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How Hard To Pedal An Electric Bike

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Written by:

Lawrence Bonk
Updated March 2, 2023

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Generally speaking, an electric bike can take as much effort as you like. Some bikes even feature motors that can be accessed via throttle, turning them into more of a scooter or a motorcycle than a traditional bicycle.

Key Takeaways:

  • Electric bikes generally feature a robust pedal-assist feature known as Pedelec or EPAC.
  • Pedal-assist can be set to offer a wide range of assistance to suit the needs of different consumers.
  • Some bikes come with a throttle feature, which allows riders to access the motor without exerting manual control.

One of the most mysterious aspects of many top-tier, electric bikes is the pedal system. Before actually sitting down on an eBike, you may be wondering just how it works and just how much effort it takes to use. If you are curious, you can read about how long electric bikes last to see how far your investment will go. Additionally, to help ensure your bike lasts for a long time, you should learn how to test the electric bike motor, so you can troubleshoot problems that may come up.

Insider Tip

  • Generally speaking, an electric bike can take as much effort as you like.
  • Modern electric bikes allow you to set your own pace, and most feature a number of different settings.
  • And, ebikes can be set, so the motor only keeps in while attempting to climb up a hill, a mountainous path, or another type of incline.

How Pedaling Affects eBikes

The pedals included with an electric bike are provided thrust from the motor, in addition to allowing manual operation. This feature comes down to something called Pedelec or EPAC (Electronically Power Assisted Cycles). Here are some of the benefits of a Pedelec-enabled eBike system.

What affects e-bike range? Well, while motor and battery play a part, pedaling does as well.

Multiple Power Modes

One of the most unique aspects of an electric bike when it comes to pedaling is the amount of variety on offer in how various eBikes actually work. Modern electric bikes allow you to set your own pace, and most feature a number of different settings. In other words, you can set the bike for full manual control, if you want a workout, or you can set the motor to take on a certain percentage of the overall power load. This can be particularly useful after a long day when you just want to relax and look at the scenery ride by as you barely pedal. As a warning, not all electric bikes feature a motor that allows for throttle-only use. It may be beneficial to read how electric bike motors work to learn more.

Warning

  • As a warning, not all electric bikes feature a motor that allows for throttle-only use.
  • If you are taking your electric bike out in the wild, be sure that it is equipped with some high-grade brakes, for the decline.

Handling Steep Inclines

Another key benefit to Pedelec and EPAC-enabled eBikes is how they handle steep inclines. Modern electric bikes can be set so the motor only keeps in while attempting to climb up a hill, a mountainous path, or another type of incline. This can significantly simplify the climbing process, allowing eBike riders to easily complete errands or travel throughout the great outdoors. If you are taking your electric bike out in the wild, be sure that it is equipped with some high-grade brakes, for the decline.

Additionally, if you’re learning about an e-bike battery fix to help issues with your bike problems, we have a guide that can help you out.

Throttle

Some electric bikes are equipped with both pedal-assist and a throttle mode. What’s the difference? Throttle allows you to ride the ebike without using any manual power at all, just like an electric scooter, a motorcycle, or another form of personal transportation. Be aware that the maximum speed when throttling can be anywhere from 20 to 28 miles per hour. If you are wondering if a higher wattage motor can make the ebike faster, be sure to read how fast a 1000w electric bike can go.

STATS:

  • Most e-bike batteries sold in North America are lithium-ion, which will provide a minimum of 500 full charge cycles, at which point the battery will hold about 80% of its original capacity. (Source)

Sources:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pedelec
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electric_bicycle
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2212827115004813
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0195925515000165

*https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4b7styxMIh4

How Much Effort Does an eBike Take FAQ

Is riding an eBike like a regular bike a lot harder with eBikes being heavier?

This depends on the make and model. In most cases, however, it will not be significantly more difficult to operate an electric bike manually.

Why would I use an eBike over a regular bike?

Electric bikes offer pedal-assist features, which can help riders go up hills and complete errands without taxing them physically.

How long does it take to charge an e-bike battery?

In general, it can take anywhere from three to 6.5 hours to fully charge an electric bike lithium battery pack.
Lawrence Bonk Profile image
Lawrence Bonk
Lawrence Bonk is a copywriter with a decade of experience in the tech space, with columns appearing in Engadget, Huffington Post and CBS, among others. He has a cat named Cinnamon.