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Electric bicycles use batteries as a source of power and a quiet DC motor as a driving mechanism. On most e-bikes the motor is built directly into the wheel (known as a hub motor) and the batteries are discreetly hidden in the rear rack or frame. Electric bikes can be operated just like normal bicycles, but they can also be power-driven by a throttle or pedaled with the help of 'pedal-assist' (or 'PAS').

Most of our electric bikes and scooters are throttle controlled - meaning you use a throttle to control power and speed. To get started, simply twist the throttle to accelerate and hold it to maintain speed. Other e-bikes are classified as 'pedal assist' and power is applied automatically. Once you start pedaling, a torque sensor picks up your movement and power integrates seamlessly while you ride. Just pedal and go. Once you use the brakes or quit pedaling, the power is deactivated and you need to pedal again (lightly) to re-activate pedal assistance.

For people who prefer full control, a throttle is a nice option since it operates just like a motorcycle. But if you're looking for simplified operation, pedal assist is great because it does all the work automatically. Keep in mind: you have to pedal (lightly) for power to be applied with pedal assist. With a throttle, no pedaling is required at all. Please Note: Most of our e-bike models include pedal assist (PAS) and a throttle.

The speed of an electric bike will vary based upon several factors. With no pedaling, U.S. law restricts the speed of electric bicycles to 20mph or less. This ensures you don't need a license, insurance or special safety gear to operate an e-bike in most states.

Most electric bikes are rated up to 20mph by the manufacturer, but the actual speed will vary depending on rider weight, terrain and road conditions. Smaller riders are likely to achieve higher top speeds than large ones, and you're likely to go faster on flat terrain than uphill. Keep in mind, U.S. law does not restrict how fast you can travel while pedaling, so most riders can easily exceed these ratings while providing assistance.

The range of electric bikes can vary, but most riders are able to achieve a 10-20 miles per charge on the average e-bike model. One of the main factors in determining how far you can travel on a single charge is how much assistance you provide. Rated by amp hours (AH), the typical e-bike battery has a capacity of 10-12AH. Without pedaling, riders can expect a range equal to this rating (i.e., 10AH = 10 miles). But since most riders will pedal along the way, the majority of e-bikes are rated up 15-30 miles per charge. Obviously, the more pedaling you do, the less strain on the battery and the more range you'll achieve. Keep in mind, 'pedal-assist' bikes have higher ratings and achieve more range than throttle-controlled bikes because the rider is required to pedal at all times.

Another factor that can have a big impact is terrain. If you live in a hilly area or have lots of steep inclines - expect less range from your e-bike. Larger riders or people carrying heavy loads can also expect reduced output. Because weight is a factor, this also means higher quality NiMH or Li-Ion batteries are capable of slightly longer ranges due to their reduced weight. Other factors include wind and road conditions.

Battery charge times will vary between manufacturers, models and battery types. Typically, the initial charge will take 6-12 hours. For routine charging, higher quality batteries (such as Li-Ion and NiMH) will take less time - anywhere from 2-6 hours. Cheaper sealed lead acid (SLA) batteries will take 6-8 hours.