Electric bikes have taken the world by storm. Given a consistent rollout of the e-bikes, legislation pitching in about three different classes of these e-bikes is available.
This comparison will give you a clear insight when comparing different e-bikes based on either pedal assistance feature or selecting the full-electric option. Here is a quick word on all different e-bike classes for you.
Class 1
Class 1 e-bikes have an electric motor strapped on their body which will only work once you start pedaling. In simple words, an e-bike is classified as class 1 when it is paddle assist-only and no throttle. The top speed for this class of e-bikes is about 20 mph and the top power for the installed motor is about 750W.
A clear advantage of class 1 e-bikes over class 2 and 3 is that it offers longer mileage due to paddle assistance whereas others don’t. An e-bike relying completely on battery power will drain it faster as compared to an e-bike in which paddle assistance is enabled. Any e-bike that comes with an installed throttle to harness the full electric power of the battery to run the e-bike is classified as a class 2 e-bike from the get-go.
Class 2
An e-bike is classified as class 2 when it features a throttle which provides power to the motor without the need to pedal.
The max speed of the class 2 e-bike is the same as class 1 which is 20 miles an hour with a throttle on-demand drive mechanism.
Class 2 e-bikes have an average trip duration which can be in a solid range of 15 mph on battery power or full throttle and 30 miles with pedal assist.
Class 3
Class 3 e-bikes are pedal-assist only without a throttle with a top speed of 28 mph.
In many countries including the US, e-bikes falling in this specific class are not to be ridden by individuals under 17 and using of the helmet is a must before getting on it. In other world regions, people might have to obtain a license first before having to ride one along with the use of restrictions.
Making a final decision in between these classes
Some bikes come with an improved pedal-assist and its speed-rating pushing hitting near the class 2 specification e-bikes while others tend to have a balance between the features of the multiple classes. After you have squared all these things you can move towards deciding on a dedicated e-bike based on its frame, battery power supplying the e-bike with the necessary juice, and design compatibility.
