Let’s Chat: Jake M on Pedal Assist vs. Throttle for E-bikes

Electric Bikes: Pedal Assist or Throttle?

When selecting an electric bike, it's important to determine whether you want a bike with pedal assist, throttle, or both. Pedal assist bikes such as Haibike or swaths of the Raleigh line are strictly pedal assist (although a boost button can be added to some for a quick burst of propulsion). This delivers the most natural feel when compared to a traditional bicycle feel. Other bikes, such as the Prodectotech line or Pedego Comfort Cruiser, have a throttle. This is akin to the throttle on a moped or motorbike - twist back and off you go! You can still pedal these bikes, but power only comes when the throttle is engaged. Compared to a pedal assist bike, throttle bikes typically accelerate faster and cost less.

Personally, my favorite electric bikes are those that employ both throttle and pedal assist, like featured by most of the Pedego line. For going for a longer electric bike cruise, I prefer the more natural feeling of a pedal assist bike, power delivered with each pedal stroke. However, when encountering a steep hill or traffic, it's nice to have the responsiveness and speed that throttle delivers. I've often found myself the first vehicle as the light turns green at a busy intersection, and the ability to quickly drive forward and accelerate with cars makes me feel much more comfortable. Likewise, when I encounter a sudden steep hill the ability to power through it with throttle rather than shifting gears turns an ordeal into not so much as a hiccup.

The best way to determine what system is right for you is to ask yourself what kind of experience you're looking for from your electric bike, and the terrain and conditions you're going to be riding it most in. Need help? Give us call or drop us an email, and we'll give you our two cents on how to make your e-bike experience the best it can be.