Difference Between A Regular Bike And An Electric Bike | KBO Bike

In recent years, there has been a surge in the popularity of electric bicycles. More bikers are shifting away from traditional bikes and toward e-bikes. The significant difference between electric bicycles and regular bicycles is the addition of electrical components. An electric bike is simply a regular bicycle coupled with an electric motor, battery, and controller to assist the user. In certain situations, you can pedal a little, a lot, or not at all. Electric bikes are available in many styles, including cruisers, exercise bikes, mountain cycles, etc. The electric bike is not an innovation in and of itself, but rather an evolution of the traditional bicycle. Electric bikes have evolved throughout time to provide an improved riding experience. The technology is improving, and we are beginning to see e-bikes as a viable mode of everyday transportation and pleasure for the general public.  

The Motor, Sensor, Battery, Controls, and Display are the five essential extra parts that distinguish an electric bike from a conventional non-electric bike

1. Electric Motor:

Electrical energy is converted into mechanical energy by electric motors. E-bikes use Brushless DC motors. The motor provides the pedal assists and range to the e-bike. Despite having the same fundamental technology, the electrical motors used on recent e-bikes are into three categories based on the location on the bike. Mid-drive motors are fixed in the center of the frame, where the bottom bracket would typically be. The other two are front and rear hub-driven e-bikes.

2. Battery:

The battery supplies the electrical power that the motor uses. The amount of battery power influences how far an electric bike can travel without pedaling. For bikers who are more concerned about commuting than exercising, this is a key priority. Based on the battery power, some bikes can travel 50 miles or more on a single charge. The battery capacity, slopes, wind, and body size will all affect the range. Charging the battery is not a big deal. Unlock your battery with the included keys, unclip it from your bike, and top up the battery using a mains plug outlet.

3. Display:

This is an LCD screen that gives you the bike data. Monitoring how you are riding has been made very easy and accessible. The display screen is attached to the handlebar of the bicycle. The LCD provides parameters such as speed, battery level, and other relevant information.

4. Controls:

This is used to manage the amount of power that the electric components of the bicycle supply. There are buttons, flips, and switches. The level of pedal assists, the motor speed, and the gear is activated using the controls. The controls can be integrated with the display to facilitate ease of use.

5. Sensor:

The sensor is the component of the bike that signals the motor you are pedaling and should begin assisting the rider.

Well, after discussing the different components that set an electric bike aside from a regular traditional bicycle. Let us check out how these extra additions affect them.
However, this article will not be helpful, if it does not examine some of the advantages and disadvantages of e-bikes based on some standard criteria. So let us get started.

COST

As it has been, and will always be. When getting more value from something, you will need to pay more for it. It should be no surprise that the electric bike costs more than a regular bike. Ebikes seem to be quite expensive. A few years ago, I would have agreed that e-bikes were very expensive. Just like cell phones, technology has advanced rapidly. It has never been cheaper to have so much biking power at your fingertips. Compared with other manufacturers, KBO bikes is producing very economical electric bikes. With the commuter bikes like the KBO Breeze retailing for just $1499, That is good value for a fair price..

WEIGHT

Ebikes have more weight than conventional bicycles. But then, to be sincere, you have to agree that batteries, motors, and controllers all have weight. Bikes usually carry considerably heavier loads (such as the human body), so distributing that weight is what matters. It is preferable to ride low and center since it helps balance the bike. And with the improvement and advancement of material technology, e-bike manufacturers use lightweight alloy materials such as aluminum to build the Bike frame. It makes up for the extra weight of the electrical components. With an average traditional bike weighing about 22 pounds or more, some e-bikes weigh about 36 pounds.

MAINTENANCE

Since there are more parts on an e-bike when compared to a traditional bike, the maintenance culture may need to be more intentional. It is dependent on how you handle bicycle maintenance. Many riders love maintaining their bikes, and once you understand the basics, it is not that tough. It truly depends on how near the shop is to you whether you choose to take your bike in for regular maintenance. Mechanical components are the same as those found on non-electric bicycles. Mechanical parts of the bike, can be serviced at any bicycle shop. You may notice that your bike parts, particularly brake pads, chains, gears, and tires, wear a little faster on an electric bike than on a non-electric bike. However, this is because most individuals ride their e-bike for far longer distances.

The major concern here is the upkeep of the bike’s electrical components, which is different from the usual maintenance that comes with owning a traditional bicycle. The controller, motor, and battery are the three distinct components of an e-bike. The controller and motor do not need to be serviced regularly. They should last at least a year (the guarantee period) and usually considerably longer. The battery, on the other hand, requires special attention. First and foremost, if you can bring it inside, do not leave it outside. Extreme temperatures and temperature swings are not good for batteries.

SPEED

An electric bike due to its pedal-assist feature can travel faster than a non-electric bike. Some electric bikes have as many as five levels of pedal assist. On e-bikes with the pedal-assist feature, bikers may easily achieve speeds of 25 mph and 21 mph with just the throttle. Traditional bikes travel on an average high speed of 19mph. The major difference is that an e-bike can achieve a high speed without the rider breaking a sweat. That is a big flex. E-bikes allow you to travel further and cover more distances than you could on a normal bike. In general, an e-bike will double your travel distance when compared to a traditional bike.

EXERCISE

Cycling is rated as one of the best low-impact exercises. It is a fantastic activity, but older folks often recall riding their bikes when they were younger. Unfortunately, as we age, riding a bike may become a difficult activity, especially for those who aren't as agile as they once were. They might be able to get back into cycling with the help of an electric bike. An e-bike might be especially useful for people who have arthritis or are recuperating from an accident. Some people might think using an electric bike for exercise isn’t as effective as a traditional bike. That is a wrong notion. Cycling aims to exercise your body, and not strain it. An e-bike gives you the advantage of switching to pedal assists should it get a little difficult when you’re riding. An e-bike gives your body some time to rest while you’re still in motion. That is a luxury a traditional bike cannot afford you, as you have to keep pedaling even when you are tired.

LEGAL REGULATIONS

Even with all of its added capabilities, the e-bike is still a bicycle, therefore you don't need a license or permit to ride it. You can use your electric bike on any cycling route. Though in some states, electric bicycles are subject to several additional regulations. Unlike non-electric bikes, e-bikes are classified as a type of motorized transportation by the government and are thus subject to extra restrictions.

A quick summary of the Pro and Cons of an electric bike over a regular bike

PROs

1.You can ride quicker and for long distances with an electric bike.
2.They're fantastic for commuting, and you'll feel amazing when you get to work.
3.On an electronic bike, you'll still get fantastic exercise because you have to peddle. Your entire body, not just your legs, gets a workout when you crank the pedals
4.They can give you the courage to go on difficult routes, as riding up hills or mountains can be challenging for those who aren't athletically inclined
5.It helps you stay at pace with other cyclers during a fast ride.

CONs

1.The cost of an electric bike is more than that of a non-electric bike.
2.Electric bicycles are heavier than non-electric bicycles.
3.Electric bikes may have somewhat more maintenance expenses. Owing to the additional electrical components that may require changing over the years.
4.In certain countries, electric bikes are subject to extra restrictions and regulations.

Choosing a bike is a very personal decision, therefore only you can choose if an electric bike or a traditional pedal cycle is best for you. There are several factors to consider when purchasing a new bike, but the most essential question to ask yourself is what you want to use the bike for. this would then help you choose what best suits your riding style and your budget.