E-bike courses added to AT programme

E-bikes are becoming far more popular, prompting Auckland Transport to introduce courses to cater to them.

Various courses from an introduction to e-bikes and guided rides to e-bike maintenance have been added to the Auckland Transport (AT) Adult Bike Skills programme.

The e-bike Experience is for anyone wanting to try one out and see what the fuss is about, while the e-bike Silver is for people who already have an e-bike and who would like to know more about riding it safely on the road.

“We also have e-bike specific maintenance courses full of useful tips and tricks to help you enjoy your time out on your e-bike,” AT adds.

Spaces are limited, so those interest should register to secure a spot.

The e-bike Experience over three hours starts on an open court before moving to shared paths.

“This session is for those who are already confident on a regular bike and provides an introduction to e-bikes, gives a chance to practise some bike handling skills, and then heads out on some local cycle infrastructure for a guided ride.”

An e-bike introduction includes understanding the controls, motor and battery; using pedal assist levels and gears, differences in bike styles, e-bike storage and security, handling skills, and emergency braking.

The Silver e-bike skills for those who own an e-bike and want to learn how to get the most out of it is on shared paths and quiet roads, while Gold bike skills involve busy roads and complex intersections.

Shared path etiquette is also taught, along with an understanding of road rules and signs, positioning, passing side roads and parked cars, travelling through intersections, route planning and more.

E-bike maintenance skills involves a two-hour workshop which includes checking the e-bike to ensure it’s in safe working order, cleaning it, making minor adjustments, and fixing a flat tyre.

An e-bike Experience is on March 27 at Pakuranga from 9am to noon, and on April 10 in Henderson from 1.30pm to 4.30pm.

E-bike Silver bike skills run on March 27 at Pakuranga from 1.30pm to 4.30pm, April 10 at Henderson from 9am to noon, and May 2 at Mt Roskill from 1.30pm to 4.30pm.

E-bike maintenance skills sessions are on April 17 at Freemans Bay from 10am to noon (course full so  register to be on a waiting list) and May 9 at St Heliers, 2pm-4pm.

Arrangements can be made for group bookings, while some courses are dependent on weather and instructor availability. Bring helmets and bikes (unless where they have been requested), comfortable and appropriate clothing (including closed-in shoes), sunscreen or a rain jacket, a full water bottle and snacks.