Electra E-bikes 101

Welcome to the world of electric bikes (AKA e-bikes). If you're curious about e-bikes but haven't yet taken a ride, or the full-blown plunge into owning one, you're in the right place. Our quick orientation below is designed for newcomers like you, giving you a cheat sheet of electric bike basics. 

FOUR REASONS TO BELIEVE IN E-BIKES

E-bikes will flatten hills and shorten distances. And let’s face it, they are a lot of fun. They’re revolutionizing the way we commute, explore our surroundings and, admittedly, get a little exercise. Here are just a few reasons why more and more people are choosing e-bikes: 

1

GET BACK ON TWO-WHEELS
Maybe it’s been a while since you were last on a bike. An e-bike will give you the confidence and support needed to get back out there. 

2

DO THE MIND AND BODY SOME GOOD
E-bikers ride three times more often, three times further and have three times more fun. Facts. 

3

DITCH THE TRAFFIC
“Bye, bye” bumper to bumper traffic and searching for a parking spot. Plus, save on fuel costs and maintenance compared to traditional vehicles. 

4

BE GOOD TO THE ENVIRONMENT
Reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a greener planet. 

THE THREE ESSENTIAL PARTS OF AN E-SYSTEM

E-BIKE MOTORS

Two types of motors exist: mid-drive and rear hub. Mid-drive motors are located by your pedals providing stability and control with a low center of gravity. Rear hub motors are encased in the hub of the rear wheel making the bike more lightweight.

E-BIKE DISPLAYS

Displays can be found on your handlebars. While they vary from simple to complex, you can always count on them to view settings like Level of Support and Battery Life with the click of a button.

E-BIKE BATTERIES

Batteries determine how long your e-bike is able to provide pedal-assisted support. You’ll find that batteries with a higher watt hour (Wh) will deliver more support for longer periods of time.

CLASSIFICATIONS OF ELECTRIC BIKES IN THE UNITED STATES

In the US, electric bikes are categorized into three main classes based on their speed and type of assistance: 

CLASS 1


Class 1 eBikes are categorized by their lower speed and pedal-assist motor. AKA assistance is only provided when pedaling. These rides only reach 20mph.

CLASS 2


Class 2 eBikes feature a throttle that provides support without pedaling. These electric bikes also reach 20mph.

CLASS 3


Class 3 eBikes fall under the pedal-assisted category. However, their motors allow riders to reach a top-assisted speed of 28mph.

NOTE: A lot of electric bikes available today fall into two of the categories – class 2 and 3. This means the bikes feature throttle assist up to 20mph as well as pedal assist up to 28mph.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO E-BIKE FAQS

Which e-bikes are allowed in my city?  

While we’re not exactly known as rule followers, there are some very important ones to be aware of when considering an electric bike. They vary from state to state and across the three classes. Our friends at People for Bikes do an awesome job keeping us and the bike community updated on these rules and regulations. 

Rules of the road

Do I need to wear a helmet while riding an e-bike?  

Wearing a bike helmet is always a good idea, especially when riding at faster speeds on an electric bike. Check your local and state laws to understand when riding an e-bike with a helmet is required. Laws are often dependent on e-bike class and rider age (under 18).  

Electra bike helmets

Is there an age limit for e-bike riders?  

Class 1 and 2 e-bikes are generally accepted for riders of all ages. Certain states do restrict the use of Class 3 e-bikes to riders 16 and older. Check your local and state laws to be sure.  

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