One of the benefits of an electric bicycle is the ability to ride in places where you never thought you could otherwise. Theoretically, this includes the beach. However, not just any electric bike is right for riding in the sand on the beach. If this is something you want to do often, you need to be sure your bike is up to the challenge.
Get the Right Kind of Bike
Riding on the beach means getting special bikes for sand. This is something you need to do some research into and confirm before purchasing. Sometimes the name of the bike can be confusing. For example, a beach cruiser sounds as though you should be able to ride it on the sand, but it’s not really made for that.
To get the traction that you need to ride in sand, you need a fat tire bike. Both womens and mens electric bikes are available in fat tire varieties. The tires on these bikes are about four inches wide, compared to the two inches that you find on traditional bike styles, electric and otherwise.
If you’re still having trouble handling a fat tire bike on the sand, consider lowering the pressure. Just be sure to pump it back up when you go back to riding on the street. If you frequently alternate between the two, you may have to carry a pump with you to re-inflate the tires when your beach ride is complete.
Ride on the Wet Sand
Even with a fat tire bike, it is difficult to ride on sand that is very loose, soft, or deep. Wet sand is harder and packed more tightly, which makes it an easier and more reliable surface upon which to ride. However, it is not good for your bike to get wet either. You may have to time your ride for after the tide goes out so the sand will still be wet but you won’t have to deal with waves crashing on shore where you are trying to ride.
Obey Local Laws and Be Considerate of Others
Whether the beach is public or private, there may be regulations against riding your bike on the beach. These may be specific to electric bikes or apply equally to non-motorized two-wheelers. In either case, be sure to take the rules seriously. They are in place for a reason, and it isn’t just to spoil your fun.
Remember that you have to share the beach with other people, who have as much right to be there as you do. Keep a safe distance from other beachgoers, especially children and pets.
Avoid Standing Water
It may be fun to splash through the puddles, but the back spray can damage your bike. Therefore, you should avoid riding through any standing water, especially if it is brackish or may contain salt. You should also be sure to clean up your bike after riding on the beach to avoid damage from the sand and salt.
An electric bike buying guide can help you identify one that is appropriate for riding on the beach. You can then purchase it from an online retailer.
