Do You Have to Pedal an Electric Bike?

The main draw of an electric bike is the battery and motor. By using the pedals, the battery supplies power to the motor, propeling you forward in tandem with your pedaling effort. Some electric bikes have a throttle. They propel you forward without any pedaling effort.

In this article, you will find out if you have to pedal an electric bike. You will also learn about the factors to consider when choosing an electric bike.

How Do Electric Bikes Work?

Electric bikes work by supplying power from the rechargeable battery to the motor. This electrical energy is converted into kinetic energy, rotating the pedals and wheels to maintain momentum.

Pedal Assist Ebikes

Every electric bike has a pedal assist function. This means the motor only kicks in when you rotate the pedals. You can also adjust the level of pedal assist. Typically on a 0 to 5 scale, where 0 means no pedal assist and 5 is the highest pedal assist.

Throttle Ebikes

Some electric bikes have a throttle on the handlebars. Depending on the type and model, the throttle may come in a thumb, twist, or trigger configuration. Regardless of the throttle type, it should give you control over the electric bike’s acceleration and speed.

Can You Ride an Electric Bike Without Pedaling?

This is a common question that people ask before they buy an electric bike. And the answer is yes! You absolutely can ride an electric bike without pedaling. However, it depends on the type of electric bike that you own.

Here are the different ebikes classified into different classes:

• Class 1: Pedal-assist only, top speed of 20 mph
• Class 2: Throttle and pedal assist, top speed of 20 mph
• Class 3: Pedal assist (optional throttle), top speed of 28 mph

Generally, you can ride an electric bike without pedaling, but only if you have a throttle. Without a throttle, you must use the pedals to engage the electric motor and pedal assist feature. You can also ride an electric bike like a traditional bike.

Of course, there is another way to ride an electric bike without pedaling. How? By riding downhill and letting gravity do the work for you. Aside from that, you’ll need a throttle to ride without pedaling.

How Fast Do Electric Bikes Go Without Pedaling?

That depends on the type of electric bike you own. To be exact, the power of the motor. The average motor power range is from 250w to 1000w. The higher the wattage, the faster and more powerful the motor is.

It’s worth noting that lower-power motors (around the 250w range) may struggle to go uphill with just a throttle. For this reason, we recommend a minimum power of 500w. Most Heybike electric bikes have at least a 750w hub motor (excluding the Cityrun, which has a powerful 500w motor).

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Ebike

There are many factors to consider when choosing an electric bike. The most important components are the motor type, battery range, battery lifespan, and the relevant local laws and regulations in your area.

Let’s take a closer look at these contributing factors.

Types of Motors

Most electric bikes have one of two motor types. These include the hub motor and the mid-drive motor. Each one has its unique advantages and use cases.

Hub Motor

The first is an ebike hub motor, which is installed on the front or rear wheel axle. While pedaling, the battery supplies power to the hub motor, rotating the wheels. Hub motors are a popular choice for their affordability and lightweight design.

Mid-Drive Motor

As the name implies, mid-drive motors are positioned in the centre of the frame, between the cranks. This position connects the drivetrain to the motor.

The result is better handling due to the more even weight distribution and a smoother transition of power. In other words, there is virtually no delay between when you use the pedals and when the electric motor kicks in.

Battery Range and Life

Another key factor to consider is the battery range and lifespan. The battery range determines how many miles you can travel on a single charge.

A typical electric bike has an average battery capacity of 600Wh to 864Wh. As a useful reference, the Heybike Horizon has a 692Wh battery capacity, which can travel up to 55 miles on a single charge.

In terms of lifespan, the average ebike battery lasts about two to five years. This is around 10,000 to 30,000 miles.

Your battery’s rated number of charging cycles will also determine its lifespan. Once your battery does reach its rated number of cycles, its original capacity will drop from 100 to 70%.

Local Laws and Regulations

Before you buy an electric bike, be familiar with your local laws and regulations. Each state in America has different rules that relate to age, motor power, and top speed restrictions. Some states have licensing requirements, too.

When shopping for an electric bike, choose one that is street-legal and suits your preferences. Keep in mind that these laws do not apply when riding off-road.

Wrapping Up

There are many ways to ride an electric bike. Using the pedal assist is the most common way to ride an ebike. However, the throttle is another way to ride. You also have the advantage of being able to accelerate without pedaling.

Either way, choose an electric bike that meets your needs. Your e-cycling adventures will be more fun. You will be able to explore more areas. And, you can ride the desired length on a single charge.

Ready to enhance your ride? Explore the full Heybike electric bike range today.