris or potholes.
That’s a great tip! It can definitely help you maneuver the bike quickly beneath you independently of your body. Great for dodging things.
I really enjoy your videos. Those where great safety tips!
Appreciate that you clarified at the start of the video about lane splitting. All your video contents are very informative. Keep up the good work and good vibes.
I can't wait for your video on how to ride an EUC with traffic 😊😎👍
Great video and a ebike would really help me get out and get moving again I was injured in 2004 and broke my back and have had 4 surgeries and 6mo later I was assaulted an lost my right eye so it's been a rough time and depression is a real thing. Hope I could be picked to win a bike. I never win anything. Keep up ur vids
All very good tips. I currently follow many of them as well. 👍
love to add a mirror. helps a bunch...
also love the not asking comment!
If only bike / Escooter rides in Tel Aviv will ride like this... You are the best biker in all of TLV!
As you went under Migdal Shalom, you reminded me on a time years ago when I saw a motorcycle hit a car and go down because he wasn't paying attention (everyone was ok but it looked bad)
I love that style of bike colors for rims! It’s fabulous and nicer then most. Great tips
Micah! Your videos rock! Great scenery, and great tips! Thank you!
Good video on an important subject.
I ride in the beach cities near Los Angles and have to ride with traffic fairly often.
I got rid of my car a couple of years ago and the fast majority of my transport needs are handled on my ebike. Your's and other videos were influential in my making that decision. Thanks.
Our bike lanes are getting better but many are just painted on busy streets. Slowly but surely they are moving car parking outside the bike lanes which provides some protection from the flow of traffic and also from getting doored since most cars only have one person in them.
Im 77 yo so you wont find me dooing a lot of lane splitting both for my own safety and out of concern that I might scratch someone's Tesla and maybe get shot.
You make a very brief reference to yellow vests. I almost always wear one, or a fluorescent yellow hoodie when its chilly. Does it work? Its hard to tell. It sort of like testing birth control pills where the desired end point is something not happening.
I ran into a guy in Trander Joes who thought I was wearing it in solidarty with French strikers. My helmit was in my shopping cart so he did not realize I was a cyclist.
Getting doored is a very real threat on streets with those painted on bike lanes. Avoiding getting doored is reallyl helped by having a mirror on the left side of my bike. I can monitor the traffic behind me and move over into the car lane when its empty. I can do this without taking my eyes off the parked cars.
Saying "on your left" is very ineffective. A high pitched bell is much easier to hear. I dowloaded an app to test my hearing so dont think that "on your left" does not work on me because Im 77 yo. My hearing is fine. Its hard to hear someone speaking from behind and it takes a tiny fraction of a second to process the spoken words. The sound of a bell does not require any processing time.
Right turners are also a pretty big threat. Many drivers dont look in the direction their car is headed when turning right on red. They are looking to their left to see if anyone is coming and start their turn without seeing if anyone is in crosswalk they are driving through. I wont move in front of a right turning car unless I have eyecontact with the driver.
Can you make a video about hub motor vs mid drive motor for ebikes?
Great tips! Although I am a survivor of a traumatic brain injury from riding my new ebike into an accident which I recovered and bought a big tire himiway to compensate my loss 😅 good video bcuz I been trying to make my own ebike for years now I’m too old to make one😂
Interesting point about faster bikes being safer, I have a class 3 that can go up to 28mph. In my little neighborhood it's over kill, but then I road it to work one day and quickly realized you do not want cars riding up on you for a LOT of reasons, so I'm glad I got a bike that has a lot of torque and top end speed, also a huge battery too lol. But before this (40 years old) I haven't road a bike since I was probably a teenager. But definitely you would rather keep pace vs being passed, the same actually goes for driving a car on the highway as well, you don't want to be the car that is constantly being passed. Keep pace and it's more for your safety than you may think.
Exactly. That's why I won't ride on a road where the speed limit is over 25mph. If I can't keep up with the traffic, I stay off that road or use bike lane if there is one.
Great Resource. I'm trying to get the nerve up to start riding here in Thailand. I need to rehab a new knee and hip.
flashing lights front and back.
I liked your video. There is one thing that disturbs me. That is lane splitting and going between cars. I'm not saying that you should not do it, especially if it is considered normal at your location. But I am looking at this from the standpoint of the driver of a vehicle. I drive a courtesy shuttle. I see a lot of the situations in your video. As a driver, I try my best to be on the lookout for bicyclists, scooters, and pedestrians. There are blind spots where the driver would not see a cyclist coming up on the side of the vehicle. There was one case where a bicyclist made a right turn at an intersection. He came up to my right just as I was going to make a right turn at the next intersection. He would have ran into my vehicle as I would have been making the right turn. I considered the cyclist an idiot because I had signaled a right turn before the intersection, the cyclist was accelerating instead of slowing, and I could have easily not seen the cyclist and he would have ran into my vehicle. I feel the lane splitting is dangerous and it also irritates the driver because the passing cyclist is doing something that is unexpected. What is to protect you if the driver of the car that you are passing decides to turn into you? When I come to a stop at an intersection, and there is no bike lane, I move to the right to keep cyclists from trying to pass me on the right where I might not see the cyclist. This might upset the cyclist, but at least there would not be an accident.
