Electric Bikes vs. Traditional Bikes

Are you considering purchasing an electric bike but wondering what the difference is compared to a traditional bike? Then you’re in the right place! We specialize in electric mobility, which includes bikes, scooters, and skateboards. We understand that E-Bikes may be confusing since they are relatively new to society. We’re here to break down the similarities and differences between electric bikes and traditional bikes.

Similarities

Pedaling

Yes, you still have to pedal on an E-Bike. E-Bikes offer assistance pedaling instead of you doing all the work. When you push the pedals on an E-Bike, a motor activates and gives you a boost. This feature allows you to speed up hills, navigate various terrains, and ride further without quickly exhausting yourself. You ride an E-Bike just like a regular bike by using gears and braking.

Appearance

You tell us how similar you think they are! Can you guess which one is the E-Bike? It’s the one on the right! You can see the motor in the middle of the frame.

Accessories

E-Bikes can have the same accessories as a traditional bike, such as helmets (which you should ALWAYS wear!), water bottle cages, bike lights, bells and horns, and locks. You can shop for all accessories here. They are appropriate for both E-Bikes and traditional bikes!

Differences

Battery and Motor

Traditional bikes don’t have a battery. It’s all manpower! An electric assist bicycle consists of a DC electrical motor located at the rear axle or at the crank arm bottom bracket, a battery located on the down tube or somewhere convenient to the design of the bike, a BMS controller (battery management system) located somewhere convenient to the design of the bike which controls the pedal assist levels for the bike as well as the management of the battery output itself per speed, cadence, a control display that the rider engages with to control the BMS and the bikes performance and data feedback.

Laws and Regulations

You can't always ride the same trails as traditional bikes on an E-Bike. Some mountain bike trails have restrictions that don’t allow E-Bikes. Rules are largely governed at the state level but, please check trail information with local authorities before riding and refer to this link for a growing list of eMTB friendly riding.

Some states regulate E-Bikes with mopeds and motor vehicles and therefore are required to follow the same laws. However, there have also been some important laws to encourage the treatment and expectations of E-Bikes to be similar to regular bikes. You can read more about that here.

Speed

Since E-Bikes give you a small boost when you pedal, you travel faster. Traditional bikers typically ride 10-14 MPH, while E-Bikers ride at 20-28 MPH. You can travel much further and faster on an E-Bike. 

Is an electric bike or a traditional bike best for you? That’s for you to decide! We are biased and love our electric bikes. Although the pedaling aspect, appearance, and accessories are similar between the two, the differences are what will help you decide which one to get. E-Bikes have a battery and motor which help you go further and faster. However, in some states, E-Bikes may be under restrictions dictating where and how you can ride. Check your local guidelines to make sure you understand the regulations that come with owning an E-Bike. 

If you decide to go with an E-Bike, visit our store or shop our collection of E-Bikes online. We would be happy to help you pick the perfect E-Bike for you!