Key Takeaways:
- Electric bikes generally feature a robust pedal-assist feature known as Pedelec or EPAC.
- Pedal-assist can be set to offer a wide range of assistance to suit the needs of different consumers.
- Some bikes come with a throttle feature, which allows riders to access the motor without exerting manual control.
One of the most mysterious aspects of many top-tier, electric bikes is the pedal system. Before actually sitting down on an eBike, you may be wondering just how it works and just how much effort it takes to use.
How Much Effort Does an eBike Take?
Generally speaking, an electric bike can take as much effort as you like. Some bikes even feature motors that can be accessed via throttle, turning them into more of a scooter or a motorcycle than a traditional bicycle.
Tip: Generally speaking, an electric bike can take as much effort as you like
Learn How Pedals Affect eBikes
The pedals included with an electric bike are provided thrust from the motor, in addition to allowing manual operation. This feature comes down to something called Pedelec or EPAC (Electronically Power Assisted Cycles). Here are some of the benefits of a Pedelec-enabled eBike system.
Multiple Power Modes
One of the most unique aspects of an electric bike when it comes to pedaling is the amount of variety on offer in how various eBikes actually work. Modern electric bikes allow you to set your own pace and most feature a number of different settings. In other words, you can set the bike for full manual control, if you want a workout, or you can set the motor to take on a certain percentage of the overall power load. This can be particularly useful after a long day when you just want to relax and look at the scenery ride by as you barely pedal. As a warning, not all electric bikes feature a motor that allows for throttle-only use.
Tip: Modern electric bikes allow you to set your own pace and most feature a number of different settings
Warning: As a warning, not all electric bikes feature a motor that allows for throttle-only use
Handling Steep Inclines
Another key benefit to Pedelec and EPAC-enabled eBikes is how they handle steep inclines. Modern electric bikes can be set so the motor only keeps in while attempting to climbing up a hill, a mountainous path, or another type of incline. This can significantly simplify the climbing process, allowing eBike riders to easily complete errands or travel throughout the great outdoors. If you are taking your electric bike out in the wild, be sure that it is equipped with some high-grade brakes, for the decline.
Tip: Modern electric bikes can be set so the motor only keeps in while attempting to climbing up a hill, a mountainous path, or another type of incline
Warning: If you are taking your electric bike out in the wild, be sure that it is equipped with some high-grade brakes, for the decline
Throttle
Some electric bikes are equipped with both pedal-assist and a throttle mode. What’s the difference? Throttle allows you to ride the bicycle without using any manual power at all, just like an electric scooter, a motorcycle, or another form of personal transportation. Be aware that the maximum speed when throttling can be anywhere from 20 to 28 miles per hour.
- Related Post: eBikes Explained: What is an Electric Bike?
- Related Post: Electric Bike Buying Guide
STAT:
Most e-bike batteries sold in North America are lithium-ion, which will provide a minimum of 500 full charge cycles at which point the battery will hold about 80% of its original capacity. (Source)
Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pedelec
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electric_bicycle
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2212827115004813
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0195925515000165
*https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4b7styxMIh4