I'm surprised that you don't have a rear view mirror. I wouldn't ride without one now that I have one.
Thank you Micah for the video and choosing Propella for the giveaway! 🙌🏼⚡
another safety tip to prevent being doored is if you have a signal device like a horn or a bell to use that to signal that also goes for when approaching people from behind so there are aware of you arriving.
the inflating helmets are like airbags for the head.
There should be something said about the weight / power / battery of a bike, especially if you are not a heavier person. I am 6 foot and heavy 250 lbs and I have a 750W with a massive battery and it's totally over kill. I thought since I was heavier I should lean for value on a more powerful bike but I mean this thing just GOES and GOES and GOES and it just doesnt seem to stop really. I think I can get 90 miles pas 1 while pedaling lol it's just out of control. But I love it and agree I'd rather put the bike on pas 1 knowing I can always crank it up when I need too. totally agree. These things are the future, though I can't tell you how much fun I've had on it and I got my dad one too and he's out there riding around and we meet up at parks and restaurants and go fishing etc it's just... wildly worth the money.
You must have a very large capacity battery. How many mAh is it? How much does it weigh?
Lot of great tips. As for safety gear all my helmets have visors to protect my eyes (even though I wear glasses) and I used fingerless gloves to protect my hands in case I go down. Oh and my favorite color to wear when riding is Neon Yellow ;-). Keep up the good work, and may I as if you could do something on the EV culture there in Tel Aviv? Watching your video I saw other e-bikers and scooter riders in the background, are one wheels or electric unicycles popular as well?
Great idea, yes that’d be a fun video to cover Micromobility culture here. It’s…extensive!!!
Micah. As always with great tips that can be followed around the world. Still with my Single Speed (no e-bike yet... too expensive for me... maybe someday) in Portugal and and I follow this channel for tips that can be used for every kind of bike and reviews on e-bikes. Keep the great work.
Great safety tips and roadcraft lessons. Well done Micah!
An extra tip, don't ride in traffic with wide MTB handlebars, they're useless and it (greatly) limits the spots you can squeeze into and it increases the risk from cars imo (getting clipped)
Lane splitting is illegal here... I solved the problem with 2 folders that fit in my car so my wife and I can safely ride parks and trails w/o getting run over by Semi trucks and 5:00 traffic
This does nothing for distracted drivers, which I see around here all the time. Even though there are laws re. texting and driving , lots of drivers do it anyway. Don't even keep their eyes on the road, but on their phones.
Great video! I teach riding skills in santa fe NM. Its a good little city to develop skills.. Having a teardrop rear view mirror is a very good idea. And a bell. USe it every 10 seconds.. I'd like to make some as well but need a second camera...
Might sound dumb but i'm just curious. How are you recording the front of yourself while on the bike?
360 camera
Hi Micah, i have a request, an e bike build from strart to finish using you Vruzend V4 battery system, would love to see that and thank you
Fun in the sun while on the run
Good tips. I’d also mention “distracted driving”. Don’t make videos whilst cycling - for example! 😅
Fair enough!
I am an uber eats delivery rider and I have rheumatoid arthritis and fibromyalgia. I ride a Rad City commuter bike and it's not quite fast enough to ride in the street. If traffic is slow, I can handle it but as soon as it's moving at the speed limit I ditch off the street for the sidewalk. Back when I was human, I rode a schwinn aluminum road bike and I used to be tough enough to keep up.
I won! Don't pick me again but thank you I will enjoy your book. Keep up the great videos, really enjoy them.
I am looking for an e-biike soon. These videos are helpful
Lots of great tips here, but importantly I think not riding with cars whenever you can avoid it and being visible are the two biggies (besides making sure the bike is actually safe to ride). When I am at busy 4 ways or really any corner for that matter, I pull RIGHT up to the curb and stand up strong and tall and I will lock eyes with people in the left turn lane and people making right hand turns in front of me. I will even flash my lights during the day so that I make SURE that they see me. People who are on e-bikes need to realize that you're really on a glorified moped. It's fun, it's a toy, it can be useful in daily life, but you best respect it or you're going to have some major issues.
nice video thanks
get mirrors.
