Yes, an e-Bike can be ridden like a regular bike. You can turn off the motor or pedal assist and pedal manually. Or you may run out of charge at some point. Remember that the added weight of the motor and battery might make it slightly harder to ride, especially on inclines.
E-Bikes vs. Traditional Bicycles: What’s the Difference?
Written by: Rémy Rossi | December 9, 2024 | Time to read 6 min
You’ve got your traditional two-wheeler and you’ve got its boosted big brother. Find out what is an e-Bike and what makes it different from a standard bicycle.
More about the Author: Remy Rossi
Rémy Rossi is a bike writer, mechanic, and educator who got his start in community-based bike shops and co-ops. With a decade in the industry, he still wrenches on bikes when he can and plays bike polo on a fixie.
Bikes are booming and there’s more ways to ride than ever before. The main split is between the traditional bikes we’re used to and those way-cool electric bikes that everyone has been talking about. But what’s the big deal and what’s the actual differences between pedal-assist bikes and standard bicycles?
What is an electric bike?
An e-Bike uses a motor and battery to assist the rider in moving forward. Also called pedal-assist bikes or “pedelecs”, these electric bikes provide a boost so it’s easier to climb hills and go faster with less effort. E-Bikes have been getting so good that some sleek models disguise themselves surprisingly well, requiring a closer look to really tell the difference.
But under the surface, all electric bikes require these additional parts that you won’t find on a traditional bike:
- Motor: Either a hub motor or “mid-drive” motor, it adds extra power to propel the bike forward.
- Sensor: This sensor detects how fast (cadence) or how hard (torque) you are pedaling to engage the motor and adjust power delivery, resulting in smooth acceleration and pedal assist.
- Battery: The most expensive single part of an e-Bike, the battery is typically housed inside the frame or externally mounted. Battery sizes range from 250Wh (watt-hours) to over 900Wh.
- Controls: Handlebar controls allow you to turn on the e-Bike, toggle through pedal assist levels, engage the throttle, and control lights.
- Display: Many e-Bikes have a digital display to easily monitor speed, battery health, power output, and more.
- Extra parts: You can expect additional parts like integrated lights powered by the battery and stronger brakes to withstand an e-Bike’s extra weight and speed.
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What are e-Bike classes?
Electric bikes are divided into three classes based on the type of motor assistance and top speed.
How an e-Bike is different from a regular Bike
Ride experience
Riding an electric bike with a motor helping you along is going to feel different, and that difference is going to feel good. Big hills that previously required an intense effort are now going to be a lot easier and you can maintain a faster pace, too. Pedaling the bike will be similar to what you’re used to, only you’ll have the sensation that there’s a tailwind or you’re suddenly way stronger. Being a superhero for a while isn’t too shabby— give it a try sometime.
Speed
Electric bikes let you ride at a faster speed for longer, meaning you can reduce your commute time or keep up with cars in traffic. Riders can adjust their speed by toggling through the pedal assist levels or adjusting the throttle if the bike has one. Class 1 and Class 2 electric bikes max out at 20 mph while Class 3 e-Bikes can reach 28 mph.
Weight
E-Bikes are significantly heavier than their non-motorized counterparts, and there’s no way around it. The motor, battery, and reinforced frame add most of the added weight with complete bikes weighing anywhere between 40 to 60 lbs (some e-Bike beasts weigh even more!). There’s a growing class of lightweight e-Bikes, especially among electric mountain bikes, for riders who want more natural-feeling handling on the trails.
The added weight, however, isn’t a problem since the motor will do the heavy lifting as you pedal along. You will need to be mindful of the weight if you need to lift or transport your e-Bike often. For example, many e-Bikes are too heavy for standard car bike racks, so you’ll need to purchase an e-Bike-specific rack.
The added weight, however, isn’t a problem since the motor will do the heavy lifting as you pedal along. You will need to be mindful of the weight if you need to lift or transport your e-Bike often. For example, many e-Bikes are too heavy for standard car bike racks, so you’ll need to purchase an e-Bike-specific rack.
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Battery and range
The e-Bike battery lets you ride farther than ever. It’s a large and heavy component on the bike, typically housed inside the downtube or mounted somewhere along the frame. E-Bikes vary in battery capacity and factors like rider weight, riding conditionals, and assist level will affect the range you get. There are removable and non-removable batteries and long-range e-Bikes for riders who need extra juice for extended journeys.
Cost
If you’re used to the prices of standard bicycles, e-Bikes may cause some sticker shock. There are cutting-edge, pro-level models that cost more than $10,000 but there are also plenty of more affordable electric bikes for us normies. New electric bikes can run anywhere from $1,500 to $6,000+ for the more premium models. But I’ll let you in on a little secret—buying used from an e-Bike specialist like Upway is a trusted way to get a high-quality bike at a huge discount.
Regulations and trail limits
E-Bikes’ extra speed means they’re not always allowed. For example, heavily trafficked bike paths and technical mountain bike trails may prohibit faster Class 3 e-Bikes. Do your research to find out the regulations in your local area to ensure you’re abiding by the rules. Most trail systems and city governments have made this information easily accessible so you’re only a quick Google search away.
When are electric bikes useful?
Riding a motorized bike is always fun, and it can be especially convenient in certain circumstances:
- Commuting: Arrive at work sweat-free and reduce your commute time
- Limited mobility: If your pedal power isn’t what it used to be or you’re recovering from an injury, e-Biking helps you get back on two wheels
- Keep up with stronger riders: Enjoy riding together and adjust assistance accordingly
- Carrying cargo & passengers: Carry groceries, transport kids, or haul gear with ease thanks to the motor
- Flatten hills: Got big hills that keep you from riding? E-Bikes will get you over the hump
Key Takeaways
- Boosted Rides: E-bikes use a motor and battery to make hills, long rides, and heavy loads easier, offering a faster and more comfortable experience.
- Heavier but Worth It: While e-bikes are heavier than traditional bikes, the motor compensates during rides—just plan for specialized transport solutions.
- Higher Costs, Big Savings: E-bikes cost more upfront but buying pre-owned models from places like Upway can save up to 60%.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you use an e-Bike as a normal bike?
How do electric bikes work?
Electric bikes, or e-Bikes, work by combining traditional pedaling with motorized assistance. There’s a sensor that detects that you are pedaling and a battery that provides the energy. You select the amount of assistance you want via controls on the handlebars.
