Safety Tips

At PhoxHunter, safety is important. Electric folding bikes offer a convenient way to get around — but like any vehicle, they require attention, awareness, and responsible riding.

Please review these safety tips before you ride. A few minutes of preparation can help make each ride safer.

1. Wear a Helmet

A properly fitted helmet helps reduce the risk of head injury. Wear a CPSC-certified helmet on every ride, even short trips.

Helmet fit checklist:

  • Sits level on your head (not tilted back)
  • Straps form a "V" shape under your ears
  • No more than two fingers fit between the strap and your chin

2. Check Your Bike Before Every Ride

Perform a quick inspection before each ride. Here is a simple checklist:

  • Air: Check tire pressure (PSI printed on tire sidewall). Tires should feel firm.
  • Brakes: Squeeze both brake levers. They should feel firm and stop the wheel from moving.
  • Chain & Crank: Make sure the chain moves smoothly and pedals are tight.
  • Latches: Ensure folding latches, seat clamp, and wheel quick-releases are securely closed.
  • Lights & Battery: Test headlight and taillight. Confirm battery is locked in place.

3. Follow Local Traffic Laws

Electric bikes are subject to state and local laws, which vary across the US. Generally:

  • Ride in the same direction as traffic (never against it)
  • Obey all stop signs, traffic signals, and lane markings
  • Use bike lanes when available; if not, ride as far right as is safe
  • Sidewalk riding is illegal in many cities — check your local laws
  • PhoxHunter bikes are typically Class 2 (throttle + pedal assist up to 20 mph). Some trails restrict Class 2 or 3 e-bikes.

4. Ride Defensively

Stay alert. Assume that drivers and pedestrians may not see you.

  • Keep both hands on the handlebars and both feet on the pedals
  • Do not use headphones or phone while riding — you need to hear traffic
  • Make eye contact with drivers at intersections before crossing
  • Use hand signals to indicate turns and stops
  • Watch for car doors opening (stay at least 3–4 feet from parked cars)

5. Use Lights and Reflective Gear

If you ride at night or early morning, make sure you can be seen.

  • Front light: white light visible from at least 500 feet
  • Rear light: red light or reflector visible from at least 300 feet
  • Wear reflective clothing or ankle bands
  • A bright colored jacket or helmet helps visibility during the day

6. Know Your Speed and Control

E-bikes are heavier than traditional bikes (40–65 lbs) and can accelerate faster. This affects braking distance and handling.

  • Practice in a parking lot or quiet street before riding in traffic
  • Get comfortable with pedal assist levels and throttle response
  • Braking distance at 20 mph is longer than at lower speeds — give yourself extra space
  • Slow down before corners, especially on wet or loose surfaces

7. Keep Your Battery Safe

Treat your battery with care:

  • Use only the charger provided with your PhoxHunter bike
  • Charge in a dry, ventilated area — not near flammable materials
  • Do not charge immediately after a hot ride; let the battery cool for 30–60 minutes
  • Store the battery at 40–80% charge if storing for more than a month
  • Avoid extreme temperatures — do not leave the battery in a hot car or freezing garage for extended periods
  • Do not open, modify, or repair the battery yourself — contact support

If you notice swelling, unusual odor, excessive heat, or hissing during charging or use, stop, move the battery to a safe outdoor area away from combustibles, and contact support@phoxhunter.com.

8. Riding in Different Weather Conditions

Wet roads: Braking distance increases. Avoid painted lines, metal grates, and wet leaves.

Night riding: Use both front and rear lights. Ride defensively.

Hot weather: Avoid charging a hot battery. Stay hydrated.

Cold weather: Battery range decreases in cold temperatures. Store the battery indoors when possible.

Avoid riding in heavy rain, snow, or ice: Electrical components are water-resistant, not waterproof. Deep water can damage the motor and battery.

9. Regular Maintenance

Regular maintenance helps keep your e-bike in good condition.

  • Every month: Check tire pressure, clean and lubricate the chain, inspect brake pads
  • Every 3–6 months: Professional tune-up at a local bike shop
  • Before winter storage: Clean the bike, charge battery to 60%, store indoors

10. Children and Passengers

PhoxHunter folding electric bikes are designed for single rider use only unless equipped with a passenger seat and foot pegs.

  • Do not carry a second person unless your PhoxHunter model includes a factory-installed passenger seat
  • Children under 16 should not ride an e-bike without adult supervision
  • Check your state's minimum age for e-bike operation (varies by state)

11. Ride Responsibly

Be respectful to pedestrians, vehicles, and other cyclists.

  • Announce "On your left" when passing pedestrians or slower cyclists
  • Slow down when passing pedestrians on shared paths
  • Do not ride under the influence of alcohol or drugs

12. Contact Us for Support

If you have questions about safety, assembly, or performance, contact us.

📧 Email: support@phoxhunter.com

📍 Company Name: VOGUE VAULT LLC
🏢 Address: 15290 E 6TH AVE, AURORA, CO 80011, US
🕒 Business Hours: Monday – Friday, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Mountain Time)
⏱ Response Time: Within 12 hours on business days; within 24–48 hours on weekends and holidays.

Thank you for riding PhoxHunter. Stay safe and visible.