How to Ride an Electric Bike Faster: A Canadian Rider's Guide

Electric bikes are a fantastic way to navigate Canadian cities, trails, and everything in between. They offer a convenient, eco-friendly, and fun alternative to traditional transportation. But what if you're looking to get a little more zip from your ride? If you've been wondering how to make an Ebike faster, you're in the right place. 

While always respecting local regulations (in Canada, the national standard for Ebike motors is to assist up to 32 km/h), there are several ways to optimize your Ebike's performance and potentially increase top speed within its designed capabilities. Here are 10 proven methods to help you get the most out of your bike.

1. Adjust Your Pedal Assist System (PAS)
2. Utilize Manufacturer Apps for Speed Adjustments
3. Consider a Fully Charged, Optimal Voltage Battery
4. Lighten the Load
5. Improve Your Aerodynamics
6. Maintain Correct Tire Pressure
7. Opt for Slimmer Tires (If Appropriate for Your Riding Style)
8. Keep Your Drivetrain Clean and Lubricated
9. Regular Ebike Maintenance is Key
10. Understand and Respect Local Ebike Regulations

1. Adjust Your Pedal Assist System (PAS)

Most Ebikes come equipped with multiple pedal assist levels, often ranging from 0 (no assistance) up to 5 or more. These levels dictate how much power the motor provides as you pedal. A higher level means more motor assistance and, consequently, an easier time reaching and maintaining higher speeds. You can typically adjust the PAS using the display on your handlebars. Pressing a '+' button will increase the assistance, while a '-' button will decrease it. Keep in mind that using higher assist levels will consume battery power more quickly.

2. Utilize Manufacturer Apps for Speed Adjustments

Many Ebike manufacturers, including Heybike, provide dedicated smartphone apps that connect to your bike. These apps can offer a range of functionalities, sometimes including the ability to adjust the top speed settings for each PAS level. 

By linking your Heybike to the official app (available for both iOS and Android), you can find options to fine-tune how your Ebike performs, which can be a key factor in how to make your Ebike faster. Always ensure any adjustments are within the legal limits for your region in Canada.

3. Consider a Fully Charged, Optimal Voltage Battery

The battery is the heart of your Ebike. Its voltage directly impacts performance – a high voltage battery can deliver more energy to the motor, potentially enabling the wheels to spin faster. Ensure your battery is always fully charged before a ride for maximum output.

If you're considering an upgrade, such as to a high voltage battery, it's crucial to check the specifications and ensure compatibility. Using an incompatible or overly powerful battery can risk overheating or damaging your Ebike's components. Please opt for high-quality batteries designed specifically for your Ebike model.

4. Lighten the Load

Just like with any vehicle, reducing the overall weight your Ebike has to carry can significantly boost its speed and efficiency. Less weight means the motor expends less energy to propel you forward and maintain momentum. Here are a few tips:

Swap out heavier components for lighter alternatives where feasible.
Remove unnecessary accessories like heavy baskets or bags when they're not in use.
Even your riding stance (like standing while pedaling occasionally, where safe) can shift weight dynamics.

5. Improve Your Aerodynamics

Wind resistance plays a significant role in how fast you can go, especially at higher speeds. Adopting a more aerodynamic riding posture can make a noticeable difference. Try leaning forward slightly or tucking in your elbows to reduce your frontal area. This minimizes drag and allows for smoother airflow around you. Also, focus on efficient pedaling skills to keep your feet flat on the pedals for optimal power transfer.

6. Maintain Correct Tire Pressure

Riding on underinflated tires is a common speed killer. Low tire pressure increases rolling resistance, meaning your motor and your legs have to work harder to move the bike. It can also make for a less comfortable ride. Check the sidewall of your bike tires for the recommended PSI (pounds per square inch) or kPa (kilopascals) range and use a good quality bike pump to keep them properly inflated.

7. Opt for Slimmer Tires (If Appropriate for Your Riding Style)

Tires create friction with the road (rolling resistance). Wider, knobbier tires, often found on mountain or fat bikes, are great for traction on varied terrains but create more rolling resistance on smooth pavement. 

If you primarily ride on roads and are looking to increase top speed, consider if a slimmer, smoother tire (that is still safe and compatible with your bike) could be an option. Ensure any tire you choose is at least 2 inches wide (approx. 5 cm) to maintain a good balance of speed, shock absorption, and puncture resistance suitable for Canadian road conditions.

8. Keep Your Drivetrain Clean and Lubricated

A dirty or poorly lubricated chain and gears create extra friction, which wastes energy and slows you down. Regularly clean your chain, cassette, and chainrings, and apply a quality bike lubricant. This simple maintenance step ensures a smoother, more efficient power transfer from your pedaling and the motor to the wheels.

9. Regular Ebike Maintenance is Key

Beyond tire pressure and drivetrain care, overall regular maintenance ensures all parts of your Ebike are working optimally. This includes checking the brakes, ensuring bolts are tightened, and keeping the motor and battery connections clean and secure. A well-maintained electric bike is a more efficient and faster transportation tool.

10. Understand and Respect Local Ebike Regulations

While exploring how to make an Ebike faster, it's crucial to be aware of and adhere to Canadian Ebike laws. In Canada, Ebikes are generally required to have a motor output of 500W or less, and the motor assistance must cut out at 32 km/h. Modifications to exceed these federally mandated limits for public road use may alter your Ebike's classification and could lead to legal issues. The tips above are intended to help you optimize your Ebike's performance within its intended and legal design.