Photo by Julian Hochgesang on Unsplash
You’ll need to understand the difference between pedal assist and throttle e-bikes before buying one. The more you know, the easier it is to determine which is right for you. They both have their pros and cons, so one will suit you more than the other.
We broke down all of the differences between these two kinds of e-bikes. Everything you need to know is below, so keep reading.
Pedal Assist E-Bikes
Let’s start with pedal-assist e-bikes. These are likely what you think of first when you hear “e-bike” because they’ve exploded in popularity over the last few years. They assist cyclists, allowing them to get a good workout without overworking them.
Let’s break down these pedal-assist e-bikes even further.
Different Levels of Assistance
Pedal-assist e-bikes come with varying levels of assistance. You can choose exactly how much you want from the motor. The higher the assistance, the less you need to pedal to build up speed. It’s useful for traveling long distances and going up slopes.
Choosing the amount of help you get from the motor makes it easier to build endurance. You start with more assistance and lower it over time. Doing so is a great way to build muscle.
Overall, you can choose the assistance level. That way, you can still get a solid workout daily without over-exerting yourself. You can tailor the pedal assist function to your needs.
Long Battery Range
Since these e-bikes also make you pedal, they don’t drain the battery as quickly as full-throttle models. The less help you receive from the motor, the longer you can make the battery last.
You can benefit from this feature if you want to travel as far as possible during your cycling adventures. Many e-bike models also make swapping out the batteries on the go simple. You can bring a spare, allowing you to travel even further.
Many e-bike models come with regenerative braking. This feature allows the bike to reuse some of its power when you brake, increasing the battery’s long range. It makes the battery system much more efficient.
They’re Reliable Fitness Tools
If you’re trying to reach a fitness goal, these bikes are the better choice. Even though they use a motor, they still require you to pedal. Many people use pedal assistance to help them build strength and endurance over time.
Plus, many cyclists use them daily. They’re excellent for running short errands, so you’ll get on the e-bike more often than you think.
Throttle E-Bikes
An electric bike with throttle is a little different. These e-bikes have strong motors, so you won’t have to pedal. They’re a better choice if you use them for commuting only and don’t want any fitness benefits from the bike.
Here’s what you need to know about throttle e-bikes.
Higher Speeds and Power
Throttle e-bikes come with a powerful motor, allowing you to travel faster than on a pedal-assist bike. You can reach these high speeds without having to pedal at all. The throttle e-bike also builds speed incredibly quickly.
These e-bikes also include a variable speed setting. You can choose the exact speed that you want to travel. Many people compare them to motorcycles or mopeds because of this feature.
However, since they rely heavily on the motor, these e-bikes don’t have a long-lasting battery range. They can drain quickly, especially if you’re moving at fast speeds.
Great for Towing Cargo
Next, these e-bike’s powerful motors are amazing for towing cargo. You can use the storage space on the back, attach a cart, or use the front basket to carry stuff. Since they come with a higher weight limit and have more power, they’re better at moving a lot of cargo at once.
So, they’re the better choice if you need to move heavier cargo. Many people prefer them for these tasks because they can get up to speed quickly.
They’re More Accessible
More people can use full-throttle e-bikes because they don’t need to pedal. They’re a great transportation option for someone with mobility limitations. They also work well for seniors who want to get back into cycling.
There’s no need for pedaling, so it’s more adaptable to a wide range of people.
Legal Restrictions
It’s worth mentioning that full-throttle e-bikes aren’t legal in every State. You’ll need to ensure that you follow the law where you live.
That said, pedal-assist e-bikes are considered to be standard bikes in the eyes of the law, so they’re allowed everywhere.
Which E-Bike Type is Better for Me?
Photo by Tower Electric Bikes on Unsplash
Now that you know the difference between pedal-assist and full-throttle e-bikes, you’ll want to choose the one that’s best for you.
First, consider your preference for physical activity. How much effort do you want to put in to pedal the e-bike? Pedal-assist bikes require more physical activity and can help you build up strength. Full-throttle e-bikes will require less effort from you to make the bike move.
Next, think about where you plan on riding the bike the most. If you’re riding in hilly areas more frequently, you could benefit from the stronger motor in the full-throttle e-bike.
Lastly, consider your commuting needs. If you want to use the e-bike daily, a full-throttle option might be the better choice. It’s perfect for commuting to work because you won’t get as sweaty. However, a pedal-assist bike would be better if you’re taking it on short trips to run errands.
Taking your top choices for a test run will help you determine which you like more. You’ll want to pay close attention to how the e-bikes accelerate and brake. Plus, consider the range of the battery.
Overall, your preferences matter when choosing what type of e-bike is better for you.
Start Cycling With an E-Bike Today
You can’t go wrong with an e-bike, no matter what type you choose. Pedal-assist and throttle e-bikes both have advantages that you can use. You’ll get outside and spend more time riding your bike in the fresh air either way.
So, start cycling with an e-bike today!
