Since 2010, electric bikes (e-bikes) and scooters have seen increasing popularity for good reason, providing eco-friendly transportation alternatives in cities like Toronto and Vancouver.
Epic Cycles, Canada’s premier e-bike and e-scooter shop, has been at the forefront of this movement by providing Canadians with high-quality electric bikes to enhance their daily commuting experiences. However, it’s common to find questions like, “Can I ride an electric bike like any regular bicycle?”.
Riding an electric bike without power becomes easy thanks to pedal assist and throttle control. Also, the gradual learning curve helps you to adjust to the device regardless of your skill level.
This blog explores how to ride an electric bike like a normal bike. We also discuss some of the benefits of e-bikes at home in Canada.
What Is an Electric Bike?
Before we delve into whether you can ride an electric bike like a normal bike, let’s first understand what an electric bike is. An electric bike, called an e-bike, is a bicycle with an integrated electric motor.
This motor assists your pedalling efforts, making it easier to travel long distances, tackle hills, and reduce the required physical exertion. E-bikes come in various styles, including city, mountain, and folding bikes, catering to a wide range of preferences.
Can You Ride an Electric Bike Like a Normal Bike?
The answer is a resounding yes! You can ride e-bikes like traditional bicycles, using the electric motor for assistance when needed. Here’s how it works:
Pedal Assist
Most electric bikes come equipped with pedal-assist systems that detect your pedalling motion and provide proportional assistance from the electric motor. This means that when you pedal, the motor kicks in to make the riding experience smoother and more efficient.
With pedal assistance, you can ride an electric bike without motor assistance. When you stop pedalling or braking, the motor assistance also stops. It’s like riding a regular bike with a helping hand when required.
Throttle Control
Some e-bikes offer a throttle control feature similar to what you’d find on an electric scooter. With this option, you can use the motor without pedalling, giving you an experience closer to an electric scooter. However, you can turn this feature on or off to ride your e-bike purely by pedalling when desired.
Gradual Learning Curve
Riding an e-bike is accessible to people of all skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or new to biking, e-bikes provide a seamless and gradual learning curve. You can start using the electric motor sparingly and gradually increase your reliance on it as you become more comfortable with the technology.
Related Article: The Best Electric Bikes for Off-Road Riding
Benefits of Riding an Electric Bike in Canada
Now that we’ve established that riding an electric bike is much like riding a regular bike let’s delve into the benefits of choosing an e-bike in Canada:
- Eco-Friendly Transportation: Electric bikes are eco-friendly, producing zero emissions. In a country like Canada, where environmental conservation is of utmost importance, e-bikes provide a green and sustainable mode of transportation.
- Cost Savings: E-bikes are cost-effective in the long run. They require minimal maintenance, and the electricity needed to charge the battery is significantly cheaper than gasoline or public transportation fares.
- Commuting Convenience: With e-bikes, you can beat traffic and arrive at your destination quickly and efficiently. They are perfect for navigating congested city streets or covering longer distances without breaking a sweat.
- Health Benefits: While e-bikes offer motorized assistance, they still encourage physical activity through pedalling. This can help improve your fitness level and overall health.
- Accessibility: E-bikes make cycling accessible to a wider range of people. They are ideal for individuals with physical limitations preventing them from riding a traditional bike.
- Versatility: Electric bikes can tackle a variety of terrains, from city streets to off-road trails. Their versatility makes them suitable for various recreational and commuting purposes.
- Range and Speed: E-bikes range up to 50 miles or more on a single charge, depending on the model. They can reach up to 28 mph (45 km/h), ensuring you can cover significant distances quickly.
Related Article: Which is the Best Brand for an Electric Bicycle?
Get the Best Out of Your Electric Bike
Riding an electric bike in Canada is both possible and highly recommended. These hybrid bicycles combine traditional cycling with motorized assistance to create an ideal experience. Their benefits make them an attractive proposition for both commuters and recreational riders.
Epic Cycles is Canada’s go-to e-bike and scooter shop, providing high-quality electric bikes and scooters at competitive prices. Our expert staff can assist in choosing an ideal e-bike so that you can ride an electric bike just like any regular bicycle.
Join the electric bike revolution and experience the future of cycling here in Canada. Contact us at 647-715-9000 or look through our online store.
