How Do Electric Bikes Work?

How Do Electric Bikes Work?

Electric bikes, or e-bikes, combine the classic feel of cycling with advanced technology to make every ride smoother, easier, and more enjoyable. At Small Town Bike Co., our electric bikes are designed for all types of riders—whether you’re commuting, exploring, or simply enjoying the freedom of the open road. Understanding how electric bikes work can help you get the most from your ride and choose the right model for your needs.

Fat Tire Bike Boogie Cruiser

The Core Components of an Electric Bike

Every e-bike is built around three essential components: the motor, the battery, and the controller. These work together seamlessly to provide the power and control that set electric bikes apart from traditional bicycles.

  • High-efficiency brushless DC motors
  • Removable, rechargeable lithium-ion batteries
  • Advanced controllers for smooth power delivery
The Core Components of an Electric Bike

The Motor: Your Power Boost

The Motor: Your Power Boost

The motor is the heart of every electric bike. It takes energy from the battery and converts it into mechanical power, giving you a boost when you pedal or use the throttle. Motors can be located in the front or rear wheel hub, or in the center of the bike (mid-drive). Most modern e-bikes, including ours, use brushless DC motors for efficiency and reliability. The amount of assistance you receive depends on the motor’s power rating and the level of pedal assist or throttle you select.

  • 750-watt brushless DC motors for strong, quiet performance
  • Multiple pedal assist levels for customizable support
  • Throttle option for instant acceleration

The Battery: Storing Your Energy

The battery is what powers your e-bike’s motor and electronics. Most e-bikes use rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, known for their long life and high energy density. The battery’s voltage and capacity determine how far you can ride on a single charge. Our e-bikes feature removable batteries, making charging easy whether you’re at home or on the go. With up to 50 miles of range per charge, you can ride longer and farther without worry.

  • High-capacity lithium-ion batteries (48V, 13.6Ah and up)
  • Removable design for convenient charging
  • Up to 50 miles of range per charge
The Battery: Storing Your Energy
The Controller: The Brain of the Bike

The Controller: The Brain of the Bike

The controller acts as the brain of your electric bike, managing the flow of power from the battery to the motor based on your inputs. It interprets signals from the pedal assist sensor, throttle, and display, ensuring smooth and responsive performance. The controller also monitors safety features and can adjust power delivery to optimize efficiency and protect the battery.

  • Intelligent power management for efficiency
  • Seamless integration with pedal assist and throttle
  • Real-time feedback via LCD display

Pedal Assist, Throttle, and Sensors

Our e-bikes offer both pedal assist and throttle modes. Pedal assist uses sensors to detect your pedaling and automatically provides a boost, making hills and long rides easier. Throttle mode lets you accelerate without pedaling, perfect for quick starts or when you need a break. Sensors—such as cadence or torque sensors—ensure the motor responds accurately to your riding style.

  • Multiple pedal assist levels for tailored support
  • Thumb throttle for effortless acceleration
  • Advanced sensors for smooth, intuitive riding
Pedal Assist, Throttle, and Sensors

Why Choose Small Town Bike Company?

You can buy our electric bikes online with fast, free shipping, or visit our dealership for a hands-on experience and expert advice. Every purchase comes with a 2-year warranty, a 15-day try-at-home program, and outstanding customer support from our Wisconsin-based team.

Contact form