Electric Bikes: How do they work?

Electric bikes, or e-bikes, have become a game-changer for all kinds of cyclists, from commuters to casual riders to mountain bikers. But what exactly makes an e-bike different from a traditional one? Essentially, an electric bike is a standard push bike enhanced with a few key components: a motor, battery, and sensors (plus sometimes a controller or display) that work together to provide a little extra help when you need it. It’s the same biking experience, just with a boost.

How Does an E-Bike Work?

Most e-bikes are “pedal-assist,” meaning the motor kicks in only when you’re already pedalling. This design ensures you’re still getting exercise, but it takes the edge off, especially on hills or during headwinds. Plus, you’ll arrive at your destination feeling fresh rather than sweaty—a big plus for morning commutes!

In the UK, e-bike motors are limited by law to 250 watts, with assistance stopping once you hit 25 km/h (15.5 mph). Of course, you’re free to go faster, but at that point, you’re pedalling entirely under your own power.

Breaking Down E-Bike Components

An e-bike’s motor, battery, and controller are its three core components, each with a specific role in enhancing your ride:

• The Motor: Think of the motor as your partner in pedaling. While you still provide the main power, the motor gives you extra torque for challenging sections, like steep hills or headwinds. The motor placement can vary by model: front-hub, rear-hub, or mid-drive motors all have different benefits.

• Mid-drive motors are positioned near the pedals, which distributes weight better and makes the bike feel balanced—great for hilly commutes.

• Hub motors are either on the front or rear wheel and tend to need less maintenance, making them ideal for daily city riders.

• The Battery: The battery fuels the motor and can usually be removed for easy charging. Most e-bikes take 2–8 hours to charge, and the range varies by battery size, with a typical charge covering 20–100 miles depending on how much you use the motor.

• The Sensor: E-bikes often have one of three sensor types—speed, cadence, or torque—to control how much assistance the motor provides. For example, a speed sensor activates the motor as soon as you start pedalling, while a torque sensor adjusts based on how hard you pedal, making it ideal for tricky terrain.

Who Is an E-Bike For?

Simply put, there’s an e-bike for everyone! Whether you’re commuting to work, tackling steep trails, or exploring your city, there’s a model to fit your needs:

• Hybrid e-bikes are versatile, with comfortable seats, flat bars, and puncture-resistant tires—perfect for everyday errands and leisurely rides.

• Mountain e-bikes come with powerful motors to help you scale rough terrain and handle off-road challenges.

• Road e-bikes are lightweight and designed for speed on paved routes, making them great for fitness rides or fast commutes.

• Folding e-bikes offer compact convenience for public transport users, letting you fold and store them easily.

• Touring e-bikes are designed for long-distance journeys, featuring comfortable geometry, ample storage options, and robust components to handle varying terrains. They provide the perfect balance of comfort and performance for riders looking to explore new routes and enjoy extended adventures on the road.

Electric Bike Benefits: How They Make Riding Easier

With an e-bike, you can travel farther and faster without the exhaustion that typically comes with long rides. Hills and headwinds? No problem—just adjust the assistance level on your e-bike to get the perfect amount of support. And if you prefer riding under your own steam, you can always turn off the motor and use it like a regular bike.

Charging is simple: plug it into a wall socket like any other device. Most e-bikes have a battery-level indicator, and some even show an estimated range as you ride, so you can gauge how much assistance to use to reach your destination comfortably.

What About the Weight?

It’s true: with a motor and battery, e-bikes are heavier than traditional bikes. Depending on the model, the added weight can range from around 4 kg for lightweight road e-bikes to over 8 kg for more powerful, mountain-style models. If lifting is a concern, you might opt for lighter models, especially if you’ll be carrying your bike up and down stairs.

How to Get Started with an E-Bike

If you’re new to electric biking, start in a safe, open space to get comfortable with the controls. Many first-time e-bikers begin with low or no assistance, turning it up as they grow more confident. This gradual approach lets you get used to the extra power while learning how to manage the bike’s slightly heavier feel.

E-bikes are incredibly versatile and offer a smooth, enjoyable experience that opens up a world of possibilities. Whether you’re riding through the city or climbing mountain trails, there’s an e-bike to match your lifestyle and goals. And at Moose, we make it easy to jump in with quality refurbished models at a fraction of the price. So why not give it a spin and see just how far an e-bike can take you?

Happy riding! Whether you’re looking for speed, support, or adventure, e-bikes offer a world of options to explore on two wheels.