Electric Bike vs. Normal Bike: Pros & Cons

Written by: Rémy Rossi | January 10, 2024 | Time to read 5 min

Compared to standard bicycles, e-Bikes are more expensive, faster, and heavier. The powerful pedal assistance can flatten hills and increase your speed, all without breaking a sweat— but that higher price can break the bank (not on Upway though!). Your specific riding needs, preferences, and budget determine if an e-Bike is worth the extra cash.

• Pedal assist: Ride faster with less effort via different levels of pedal assistance. E-Bikes offer a natural-feeling boost that combines with your own pedal power.

• Flatten hills: E-Bikes make quick work of tough gradients so you don’t have to worry about that hill that always gets you out of breath. You know the one I’m talking about.

• Ride faster: Class 1 and Class 2 e-Bikes top out at 20 mph and Class 3 models assist up to 28 mph so you can get to your destination in a flash.

• Power accessories like integrated lights or phone charger: E-Bikes have built-in lights and many models come with a USB port that draws power from the battery to charge small electronics like a phone.

• Commute game-changer: Many commuters swear by e-Bikes that shorten their daily ride and make it more comfortable, meaning you arrive at work sweat-free
  

• More expensive: E-Bikes are more expensive than normal bikes and that’s just how it is, including the purchase price and higher maintenance costs down the line. You can save money in the long run, however, if you swap out car trips or public transit with an e-Bike.

• Heavier: The motor and battery add an average of 13 - 18 lbs to the overall bike weight but can weigh even more.

• Getting caught out with no charge: All e-Bikes can be pedaled like a normal bike, but the heavier weight means running out of juice can mean you’re in for a workout.

• Bigger target for theft: The higher value of e-Bikes and batteries can make them an attractive choice for potential thieves.

Using an e-Bike can be an absolute game-changer for riders who rely on their bicycle for transportation. The addition of a motor skyrockets your range and speed so you can power up hills and run errands more comfortably than ever. That helpful boost makes a huge difference on daily commutes and can encourage us to swap out a car trip or ride on public transit for a more sustainable option. 

• Commuters: Shorten your commute and arrive at work feeling fresh on an e-Bike.

• Errand-runners and task-doers: Utility-oriented e-Bikes like cargo e-Bikes are meant to get stuff done. Swap that minivan out for a family people-mover e-Bike and grab groceries, haul cargo, and drop the kids off at school.

• Delivery riders: Many delivery cyclists opt for a fast electric bike to get around the city faster.

• Riders looking for a boost: Maybe you’re getting back into cycling or aren’t as strong as you once were. E-Bikes are great for riders with limited mobility or who want to keep up with stronger riders.

• Recreational cruiser: E-Bikes are fun and that’s reason enough for me to get one. Many people like the throttle option to cruise around town with some zippy performance.

• Short trips: If you frequently ride short distances, a normal bike may be totally fine and will cost less. That said, I recommended e-Bikes for short trips a while back.

• If you want a harder workout: Traditional bikes mean you’re the engine so if you’re chasing stricter fitness goals, non-motorized bikes will provide more of a workout.

• Lower budget: Save money and buy a less expensive standard bicycle.