Lee Hill
Electric bikes are the fastest-selling segment of motorcycles in the US[1].
One of the reasons why E-bikes are becoming so popular is the riding modes that they allow. You can ride an e-bike with pedals (just like a regular bicycle). You can do something in between (pedal assist), and you can even use it as a motorbike, with the throttle feature.
Many electric bikes let you use all three modes, and that is what we are here to talk about today!
Adding a throttle is always an option for most e-bikes, depending on the type of motor. The throttle mode is very similar to how a motorcycle or scooter with gear operates.
When the throttle is engaged and working, the motor provides power and propels the bike forward. On the other hand, pedal-assist, also referred to as pedelec, is a mode that provides power only when you are pedaling.
In this article, you will learn a bit about throttle and pedal-assist bikes. So, let us dive right in.
What Is A Throttle Assist On An E-Bike?
The throttle assist mode on an electric bike is similar to the throttle on a scooter or a motorbike.
When you engage the throttle, you turn on the motor. The engine then propels the bike forward.
It does not require any pedaling or physical effort. The user can kick back and relax, enjoying the ride. You can adjust the throttle like a volume dial between low and full power. Adjusting the throttle will increase or decrease the speed of the e-bike.
A few bikes with this feature are:
- eFlow E3 Electric Bike
- Prodeco Electric Bike
- OHM Electric Bike
What Is A Pedal Assist On An E-Bike?
The pedal assist mode is also known as the pedelec assist mode. As long as you are pedaling, the motor receives power in this mode. If you have used a traditional bicycle, you can relate to this mode.
An electric bike with pedal assist lets the user focus only on pedaling. The rider does not have to hold the throttle. There are mainly three types of pedal assists: low, medium, and high.
Electric bikes with low assist give low power to the motor. They are useful if all you want is a break between your workout.
Bikes with medium assist create a nice balance between pedaling and power. High assist bikes provide high power output with minimal pedaling. They are more suitable for traveling and exploring.
If you are elderly, then you also will like the high assist mode.
A few bikes with this feature are:
- Easy Motion Electric Bike.
- Pedego City Electric Bike.
What Is The Difference Between A Pedal Assist And Throttle Assist?
A throttle assist bike is for people who like to travel, cruise, and explore. These bikes carry out a great job of traveling from one point to another. They do not exert strain on the rider. People who feel comfortable using a motorbike or scooter can relate well. A throttle-assist electric bike is very similar to them.
A pedal-assist bike is mainly for people who like to workout. The pedal assist can give a gentle break in between your cycling. You can also use this mode for traveling or during a commute.
People who regularly use a traditional bicycle find this mode easier to adapt.
Are Throttle And Pedal Assist Bikes Legal In America?
Not all 50 states in America have a standard classification, but most places in the US have one. You can divide these bikes into
three classes (for bikes with a motor under 750 watts of power).
- Class 1 electric bike is an electric bike with pedal assist. These pedals do not assist the cycle with over 20 miles per hour.
- Class 2 electric bike is similar to a class 1 bike with throttle assist instead of a pedal-assist as the main difference.
- Class 3 electric bikes can assist up to 28 miles per hour.
In most states, the maximum speed for an electric bike is 20 MPH, due to which class 1 and class 2 e-bikes are most popular in the states and hence legal.
Why Would You Use An E-Bike Over A Regular Bike?
It would be best if you started using an electric bike over a regular cycle as it has plenty of advantages and features such as
- Faster Traveling
- Easily Climbs Inclines
- Safer
- Less Fatigue
- Easy on the joints
Buyers Guide For Electric Throttle Or Pedal Assist Bikes
If you want to buy an E-Bike with throttle and pedal-assist, there are some essential features you must keep in mind while purchasing them.
Assist Mode
There are two types of assist mode in an e-bike; they are the throttle assist or pedal assist. A throttle assist bike is for a more leisurely ride, whereas a pedal bike is for fitness purposes. The assist mode’s main objective is to give the users a comfortable ride and travel from one place to another.
Battery Type
Lithium-ion batteries are the best batteries available in the market even though they are a bit more costly than their competitors. These batteries are available in 90% of electric bikes in the market by default. It would be best if you opted for bikes with this battery as they are more durable and long-lasting.
Battery Life
Different types of batteries can last longer or shorter, depending on their components and composition.
A lithium-ion battery lasts for about 1000 charge cycles.
In contrast, the nickel batteries have a much lower battery life, up to 500 charge cycles.
Lead batteries are even lower than this at about 300 charge cycles.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does an electric bike last?
The longevity of an electric bike depends upon the model and type of assist in your motorcycle. A bike with pedal assist can last between somewhere 10,000-30,000 miles on combining both the pedal assist and electric power.
Do I require a license to ride an e-bike?
No, a license is not necessary for riding an electric bike with a motor size of 750 watts or less. Bikes that remain under the speed of 20 miles per hour without pedaling do not require a license in most states in America.
Final Thoughts
Electric Bikes are the future of transportation because of their high comfort and eco-friendly aspects. Whether an e-bike has a throttle assist or pedal assist, both can give you excellent mobility.
The choice depends upon the buyer as to which mode they prefer. These bikes are becoming increasingly more popular as people are beginning to see their benefits. They are low noise, low maintenance, and low fuss. They help conserve the environment, have a longer life, and efficiently cater to most users’ needs.
References:
[1] Forget electric cars — e-bikes will be the top-selling EV in the next decade – The Verge
