Electric-assist bike: what are the benefits?
07/10/2026The Highway Code for Electric-Assist Bikes (EABs)
07/10/2026
Economical, eco-friendly, good for your health… The electric bike offers many advantages but remains a means of transport associated with various road risks.
Here are some practical tips to help you ride your e-bike safely!
Visibility
When riding your electric bike, make sure that you are clearly visible on the road, in both directions of travel. Even though the yellow vest is not compulsory for cyclists, they should preferably wear light-coloured, reflective clothing so as to be more easily seen, especially at night and on dark days. You should also choose the bike lighting carefully: it must be equipped with a white or yellow headlight at the front and a red light at the rear. A white reflector at the front and another red or orange one at the rear are also highly recommended. For the e-bike to be visible through 360°, fit the pedals and the wheels with double-sided reflectors, in orange or yellow. A white reflective strip on both sides of the tyres will also be very useful to optimise the visibility of your e-bike.
Braking
Being powerful and fast compared with a conventional bicycle, the electric bike exposes its rider to the risks of speed. Equipping it with two brakes, front and rear, is therefore necessary for safety reasons. Robust, reliable and durable brakes should be chosen. The cyclist must also check the condition of the brakes before every use of the e-bike.
The sound warning
Much more than a decoration or a gadget, the sound warning device is an accessory of great importance for the safety of the cyclist and of the bike. The bell allows the rider to signal their presence to other road users.
Optional equipment and accessories:
Some items of equipment and e-bike accessories are certainly optional but strongly recommended to guarantee the safety of the cyclist.
The helmet: even though it is not compulsory in France, this accessory helps to avoid major damage in the event of a road accident.
The mirror: as in a car, it allows the rider to glance behind without having to turn the head. It is therefore important for road safety.
The danger pepper: this orange accessory, which hangs on the rear wheel, optimises visibility and invites car drivers to keep their distance.
