E bikes with throttle
Do all electric bikes have throttles?
No, not all ebikes have throttles. In fact, most e-bike manufacturers do not produce throttle powered bikes. This may be due to restrictions on use, the need and cost of the additional components, or the fact that most retailers are simply getting their bikes from somewhere else and lack the critical 'know how' to install throttles. That said, there are a few e-bike companies that do sell e-bikes with throttles - congratulations, you have found one of them!
Electric bikes with throttles like our cafe racers are becoming far more popular than pedal assist electric bikes without. This is mainly because e bikes with throttle offer a number of advantages over a traditional bike with pedal assist only. For one, electric bikes with throttles can be ridden without pedaling or pedal assist at all, which is great for those who want to get from point A to point B without breaking a sweat. An electric bike throttle also allows you to accelerate quickly, which can be very helpful when you need a burst of speed. Additionally, electric bikes with throttles can travel faster than electric bikes with pedal assist alone. This makes them ideal for longer trips or for riding on hilly terrain.
E bikes with throttle what's the difference over pedal assist? and how do they work?
Most electric bikes on the market today are pedal assist, meaning these electric bikes will either provide power only when you pedal or you can choose to pedal without any assistance at all. However, e bikes with throttles are electric bikes which the speed is regulated by use of a mechanical twist grip or thumb throttle located on the handlebars near the drips and allows you to add power without pedaling. An e bike with throttle can be helpful when starting from a dead stop, going up a hill, or cruising at higher speeds.
The benefits of e bikes with a throttle over pedal assist electric bikes
Ebike pedal assist vs ebike throttle - Bikes with an electric bike throttle like our cruisers have many advantages over e bikes with pedal assist only. Electric bikes with a twist throttle can go faster and farther with less effort than a pedal assist electric bike. Making them ideal for commuting or running errands. Twist throttle e bikes are much easier to ride, since you don't have to pedal at all if you don't want to. And, if you're looking for an electric bike you will truly enjoy riding, you should definitely consider an electric bike with a throttle over a pedal assist only Here's why:
- They are more powerful. If you're looking for an e bike that can really move, then an e bike throttle is the way to go. With pedal assist, you're limited by how much power you can generate with your legs. But with an electric bike throttle, the motor does all the work, so you can go as your electric motor will allow.
- Throttled electric bikes are more efficient than pedal assist only. If you're trying to save energy on your commute or ride, then an e bike with a throttle can help you do that. pedal assist e bikes require you to pedal, even when the motor is on, which can waste your energy. But with a throttle, you can coast and let the motor do all the work.
- Throttled e bikes are easier to use than pedal assist. If you don't like pedaling hard, or if you have joint pain that makes pedaling difficult, then an e bike with a throttle can be more comfortable and easier to ride. You can cruise along at a leisurely pace without having to pedal assist, and you won't have to worry about getting tired, sweaty or winding up with sore legs.
- Pedal assist e bikes can be much more expensive maintenance wise in the long run than e bikes with throttle since they have more complex, and sometimes mid drive systems. But an e bike with a throttle is much simpler, and therefore usually cheaper to maintain. Learn more about our electric bike no pedals required here
The two main types of throttles available on electric bikes
There are two main types of throttles available on electric bikes: twist grip and electric bike thumb throttle. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages,
Twist grip throttles are the most common type of throttle found on electric bikes. They are easy to use and allow you to control the amount of power you want to apply to the pedals. However, twist grip throttles can be more difficult to control than thumb throttles.
Thumb throttles are less common, but they offer a few advantages over twist grip throttles. First, thumb throttles are easier to control, which can be helpful if you're new to riding an electric bike. Second, thumb throttles are less likely to get caught on clothing or other objects.
How to use the twist throttle on your electric bike
The twist grip throttle is one of the most important parts of your electric bike. It's what allows you to control the speed and power of your bike. Here are a few tips on how to use it:
- Always make sure the twist grip throttle is in the off position before you start riding. This will ensure that you don't accidentally twist it and cause the bike to take off.
- When you're ready to start riding, slowly twist the throttle to the desired speed. The more you twist, the faster the bike will go.
- If you need to stop quickly, twist the throttle all the way to the off position. This will disengage the motor and not allow the motor to compete against your brakes while decelerating.
How to use the thumb throttle on your electric bike
As mentioned before e bikes with a throttle are great because they give you the option to pedal or not. If you just want to cruise and don't feel like pedaling, here's how yo use your thumb throttle.
