Are you planning to buy a bike? When purchasing a new bike, you’ll have two main categories to choose from: an electric bike or a regular bike.
An electric bike, also known as an e-bike, works similarly to a motorcycle, but it doesn’t run on gas. Instead, as the name suggests, its primary power source is electricity, which makes it more sustainable and eco-friendly.
So, what’s the difference between an electric bike like this and a regular bike? Well, keep reading!
On the other hand, a regular bike is the traditional pedal-assisted bike that has been rolling on for a couple of centuries. It has two built-in pedals that require continuous forward rotation to move. It’s popular for use in fitness goals, sporting events, and recreational riding.
Price is not the only factor to consider when choosing between a regular bike and an e-bike. This article will guide you to help you decide which bike is better for you and your riding purposes.
When choosing between an electric or regular pedal-assisted bike, price is probably one of the first things you’ll consider.
Electric bikes are more expensive than regular bikes, but that doesn’t mean you have to be rich to pay for them. You can check out out your local bike stores for an affordable electric bike fit for your budget.
What Are The Differences Between Electric Bikes And Regular Bikes?
Aside from the price, there are many things you should consider before deciding which one is better. We’ll cover these below…
Bike Parts
The most common difference you’ll probably notice between an electric and regular bike is their parts and mechanisms.
Unlike regular bikes, electric bikes have more complex parts and features, including a motor, battery, controls, sensors, and display.
- Motor: This part provides additional power to boost your pedaling.
- Battery: This is the main power source of an electric bike. If it drains, its features won’t work. Luckily, it’s easy to charge. All you need to do is remove the battery from its casing and charge it using the socket.
- Controls: These may include small buttons usually found on the handlebars that enable you to adjust your bike’s power levels and functions.
- Sensors: These provide instructions to the motor if you need assistance when pedaling.
- Display: This shows important details regarding your electric bike, including the battery levels, distance traveled, speed, etc.
An example of an e-bike display.
An example of an e-bike thumb throttle.
An example of an e-bike hub motor.
Some parts and features may be different, depending on the brand and type of electric bike you choose. For example, on some advanced electric bikes, the controls can be integrated into the display bar.
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Bike Maintenance And Repairs
Some of the maintenance and repairs that may apply to e-bikes is the same for traditional bikes. Components such as handlebars, body, chains, wheels, bike seat, and brakes tend to be similar, if not the same on both electric bicycles and traditional bikes. Also, the cost of maintaining and repairing these parts may be the same.
Certain components of both e-bikes and regular bikes are similar or the same, such as the chain.
However, when it comes to maintenance and repairs, an electric bike may yield more issues than a regular bike. It has multiple mechanisms and complex components needed to maintain and repair (if necessary), unlike most traditional bikes.
While items such as handlebars are similar and fairly easy to maintain and repair on both e-bikes and regular bikes, screen displays and other electronic components can be costly to replace/repair and may require the expertise of a professional.
If there’s something wrong with the electric motor system of your e-bike, you’ll need a professional e-bike specialist to fix the damage, which can be expensive. But, as long as you take good care of an electric bike, you’ll be able to prevent most of these types of headaches.
Riding Experience
Now, you may be wondering, how is riding an electric bike different from a regular bike, and how does it feel?
Well, using an electric bike is almost the same as your ordinary bike. However, many believe that it’s more fun to ride one than any other bike and that fun starts when you get that pedal moving!
Pedaling is the same on an e-bike as on a traditional bike… just much easier!
When you start pedaling an e-bike, the sensors and motor system will begin functioning. At first, you wouldn’t notice any change until everything seems to become a bit relaxed.
Also, electric bikes don’t change how biking works. Instead, it makes the process of pedaling much easier to perform.
An electric bike allows you to move along without exerting much effort and force on the pedals. This limits the amount of exertion needed to get to your destination. You’ll be able to reach the tops of the hills without feeling excessively tired, exhausted, or out of breath.
The pedal assistance provided by electric bikes reduces the amount of exertion it can take to reach your destination.
Electric bikes also have adjustable pedal assistance. If you change the support to low, pedaling may require more effort. It’ll be more tiring and exhausting than usual. But if you set the settings to maximum, the pedaling will be much quicker and easier, and you’ll never be tired.
Speed
Because of the e-bikes’ powerful pedal assistance, does it mean that they can go much faster you’re your traditional bikes? The answer depends on the type of electric bike you’ll use.
The average maximum speed of most electric bikes is 25 km per hour (15.5 mi per hour).
The top speed of an e-bike is dependent on motor power, rider weight and riding surface.
Some electric bikes, depending on the makeup and steepness of the riding surface, can reach speeds of 20+ MPH.
Going faster than this on most e-bikes will make the internal motor system stop functioning, and you’ll have no choice but to rely on pedaling alone to make it run. But, it doesn’t mean it’s broken.
The electric motor system of an e-bike is programmed to stop once it senses that you’re going too fast.
Nevertheless, an electric bike may provide more speed in normal circumstances, such as riding a bike to work or for leisure and quality time. Also, it helps you get back to your speed once you stop, making your travel time shorter.
Which Is Better? E-Bike or Regular Bike?
The better option between electric and regular bikes is the one that suits your needs most.
If you plan on using a bike for your daily work commute, an electric bike may be the better option. With its pedal assistance, you’ll be able to maintain a constant speed even after making numerous brakes and stops.
If you’re looking for higher intensity riding and typically a lower price tag, a regular bike will be the way to go.
But, if your goal is to pump your adrenaline and get a good work out, a regular bike may be best for you. It doesn’t have any support and will only rely on pure pedal power to work, which means you’ll be working harder.
Also, if you’re tight on budget, it’d be best to go for a regular bike instead. It doesn’t have an electrical system, which may help you save tons of money in the long run. And you can likely make basic repairs yourself without the need for a professional bike specialist.
Final Thoughts On E-Bikes vs. Regular Bikes
When choosing a bike, you’re often left with two options; electric and regular bikes.
As mentioned above, the right choice highly depends on your needs. If you don’t have to enter or participate in any fitness event, an electric bike may be a good option.
If fitness is your primary objective, a regular bike might be the best choice.
Regardless of which one you choose, get out there and bike and enjoy creation!