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About Electric Bikes


About Electric Bikes:

Trek Road eBike

Electric assist bikes are pedal bikes with a motor mounted either at the rear hub or bottom bracket that will help assist the rider with pedaling. These motors can be controlled by a remote on the handlebar that will change the mode and power output levels. This small boost allows the rider to effortlessly ride steep hills, carry more stuff, commute more easily and go further than previously possible. Electric bikes are available in every bike format, such as cruisers, road bikes and mountain bikes allowing wider access to this exciting new technology. Electric bikes are categorized into three different categories as follows;

  • Class 1: eBikes that are pedal-assist only, with no throttle, and have a maximum assisted speed of 20 mph.

  • Class 2: eBikes that also have a maximum speed of 20 mph, but are throttle-assisted.

  • Class 3: eBikes that are pedal-assist only, with no throttle, and a maximum assisted speed of 28 mph.

Class 1 and 3 eBikes are allowed almost everywhere while Class 2 bikes are more heavily restricted due to the heavier damage they do to trail networks. 

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I still get a workout?

As long as the bike is pedal assist, it is possible to lower the power output of the motor and increase the effort required to move the bike. In a recent  BYU study it was found that riders were still hitting the vigorous intensity heart rate zone in a direct comparison to normal bikes. The big difference however was that after riding the electric bikes riders reported not feeling as physically taxed despite tests showing they were exercising at the same intensity. 

How long can I ride for?

This depends on the size of the battery and the power output mode the bike is in as well as the terrain being ridden on. Most mountain bikes and commuters get between 17 and 45 miles out of a charge while some road bikes can get up to 70 miles on a charge without range extenders.

How long do they take to charge?

Typically most batteries charge to 80% in 2.5 hours and charge to 100% in 4 hours.

Where can I ride my new electric bike?

Electric bikes are legal pretty much everywhere as long as they are class 1 and 2. However they are still subject to the same rules as normal bikes.

More information on state regulations can be found here at peopleforbikes.org


If you have any other questions, give us a call at (530) 345-2453 or come by our shop located at 178 E 2nd St. Chico, CA