When you're ready to ride and begin to throttle, make sure you're in a low gear. This will give you more control over the e bike and make it easier to start. Once you're in a low gear, slowly press the throttle with your thumb. You'll start to feel the e bike move forward. As you get used to using the throttle, you can depress it further for a faster acceleration.
Keep in mind that this type of throttle is primarily designed for short bursts of speed. If you're going to be using the e-bike for a long period of time, and want to maximize your range it's best to pedal intermittently. This will help conserve battery power (our batteries are housed within custom gas tanks) for long journeys.
Are there some e bikes with throttle and pedal assist?
The answer is yes! electric bikes such as the Unconquered Custom a cafe racer style ebike with both a throttle and pedal assist do exist! These types of electric bikes are great for those who want the option to use either feature, depending on their needs at the time. Whether you're looking for a little extra help getting up a hill or just want to take it easy and cruise around, an electric bike that includes both a throttle and pedal assist can give you the best of both worlds.
Important consideration when shopping for a throttled electric bikes vs pedal assist electric bikes
One important thing to keep in mind when shopping for an electric bike with throttle only function is that if the electric bike you are considering purchasing has no pedals at all - it may fall under a different legal definition than a traditional electric bike that has operable pedals. I.e. it could be classified as a scooter or electric motorcycle etc.. Many local laws define an electric bike as one with an operable set of pedals fit for human pedal assist. So although your electric bike with no pedals might fit every other definition of an electric bike, local law enforcement might classify it as an electric scooter etc, which can have stricter laws and more restrictions i.e. the necessity of a license, insurance etc to operate. And authorities are keen to hand out fines to riders who remove their ebike pedals! See legal electric bike definitions and classifications below.
Electric bike classifications
Electric bikes within the U.S. and Canada carry a classification based on how fast they propel a rider and how they provide acceleration. For example, by pedal assist only, or through the use of a throttle. The one common rule across all ebike classifications within the US and Canada is that riders must maintain a set of operable pedals to maintain ebike status. The Bicycle Product Suppliers Association (BPSA) classifies electric bikes based on the top speed at which the electric bike motor assists the rider, and how much effort it takes to get the bike up to speed. Twenty-two states have now adopted this three-class system. An electric bike’s classification will determine if you can ride your electric bike on bike paths and in bike lanes, or strictly on roadways, these laws vary by state.
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Class 1 e bike can have up to a 1hp motor that provides assist while you are pedaling at speeds up to 20 mph.
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Class 2 e bike have a throttle and a 1hp motor that can propel a bike up to and maintain 20 mph, without having to continuously pedal.
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Class 3 e bike can also be equipped with a 1 hp electric motor, but can assist you up to 28 mph.
All are allowed in most states and cities throughout the United States without the requirement of a license, registration or insurance. Unconquered Custom Electric Cycles are categorized as Class 3 out of the factory as they come preprogrammed for 28 mph. But each Unconquered Custom can easily be programmed post purchase to satisfy either of the other (class 1, or class 2) categories.
Our 'Throttle mode' electric bike solution!
The pedals on board an unconquered custom electric bike are fully indexable. Meaning that with the pull of a plunger you can index both pedal positions to bottom dead center much like the foot pegs on a motorcycle. Re index them anytime you wish to engage pedal assist
Index your pedals when you want to keep your legs in a comfortable position during pure throttle (motorcycle) mode riding. They can be re-indexed at any time to 180 degrees if pedal assist becomes necessary.
Can you add a throttle to an electric bike
Electric bikes are a great way to get around, but they can be even better with the addition of a throttle. As discussed previously a throttle will allow you to get up to speed quickly, without having to pedal hard. Throttles also come in handy when you need to climb a hill or make a quick getaway. However, not all electric bikes are created equal, and some may not have the ability to accommodate a throttle. Some controllers do not have the interface to accept a separate throttle, and if they do you'll have to match your throttle harness/ connector to the controller harness/ connector. Before you go out and purchase one, make sure to do your research and that your bike's controller is compatible with the throttle you desire.
In conclusion
there is much to be said about the advantages of an e bike with both Throttle and pedal assist. But one thing that should never be left out is the aesthetics of a customized ride that suits your unique style as this is important to just about anybody.
Design an Unconquered Custom electric bike that suits your style! Click on the button below and get started!