Electric bikes have proven to be a fun and eco-friendly alternative to the daily commute or just a way to get more outdoor physical activity. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced cyclist, there is an e-bike that’s suitable for your needs.
Choosing the right ebike for your needs can be challenging. There are different classifications, frame types, wheel sizes, and electric bike modes. In this article, we are discussing the difference between the two most popular modes: the pedal assist and throttle. The differences between the two are quite subtle but can make a big difference to your daily commute.
The electric-assist on different models of e-bikes is activated in different ways. Some e-bikes come with either pedal-assist or thumb throttle, but only a few come with both modes. At the end of this article, you should have an idea which kind of throttle may be the best for you.
The throttle mode operates in the same way that a motorcycle or scooter does. By engaging the throttle, you propel the bike forward without having to pedal. With most throttles, you can control how much power is produced.
There are several throttle modes available in electric bikes, ranging from thumb throttle to full twist throttle.
Different types of throttles function differently, depending on how it is engaged. It’s important to know if the throttle you choose can be activated while the bike is stationary or only as you start to pedal.
Some throttles can only be used while pedaling to avoid injury if the user unintentionally engages it while stationary. This is useful for avoiding accidents during those first few moments on your ebike when you’re still getting used to it.
Some bikes will allow you to use the throttle even when the bike is stationary. They believe that this offers a much easier way than start from a stop without the typical hard pedaling at startup. With this type of throttle, you can lift your feet, hit the throttle, and go.
Pedelec or pedal-assist only gives power when you start to pedal. With this mode on, you are always in control of how much power you want to pedal. This is especially good for those who have never ridden a Pedelec bike before as it’s an easy transition from a regular kick-pedal bike. It feels just like a normal bike except with a little help from the motor to get you up those hills.
There are different levels of assistance, depending on how much effort you want to exert during your ride. Pedal-assist may vary from low to high settings or 4 to 5 modes of assistance, depending on the e-bike.
Using the lowest setting will give you a little electric assist, making you feel like you are exercising or riding a regular bike. While the highest setting gives you a bigger boost of power, getting you to your destination much quicker without breaking a sweat.
Some e-bikes are equipped with both throttle and pedal assist modes, like our Cruiser Bike. You can operate on pedal assist and get an additional boost by engaging the throttle. While some e-bikes have both modes but have to be switched between them as they can’t be used at the same time.
Choosing the right electric bike mode depends on your needs and how you would use your ebike.
Choose a throttle electric bike if you want to enjoy cruising around with little to no effort.
Consider pedal assist if you enjoy the feel of a traditional bike and wish to ride with a bit more power.
If you want to enjoy your ride no matter what or can’t decide between the two modes, get a bike with pedal assist and a throttle that can be used at any time. Enjoy either system on the fly your way.
We hope this article helped you with choosing the right ebike for your needs. If you’re still hesitant about owning an e-bike, we have 11 reasons why you should be stoked about electric bikes.
If you want to know more about the Cruiser Bike, send us a message or call our office today at 833-266-4432 and we’ll answer any questions you have about electric bikes.
We are absolutely sold on the bike…and so are family and friends who have seen and ridden it. Our 8 yr old grandson has ridden it twice now. He says, “Grandpa, I need one more my size.” :) We really like this dual feature of both throttle and pedal assist. This is one of the best purchase we have ever made and THE best bike purchase for sure.
I love my boogie bike with both types of powered assist. It makes it much more controllable on my narrow neighborhood streets here by the Bay. My question is in coming to a stop. Because the bike is heavy, when I stop I have to touch the ground, and feel like I am drilling my knee joint, bone on bone. I do turn the pedal assist off before I get to where I want to stop, but it still seems very brutal. Any techniques for a low impact dismount?
Abbe,
We have both! Yes, you get a full printed manual with our bike.
I would like to see an option in the controller that only allows the throttle to be active if the bicycle is in motion over 3mph.
I commented earlier today but forgot to mention that my 13-year-old grandson said, “Grandma has a Nascar bike,” when he saw me use the throttle on a hill. LOL! The bike is great because I can keep up with them! Before the Boogie Bike, I was always lagging. The Grandkid’s normal speed for me on the Boogie Bike is Pedal Assist 2.
I like the thumb throttle. I have used it on a few big hills and it works very well. Because I am short, I also push on it very slightly when taking off when my feet are on uneven ground – it gives me the more stable push off I need to put my feet up and start pedaling.
The pedal assist is great because I can adjust it to the terrain and what gear I have the bike in. It makes a “cruise” on my bike much more enjoyable – I am equipped for whatever the trail conditions.
The bike makes riding so much more enjoyable that I look forward to the exercise and fresh air!
Hi Dean, I just ordered 2 bikes from You. Are Boogie bikes Throddle or Pedal assist? Also do u have a document on starting directions?
Thanks, Abbe
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Riding a bike can be both enjoyable and liberating. Whether you're cruising around the block, running errands, commuting to work, or simply looking for a workout, a good bike — especially an electric cruiser — can make your ride so much more enjoyable.
If you’ve been with us for awhile now, you may have noticed some changes within Boogie Bikes, especially if you’re part of Boogie Nation. First, our company is growing — thanks to our awesome customers — so we have moved our world headquarters to a larger building to accommodate the increasing demand of our products. We have also restructured to share resources with other companies on site so we can better serve our customers.
Ed Moreno
August 16, 2022
Can the throttle assist be temporarily removed easily when certain state parks or city’s require only class one e bikes allowed