03/10/24 March Sunnd

Complete bicycle guide with assisted pedaling

Forget steep hills and endless sweat. Pedal-assist bicycles (also known as e-bikes or electric bikes) are revolutionizing the way we get around town.

Imagine a bicycle that helps you pedal, propelling you forward with every pedal stroke. You'll feel as if the wind is always blowing in your favor, allowing you to reach your destination faster, effortlessly, and without breaking a sweat.

How does it work?

It's very simple. The pedal-assist bike has a sensor that detects your pedaling. When you start pedaling, the electric motor activates and provides an additional boost. The amount of assistance you receive depends on the level of assistance you have selected.

What are the benefits?

Pedal-assist bicycles offer a host of benefits:

They help you go further and faster: With the assistance of the electric motor, you can cover greater distances effortlessly.
Climbing hills is no longer a problem: Forget about steep hills. The motor assistance will help you overcome them with ease.
Arrive at your destination without breaking a sweat: No more arriving at work or appointments drenched in sweat.
It is an ecological alternative: Electric bicycles do not pollute, making them an ideal option for protecting the environment.
It's a fun and healthy way to get moving: Pedaling with electric assistance is a fun and beneficial physical activity for your health.

How is it different from a normal bicycle?

The main difference between a pedal-assist bike and a regular bike is the electric motor. An electric bike gives you an extra boost to help you pedal, while a regular bike doesn't have electric assistance.

Is a pedal-assist bike right for me?

Pedal-assist bicycles are an excellent option for a wide variety of people:

For people who want an easier and more comfortable way to get around the city
For people looking for an eco-friendly alternative to cars or public transport
For people who want to exercise in a gentle and healthy way (a study by Brigham Young University compares cardiovascular activity between cyclists of traditional and electric bicycles, concluding that cycling with electric bikes It is also a form of aerobic exercise)
For people who have difficulty pedaling a normal bicycle

How the pedal-assisted bicycle works

Pedal-assist bicycles (e-bikes) are not just ordinary bicycles with a motor. They are an intelligent system that combines human power with electric assistance to create a unique pedaling experience.

How this system works in detail

1. Sensors: the brain of the e-bike

The pedal-assist bicycle is equipped with several sensors that monitor your pedaling, speed, and other parameters.These sensors are the eyes of the system, letting it know when and how to provide assistance.

2. Controller: the conductor

The controller is the brain of the e-bike. It receives information from the sensors and, based on the settings you've chosen, decides how much assistance the motor should provide.

3. Engine: brute force

The motor is the muscle of the e-bike. It's responsible for providing the electric assistance that helps you pedal. They come in different types and power ratings, which influence the bike's speed and performance.

4. Battery: the power source

The battery is the heart of the e-bike. It provides the energy needed for the motor to operate. Battery capacity determines the bike's range, that is, the distance you can travel on a single charge.

How do I activate assistance?

There are two main ways to activate assistance on a pedal-assist bicycle:

Pedal-assist: The assistance is activated automatically when you start pedaling. The amount of assistance depends on the level you have selected and how hard you pedal.
Accelerator: Some e-bikes also have a throttle that allows you to activate the assistance without having to pedal.

Modes of use

Pedal-assist bicycles typically have different modes that allow you to customize your pedaling experience:

Eco mode: saves battery and provides minimal assistance.
Normal mode: offers a balance between assistance and autonomy.
Sport mode: provides maximum assistance for more powerful driving.

Types of pedal-assisted bicycles

The world of pedal-assisted bicycles (e-bikes) is vast and diverse. There are different types of e-bikes designed to meet the needs of each user. In this section, we'll guide you through the most common types:

1. Electric mountain bikes (eMTB)

eMTBs allow you to explore challenging terrain more easily. They feature robust features like front and rear suspension, wide tires, and powerful motors that help you overcome obstacles and climb steep hills.

2. Electric urban bicycles (eCity)

The eCity is perfect for urban living. It's lightweight, comfortable, and practical, with designs that make city driving easierIts electric assistance allows you to move quickly and effortlessly, even during rush hour or in traffic.

