Pedal assist e-Bikes (also called pedelecs) require riders to pedal to receive a boost. They have three to five assist levels that riders can toggle through via the controller on the handlebars. Class 1 and Class 3 e-Bikes are pedal assist electric bikes.
Pedal-Assist vs. Throttle E-Bikes: What’s the Difference?
Written by: Rémy Rossi | December 2, 2024 | Time to read 4 min
Which e-Bike mode are you reaching for? Find out the differences between pedal assist and throttle on modern electric bikes.
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.
When it comes to riding an e-Bike, there’s more than one way to skin a cat. Riders can pedal along with the pedal assist system or use the throttle mode for on-demand power. Some bikes have both riding modes while many models only have pedal assist. I’ll help you figure out which electric bikes have the best pedal assist modes for your needs.
👋 Welcome to Upway!
Upway is the ultimate platform for buying and selling e-Bikes online. Find your next e-Bike at up to 60% off retail prices, offered in new or like-new condition.
Understanding pedal assist & throttle mode
All electric bikes will have some sort of pedal assist system (PAS) that combines with your own pedal power to push the bike along. Riders can toggle between a few levels of desired assistance to adjust their speed. E-Bike motors have sensors to detect how fast or forcefully you’re pedaling and will fine-tune the power delivery for a smoother ride that feels like a natural extension of your pedaling effort.
Some e-Bikes also have a throttle that lets riders enjoy pedal-free cruising. The throttle design is typically a half-twist grip or a thumb trigger positioned along the handlebars. The throttle’s top speed may depend on the currently selected PAS level, while other throttles let you rev to full speed whenever you want.
Some e-Bikes also have a throttle that lets riders enjoy pedal-free cruising. The throttle design is typically a half-twist grip or a thumb trigger positioned along the handlebars. The throttle’s top speed may depend on the currently selected PAS level, while other throttles let you rev to full speed whenever you want.
Do I have to pick one?
The main decision here is whether or not you want a throttle mode on your electric bike. Some riders swear by the throttle while others swear that they never end up using it that much. But it’s important to know what to look for and what options are out there.
Electric bikes are divided into three categories based on the type of motor assistance:
Electric bikes are divided into three categories based on the type of motor assistance:
Upway has a large selection of Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3 e-Bikes so you can find exactly what you’re looking for. It’s worth noting that many models combine the Class 2 and Class 3 characteristics, meaning they’re e-Bikes with a top pedal assist speed of 28mph and maximum throttle speed of 20 mph. Models can also be “unlocked” after purchase to activate higher speeds or users can remove limiters, but that’s a topic for another day.
For the throttle revvers out there, browse these fun Class 2 e-Bikes:
How to choose between pedal-assist vs. throttle
There are a few factors to consider when deciding which class of electric bike best fits your needs.
Desired effort & ride feel
Riding with pedal assist means you’re still going to be pedaling and putting in some effort. This is great for riders who want to stay active while enjoying a helpful boost. Pedal assist works with your pedaling power to achieve a much more natural-feeling ride experience. If you enjoy the feeling of a normal bike, pedal assist is the smoother and more moderate choice.
Throttle mode requires the least amount of effort. The pedal-free riding feels more like a small motorcycle, offering a fun and zippy experience. Throttle can also help you get going after a complete stop, especially when riding a heavy bike or cargo e-Bike that’s loaded up.
Throttle mode requires the least amount of effort. The pedal-free riding feels more like a small motorcycle, offering a fun and zippy experience. Throttle can also help you get going after a complete stop, especially when riding a heavy bike or cargo e-Bike that’s loaded up.
Range & battery life
Pedal assist draws less power from the motor which means you’ll have more range. Riding in throttle mode will drain your battery significantly faster than riding in the lower pedal assist levels. How much of an issue this is will depend on the capacity and the motor power. Some throttle-equipped models have larger batteries to account for this or even have two battery packs for extended range.
Local considerations
Many cities or local trails have rules about which e-Bikes are allowed. Class 1 e-Bikes are generally allowed on all routes, but faster Class 2 or Class 3 models may be restricted in some areas. There are ways to disconnect the throttle if you want to convert your fast electric bike into a legal model. For example, New York state, where our UpCenter is located, has different e-Bike laws and regulations to pay attention to.
Local riding conditions can also play a part in which mode is best. If you make frequent stops or ride in traffic, having a throttle can make accelerations much easier. Some city-goers or delivery riders like the option of a throttle for keeping up with cars and the fun, moped-style ride feel.
Local riding conditions can also play a part in which mode is best. If you make frequent stops or ride in traffic, having a throttle can make accelerations much easier. Some city-goers or delivery riders like the option of a throttle for keeping up with cars and the fun, moped-style ride feel.
🤝 Looking for a great deal?
Get an even better discount when you sell your old electric bike!
Click here for a price estimation!
Key Takeaways
1. Ride Your Way: Pedal assist boosts your pedaling, while throttle mode offers pedal-free cruising for effortless fun.
2. Battery Trade-Off: Pedal assist extends range, while throttle drains the battery faster but adds convenience.
3. Know the Rules: Class 1 e-Bikes are widely accepted, but throttle modes may face local restrictions.
2. Battery Trade-Off: Pedal assist extends range, while throttle drains the battery faster but adds convenience.
3. Know the Rules: Class 1 e-Bikes are widely accepted, but throttle modes may face local restrictions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a pedal assist electric bike?
What is a throttle electric bike?
Some electric bikes have a throttle in addition to the standard pedal assist levels. Riders simply twist or push the throttle for pedal-free cruising. Class 2 electric bikes include a throttle mode.
