What you need to know about the safety of your electric bike and how to secure it optimally

Understanding the specific risks of electric bike theft

Theft : why are electric bikes targeted ?

Bicycle theft is nothing new; it was already a problem with classic models. A bicycle remains a practical, lightweight, and sometimes expensive means of transport, depending on the model chosen. So imagine what happens when you add electric assistance. With the arrival of electric bikes, everything has changed.

These models, more expensive on average than traditional bicycles, are more attractive to thieves. They are more practical, require less effort to use, and often have detachable parts, such as the battery, which can be sold separately: a boon for thieves.

That's why securing your e-bike has become essential. A good lock, careful parking, and a few simple precautions can really make a difference if you want to avoid having it stolen.

Understanding the general safety risks of electric bikes : dangers, incidents, prevention

Accidents related to electric assistance : speed, braking, visibility

Electric assistance makes rides much smoother, but it can also create a false sense of security that is sometimes overlooked. Many people underestimate the power of an electric bike. The problem is that reaching 25 km/h effortlessly completely changes how you react on the road.

On the one hand, speed amplifies risks, especially in urban areas. At this speed, braking distances increase and reaction time must be shorter. A pedestrian crossing without looking or a car door suddenly opening are things that happen more often than you might think and can quickly become dangerous if you don't anticipate them. The reflex, therefore, is to adapt your speed to the situation, even if the assistance system encourages you to accelerate.

On the other hand, braking also requires more vigilance. The weight of the electric bike (often between 20 and 30 kg) makes sudden braking a little more difficult to control than with a conventional bike.

Finally, visibility remains a key factor. Many accidents occur simply because the cyclist wasn't seen. Powerful front and rear lights, a reflective vest, and light-colored clothing or clothing with reflective strips can truly make a difference, even in broad daylight.

In short, safety does not depend solely on respecting the highway code: it relies on simple and constant actions to compensate for the speed and weight of the electric bike.

Mechanical breakdown or failure: a source of danger that is still too often ignored

When we talk about safety , we rarely think about breakdowns. Yet, a mechanical failure can be just as risky as a traffic accident or theft. Worn brakes, a loose chain, or a faulty battery can lead to a sudden loss of control.

The problem is that electric bikes require more regular maintenance than regular bikes. Why? Because the components are under more stress. So ignoring an unusual noise, a loose cable, or a loss of power means risking a breakdown while riding, and in those moments, the danger becomes very real.

Some points to monitor regularly :

• Brakes and cables

• Transmission

• Battery and motor

• Tires

Trying to have a complete check done at least once every season can be a good idea. Some specialized stores or websites can help.  They offer safety checks, often at low prices, which allow you to set off again with peace of mind. Avoiding a breakdown often means avoiding an accident. A well-maintained electric bike is, above all, safer, for you as well as for other road users.

Secure your electric bike against theft

Choose a reliable lock : criteria and recommendations

Even among bike locks, not all are created equal, especially when it comes to electric bikes. An e-bike represents a significant investment and, unfortunately, attracts more thieves than a regular bicycle. It's therefore essential to choose the right one (a truly effective and robust lock), even if it means paying a little more than expected. It's better to buy an expensive but reliable lock than a cheaper but ineffective model and have to replace your entire bike.

When it comes to anti-theft devices, certain criteria must absolutely be taken into account :

• Bike lock types : U-locks remain the gold standard in terms of resistance. Their rigid, hardened steel construction offers excellent protection against theft attempts. Thick chains and folding locks They can also be good options for more flexibility, provided they are of good quality.
• Certification : Opt for a lock certified by SRA, ART, or FUB (French Federation of Bicycle Users). These labels guarantee a level of resistance tested and recognized by insurers.
• Its weight and practicality: a sturdy lock is often a bit heavier, but it must remain easy to handle. A good compromise between security and ease of use is essential if you use it daily.
• Key or code : some high-end models offer anti-copy key systems or smartphone-connected locking. These solutions are practical and further enhance security .

If possible, try using two different locks ; this will likely deter thieves, who will waste time and have to use multiple tools if they want to steal your e-bike. It's an extra layer of protection and it can't hurt.

Properly securing your bicycle: best practices to adopt (wheel, frame, fixed point)

Simply locking your bike randomly isn't enough to secure it , because even the best lock is useless if used incorrectly, and that's a common mistake that can cost you dearly. Many thefts occur not because of a flimsy lock, but because the bike was locked too quickly or in the wrong place. What you can do:

• Always secure the frame and one wheel to a fixed and solid point (cemented post, bike rack, metal barrier). Never only secure the front wheel : it's the first thing thieves detach.

• Avoid moving or fragile points, such as wire mesh, removable panels or thin fences, as they can be cut or moved in seconds.

• Lock your bike in a busy and well-lit place : thieves definitely prefer slightly more isolated and dark areas.

• Place the lock as high as possible, without direct contact with the ground, to make cutting attempts more difficult.

• Remove detachable accessories (battery, screen, bag, odometer) at each parking time, even for a short period.

By following these simple steps, you can drastically reduce the risk of theft. And above all, you'll gain peace of mind when you leave your electric bike parked, regardless of the length of time.

Add layers of protection : removable battery, GPS tracker, Bicycode marking...

Some electric bikes now include features designed to enhance safety and peace of mind. These include a removable battery that you can easily take out yourself to avoid any unpleasant surprises, an integrated GPS tracker that allows you to locate your bike in real time and receive safety alerts, an alarm, and Bicycode marking. (unique code specific to each bike), which officially links your electric bike to its owner.

These devices are all effective solutions for preventing theft and protecting your e-bike on a daily basis. At Ultima, we offer them on our models Because your safety is our priority! We want you to be able to enjoy your electric bike with complete peace of mind. That's why we place paramount importance on your overall safety, whether it's combating theft, preventing accidents, or minimizing the risk of breakdowns.

That's why we offer a dedicated app (available on the App Store or Google Play Store) after you purchase an Ultima bike. It allows you to take advantage of our advanced safety features and enjoy an enhanced experience with our bikes (mileage, travel time, CO2 savings, etc.), plus a two-year trial period for complete peace of mind.

Insurance and procedures after a theft: what to do if the theft still occurs ?

Unfortunately, even with every possible precaution to enhance your bike's security, there's no such thing as zero risk. In case of theft, reacting quickly will increase your chances of recovering it and simplify the process.

• File a complaint immediately

Go directly to the police station or file a preliminary report online. Once there, bring all the necessary documents to identify your bicycle (serial number, Bicycode marking, photo of your bicycle, purchase invoice). From the Ultima app, you can immediately report your bicycle stolen and locate it in just a few clicks !

• Activate your bike tracking tools

By sharing the location of your bike with the authorities, you will have a much better chance of recovering it.

• Contact your insurance company as soon as possible.

Don't wait and contact your insurance company if you have one. Depending on the terms of your contract, you may be covered by several things (bike insurance, civil liability or home insurance, additional coverage, etc...).

• Share the information about your stolen bike

Post photos of your bike in community groups on social media and keep an eye out for ads on resale platforms. Even if the chances are slim, this still increases your likelihood of finding it if someone spots it.