Riding a pedelec means you can still pedal for power, making the experience feel more natural. The motor only activates when you are pedaling, helping you reach speeds up to 20 mph.
E-bikes with a class 2 motor have a throttle and can go faster than this limit. They are classified as a moped under US law and must be operated with a helmet.
Definition
The word Pedelec refers to any electrically assisted bike, whether powered by a battery or a motor. The power is derived by using sensors to detect pedaling, or the bicycle’s drive system can be switched on and off via an electric control box.
The amount of power the motor provides can be adjusted, depending on how far or how fast you ride. Most Pedelecs use a sensor to measure how hard you are pedaling and then multiplies that by the motor’s power. This means you will still get a good workout and can ride the bike as normal, without feeling like you are cheating.
In order to meet specific laws in some countries, Pedelecs are powered by batteries that are designed to last longer than other batteries. Lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries are becoming more common, offering much more life than traditional lithium ion batteries.
E-Bike Types
The vast majority of today’s e-bikes are pedal assist bikes. This means that the motor only turns on to help you when you start pedaling, and turns off when you stop. This offers a more natural experience for the rider and is typically more protective of the battery.
For those looking for a bit of extra power to get over that hill, conquer that headwind or go the distance, an e-bike is perfect. They are quiet and non-polluting, and can help eliminate the sweating that comes with long rides or steep climbs.
Many more traditional cyclists prefer pedelecs as they offer the feeling of riding a regular bike, and do not require a license or insurance. Class 1 pedelecs have a motor that will aid you while pedaling up to 20 mph, and class 3 (sometimes called speed pedelecs) can be used with a throttle at speeds up to 28 mph.
Pedelec vs. E-Bike Differences
Although both pedelecs and e-bikes use electric motors to boost your pedalling efforts, the two types differ in their function and riding experience. This distinction is important because it affects the legal regulations and requirements that apply to each type.
A pedelec uses its motor only when you pedal, giving you a burst of support to help you reach higher speeds but stopping as soon as you stop peddling. This allows you to get a good workout while still being relatively energy efficient.
Speed pedelecs (or EAPC in Great Britain) are another kind of pedelec that can give you assistance up to 28mph before the motor shuts off. These e-bikes are legally classified as mopeds and must comply with strict rules, such as wearing a helmet. They also must be fitted with a display that shows the maximum continuous power output xe dap tro luc of the motor and battery.
Class 1
Pedelecs are the most common types of e-bikes. They are used by those who want a bit of help climbing hills or covering long distances without getting too tired.
Unlike a power-on-demand e-bike, the pedelec uses a motor to augment your pedaling power instead of replacing it entirely. This makes the riding experience feel very similar to a regular bicycle with pedals.
Its controls are based on advanced pedal torque sensors (which measure your power input) and an advanced computer chip that handle the data and send it to the motor. This allows you to reach a maximum assisted speed of 25 km/h.
Pedelecs are also more energy efficient. Since the motor only activates when you’re actually pedaling, they use less energy than a throttle-only e-bike. In addition, they typically have a longer battery life than a power-on-demand model.
Class 2
Pedelecs offer automatic power as you pedal, and they’re legally classified as conventional bikes. They’re a great option for those who want to feel a bit of extra power without the added weight and cost of batteries and motor components.
These types of e-bikes are generally considered to be safe and environmentally friendly, as they only use electric power when you’re pedaling. Pedelecs are designed to help you get more out of your bike rides, and they can make even the hardest hills seem a little bit easier.
A class 2 e-bike can reach up to 20 mph, which makes them more versatile than class 1 models. Some pedelecs also come equipped with a throttle, which allows you to ride at higher speeds for a more scooter-like experience. Regardless of whether you choose a pedelec or an e-bike, be sure to consider local laws and regulations regarding speed limitations.
Class 3
A class 3 e-bike is much like a regular bike, except it has an integrated motor that augments your pedal power. It’s ideal for riders who want to get around town without breaking a sweat or for those with health issues such as heart, leg muscle and knee joint problems that make normal cycling too strenuous.
The motor turns on automatically when you start pedaling and off when you stop. Pedal torque sensors and an advanced computer chip handle the data and send the motor a command. Most manufacturers equip pedelecs with NiCd batteries, although some now offer lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries that are safer, lighter and last twice as long.
Class 3 electric bikes have a maximum assisted speed of 28 mph, which makes them legal in most states as long as they stay under that limit and are only used on bike paths and other designated routes. However, they must be registered and insured like mopeds, and their riders typically have to wear helmets.
