Modified on Tue, 2 Dec at 1:20 PM
How To Ride the MOD Sidecar
In this article: You’ll learn the correct first steps for learning to ride your MOD Sidecar setup safely and confidently.
This Article Applies to the Following Sidecars
Difficulty
★☆☆ Easy
Estimated Time
30 - 60 Min
Before You Start
Preparation
- Make sure your bike and sidecar were assembled correctly.
- Ride the bike by itself first (without the sidecar). Get familiar with acceleration, throttle feel, pedal assist, braking, steering, and overall balance.
- Find an open, empty area: an empty parking lot, basketball court, or any wide, flat space with plenty of room.
- Ensure the sidecar is fully attached and properly aligned. Refer to the Sidecar Alignment Guide if needed.
Watch the Full Step-by-Step Video Guide
Steps
Step 1: Add Weight to the Sidecar
Place 50–100 lbs (23–45 kg) in the sidecar. Examples: sandbags, a bag of dog food, dumbbells, or anything heavy and safe.
Added weight significantly increases stability and helps you learn faster with less wobble.
Step 2: Practice Riding Straight
You’ll begin your first runs using throttle only. No pedaling yet.
Hold the handlebars straight.
Look ahead – not at the wheels.
Gently ease onto the throttle. Stay around 5–10 mph.
Use both brakes gently to stop.
Do not put your feet down to stop. Using your feet can be dangerous and can get them caught in the pedals.
If your body or bike feels like it is pulling to the left, you can temporarily adjust the alignment arm to tilt the bike slightly toward the sidecar to compensate during early learning. (You will fine-tune it back once comfortable.)
- Repeat until riding straight feels natural and controlled.
Step 3: Practice Turning Left
Left turns are generally easier because the sidecar stabilizes the bike from the right.
Start slow.
Ease into your left turn.
Lean your body into the turn.
Repeat several times until smooth and predictable.
Step 4: Practice Turning Right
Right turns require more attention during early learning.
Go slow.
Begin your right turn gradually.
Lean your body into the turn. If you don’t lean, the sidecar wheel may lift.
As you find the balance point, your body will learn this automatically
Repeat until your right turns feel steady and controlled.
Step 5: Begin Pedaling & Ride Normally
Once you feel comfortable with:
straight runs
left turns
right turns
You can:
begin pedaling
invite your co-pilot to hop in
Your MOD Sidecar is now ready for real rides. For a visual demonstration of every step, watch the full video here.
Troubleshooting
- Bike pulls slightly to the left → Shift your body weight to the right or temporarily adjust the alignment arm toward the sidecar during learning.
- Sidecar wheel lifts on right turns → Reduce speed and lean your upper body into the right turn.
- Steering feels twitchy while going straight → Slow down, relax your arms, and look ahead. The bike will stabilize as you spend more time practicing.
- Bike feels unstable without weight in the sidecar → Add weight (around 50 lbs / 25 kg). This is expected during training.
FAQs
- Do I need to add weight every time I ride?
No - but it helps a lot while learning. Once confident, you can ride with or without weight. - Is this harder than riding a regular e-bike?
It’s different, not harder. Most riders learn in 20–30 minutes. - Will the sidecar tip over?
If you ride too fast into a right turn without leaning, the wheel can lift. Controlled speed + proper leaning prevents this. - Should beginners use throttle or pedal assist?
Start with throttle only. Once stable with steering and balance, begin pedaling. - Does this apply to both the MOD Easy and MOD Groove sidecars?
Yes - all steps apply to both models.
Warning
⚠️ Important Safety & Liability Notice These instructions serve as a general riding guide. Always ensure the bike and sidecar are properly assembled, attached, and aligned before riding. Improper installation, riding beyond your skill level, or failing to follow these guidelines can result in injury, damage, or voided warranty. If you are not confident performing these steps, seek help from a qualified MOD BIKES technician or authorized service provider. Local laws and regulations may apply.