I thought I remembered your saying you were in Isreal. I looked through the videos to make sure. You and your family are in my prayers. I hope you are ok.
Came here to say the same.
Here in the US we have freeways with like 10' shoulders that make for nice riding. However off ramps can be a little difficult to judge. If the traffic is too tight it is often safer to take the off ramp and connect to the up coming on ramp (assuming there is one). That and safety glasses will give you a great place to hang a glasses mounted mirror for much improved rear vision.
Bicyclist are not allowed on the freeways
@@robertheinkel6225 That's too bad, I ride them all the time.
😊 Yeah Yes there are Free ways around There are no 10 foot shoulders on my freeways here. when there is it's usually just shoulders that are all littered up or that they have rumble strips on them. that would be a death sentence to do that which is why my area to ride on the freeway besides there are signs everywhere that have motor vehicles only and the state police patrol the freeway around here would pull you over and lock you in jail forever for being stupid.Especially with the posted signs.
Maybe in your area it's legal for bikes to be on freeways, but not in California.
We do have things like expressways that often have a wide verge that's good for riding.
@@BartAnderson_writer Of course there are forbidden zones around congested city areas, but large swaths beyond that here are available for bikes (Washington State, your mileage may vary, offers implied not available in all areas, see your dealer for better weed.)
How about using bright colors and a mirror!
Lane splitting is not only a bad idea it is dangerous! I can not even count how many people I know personally that have sustained in some cases life-threatening injuries because of accidents precipitated by lane splitting!!!!! Even though it is allowed, I believe it should be illegal!
New to your channel. First video about ebike scams. Of course gave you a like and subscribe. This second video once again proves how great a teacher you are! Great job.
Thank you, glad to have you on board!
No eye protection?!?! Geez. Safety Glasses are cheap and totally effective. IMHO
I looked it up and lane splitting is only legal in California...and they really only talk about motorcycles. I've been trying to ride my bike more often, and when things are narrow it totally helps to become a vehicle in traffic. I don't have an ebike, so I can't really match the speed of traffic, but I'll trying to take more indirect routes away from the main busier roads when possible.
Please keep in mind that lane splitting and lane filtering are different.
@@NS_DAD looks like both are illegal in most states
@@jimmypautz how would that work for a bicycle on the shoulder? Are they considered to be filtering when riding up to a red light?
@@NS_DAD I'm not sure, but you probably could get away with it
@@jimmypautz I dont think you understand bicycle laws in your state. If you are riding on the right shoulder, you generally have the right to pass on the right. Not true with motorcycles but absolutely true with bicycles and absolutely true with ebikes that are classified as bicycles. Please reach out to your local authorities, and ask more questions.
How did you film this? Please do a BTS
Thanks, this was an amazing video with lots of great tips.
Looking forward to your next video.
Id like to ask you some 21700 and 18650 questions specifically the Lego company name used in the construction of ebike batteries your also associated with.
How are you taking that video, is there a person following you with a camera?
It’s a type of camera known as a 360 camera. One feature is it hides the selfie stick.
@EbikeSchool thank you for replying 😀 the only thing I wish my town had was bike lanes, I can't drive on the sidewalk, so I have to drive on the road l, but I have a jetson bolt pro , and it only goes 15.5 mph I love the bike it was gift from my wife but it juat to slow for traffic
Congrats Eric! 🎉
Lectric just announced a break recall for some of the XP3
Is the video course with the ebook an option still? I want to learn how to build e-bikes,, but I want more like a online class
I got caught in traffic yesterday and was glad that I could hike the speed up to 25 easily.
Great tips. Thanks
4:47 Potentially you could've done a hook turn here instead, depending on the intersection.
You need mirrors!
Great tips!
I'd also like to add that I never ever ride without safety glasses. I have cases of amber shades and black shades as well.
Tip # 11, avoid doing it whenever possible. The amount of damage and the severity of injuries involved when cars collide with motorcycles and bikes is absolutely staggering.
@@user-rr4fr8pf3j That's like saying if everyone rode a unicycle things would be different. But everyone doesn't ride a unicycle or an e-bike so its all a mote point.
WHERE IS YOUR REAR VIEW MIRROR???????????????????? NO WAY WILL I RIDE IN TRAFFIC WITHOUT A REAR VIEW MIRROR.
Radar! Wouldn't ride without it.
Very helpful video. I agree with you about faster bikes being safer because they can keep up with the traffic. I would try to avoid lane splitting though. Also drivers in Orlando tend to be huge jerks about sharing the road.
Oh yea, ebike SCHOOL ❤
why don't you have mirrors?
I used to but in order to work well they have to stick out last the bars, and then they make it harder slip past cars.
Some type of glasses are great for riding safety