Electric bikes pedal and handle just like a regular bicycle. By and large, an electric bike will use the same parts too. The electric component is meant to augment human power, not completely replace it. It makes obstacles like hills and headwind more manageable and allows you to travel further without getting as tired.
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See our diagram for a more detailed look at how electric bikes work including the motor, battery, drivetrain, and charging process:
Electric bike motors come in a wide variety of power ratings, from 200W to 1,000W or more. The legal limit in the US is 750W, although different states can set their own limits.
Think of this limit kind of like horsepower. A higher rating means that the bike will be able to pull more weight with greater ease – but at the expense of using more battery capacity while doing so. Consequently, a 750W motor will drain the battery much quicker than a 250W one, but it will be more powerful.
One more factor needs to be considered, however. The design and location of the motor plays an important role in how electric bikes work.
The most common type of motor for electric bikes is called a hub motor. It is generally integrated into the rear or front wheel. When engaged, it pulls or pushes the wheel along. Although this system works well, it has one key disadvantage. Since it is not connected to the bike’s gears, it loses efficiency on hills and varied terrain. Imagine driving a vehicle in just one gear the entire day. It will get you places, but it won’t give you the optimum amount of torque or speed that you get with a full gear range.
At EVELO, we offer a patented mid-drive motor, which is integrated with the crank and the gears. This adds several advantages:
Available in a variety of styles, the controller lets you operate the electric assistance on your electric bike and is an important part in how electric bikes work. The controller is located on the handlebar for ease of use. There are two main styles of controllers – pedal-activated and throttle-based controllers.
Pedal-activated systems offer electric assistance as you press down on the pedals. There is no need to engage a throttle – simple pedaling will do the trick. Electric bikes with pedal-activated systems have a controller mounted on the handlebar that lets you adjust the level of assistance that you receive as you pedal. You can dial in the amount of assistance you want, ranging from no assistance to a great deal of assistance.
Throttle-based controllers work with a simple throttle mechanism. The throttle will either be a twist-grip type or a thumb-press type. With a throttle, you simply pull back or press the throttle to receive the electric assistance. Some electric bikes require nothing more than activating the throttle, allowing you to ride without pedaling.
By and large, electric bikes are simple to use, ride, and maintain. Overall, they require little maintenance beyond that which a standard bike requires.
In this mode, you can take advantage of combined human plus electric power. Once you turn on this mode via the on/off button on the handlebars, the motor will gently provide electric power as you pedal. You can still switch gears as the terrain changes to take advantage of more torque or faster speed. It’s an amazing feeling to use pedal-assist mode, as it makes cycling effortless, flattens out the hills, and frees you to just enjoy yourself and the scenery.
Pedal-assist mode provides three levels of assistance: Low (30%), Medium (60%) and High (100%). The percentage simply indicates how much additional power the motor will provide to complement your pedaling. The low setting adds an additional 30% of power to your pedaling, while High essentially doubles it. A simple press of a button switches you through the different levels.
Electric bikes are still a fairly new concept in the US, so there is a lot of confusion about how the law views them. Federal law considers electric bicycles in the class as regular bicycles, provided they meet two conditions: (1) the top speed in “electric only” mode is 20 miles per hour; and (2) the motor power must be no more than 750W.
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Electric bikes are still a fairly new concept in the US, so there is a lot of confusion about how the law views them. Federal law considers electric bicycles in the class as regular bicycles, provided they meet two conditions: (1) the top speed in “electric only” mode is 20 miles per hour; and (2) the motor power must be no more than 750W.
Consequently, electric bikes do not need a special registration, license, or insurance to operate. Moreover, they enjoy the same privileges as regular bicycles, such as being allowed to travel in available bike lanes.
However, different states have their own special requirements regarding electric bike use. While most follow the federal lead, some do vary. If you have questions about how electric bikes work in your state, you can get in touch with us and we’ll point you in the direction to find out additional information for your state. For your own personal safety, we recommend helmet use and lights and reflecting gear, even if the law does not specifically require them.
An electric bike engine is part of a complete power system to propel the bike forward. An electric bike engine, commonly known as a motor, is the central component of the e-bike power system responsible for propelling the bike forward. It works by converting electrical energy from the battery into mechanical power to drive the wheels.
The motor's operation is typically controlled by a system that senses the rider's input, such as a throttle or a pedal-assist sensor, which determines the level of assistance required and adjusts the motor's output accordingly. This way, riders can enjoy varying levels of pedal assistance or even rely solely on the motor's power for propulsion, making e-bikes an efficient and eco-friendly mode of transportation. The components of an e-bike power system include:
Electric motor: The electric motor is the primary component responsible for converting electrical energy into mechanical energy to propel the e-bike forward. Various types of motors are used in electric bikes, including hub motors and mid-drive motors. These motors come in different power ratings and efficiencies, influencing the overall performance and speed capabilities of the e-bike.
Battery: The battery stores and supplies electrical energy to the motor. Lithium-ion batteries are typically used due to their high energy density, lightweight design, and long lifespan. The capacity and range of the battery are important considerations when choosing an e-bike. Higher-capacity batteries can provide a longer range before recharging, allowing riders to travel further.
Controller: The controller acts as the brain of the e-bike, regulating the flow of electricity and controlling the motor’s speed and performance. The controller also incorporates features and functions such as throttle control, pedal assist levels, and regenerative braking, enhancing the riding experience and providing options for customization.
Pedal-assisted e-bikes require the rider to start pedaling before the motor kicks in. The bike’s cadence or torque sensors detect when the rider has input enough force and momentum to start the motor.
Once the rider has reached the requisite speed, the battery switches on to deliver energy to the BLDC motor. The motor converts the electricity from the battery into mechanical energy through the interaction of magnets and coils within the motor. The magnets create a magnetic field, while the coils, or windings, generate an electromagnetic field.
When an electric current passes through the coils, it interacts with the magnetic field, generating rotational force. This force drives the motion of the motor, accelerating the e-bike and allowing for a smooth and powerful ride.
E-bikes use different types of motors to provide power and propulsion. There are two main types of motors: mid-drive and hub. Understanding the characteristics and differences between these motor types is crucial in choosing the right electric bike for your needs.
Mid-drive motors: Mid-drive brushless motors, like those found in Yamaha electric bikes, are located on the bottom bracket of the bike frame, connected to the drivetrain. This placement allows for efficient power transfer and optimal weight distribution. Mid-drive motors provide excellent torque and are well-suited for hilly terrains or off-road adventures. However, they tend to be more expensive and require more maintenance because of their complex design.
Hub motors: Hub motors are brushless motors integrated into the wheel hub in the front or rear. They offer a simpler and more affordable motor option. Hub motors, like those found in Aventon electric bikes, offer direct drive functionality, eliminating the need for a chain or gears. This design ensures a smooth ride while also reducing maintenance requirements. However, they can be heavier, affecting the bike’s handling and maneuverability.
For more information, please visit 14 Inch Electric Tricycle Bicycle.