Electric bikes, explained
Find the e-bike that fits your ride.
Plain-English guides to electric bikes: the classes, the kinds of bike, batteries and motors, where you can ride, and how to look after one, with specs from the makers.
Three classes, in plain English
Most US states sort e-bikes into three classes. The details vary by state, so check your local law.
Pedal assist
The motor helps only while you pedal, and stops helping at 20 mph.
Throttle
The motor can move the bike without pedaling, up to 20 mph.
Faster pedal assist
The motor helps while you pedal, up to 28 mph. Some places limit where these can go.
Pick a route
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01 Choosing an e-bike Classes, prices, range, pedal assist and throttles: what to compare first. Guides coming soon -
02 Commuter, folding and cargo E-bikes for getting about: commuters, folders, cargo bikes and trikes, plus locks and racks. Guides coming soon -
03 Mountain and fat tire Electric mountain bikes, fat tire and all-terrain e-bikes. Guides coming soon -
04 Brands and models Aventon, Lectric, Velotric, Rad and more: each range explained from the maker’s specs. Guides coming soon -
05 Batteries, motors and kits Battery capacity and charging, hub and mid-drive motors, and conversion kits. Guides coming soon -
06 Rules and riding E-bike laws, licences, helmets and rebates, quoted from official sources. Guides coming soon -
07 Repairs and care Brakes, tires, motors and battery care: what owners can do and what needs a shop. Guides coming soon
Quick answers
What’s the difference between pedal assist and a throttle?
Pedal assist adds motor power while you pedal. A throttle runs the motor when you press it, even if you aren’t pedaling. Many e-bikes have both.
How far can an e-bike go on one charge?
Makers quote a range for each bike, but real range depends on the battery size, how much assist you use, hills, wind, tire pressure and the rider’s weight. Our battery guides explain the numbers.
Do I need a license for an e-bike?
In most US states a legal e-bike doesn’t need a license, but the rules on age, helmets and where you can ride differ. Our rules guides quote the law for each place.
Do you ride these bikes yourselves?
No. We explain e-bikes from the makers’ own specifications, manuals and pricing pages, cited and dated, so you can check every claim.