What are the Different Types of Electric Bikes?

Electric bikes seem to be very quickly replacing the car for short-distance commuters. Research suggests that around 35-50% of all trips made on an electric bike would have been made by car had the electric bike not been around.

If you’re considering a greener way of getting around, then you’ll probably want to know more about the different types of electric bikes available. Well, we’ve got you covered. Keep reading to learn more. 

The 3 Types of Electric Bikes

Before buying an electric bike you need to be aware of the different types. Of course, there are different electric bike brands and different models which you can find out more about here, but they all span off from the 3 core differences between electric bikes.

Type 1 Electric Bike: Pedal Assist

A pedal-assist electric bike needs the rider to pedal to take advantage of the motor. When you start to pedal the motor kicks in to help double your efforts. Some pedal-assist electric bikes come with a throttle. There’s no age limit on using this type of electric bike, nor do you need a driver’s license. 

Type 2 Electric Bike: Throttle Only

On a throttle-only electric bike, you don’t need to pedal to take advantage of the motor. You simply apply throttle like you would on a motorbike, and the motor kicks in. It means you can accelerate out of corners to increase your traction.

The less you pedal, the quicker you drain the bike’s battery. As with the pedal-assist bike, you don’t need a driver’s license, and there’s no age limit on using a throttle-only electric bike.

Type 3 Electric Bike: Pedal Assist 28mph

The pedal assists 28mph electric bike exists for all you speed freaks out there. It’s the fastest legal electric bike available, and outperforms the other types of electric bikes by 8mph. The speed of this bike makes it a great choice for regular commuters. 

This type of electric bike is only available to people 17 years and older, but the same rules apply. No need for a driver’s license, because it’s still technically a bicycle!

Different Motors for Different Rides

Choosing which motor is best for you is simple. You only have two main choices:

• Mid Drive Motors
• Rear Hub Drive Motors

The mid-drive motor is the most expensive option, but it’s also the most energy-efficient. They deal with all applications well and provide a great center of gravity, meaning it feels a lot like riding a normal bike. The energy from the motor is transmitted to the drive chain, as supposed to one of the wheels.

The rear hub drive motor is situated at the back of the bike and powers the back wheel so it feels like it’s pushing you. The rear hub drive motor option is more affordable and still a great choice, but it is less energy efficient.

Other Electric Bike Options

When it comes to choosing between different types of electric bikes, the most important thing is that you know what you’re going to be using your bike for. There are electric bikes specifically built for mountain biking, road biking, and general commuter bikes. Whatever your biking needs, there will be an electric bike perfect for you. To save yourself some money, by the best electric bike for road rides from good traders who sell these for cheaper prices.

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