Introduction
Electric bicycles are a popular means of transportation, having come a long way from an era most people didn’t know much about them. Even if you don’t have one personally, you must have heard of them or seen one in a bike shop. They are a more fun and convenient transit option. Using one can rekindle your interest in cycling again, being a preferred option to traditional bicycles.
E-bikes are generally different from regular ones due to the inclusion of a battery and an electric motor, responsible for helping you enjoy riding up hilly roads. Most e-bikes use either a throttle or a pedal-assist system to ensure your comfortable commute. They are both ideal for providing more propulsion with less pedaling. To get the most out of using either, ensure to get an e bike with a high-quality system. Here, you can learn more about how they work and their main differences.
Comparing Throttle vs. Pedal Assist
The throttle and pedal assist systems are part of the speed control mechanisms used in electric bikes. They both give your pedaling an extra boost but tend to share some differences based on their application. Using the throttle depends on the speed you want to travel on. On the other hand, the pedal-assist system depends on how much effort you want to expend on pedaling.
Throttle Assist System
Electric bicycles with throttle assist are easy to use and can come in handy for long trips and everyday commutes. It is common to find many bikes with this system also providing pedal assist, for example, the Haoqi Antelope cargo ebike. This allows you to enjoy a more rounded experience. The throttle can usually be activated using the thumb. You gently push it forward until you achieve the speed you want.
E-bikes with the throttle assist feature usually operate at higher speeds, going as high as 28 mph or more. This is because you don’t have to pedal once you activate it. You can just sit back and enjoy the ride, like on a moped. No special skill is needed to commute with throttle-assisted electric bikes, not even pedaling. And the best part, they tend to be perfect for long-distance commutes, especially when used alongside the pedal-assist system.
Advantages of Using Throttle Assist
- The throttle system can be activated right from a stop and cranked up to the highest speed. This makes it more suitable for commuting since you can avoid traffic and you don’t get to sweat.
- Electric bicycles with this system can be used to enjoy long trips without once having to pedal. This feature makes them ideal for people with physical limitations that stop them from pedaling.
Disadvantages of Using Throttle Assist
- The throttle system provides speed modulation, instead of actual power to boost your efforts. This can make it a little difficult to apply if you don’t have prior experience using it.
- Having to hold the throttle in place for extended periods can make using it tiring and a little unpleasant. This can deplete your e-bike battery faster.
Pedal Assist System (PAS)
A pedal-assist electric bike is more suitable for controlled exercising, everyday commutes, and long-distance trips. The system is highly efficient and is sometimes provided along with a throttle. In e-bikes with both, the rider can switch to the other for a complete riding experience. The pedal-assist uses a different mode of operation from the throttle. It can be activated by placing your feet on the pedals, ending when you lift them off.
Once the system is activated, a torque or cadence sensor detects your pedaling. This prompts the motor to provide enough power to boost your efforts up to the desired assist level. When your feet are off the pedals, the motor cuts off the power supply. This reduces your speed and helps to avoid accidents. Ensure to get an e-bike with a quality pedal-assist system to enjoy the benefits of using one. The Haoqi Eagle is a perfect example.
Advantages of Using Pedal-assist System
- A pedal-assist electric bike is the better option for riders transitioning from a traditional bicycle. By giving electric assistance through your efforts on the pedals, it provides a more natural feeling. The transition is made more pleasant by the intuitive feel of the pedal-assist system compared to the throttle.
- Using this feature while riding can help you focus more on your trip. Unlike a throttle that requires holding in place, the pedal-assist works with your pedaling once activated. This helps you enjoy improved focus as you proceed.
- A pedal-assist electric bike is a perfect option for people requiring moderate or light exercises. It helps with recovering mobility by allowing you retain more control over your workouts. Once you adjust to your preferred assist level, you can determine how hard you want to pedal.
- This system is also a better choice to conserve battery energy for long-range riding. Ensure to use an e-bike with enough charge to cater to your use of electric power. The Haoqi Eagle, for example, uses a 48V 20Ah battery which can provide a range of up to 75 miles.
Disadvantages of Using Pedal-assist System
- This system cannot provide the instant acceleration a throttle can provide from a stop. It is not ideal for those who can’t pedal for various reasons, or don’t want to. No matter the assist level you choose, the pedals have to be pushed from time to time.
- Other disadvantages of using the pedal-assist system stem from purchasing low-quality products.
Conclusion
When comparing throttle and pedal-assist system of electric bikes for the better option, there are a few operational differences to consider. Here, we review these two systems, which are enjoyed by all types of riders. Apart from their disparities, we also explore the advantages and disadvantages of using each. Overall, it is safe to say the better choice is the one that adequately caters to your specific riding requirements. Ensure to purchase a high-quality e-bike to enjoy all the benefits of each. These are produced with more attention to the riding experience. Check our online store to see which HAOQI e-bike best takes care of your riding needs.
