What is an electric bike? Here's what you need to know.
What is an electric bike? Here's what you need to know.
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Im an avid cyclist, pedaling on average 200 to 250 miles per week in commutes and weekend group rides with my friends. I live in New York City where e-bikes, e-scooters, e-skateboards, mopeds and those weird hoverboards all fight for space in the bike lanes with traditional pedal bicycles. On most days, I wasnt a huge fan of electric bikes. Until, that is, I rode a Cannondale e-MTB bike on a media trip. Finally, I understood the appeal.
The bike industry very much understands the appeal already, of course. Hanging out at the Specialized store in Long Island City one afternoon, I had a conversation with friend and store manager Sam Behrens. As far as the bike industry is concerned, electric bikes are the future, he told me.
If youre new to the whole e-bike revolution and wonder what qualifies as an e-bike and what doesnt, how to choose one for yourself and how to ride and maintain one, this guide offers a great starting point. What is an eclectic bike? Lets find out.
In a nutshell
- Electric bikes come in a range of styles, including gravel bikes, mountain bikes and road bikes, as well as types for varied terrain, purposes and riders. These bikes use a battery and motor to provide power assistance, especially for climbing hills or traveling long distances, making cycling more accessible and enjoyable without compromising its core experience, as Mei-ling Wong, head of communications at Velotric, puts it.
- Electric bikes offer an eco-friendly alternative to fossil fuel-dependent vehicles, reducing carbon footprint and urban noise pollution.
- Riding, choosing and maintaining an e-bike is similar to a traditional bike except, of course, for the battery, which does require special considerations.
What is an electric bike?
E-bikes seamlessly blend traditional cycling with the convenience of electric power assistance, creating a unique and enhanced riding experience, Wong says. They enhance traditional cycling by blending the familiar experience of pedaling with the powerful boost of an electric motor. Electric bikes, also called e-bikes, function much like regular bikes, with two pedals that turn two wheels, but they also feature a battery and motor that work in tandem with the drivetrain.
E-bike motors complement your pedaling effort through a mode known as pedal assist, which provides an additional boost of power that helps you propel the bicycle forward. Most electric bikes offer various levels of pedal assist, which riders can adjust via a lever or dial on the handlebars or through a companion app. (Please dont use your companion app while pedaling, though!) Some e-bikes have a throttle, which enables them to deliver additional assistance even when not pedaling.
Electric bikes can be used for commuting to work, embarking on fitness and wellness journeys or venturing into the great outdoors. If youre planning to use your electric bike or electric scooter, if thats more your jam for running errands, remember to also invest in quality bike locks to protect it from potential thieves.
Types of electric bikes
Classes
E-bikes come in a range of shapes and sizes with varying levels of power and speed. Mark Vanek, one of the e-bike product managers at Cannondale Bikes, says a classification system was developed to offer guidance on where you can ride e-bikes.
While each state creates their own regulations, the majority currently 41 use the same classification system.
Class 1 e-bikes
Class 1 e-bikes have a motor that only provides assistance when the rider is pedaling and only up to 20 mph. While the bike can go faster than 20 mph, Vanek explains, above that speed, the motor will no longer engage.
Class 2 e-bikes
Class 2 e-bikes add the ability for the motor to propel the rider by pedaling or by throttle up to 20 mph. These are the kind of bikes that many food delivery workers use in New York City, where I live.
Class 3 e-bikes
Class 3 e-bikes have a motor that only provides assistance when the rider is pedaling and up to 28 mph.
Beyond class, electric bikes come in all the same types as traditional bikes: upright commuter-style models for transporting things and running errands, cargo bikes, hybrid bikes with flat handlebars, road bikes with drop bars, mountain (MTB) bikes with and without suspension, gravel bikes and everything in between.
Motors and batteries
Another way to separate electric bikes is into two general categories: pedal-assist or throttle-driven. With pedal-assist models, if youre not pedaling, the motor doesnt engage. On throttle-driven bikes, a throttle button on the handlebars activates the motor, explains Stuart Sundell-Norlin, an expert in all things bikes at Christy Sports. Many of these models also offer a pedal-assist mode.
