Throttle grips VS pedal assist electric bike

A throttle or pedal assist electric bike: which one will you choose?

There are many different types of electric bikes with different ways of activating the electric assist.

In this article you will learn about the different throttle types (twist grip, thumb, push button), pedal assist types (torque sensor and cadence sensor) and which mode may be best for you.
 

Throttle Mode

The throttle mode is similar to how a motorcycle or scooter operates.  When the throttle is engaged the motor provides power and propels you and the bike forward.

A throttle allows you to pedal or just kick back and enjoy a “free” ride!  Most throttles can be fine tuned like a volume dial between low and full power.

A lot of e-bikes in the US have the throttle feature.  In some countries the throttle electric bike is not allowed; only pedal assist.
 

Pedal Assist (Pedelec) Mode

Pedal assist, also referred to as pedelec, is a mode that provides power only when you are pedaling.  If you are used to riding a traditional bike, the pedal assist mode has a more feel compared to the throttle mode.

The pedal assist mode is also nice because you can focus purely on your pedaling and you don’t have to hold the throttle in a certain position.

Since you have to pedal, the pedal assist mode will generally give you more range when compared to the throttle mode.  Here are 10 tips to increase your electric bike’s range.

A lot of pedal assist bikes have different levels of assistance, for example: low, medium, or high assist.  Please note that some e-bikes have 4 or 5 pedal assist settings, but for this example we will just stick with low, medium, and high.

Low pedal assist = you are feeling pretty good on the bike.  Low assist provides a little electric assist while you provide more pedal power and get more of a workout.

Medium pedal assist = you have a nice tailwind everywhere you go.  Medium pedal assist can be a nice balance of your pedal power and the motor power.

High pedal assist = you feel like superman!  High pedal assist is when you want to get somewhere quickly and with minimal effort.  This could be useful if you want to get to work without sweating too much.  On the way home you could use the low pedal assist to workout the stress of the day.
 

Which Mode is Best for You?

If you want the option to simply cruise along and pedal or not pedal, then you should consider a throttle e-bike.

If you enjoy pedaling and want to a more e-bike then go for the pedal assist (pedelec).

More and more e-bikes are coming with both systems so you may have the option of using both systems depending on your mood.

I hope this helps in understanding the different electric bike assist modes.

I recommend that you visit your local electric bike dealer to try the throttle and pedal assist modes for yourself to see which one fits your riding style.