Can't let go of the handlebars!!!!!

[Hamilton123]

Newly retired and just returned to cycling after a 30 year absence. Bought myself a folding electric bike for daily exercise and going shopping. This is my first experience of 20 inch wheels and a front electric motor.

My problem is that I can’t let go of the handlebars to signal. I have found the steering very responsive. The moment I take one hand of the handlebars it feels so unbalanced and I wobble alarmingly. Still getting used to the cycle but am feeling a little unnerved by this.

Any suggestions?

 

[Paul99]

Find a park or something where you can have a soft landing (just in case) and practice. It's probably because you haven't done it for so long rather than the bike set up.

Welcome back to cycling.

 

[Markymark]

I keep signalling to a minimum anyway as it sometimes encourages other road users to do silly things. When I do indicate to turn its a hand gesture quite low for the vehicle behind to see so hand not off the bars for long. Also this us done shortly before any turn starts not during.

 

[Pat "5mph"]

Practice in the park, after a while it comes naturally.
Well done on starting cycling again after such a long time, don't beat yourself up as you're only out of practice for now

 

[screenman]

Not sure I would want front wheel drive on a bike, it would I imagine make handling interesting to say the least, which is why you are having problems.

Is there a reason you cannot ride a non electric (proper) bike?

 

[annedonnelly]

20 inch wheels? It'll be similar to my Brompton - really light & twitchy steering. It took me a while to manage to take a hand off and I have no problems with a full size bike. I think it will come with practice.

Are you riding on roads where it is vital? Sometimes for a right turn a look over your right shoulder is a big help in letting traffic know where you're planning to go.