There are two main types of motors: hub-drive or mid-drive. Commuter and cargo style bikes typically feature hub-drive motors, Sundell-Norlin says. This means the motor sits in the rear wheel hub and these bikes usually cost less. Mid-drive motors, on the other hand, are usually installed around the bottom bracket of the bike and, he says, offer more balanced weight distribution and sleeker integration. These types of motors, common on e-MTBs and electric road bikes, usually equal a higher price tag.
Brand-wise, Yamaha and Bosch are widely considered the market leaders, says Adam Cross, customer care manager at Paul's Cycles, with Shimanos system also a very reliable option.
How electric bikes work
E-bikes function by incorporating a battery and motor with the drivetrain of a bike to add power to your pedaling efforts, explains Vanek. Some models also feature a throttle that can be used exclusively to propel the bike forward. The majority of electric bikes, no matter the type or style, have different levels of assist, or power, that riders can select to help boost pedaling effort. These levels are usually accessible via a control screen on the handlebars or through a companion app.
There are two general ways of how the power engages and interacts with riders, depending on whether the bike has a torque sensor or if it just relies on cadence. With cadence, which you find on more value-based e-bikes, when you pedal, you get assistance up to the max speed limit of the motor, says Connor Swegle, CMO and co-founder at Priority Bicycles. In contrast, torque sensors match your effort, meaning the harder you pedal, the more support you get.
Benefits of using an electric bike
While some might consider an e-bike cheating, this is not the case. Electric bikes can help you reach new trails, distant cafes or climb summits that you would never have been able to before, says Pete Mckendrick, a Bosch-certified e-bike mechanic at Paul's Cycles. Using a pedal-assist e-bike means you still have to put effort in to get there, though.
There are also a growing number of cycling events and professional competitors within e-bike categories. That said, you dont have to race to benefit from an e-bike. Everyone can benefit from an e-bike, but theyre wonderful for recreational cyclists who want to do more cycling, whether thats for pleasure on the weekend or leaving the car behind on the daily commute, says Mckendrick.
An e-bike can also be a great solution for people recovering from injury or those with a health condition, though make sure to consult your medical professional if this is you. With one of the groups I cycle with, a couple people use electric road bikes, which allow them to keep up without struggling.
An e-bike is a great enabler, says Mckendrick. They give you the confidence to ride a bit further or more often, when before you might be concerned about getting home or managing that really steep hill.
How to choose the right bike for you
When it comes to choosing the right e-bike for you, your primary consideration should be the type of terrain and riding youre likely to do, Mckendrick says. For instance, if you intend to ride off-road, then consider an e-MTB. But if you just want to be able to ride to the store or commute to work through town, an e-hybrid will likely be more efficient.
When commuting, reliability and weight-bearing capabilities so you can carry things are important, as well as fenders, mudguards and panniers. Cross recommends looking at electric hybrid bike options first in this scenario. If you want to do some long-distance riding at a faster pace, an electric road or gravel bike will likely be best.
Like their conventional road bike counterparts, electric road bikes feature drop-down handlebars, narrow tires and a more aggressive, aerodynamic riding position than other bikes, Mckendrick says.
Sundell-Norlin agrees that you should consider your use needs before buying an e-bike. If you're looking for a bike to provide commuter utility, you can forgo those with suspension suited to off-road performance, instead prioritizing additional storage like panniers, racks or even additional passenger options.
Conversely, he suggests opting for something with MTB geometry, more aggressive tires and suspension if you want to ride single track. Or, if you've got a wide range of uses in mind ranging from daily chores to light trails, plenty of great eMTB hardtails, which dont have rear suspension, can work double duty.
Generally, full suspension e-bikes will have very torque-y motors for maximum acceleration and responsiveness, says Mckendrick, whereas an e-hybrid will provide a more gradual assistance for smooth riding through urban environments. These more torque-y motors react more quickly and accelerate faster.
