Electric Bike VS Regular Bike – Which Is Better?

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Electric Bike VS Regular Bike

Electric bikes vs. regular bikes – wondering which is better for you? Find out here!

Bikes or bicycles have been around for hundreds of years. The pedal bike, as we know it, first evolved somewhere around the 19the century. Over the years, bikes evolved further to enhance the riding experience for riders. Today, several different kinds of bikes are available in the market, one of which is electric bikes.

Electric bikes are relatively new in the world of bicycles. However, their demand and popularity have skyrocketed in the last few years, which is not really surprising considering the exciting features and benefits of e-bikes. Everyone’s talking about these next-generation bikes that are changing the way we travel.

But is the hype justified? If you are planning to purchase a new bike, you might be struggling with the usual electric bike vs. regular bike dilemma. Don’t worry – you are not alone.

Before you make up your mind, scroll down to find everything you need to know about electric bikes vs regular bikes!

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Electric Bike Vs. Regular Bike: Which Is Better?

Struggling to decide which is the better option for you? Here’s an in-depth electric bike vs. regular bike comparison analysis for you. We have discussed and compared the main features of both bikes to help you decide the best option for yourself.

Let’s dive in!

Appearance and Aesthetics

Electric Bike VS Regular Bike
A red and black e-bike

While the appearance and aesthetics vary from brand to brand and model to model, both electric bikes and regular bikes look almost the same. When we talk about electric bikes, many people think of a scooter-like construction and body geometry.

However, in reality, electric bikes and regular bikes have the same body geometry with two wheels, chain, saddle, and handlebars. Both kinds of bikes are available in different colors, sizes, and models.

You can also install accessories, such as a front basket and rear rack, in both bikes. However, if we have to pick one for aesthetics, electric bikes certainly take the lead with their sleek and modern look. They look chic and come in several makes.

For example, you can opt for an electric bike with a step-thru frame. These electric bikes have slightly different frames that make it easier to mount and dismount from the bike for the rider. Foldable electric bikes are also extremely popular with riders.

These bikes are great for hauling around on outdoor adventures. Plus, they are easy to store. Fat tire electric bikes are also available. They are designed to traverse all kinds of hard terrains and soft surfaces, including snow, mud, and sand.

Another noticeable difference is the placement of the battery. Regular bikes do not have a battery. On the other hand, in electric bikes, the battery is usually visible. It is usually located under the seat to balance the weight of the battery. Some manufacturers also incorporate battery boxes to hold the battery.

Either way, the battery does not stand out from the electric bike’s overall design and construction. In fact, it incorporates nicely into the design, giving electric bikes a chic and modern appearance.   

Working Mechanism

The biggest difference between electric bikes and regular bikes lies in the working mechanism. Regular bikes are completely mechanical. Meaning, these bikes are powered by the rider through pedaling. On the other hand, electric bikes are powered by a motor. You are always in control of the motor and make sure it delivers just the right amount of power.

Electric bikes also come with a battery, which can be charged like a regular battery. On average, it takes 3 to 6 hours to charge the battery fully. However, the exact changing time varies from bike to bike. Other than that, the bikes work the same way. The mechanical parts all work in the same way, including the brakes and pedals.

Both bikes may or may not have gears, depending on the model. Many electric bikes feature different riding modes, including pedaling mode, pedal-assist mode, and electric mode. In the pedaling mode, the electric bike works like a regular bike, and you have to pedal to move.

Pedal-assist mode takes some effort out of pedaling. Many electric bikes come with different pedal assist levels, which allow the riders to choose the level of work they want to put into paddling the electric bikes.

Lastly, in the electric mode, the electric bike is powered by the motor. The rider can cruise around without breaking a sweat. Most electric bikes also feature a throttle option, which works to provide throttle on demand.

All in all, electric bikes are more versatile, thanks to their modern working mechanism. However, it must be mentioned that different electric bikes come with different features and may have slightly different mechanisms.

