Electric Bike vs. Motorized Bike: Which is Best?
Written by: Rémy Rossi | December 12, 2024 | Time to read 3 min
Wait, there’s a difference between electric bikes and motorized bikes? Technically yes, and it’s an important one— stick around and I’ll explain which is best.
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.
You probably already know what an electric bike is. But do you know what an e-Bike isn’t? A motorized bike can seem very similar to an electric bike but it actually refers to something else with different legal standing in terms of where you can and can’t ride it.
Of course, e-Bikes are technically “motorized” as well, but there are a few more crucial features to seal the deal. Get ready to put on your bike nerd glasses and tease apart the differences between motorized and electric bikes— it’s an important distinction that can help you avoid breaking the rules. I’ll also explain what is an electric bike and which bike type is best for you.
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What is an electric bike?
An electric bike provides assistance via an electric motor and battery. E-Bikes have to have operable pedals and can’t exceed certain power and speed thresholds, typically 750W and 28 mph according to federal guidelines. E-Bikes are divided into three classes based on the type of motor assistance and top speed.
Nearly all states have adopted the three-class e-Bike system by now. This way, there’s a clear understanding of electric bikes under the law and where each class can be legally ridden.
What is a motorized bike?
A motorized bike is any bicycle-type vehicle with a motor. Typically, we refer to something as a motorized bike if it falls outside of the parameters set by the three-class e-Bike system. This could be because they are gas-powered, don’t have operable pedals, or have more than 1000W of power. Light mopeds are very similar to motorized bikes, for example.
E-Bikes could be considered motorized bikes, but they have their own narrower legal definition. If something is an e-Bike, we call it an e-Bike and if it isn’t, we call it a motorized bike. Some states even categorize motorized bicycles as mopeds or motorcycles depending on the capacity of the engine. This classification often comes with insurance, license, and registration requirements to legally operate a motorized bike.
Riders may prefer motorized bikes if they want to reach faster speeds or have more power. Gas-powered bikes or mopeds can be more suitable for riding in traffic and keeping up with cars, although low speed limits in the city essentially level the playing field for e-Bikes and other vehicles.
The differences between an e-Bike and a motorized bike/moped
Operable pedals: Electric bikes will always have pedals. All e-Bikes have pedal assist and some models also include a throttle mode. Most motorized bikes or mopeds don’t have pedals.
Additional paperwork and permissions: You’ll probably have to have a license or register your motorized bike to ride it legally. In nearly every state, riding an e-Bike doesn’t require insurance, a license, or registration.
Riding restrictions: E-Bikes are allowed to ride on bike paths, trails, and the road. Some mountain bike trails limit access to lower-powered Class 1 models. Motorized bikes are typically only allowed on the road.
Top speed: The fastest e-Bikes max out at 28 mph. If the bike goes faster than that or has a motor larger than 750W, it’s likely classified as a motorized bike.
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Advantages of electric bikes
Staying active: Pedaling with a boost is still an excellent form of physical exercise. E-Bikes are great for riders with limited mobility or those who want to keep up with stronger riders or flatten hills along their route.
Affordable: E-Bikes are typically less expensive than high-powered motorized bikes and mopeds. Riding an urban e-Bike is a cost-effective way to commute to work or replace car trips. There are also many state-level e-Bike vouchers that lower the cost.
Eco-friendly transportation: E-Bike motors are highly efficient and don’t produce emissions. Their carbon footprint is much lower than motorcycles and gas-powered or electric cars.
Affordable: E-Bikes are typically less expensive than high-powered motorized bikes and mopeds. Riding an urban e-Bike is a cost-effective way to commute to work or replace car trips. There are also many state-level e-Bike vouchers that lower the cost.
Eco-friendly transportation: E-Bike motors are highly efficient and don’t produce emissions. Their carbon footprint is much lower than motorcycles and gas-powered or electric cars.
Freedom to ride: You can ride virtually anywhere on an e-Bike, including the bike path, local trail, and normal roads. Just don’t ride on the sidewalk.
No license needed: A big benefit is that riding an e-Bike doesn’t require a license, registration, or insurance. These are pesky paperwork hurdles with costs that can add up over time.
Key Takeaways
Legal Differences Matter: Electric bikes (e-Bikes) have pedals, specific power limits (750W), and don’t require a license or registration. Motorized bikes often exceed these thresholds and may require additional permissions to operate.
Riding Versatility: e-Bikes are allowed on bike paths, trails, and roads, making them more flexible for various terrains. Motorized bikes are generally limited to roads.
Affordable & Eco-Friendly: e-Bikes offer an affordable and emission-free way to commute or enjoy outdoor activities, often with financial incentives available.