Battery
For long distances, look for e-bikes with a 625- or 750-watt-hour battery. They provide ample power for epic adventures but they cost more. If you intend to just ride short distances to work, then dont be put off by a smaller battery, Mckendrick says, as it will still provide plenty of range, just at a more affordable price. Think of your battery watt-hours like your gas tank. A 700- watt-hour battery will have more 'juice' than a 500-watt-hour battery, says Sundell-Norlin. While power is subject to motor pairing, generally a larger watt-hour (Wh) battery has more range.
Youll also want to consider battery voltage, which determines how much power is sent to the motor. Most e-bikes vary from 36V (volts) up to 52V (volts). A higher-wattage battery lends to a little 'giddy up,' Sundell-Norlin says, but many models offer in-app tuning to dial personal preferences.
As an e-bike specialist retailer and mechanic, Mckendrick and his colleagues at Pauls Cycles are familiar with most leading motor and battery manufacturers. Some of the most reliable motor components are made by Bosch, he says, which is why he always encourages someone considering an e-bike to do their research on the motor components.
Commuting bikes
For commuting, running errands or enjoying an active weekend with friends, Vanek recommends a city or urban e-bike, or whats sometimes called a trekking bike. City and urban bikes are like an automobile sedan in that they offer a comfortable, smooth ride with smart features that accommodate carrying your daily items, he says. Trekking bikes, meanwhile, are like SUVs because they offer all the benefits of practicality with an extra element of durability and confidence for rough roads, dirt paths or country roads and trails on weekend getaways.
New e-bike riders often gravitate toward a relaxed riding position, durable components and the ability to carry items. The good news is there are a plethora of bikes for all different experiences at varying price levels.
Cannondales Adventure Neo and Mavaro line of city and urban bikes feature a relaxed, upright riding position and convenient low-step frame designed for easy use when riders are carrying cargo on the rear rack. Mavaro models also feature simplified drivetrains that consist of a rubber belt and internal gear system, which makes for an exceptionally quiet and fuss-free riding experience, says Vanek.
The Tesoro Neo X and Adventure Neo Allroad models offer the same relaxed riding position while adding some versatility with the addition of rugged all-terrain tires. Plus, The Adventure Neo Allroad sports a thumb-operated throttle and, on select models, a USB port.
Mountain bikes
Cannondale also makes a range of electric mountain bikes which, Vanek says, help tame steep climbs and allow riders to explore more areas. As a high-performance brand we create e-MTBs with front and rear suspension to maximize traction and control, along with advanced frame designs for low weight and agility. The new Moterra SL line, which includes the e-MTB I tested, pairs ultra-light carbon fiber construction with a high-capacity battery and motor system that allow riders to climb extended terrain without fear of losing battery power.
Important things to keep in mind
Range varies with rider weight, usage habits and terrain. A fully loaded bike with groceries will certainly have less range than its empty counterpart, Sundell-Norlin says. After youve purchased your new e-bike, give yourself a few rides to get acquainted, he suggests, before you start pushing the range limit.
In addition, neither pedal assist nor throttle is better or worse, but they are very different. Pedal assist requires more user input and effort, while a bike with a throttle means you can cruise without pedaling at all.
Motor and battery pairing also matters. A 750-watt motor with 48-volt battery could feel like higher output than a 1,000-watt motor with a 36-volt battery, says Sundell-Norlin.
And finally, fit is incredibly important. Stop into your local bike shop to get the right fit out of the gate. Most shops, like Christy Sports and my local shops, allow test rides, which are a great way to know whether you feel comfortable on a bike. Your local bike shop can also get you fitted with different parts and touchpoints to get the most out of your new steed, says Sundell-Norlin.
Speaking of your local e-bike shop, plan a visit to see the range of styles and options available. Some models come in different frame shapes and styles, such as the aforementioned step-through or trapeze style that makes getting on and off the bike much easier. There are also great folding e-bikes and compact e-bikes with novel features like folding pedals and quick-release handlebar stems, that make storing them in small spaces much easier.
How to maintain an electric bike
Both Mckendrick and Cross recommend bringing an electric bike in for service periodically, as well as making sure to keep it clean. Regular maintenance will help prolong the life of the components.