Therefore, if you plan on buying an electric bike, make sure you take the time to learn about it and understand how it works.

Maintenance and Repairs

electric bikes vs. regular bikes
A bike in a repair shop

The standard components of electric bikes and regular bikes are essentially the same, which means that their repair and maintenance are also the same. Both bikes require regular maintenance pertaining to mechanical parts, such as the wheels, brakes, chains, etc.

If anything goes wrong with these components, you can take your electric bike to the local bike repair shop for repair and maintenance. The cost of repairing is also the same. However, the electric components of the bikes, such as the battery and motor, are a completely different ball game.

There’s nothing to worry about, though, because these parts usually come with a warranty. So, if anything goes wrong, you can simply contact the manufacturer to get the required repairs or maintenance. In case the damage is not covered by the warranty, it can be a costly affair to replace the battery or motor. 

Read: best bike for weight loss

Cost

This one’s a no-brainer – electric bikes are generally more expensive than regular bikes. It is because they offer so much more! These bikes have a more advanced working mechanism and come with costly electric parts, such as motor, battery, charger, etc.

Plus, these bikes offer several features that are not available in regular bikes, such as the display unit, speedometer, etc.

Finally, they are more fun, convenient, and easier to ride. So, naturally, electric bikes are priced higher than regular bikes. Depending on the brand and model, an electric bike may cost from a couple of hundred dollars to thousands of dollars.

Regular bikes are definitely the more affordable option. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t purchase your favorite bike on a tight budget. Many manufacturers and dealers offer flexible payment plans for electric bikes.

These plans allow you to divide the payment across several months, making it easier to purchase a top-quality electric bike without putting a dent in your pocket.

However, keep in mind that not all dealers offer flexible payment plans. So, make sure you do some homework and find the right dealer or manufacturer to purchase your electric bike in installments.

Another option is to look for companies that work online and deliver electric bikes at your doorstep directly from the factory. This business model eliminates the need for a middleman, cutting down the overall retail price of the electric bikes.

NATKO is one such company that you can consider to buy electric bikes. They offer a range of electric bikes and deliver across the USA.

Riding Experience

Now let’s take about the riding experience of electric bikes vs. regular bikes. The riding experience is one of the most important factors to consider when buying a bike — or any vehicle for that matter. So, how does it feel to ride an electric bike, and how is it different from riding a regular bike. Well, the truth is that riding an electric bike is not much different from riding a regular bike.

 The riding experience is more or less the same. You get on the electric bike and start pedaling as you’d do on a regular bike. As you start pedaling, the motor kicks in, taking some of the efforts out of pedaling.

Keep in mind that the motor does not change the act of cycling. It just makes it easier to do it. You can glide around, moving the pedals gently without exerting much force or power.

You can manipulate the pedal assistance level to change the way your e-bike feels. If you are in the mood to get some exercise and want your legs to do most of the work, turn down the power.

On the other hand, if you want to cruise around town or commute to work without breaking a sweat, then turn up the power and let your electric bike do the hard work of paddling for you!

Now you know how it feels to ride an electric bike. The only remaining question is, which bike ranks higher on the comfort and convenience scale? Well, the comfort level depends on the individual make and model of the bike – whether it is a regular bike or an electric one. If you want a highly comfortable bike, look for one with a front suspension fork.

Suspension forks contain one or more hydraulic shocks that allow the wheel to move along the fork for a few inches. The dynamic movement absorbs the impact, allowing for a smooth and bump-free ride.

For the smoothest ride, opt for a full-suspension bike. These bikes have both front and back suspension forks that work to minimize the jarring effect of rough terrain.

Exercise Factor

Cycling is an excellent sport and exercise. It works your core and leg muscles and gets your heart pumping. The health benefits of cycling are well known and backed by science. But do these benefits apply to electric bikes?

Many people think of electric bikes as “cheat bikes.” It is because the bike is powered by a motor. However, it is important to understand that you can control the motor’s power output at all times. So, while electric bikes make it easier to pedal the bike, you can still get the exercise you need by changing the pedal assist levels and the cycling modes.

