By Lesa 
Electric bicycles are also emerging as a new popular way of commuting, physical activity, and recreation. They are fast and convenient, thereby offering riders with an alternative that is environmentally friendly to cars. Nevertheless, such convenience can create an illusion of road safety in some cases. Although the electric bikes are quicker and do not need a lot of physical effort unlike the ordinary bicycles, they remain susceptible in the traffic. It is recommended to ride defensively and so that the safety of the one who rides as well as other people on the road is guaranteed. Defensive riding is a practice that is concerned with the anticipation of possible dangers and attention to the environment and the decisions that are taken to prevent accidents. It is not overcaution, slowness, but keeping one in control and anticipating the behavior of other people.
Knowledge on Road Conditions
One of the major aspects of defensive riding is knowing the surrounding environment. The roads are not always dependable, and some holes, debris, and other inconveniences are hidden without any prior notice. Electric bikes have the capacity to attain high speeds compared to the non-electric bicycles, and it is thus more critical to exercise extra caution. This understanding of possible threats at the initial stage provides a rider with time and opportunity to act safely and prevent risky situations.
There is also awareness to other road users such as motorists, pedestrians and other cyclists. Most drivers might not anticipate an electric bike to be faster than it is and this poses a possibility of accidents. Being vigilant and scanning the environment at all times will enable the riders to recognize dangerous actions and reposition themselves on the road to ensure they are at a safe distance from other possible dangers.
Traffic Behavior Anticipation
Defensive riding needs the anticipation of what other road users would do. There are numerous incidents with the use of electric bikes that fail to happen due to the lack of predictability in order of drivers or pedestrians. Bikers are supposed to assume that others will suddenly change direction, they will suddenly stop or they will not see a bike in a lane. By anticipating these actions, riders will be able to prevent them, including slowing down or switching lanes within safe zones.
The riders of electric bikes Ottawa are especially prone to riding in the crowded city streets whose traffic can be uncontrollable. The predetermination of traffic flow and the monitoring of signals and signs enables riders to be a step ahead. Defensive riding is about making choices that reduce risk, including keeping clear with regards to blind spots, having a buffer zone, and being ready to come to a complete stop.
Speed and Position Control
Defensive riding is an important component of speed control. Electric bikes have the ability to increase speed rapidly, and the higher the speed, the greater the accidents. Riding at a pace one can manage makes the riders react to any unexpected situations better and offer them more time to make decisions. The speed ought to be modulated at all times based on the road conditions, weather and traffic density.
It is also important to position along the road. Defensive riders will not ride excessively close to parked cars, intersections or other cars. It is safer to remain visible and predictable to minimize the chances of collisions. Lane positioning is an effective means that allows the riders to ride safely and indicate their intentions to other road users effectively, which is very important to avoid misunderstandings and accidents.
Use of Protective Equipment
Protective equipment is important in the reduction of injuries in case of an accident. Reflective clothing, lights, gloves, and helmets promote safety and visibility. The value of wearing proper gear should not be underrated even among experienced riders because it can ensure one is not harmed in situations where defensive riding may fail to save them.
The speed of the electric bikes is so high that serious injury is possible and thus the use of the protective gears is obligatory. Another very important element in defensive riding is visibility. Reflective or bright clothing makes sure that the drivers and pedestrians can notice the riders and minimize the chance of accidents during the low-light periods or in the city.
Riding defensively is one of the core requirements of any person riding an electric bike irrespective of the level of expertise. Through being conscious of road conditions, predicting traffic traffic behavior, regulating speed and position, and protective gear, riders could go a long way in minimizing the risk of accidents. The advantages of electric bikes are numerous, yet the aspect of safety should be a number one concern. Riding defensively is not only a precaution, but it is also a duty that will help to make the road safe to everyone.