Because there are more moving parts on an e-bike, there is more to take care of, says Swegle. In addition to battery care and general cleanliness, keep air in your tires and make sure that all of your electric components are in good working order.
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Battery
Batteries should be looked after just as you would any other battery, adds Mckendrick. This means, do not leave them in direct sunlight and be careful not to drop them when removing them from the bike. You do not, however, need to drain the battery before recharging. In general, neglecting your bike is not a good idea, he says, but with the added boost of electricity, keeping a watchful eye is best. If you havent ridden your bike for a while, its a good idea to get it checked by a mechanic.
Bryan Maizlish, interim president and CEO at Hi Power Cycles Defense, recommends riders keep batteries charged, but not fully charged during periods of inactivity between 30% to 85%. This helps prolong their lifespan and avoid capacity loss. Storing a fully charged battery for long periods of time makes it more likely to degrade.
In addition, battery cells will deteriorate over time. It is inevitable that your e-bike battery will eventually need replacing, says Cross. Battery life spans range from 10,000 to 30,000 miles.
At Paul's Cycles, they recommend removing the e-bike battery and storing it separately, ideally at room temperature and especially during longer periods without use. For example, if you store your e-bike in the garage over winter with limited use, wed recommend keeping your battery indoors, he says. Low temperatures can cause the battery to deteriorate and damage the lithium-ion cells.
Chain
Regularly clean and lubricate your e-bikes chain and other moving components, including the crankset, derailleur and chain rings, which prolongs their lifespan. Im extremely bad about cleaning my bikes and my bike mechanic routinely chides me for not staying on top of it. Dont be like me! Your bike mechanic and wallet will thank you.
Riding often on the beach or rugged off-road terrain will dictate the frequency and effort needed to lubricate and clean your bike. As an NYC commuter, I will say that city streets during or after a rainstorm result in a similar state of dirt and debris as some trails do, sometimes more, especially if it's winter and the salt trucks have been out. Varying weather conditions, terrains and seasons can put stress on an e-bike, says Maizlish, all of which impacts its performance and longevity.
Brakes
Frequently inspect and test the brakes. If youve ever ridden a brakeless single-speed, you know that its possible to slow and stop a bike without brakes, but the weight of most electric bikes makes that something you really dont want to have to try and do. Examine the condition of the brake pads, brake levers, calipers, rotors and discs and pay attention to any unusual sounds. If your e-bike has hydraulic brakes, these require specific fluid levels to function properly and should be inspected often. When in doubt or if you hear a weird noise, visit a local bike shop that services electric bikes.
Tires
Ensure the tires are in good condition with plenty of tread and are inflated to the correct levels.
Maizlish advises a professional tune-up every 750 to 1,000 miles and major inspections or overhauls every 1,500 to 2,000 miles. These services can include general adjustments to brakes and/or shifters, replacement of components if needed, brake service or part/component replacement, tire and wheel servicing, motor and battery inspection and servicing, cleaning and disassembly and inspection and cleaning of the drivetrain cassettes, cranks, derailleurs, etc. If youre lucky enough to find a bike mechanic like mine, youll take your bike in for a minor brake adjustment and before you know it, hell have your entire bike apart with your cassette soaking in degreaser.
How to ride an electric bike
One of the most important things to remember before riding an e-bike for the first time is that e-bikes are generally heavier and move faster than regular bicycles. To get technical, Swegle explains, force equals mass times acceleration, so more mass and more acceleration means more force. Because of this, you need to be aware and exercise care for both yourself and those around you. Be cognizant of speeds when passing or riding alongside others, and be respectful of how you ride, he says.
Higher-end e-bikes have a smoother power delivery, which means youll find that they ride much more like traditional ones, but with the added boost of electricity to go faster and farther. There is a period of time as new riders acclimate that they feel as if they have superpowers, says Vanek. Behrens concurs, noting that, when you first get on an electric bike, your thought process is, When did I get so fast? I am so fast!
Most experts agree that when starting out with an e-bike, its best to get some miles under your legs by using the lower power settings, especially when accelerating from a stop or when performing slow speed maneuvers like a U-turn. And dont forget the basics! Be observant of the traffic around you, including cars and other riders, says Vanek. E-bikes can travel faster than regular bicycles, so car drivers and pedestrians may not realize how fast you are approaching them in an intersection.