The bottom line is that both regular bikes and electric bikes allow for a great workout. The only difference is that the electric bike lets you customize your workout. You can choose when to exert more or less force. Plus, electric bikes generally come with a display unit. The unit is mounted on the handle.

The purpose is to let you switch between different cycling modes and pedal-assist levels without moving your hands from the handles or taking your eyes from the road.

But that’s not it – the display unit comes with an in-built odometer and speedometer. It shows a number of parameters on the screen that can further help customize the workout to achieve your fitness goals. You can keep an eye on your speed and keep track of the distance you covered.

The display unit generally shows a number of other parameters, including the battery charge. While it may not help you with the workout directly, the additional information always comes in handy.

Range and Speed

Electric Bikes VS Regular Bikes
Electric bike vs. regular bike speed

The electric bike vs. regular bike debate is incomplete without talking about the speed and range of these bikes!

Since electric bikes are powered by motors, they must be faster than regular bikes, right? Wrong! Electric bikes are not always the faster option. The speed of an electric bike is relative. It depends on how fast you usually go. According to the EU regulation, an electric bike motor can propel the bike up to the speed of 25kmh (15.5mph).

The motor cuts out if you go any faster, and you will have to power the pedals yourself. However, it doesn’t mean that you can’t achieve higher speeds on an electric bike. It simply means that if you cross the 25kmp benchmark, you will need pure pedal power from your legs to ride your bike at a higher speed. 

While e-bikes may not be able to take you faster than the specified speed, they can certainly take you further. Since riding the e-bike is easier and requires less power, you will not get tired as quickly, which means you can travel greater distances without stopping to catch a breath.

Plus, these electric bikes make it easier to maintain the speed while riding and get back to top speed after stopping. Maintaining speed and fewer breaks cut down the overall time of the journey without tiring you out. This is why electric bikes are the preferred choice for daily commuting and traveling long distances.

If you want to go long-range, some electric bikes come with a second battery that will keep you going even when the first battery runs out. The bottom line is that electric bikes are designed for easy cycling. They will not help you break speed records, but they will certainly go further and help you reach your destination faster.       

Rules & Regulations

One major difference between regular bikes and electric bikes is that eclectic bikes are categorized as motorized transport, which means they are still subject to some government regulations. For example, in the UK, you must be at least 14 years old to ride an electric bike.

Plus, it must have a maximum output of 250 watts, and the motor should not propel the bike after it reaches 15.5mph. The exact rules and regulations governing the speed and power limit might vary. However, it is unlikely to affect the riders. 

Apart from that, the rules and regulations for electric bikes and regular bikes are the same. You do not require a license to ride an electric bike. Plus, they don’t get registered and don’t require insurance or tax. You can ride them everywhere you can ride a regular bike.

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Conclusion – Which Option Is Right for You?

electric bike vs regular bike comparison
Electric Bikes VS Regular Bikes – Which Is Better?

With all the different options available in the market, choosing a bike can be tougher than you imagined. A lot of factors go into picking the ideal bike that meets your needs and requirements. Ultimately, it all boils down to why you want to purchase the bike.

For example, if you are looking for a fun, convenient, and eco-friendly ride for a daily commute or long distance traveling, then an electric bike is the perfect option for you. It is also a great choice for the elderly or people who want to enjoy long bike rides without tiring themselves excessively.

On the other hand, if you won’t be traveling far or ride your bike regularly, then a regular bike might fit the bill. Cost is another major factor that affects the buying decision. Electric bikes are generally more expensive but worth every penny. While you can always look into flexible payment options, if you won’t be riding your bike frequently, you can always consider getting a regular pedal bike to save on the cost.

In short, choosing the perfect bike is a personal decision that depends on your needs, requirements, and budget. Now that you know all about electric bikes and regular bikes, you are all set to make your pick! I hope now you can decide and get a better idea of Electric Bike VS Regular Bike.