If you’re new to the world of e-bikes, welcome, you’re in for a wild ride. But before you twist the throttle and hit the road or trail, it’s important to get familiar with some of the most common mistakes first-time electric bike riders make. Avoiding these pitfalls can save you from costly repairs, safety issues, and even cut down on wear-and-tear that shortens the life of your bike.
Here are the 10 biggest mistakes new e-bike riders make, and exactly how to avoid them.
1. Not Learning How Your Specific E-Bike Works
Every e-bike model is different. From pedal assist levels to throttle modes and braking sensitivity, your ride has its own learning curve.
Before your first real ride, spend time reading the manual and watching any brand-specific tutorials. For example, Goat Power Bikes like the Motor Goat V3 and King Goat come with different controller modes, ECO, Max Torque, Sports, and Normal, each affecting speed and torque differently. Know your modes, and choose one that fits your experience level.
2. Ignoring Proper Safety Gear
E-bikes can easily reach speeds of 30–50MPH, especially models like the Dirt Goat 96V. That’s not your average pedal bike speed, and it means you need more than just a helmet.
Gloves, high-visibility clothing, impact-rated elbow and knee pads, and even motorcycle-style jackets are recommended if you’re riding powerful models or commuting in traffic. Many new riders underestimate how exposed they are until they take their first fall.
3. Relying Too Much on the Throttle
Pedal assist exists for a reason. It gives you battery efficiency, better range, and more control, especially in technical or hilly terrain. New riders often abuse the throttle, using it like a motorcycle and draining the battery much faster.
Try combining pedaling with throttle control to extend your ride. Throttle-heavy riding might feel fun early on, but you’ll feel the pain later when your range cuts short before you’re home.
4. Not Charging the Battery Correctly
Leaving your e-bike battery plugged in for too long or letting it drain to 0% repeatedly are both damaging habits.
Charge your battery using the brand’s official charger (Goat Power Bikes, for instance, include one with every purchase), avoid extreme temperatures, and store the battery at around 50% if it’s not being used for a while. These simple habits can prolong the life of your battery by years.
5. Forgetting to Track the Serial Number
E-bike theft is on the rise. New riders often overlook one of the most important steps: writing down or photographing the serial number.
On most Goat Power Bikes, this is located behind the headlight on the bike’s frame. Save it to your phone or cloud storage. In case of theft, you’ll need this to file a police report or insurance claim.
6. Skipping Routine Maintenance
Even though electric bikes are lower maintenance than gas-powered vehicles, they still require regular upkeep.
New riders often forget to check their chain tension, brake pads, tire pressure, or software updates. Keep your e-bike running strong with a simple monthly checklist. If you’re unsure what to look for, schedule a tune-up at your local e-bike shop or consult your bike’s manual.
7. Not Securing the Bike When Parked
Basic cable locks won’t cut it for an e-bike. Many beginners assume that a lock is a lock, but seasoned thieves know better.
Invest in a heavy-duty U-lock and secure the frame to an immovable object. Better yet, add an Apple AirTag or GPS tracker under the seat or inside the frame. Goat Power Bikes customers often hide an AirTag under the seat or in the battery compartment for added peace of mind.
8. Choosing the Wrong E-Bike for Your Riding Style
Buying an e-bike that looks cool without understanding your actual needs is a common mistake.
Want speed and off-road power? The King Goat is ideal. Need a lightweight urban commuter? The Mini Goat might be a better fit. Every rider is different. Don’t just shop on looks, factor in range, terrain, frame weight, suspension, and battery power.
9. Riding in the Wrong Weather Without Prep
E-bikes can be ridden in light rain, but only if you take proper precautions. New riders often assume that e-bikes are fully waterproof. In reality, they’re water-resistant, and battery components can still short out in heavy rain or if submerged.
If you live in a wet climate, keep your charging ports sealed, cover your display and electronics when storing outside, and avoid deep puddles. Winter riders should also refer to our guide on winter e-bike maintenance and snow riding for seasonal tips.
10. Underestimating Just How Fast They Are
Many beginners don’t realize how quickly an e-bike can pick up speed, especially on downhill runs or in Sports Mode.
Going from 0 to 40MPH feels a lot different on a 70+ pound electric bike than a regular bicycle. Respect the throttle. Ride within your skill level, and brake earlier than you think. Start in lower assist modes and work your way up to more aggressive settings like Max Torque.
Bonus Tip: Bookmark Resources Early
One last mistake new e-bike riders make? Not learning from others. Bookmark your brand’s support pages, follow YouTube channels for your bike model (like Goat Power Bikes’ official channel), and engage with other owners in community forums or Facebook groups. Knowledge = safer and more confident riding.
Final Thoughts
Every e-bike rider starts somewhere and making mistakes is part of the learning curve. But if you can avoid these 10 beginner pitfalls, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a confident, efficient, and safer electric bike owner.
Whether you’re commuting, trail riding, or just exploring the world on two wheels, Goat Power Bikes is here to support your journey. Check out our latest bikes and accessories designed to keep you moving smarter, faster, and longer.