What is the difference between an e-bike and an electric bike?
There is no difference between an e-bike and an electric bike. An e-bike is just an abbreviated name for an electric bike.
How much does an electric bicycle cost?
Electric bikes can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $14,000. Theres no shortage of price-point options, says Sundell-Norlin. Make sure you're getting a bike that suits your needs and, he suggests, don't be afraid to look at the next model up as you might get some great upgrades for a modest price increase.
Its also a good idea to check for any local or state programs that might promote e-bike purchases, such as with credits or rebates. Some states that currently have them include Colorado, Maine, Vermont and Washington.
In the $1,000 to $4,000 range, the higher priced bicycles offer a smoother ride and more durability and reliability over time, Swegle says. Electric bikes priced at more than $4,000 will come with more features like larger battery capacities, a higher-quality drivetrain, suspension systems and safety features such as a brake sensor that will automatically cut power to the motor when the brakes are applied. This last feature can help prevent accidents.
E-bikes are very much like cars or furniture you get what you pay for, says Vanek. Remember those wobbly shelves you bought off Facebook Marketplace in college that eventually fell apart when you moved? The same can be said when purchasing a low-quality e-bike.
Trusted brands and retailers make a huge difference in keeping your e-bike in tip-top shape. E-system components from reputable retailers mean that they've been manufactured with stringent quality standards that translate into an electric bike that will last for years and thousands of miles.
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Generally, e-bikes come in three different classes, a variety of styles to suit different uses and with different battery and motor capacities. Deciding which is best for you depends on your intended use. If possible, visit a local shop where youll likely be able to test ride different models and speak to a knowledgeable staff member for advice and recommendations based on your budget, desired features and type of riding you want to do. Ultimately, whichever e-bike you decide to purchase will enhance your cycling experience, allowing you to go farther, attempt more difficult climbs or just complete all your errands and commuting without being stuck in car traffic.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Do you still pedal on an electric bike?
This depends. Class 1 and 3 electric bikes only apply power when the rider pedals. Once you stop pedaling, the motor cuts out. By contrast, class 2 models or any bike with a throttle do not require the pedaling to move to produce power and movement. In addition, e-bikes have gears that can be adjusted based on how much resistance you desire, says Maizlish.
To start an electric bike, begin pedaling just as you would a non-motorized version. This engages the motor. By dialing up or dialing down the pedal- assist feature, you adjust the ease and speed. At initial higher pedal-assist levels, the motor will do most of the work, says Maizlish. Keep in mind, though, that this can make the bike handle differently, especially for those new to e-bikes.
If the e-bike possesses a throttle, once you begin pedaling, youll have the option to engage it. This can produce a burst of speed that might be unexpected if youre not used to it. In general, Maizlish says, e-bikes maintain a riders energy level for a longer duration, so youre able to travel further than on a non-motorized bike while exerting less energy to do so. Youll also be able to maintain a constant rate of speed.
Do I need a license to ride an electric bike?
Generally and currently no. There is, however, a new bill being proposed (Assembly bill ) in California that would ban children under the age of 12 from riding an e-bike and require those 12 and older to either possess a valid drivers license, or proof they passed an electric bicycle safety course in order to ride an electric bike in California. It would also require those who ride electric bicycles to carry valid photo identification, says Maizlish.
Each area has different rules for e-bikes contingent on local laws. More than anything, says Swegle, when riding a bigger bike with more power and speed, be respectful of riders around you. Or as my sage friend Behrens says, With great power comes great responsibility. E-bikes can carry a negative stigma, as can bicycles and cyclists in general. If possible, try to refrain from contributing to that negative stigma.
How fast can electric bikes go?
For pedal-assisted and throttle e-bikes, riders generally reach between 20 to 28 mph, says Maizlish. The pedal assist and throttle features will cease providing power above this range. However, you can exceed this range on your own while continuing to pedal without the motor, for as long and as fast as your legs allow.
