Don’t switch to turbo mode too quickly

May 19, 2026Mobility Stories / Safety on the road

More and more cyclists are switching to e-bikes. In Germany, for example, around 17.2 million bicycles with electric motors were on the roads in 2025. That’s nearly seven times as many as a decade ago. An e-bike makes cycling easier; you can tackle hills more effortlessly than with a “regular bike”—not to mention how much fun it is. “This ease of riding can tempt new riders to switch to turbo mode too quickly at first,” says Jochen Hof, a bicycle expert at DEKRA. “Newcomers need to know that a pedelec differs significantly from a bicycle without a motor in terms of weight, handling, and riding characteristics.” Older adults, in particular, face an increased risk of accidents.

E-bikes are significantly heavier than regular bicycles and therefore not quite as easy to balance as a regular bicycle. If you underestimate this, you’re more likely to tip over when stopping or even while standing still. The powerful acceleration and higher riding speed, in particular, require some adjustment. This calls for more anticipatory riding and confidence in the saddle. The motor assistance also increases the turning radius. It takes practice to coordinate all of this.

Many people also have to get used to handling the powerful hydraulic brakes on e-bikes. The increased braking power needs to be applied in a controlled manner so you can brake quickly in critical situations without losing your balance. So, take it a little easier at first until you feel confident in the saddle. A special safety training course is especially recommended for those switching to e-bikes and for beginners.

For safe e-bike riding, expert Jochen Hof recommends taking special care when turning, at intersections, and in areas with limited visibility. It’s also a good idea to wear high-visibility clothing and turn on your lights early. That way, other road users won’t overlook you as easily. You should also anticipate mistakes made by others and adjust your riding style accordingly. This is because other road users often underestimate the greater acceleration and speed of e-bikes. And, of course, for your own protection, you must always wear a helmet.