3. Electric road bikes (eRoad)

The eRoad is designed for cycling enthusiasts looking to improve their performance and expand their routes. They offer a pedaling experience similar to a traditional road bike, but with the advantage of electric assistance for tackling long distances and hills.

4. Electric folding bicycles (eFolding)

eFolding bikes are the ideal choice for those looking for a compact and versatile bike. They fold easily for transport in the car, bus, or subway, and their electric assistance allows you to move around the city with agility.

Other options

In addition to these main types, there are also electric cargo bikes, electric gravel bikes, and electric hybrid bikes. Each has its own characteristics and is designed for a specific use.

How to choose the right electric bike?

To choose the ideal pedal-assist bicycle for you, you should consider:

Your budget: E-bikes can range in price from a few hundred euros to several thousand. Sostenibilidad.com highlights that Electric bicycles are cheaper than cars and motorcycles combustion and help combat urban air pollution because they do not emit CO2.
The use you will give it: Will you use it to go to work, to play sports or to go on excursions?
The terrain you will be driving on: Do you need a robust mountain bike or a lightweight city bike?
Your autonomy: How far do you want to go on a single charge?

Legislation on pedal-assisted bicycles

Pedal-assist bicycles are becoming increasingly popular, but it's important to understand the regulations that govern them. In this section, we'll guide you through current Spanish legislation so you can ride your e-bike safely and legally.

Classification of e-bikes

In Spain, pedal-assisted bicycles are classified into two categories:

EPAC (Electrically Power Assisted Cycles)

Maximum speed: 25 km/h
Maximum engine power: 250 W (W legal)
They do not need a license plate or driving license.
They are considered bicycles for legal purposes.

Pedelec

Maximum speed: 45 km/h
Maximum engine power: 4,000 W
They are considered mopeds for legal purposes.
They require a license plate, vehicle registration, and compulsory insurance.

Traffic rules

EPAC pedal-assist bicycles must be ridden in the same places as regular bicycles:

Bike lanes: whenever possible.
Single-platform streets: in case there is no bike lane.
Road: If there is no bike lane or single platform, use the right shoulder.

Pedelec-category pedal-assisted bicycles must be driven on the road like mopeds:

Respect traffic signs.
Wearing a helmet is mandatory.
Do not walk on sidewalks or pedestrian areas.

Responsibilities

It is important to remember that, as a pedal-assist bicycle operator, you are responsible for:

Drive safely and responsibly.
Respect traffic regulations.
Keep your bike in good condition.

Maintenance and care of your pedal-assisted bicycle

Pedal-assist bicycles (e-bikes) are an investment that requires proper maintenance to ensure proper operation and prolong their lifespan. Here, we'll walk you through some basic tips for caring for your e-bike:

Battery

The battery is the most important component of the e-bike. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for charging and storage.
Avoid extreme temperatures and impacts that could damage it.
Perform full charge cycles from time to time to maintain its health.

Engine

The e-bike motor does not require extensive maintenance.
Keep the engine area clean and free of dust or dirt.
If you experience unusual noises or vibrations, consult a specialist workshop.

General components

Check tire pressure frequently.
Lubricate the chain and cables regularly.
Adjust the brakes and lights to ensure they are working properly.
Perform a general cleaning of the bicycle after each use.

Additional tips

Store your e-bike in a safe, dry place.
If you are not going to use it for a long period, store the battery with a 50% charge.
Protects the battery from extreme cold during winter.
Register your e-bike with the manufacturer for assistance in case of problems.

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Remember

The battery life of an e-bike can vary depending on how it is used.
It is important to follow the manufacturer's recommendations to extend its useful life.
If you don't feel confident performing maintenance yourself, visit a shop that specializes in pedal-assist bicycles.

Conclusion

Pedal-assisted bicycles (e-bikes) are here to revolutionize the way we get around. They're an eco-friendly, efficient, and fun alternative to cars, public transportation, and traditional bicycles.

The advantages of e-bikes are several:

They help you go further, faster.
Climbing hills is no longer a problem.
Reach your destination without breaking a sweat.
It is an ecological alternative to the car or public transport.
It's a fun and healthy way to get moving.

If you're looking for an easier, more comfortable, and more environmentally friendly way to get around town, a pedal-assist bicycle may be the perfect solution for you.