Hi Power Cycles, where Maizlish works, sells an e-bike called the Revolution W, which features a mind-blowing 10,500 watts and can obtain speeds of up to 80 mph. Its only intended for off-road use on private ranches or on OHV (off-highway vehicle) land.
Remember that electric bikes are subject to local laws for speeds, says Swegle. For an everyday commuter, I find that 18 to 22 mph is more than enough. In the United States, e-bikes have a few tiers of regulations on the maximum pedal-assist speed. General guidelines are 20 mph for bikes on multi-use paths shared with pedestrians and 28 mph on dedicated bike paths and roadways.
Are there places e-bikes arent allowed?
Like speed limits, e-bike usage regulations vary from state to state, especially on off-road paths, says Vanek. For example, some regions restrict bikes with 28 mph limits (Class 3) only to roadways that are shared with motor traffic. Some areas only allow e-mountain bikes on designated forest roads, while others permit full access to narrow singletrack trails. Trails that prohibit e-bikes do so due to safety, speed and other peoples concerns, Maizlish says.
A great resource for users is a guide created by People for Bikes, a national cycling advocacy group that maintains an excellent online resource for bicycle laws and regulations for all U.S. states. They help take the guesswork out of knowing any limitations for riders in different regions by offering a comprehensive guide of laws from every state, including any license needs.
How far can I travel on a single charge?
According to Swegle, this is the most frequently-asked question when it comes to electric bikes. The short answer is that it varies for every bike, and depends on the motor and the battery. Watt hours of a battery line up to the output of the motor, he says, So, as a rule of thumb, a 500-watt motor will last one hour with a 500-watt-hour battery.
The weight of the bike, rider and cargo, as well as how much battery assist youre using affect the overall range, or how far and long you can go on a single charge. For instance, if you have five levels of assist and youre riding at level 5, your travel time will be less before you need to recharge than riding at 1 or 2.
Vanek explains it like this: The average person is about 4% to 6% of the average weight of a car, so the passengers, terrain and cargo have minimal impact on range. But when using an e-bike, that relationship is reversed, with the rider and cargo clocking in at up to 500% of the weight of the bike. Add in natural features like hills or headwind plus which level of assist youre using and a lot can change between a ride in the Rocky Mountains versus cruising along the beach, he says.
In general, electric bikes have a range somewhere between 25 and 75 miles. Many Cannondale bikes feature the ability to upgrade to a larger battery if you want. Their Cargowagen family e-bike comes equipped with two batteries for a longer range. We recommend riding at the lowest setting possible for comfort on your ride to maximize travel distance, Swegle says.
E-bike battery advice from a battery engineer - SomEV
Would you be the person taking the stairs or the escalator?
Ill be honest - barring the one-off day that Im feeling particularly sprightly, I would just hop on the escalator with those 30 people on the right. And I'm willing to guess that most of you would too.
What we can gauge from this picture is that most people would rather do as little work as possible to get from point A to point B. This is especially true when it comes to commuting on a bike. The picture above is analogous to the difference between a regular bike and an e-bike.
Even if we address all the concerns when it comes to biking in a city (like safe biking infrastructure), we cant expect to change fundamental human behavior - when given the option between less work or more work to achieve the same outcome, people will more likely choose to do less work.
Since getting my e-bike, I can comfortably bike from my home in Somerville to the Seaport district in Boston - a roughly 5-mile trip - in just about 20-minutes. All of a sudden, biking 5-miles is a piece of cake. I also dont have to spend time sitting in traffic, waiting for public transit, or worry about showing up to a meeting looking like I swam across the Charles river to get there.
The beauty of an e-bike is that it makes cycling an inclusive mode of transportation because it doesnt discriminate by age or physical ability.
When it comes to purchasing an e-bike though, there are a plethora of options for both the bike and battery. So how do you decide which one is best for your needs? As a battery engineer who has built hundreds of batteries and logged way too many hours soldering battery packs, here are my thoughts on the most commonly asked questions when it comes to e-bike batteries.
If you're new to battery terminology, you might want to start here: Battery terms that every e-bike owner should know.
In this post, well cover the following questions:
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