E-bikes have become such a great way to get around Mammoth Lakes for visitors and locals, alike! Even with our steep inclines and oxygen-sparse atmosphere, an e-bike will allow you to see all the gorgeous views and landmarks on your list without worrying about whether your legs can keep up!
But, getting hurt on an e-bike or landing a fine is a sure way to ruin your trip in the mountains! So, we’ve put together a guide on how to ride safely and make the most of your Eastern Sierra adventures!
Tip #1: Wear a helmet
Okay, we can bet you saw this one coming. But it needs to be said! E-bikes are motorized vehicles, and as such, they can be dangerous! Protect your noggin by wearing a helmet, and don’t worry about not looking cool: all the locals are doing it too.
Keep in mind, also, that all riders under the age of 18 are required by law to wear helmets!
What is this picture missing? Oh yeah, a helmet!!
Tip #2: Wear bright colors or reflective gear
This is especially true if you plan on riding your e-bike around dawn, dusk, or at night. But it’s also a good idea for riding around in the day so that you don’t go unnoticed.
Tip #3: Stay Hydrated and wear UV protection
No matter how much you plan on pedaling, staying hydrated up here in the mountains is crucial! Remember that simply existing up here at high altitude will mean that your body is prone to dehydration. So, even if you feel like e-biking is a manageable activity for you, don’t leave the house without a water bottle.
The same goes for UV protection! Don’t leave the house without sunscreen and UV-protective sunglasses, even if you plan on e-biking through Shady Rest or another area without much direct sunlight. After all, our air is thinner here, meaning that every ray of sunshine is more powerful than at sea level.
Tip #4: Keep an eye on your battery usage
One thing we see pretty frequently with newer e-bikers here in Mammoth is overestimating the battery life of their e-bike. And it’s totally understandable! With an e-bike, you can go farther distances, and it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement! But, you don’t want to be in a situation in which your e-bike runs out of juice and you have to figure out a way to get back to town.
If the landscape starts to look like this, you've gone too far!
Tip #5: Lock up
We’re a friendly community here in Mammoth Lakes, but the reality is, e-bikes are an easy target for bike theft. Even if you plan on running quickly into Vons or are picking up a to-go order from your favorite restaurant, you’ll want to find an appropriate place to park and lock your e-bike.
Don't leave that beautiful bike unlocked on the back of your car!
When staying at a condo at Mammoth Mountain Reservations, give yourself the peace of mind of storing your e-bikes inside of your condo!
Tip#6: Know where you can ride (and where you can’t)
As motorized vehicles, there are regulations about where you can use an e-bike.
All paved trails, such as the Mammoth Lakes Town Loop and Shady Rest Park bike path, are open to Class 1 e-bikes. You can ride Class 1 e-bikes on Inyo National Forest roads that are designated for off highway vehicles.
Other trails that are designated for foot traffic and non-motorized vehicles, such as the Mammoth Rock Trail, Panorama Dome, Mammoth Pass Trail and others, are not open to e-bikes.
To get the full run-down on which trails in Mammoth are e-bike friendly, take a look at the helpful guide by Mammoth Lakes Trail System!
Tip #7: Take it slow
California law prohibits class 1 e-bikes from exceeding 28 mph on roads. But, when it comes to bike paths and trails here in Mammoth, the maximum speed limit is typically 15 mph. If you’re not sure about the speed limit in a certain zone, look for the nearest posted trail marker.
Tip #8: Take special precautions in snow and rain
We see a spike in e-bike usage during the beautiful summer season here in Mammoth Lakes. But these vehicles can also come in handy during spring, fall, and even winter! If you are going to use an e-bike during the wetter months of the year, make sure to take necessary precautions such as swapping out your tires for ones with more traction, mounting a fender, and installing lights to stay visible on gray or snowy days.
During winter, you’ll also want to take special care to share the road when the traffic lines are not clearly visible. Remember that cars may slide out of control, so, never take the risk of pulling out in front of a moving vehicle, even if you have the right of way.
Tip #9: Don’t drink and ride
Something that surprises many people is to learn that the blood alcohol content limit in California is the same for bikes as it is for cars: 0.08%. That means that if you’re too tipsy to drive, you’re also too tipsy to ride. And, you could face fines and legal troubles for defying this law.
Luckily, Mammoth Lakes has a free trolley system and various paid taxi services to get home on the nights that you exceed the legal limit.
Tip #10: Always keep your eyes out for other folks, dogs, and wildlife
Exploring the Eastern Sierra on an e-bike is fun and relaxing, but make sure that you don’t get carried away with the beauty of the moment! It’s important to stay alert for other riders, dogs (which may or may not be on leash), and wildlife who may get spooked by a rider appearing suddenly on a trail.
Are you ready to try e-bike riding in Mammoth Lakes?
If you’ve been wondering whether to jump on this trend, our recommendation is: go for it! E-bike riding is a joy for the whole family, and you’ll be glad to have a whole new way to see our beautiful area!
Want to book a condo for your next e-bike riding trip to the mountains? Take a look at what we have available at Mammoth Mountain Reservations!