How do Electric Bikes Work?

Modified on Thu, 12 Oct, 2023 at 5:07 PM

How Electric Bikes Work

What is an electric bike?

In short, electric bikes are just regular bicycles that have several electrical components added like a motor, throttle, and battery. All the components are seamlessly integrated into the design. Just think of an e-bike as a supercharged version of your favorite bike from back in the day.

How do electric bikes work?

Every one of our models can be used just as a normal bicycle would. Everything you need to pedal and navigate your bike manually is still there.

The electric components of an e-bike typically are there to amplify human power. These features make traveling easier on the rider. Hills are easier, wind is more manageable, and getting to places is quicker all while using less of your energy.

Depending on which MOD BIKE model you use, you’ll have different riding options: torque sensor and pedal-assist, or cadence sensor and all-electric (using a throttle). You’ll always be able to adjust your gear on our e-bikes, like a normal bicycle, as each is equipped with a seven gear freewheel.

Hub-drive vs mid-drive?

There are two types of motors: Hub and Mid-drive. Hub motors are located at the center of the rear wheel, while Mid-drive motors are located between the bike's pedals where a bottom bracket would sit on a non electric bicycle. All of our electric bikes with Mid-drive motors are powered by pedal assist, meaning the motor will not engage unless torque is applied with pedaling. Our bikes with Hub motors can be powered by pedal assist, via cadence sensor or by throttle.

What is pedal assist and how does it work?

This mode takes advantage of combined human and electric power. When powered on, your MOD BIKE motor will gently provide electric power as you pedal. You can still switch gears as the terrain changes to take advantage of more or less torque.

Pedal-assist mode provides adjustable levels of assistance. The levels simply indicate how much additional power the motor will provide to complement your pedaling. The low setting will help you to get to a 5 mph speed while pedaling, while the high level will help you to get to 25 mph! A simple press of a button switches you through the different levels.

When you’re just starting out on your MOD BIKE, get used to the pedal-assist on the lowest level before increasing the power. It’s a wonderful component, but you do need to use caution when implementing it.