Ebike vs Regular Bike: Which Should You Choose?

Have you ever wondered how electric bikes compare to regular bicycles? Their price, driving features, driving distance, and speed are all highly different, but at the same time not that much different. If you are considering an electric bike or a regular bike, let’s find out which one is a better option for you. 

Ebikes vs Regular Bikes: What’s the Difference?

Appearance and Mechanics

At first glance, an electric bike looks just like a regular bike. However, when people hear “electric bike” they usually think of scooters or motorcycles, which is not the case. An electric bike is essentially a regular bike with electric components.

The only noticeable difference between an electric bike and a regular bike is the added battery pack, a motor, and in some models, a display screen. The battery powers the motor, which provides assistance while you pedal, assisting in propelling the bicycle forward.

Overall, electric bikes are very similar to regular bikes. They feature the same style of wheels, handlebars, and frame types as regular bikes. The pedal and brakes basically work the same way. However, electric bikes come with a thumb throttle and/or pedal assist, which makes it easier to ride farther and over steep hills.

Maintenance and Repairs

Since the standard components of an ebike are just the same as a regular bike, taking care of and maintaining your bike is practically the same. From routine maintenance through annual repairs and servicing, everything is the same.

The only time you'd need to see a professional is if something went wrong with the electronic components. You may get your ebike fixed or replaced at a bike store or work with the outlet where you purchased it. Just like regular bikes, it is easy for a competent person to handle most of their own maintenance and repair. Fortunately, defects in an ebike's system are rare, and many of them come with warranties that should cover such repairs.

Read up on the ebike care and maintenance to get the most out of your electric bike.

Riding Experience

The fun starts as soon as you start pedaling. The motor kicks in and the transition from regular bike to super bike ensues. An e-bike does not modify the activity of cycling; it only makes it feel easier.

Electric bikes are equipped with pedal assist or thumb throttle. The pedal assist can be adjusted depending on how much effort you want to exert. Setting it on low strength means your legs do most of the work, while the maximum setting means you still have to use your legs, but it’ll just be going through the motions of pedaling because the motor does all the work.

Speed

Ebikes can go as fast as 28mph depending on the classification it falls upon. Our Cruiser Bike is a Class 2 ebike, meaning it can go as fast as 20mph. Going faster is possible, but the motor would no longer assist you. This implies that if you want to ride fast, the motor won't assist, which is one of the numerous reasons why people argue that riding an e-bike isn't "cheating."

Rules and Regulations

Motorized vehicles are restricted to government rules and regulations. Class 2 ebikes like our Cruiser Bike do not require permit or insurance (in most locations), but additional rules can vary by state. For example, some states require wearing a helmet, while other states have a minimum age requirement to operate an ebike.

Before you go on a ride, check with the land manager or local municipality for the rules and regulations on electric bikes.

Which Bike Should You Choose?

Several things should be considered when deciding between a traditional bicycle and an electric bicycle. But, most importantly, decide how you want to use the bicycle.

If you plan to use a bicycle for commuting or long-distance travel, you might want to consider getting an electric bike for an easier ride. Additionally, the ebike’s pedal assist will make biking simpler, faster, and less stressful. There’s a lot of reasons why you should get an ebike.

If you're thinking about buying a new bike but can't decide which type to choose, give us a call now and we can answer any questions you may have.