Electric bikes are gaining in popularity, make no doubt about it. experts say that the united states will be the second largest electric bicycle market over the next 20 years with more than 2 million units sold per year. The electric bike market is currently in its infancy here in the states, with only under 200,000 units sold per year. We can assure you, you will see more and more of them in the near future if you haven't already.
Typically the first question that comes to mind is, "what is that?" "how does it work?" - Luckily Big Cat ® has given us a brief short video that explains the basic functions of an electric bike and the benefits of having an electric bike.
But first let's get a quick overview of some of the more common functions you may find on some E-Bikes.
Throttle: Most or All of Big cat ® Electric Bicycles are equipped with a Throttle, this is probably the best part of it all. You can simply twist the throttle and off you go, similar to a motorcycle or a moped, there is no need to pedal. However keep in mind that the longer use of the throttle will give you the least amount of range and drain your battery faster.
Thumb Throttle: The thumb throttle has the same function as the twist throttle, however, it is slightly different in design, it is actuated by pressing down on a small lever with your thumb versus twisting with your hand.
Push Throttle: The Push Throttle, of course, serves the same purpose and has the same function as the twist and thumb throttle. however this type of throttle is more commonly found in Electric Bike Conversion Kits.
Pedal assist: As you will see in the video, the pedal assist or pedelec function works when you pedal, as you pedal there is a plate with magnets that is read by a cadence sensor, as soon as you start to pedal the motor engages and off you go. Another similar sensor is called a torque sensor, the torque sensor is a little bit different because it gives you assistance based on you cadence level, so the faster you pedal the more assistance you get.
Note: this video was one of my first videos on Youtube. I apologize if I sound unenthusiastic.