Owner guide
E-bike accessories worth buying first (and what to check)
Edited by Ricky Grenis, editor · Philadelphia · General guidance; your bike's manual comes first.
Buy for the problem you actually have, and check that each part fits your bike before you order. This page lists what to look for. We don't link to specific products yet; when we do, the same rule applies as for bikes: commission never decides what we list.
Buy first, almost everyone
| Item | Why | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| A strong lock | E-bikes are theft targets and expensive to replace. | A heavy U-lock or folding lock with an independent security rating (for example Sold Secure or ART), plus a cable or second lock for the front wheel. Lock the frame to something fixed. |
| Helmet | You'll ride faster than on a regular bike. Some states require helmets for some classes or ages. | A helmet certified for US bike use (CPSC). Riders who regularly go 20 to 28 mph may want one also certified to the Dutch NTA 8776 standard for faster e-bikes. |
| Lights | To be seen in daylight and dark. | Many e-bikes include lights powered by the main battery. If yours doesn't, get a bright front light and a rear light with a daytime flash mode. |
| Pump with a gauge | Correct pressure helps reduce pinch flats and supports predictable handling and improves range. | Matches your valve type (Schrader, the car-tire type, or Presta, the slim type). |
Read the rest
Commuters
- Rack and bags (panniers). Check that your bike has rack mounts, the rack's load rating, and that bags clear your heels and the battery.
- Fenders if they're not included. Check tire width and frame clearance.
- Mirror and bell. Cheap and useful in traffic.
- Spare tube and tire levers in your exact tire size (printed on the sidewall). Changing a rear tube on a hub-motor wheel is harder than on a regular bike; practice once at home, or carry a puncture sealant.
Apartment riders
- Floor stand rated for your bike's weight, or a wall hook fixed into a stud if you can lift the bike.
- Fire-safe charging spot: a spot near an outlet, away from exit doors and anything that can get hot or catch fire (NFPA's storage tip). Some riders charge on a metal tray or in a battery-charging bag; these are not a substitute for following the charging guidance.
- Second lock for shared bike rooms.
Batteries and chargers: manufacturer only
Buy spare or replacement batteries and chargers only from your bike's manufacturer, or ones the manufacturer confirms are compatible. Mismatched or uncertified batteries and chargers are a known fire risk, and CPSC warns against "universal" chargers. We will never recommend a third-party battery or charger, whatever it pays.
Protect what you bought
- Record the serial number (usually under the bottom bracket) and register the bike with the brand and a free registry such as Bike Index.
- Insurance: some home and renter policies exclude e-bikes or cap the payout. Ask your insurer, and compare dedicated bike insurance if it's not covered.
Still choosing?
If you haven't bought yet, the chat checks fit, hills, stairs and your state's rules before you spend anything.
General guidance, not a substitute for your bike's manual. Where the two differ, follow the manual.