Does Riding an Electric Bike Feel the same as Riding a Normal Bike?

In recent years, electric bike have become increasingly popular. However, many people are curious: What is the difference between electric bike and normal bike? What are their similarities and differences? If you are also considering buying an electric bike, let's take a look!
How do electric bike compare to normal bike?
Although the word "electric" is added to the name, electric bike still have many similarities with normal bike:
- Appearance: They all have basic structures such as frame, wheels, handlebars, seats, pedals, etc.
- Pedaling: Most electric bike retain the same pedaling function as normal bike. When the power is exhausted or you don’t want to use the electric mode, you can use your leg power to pedal forward like a normal bike.
- Braking: Both bikes use hand brakes to brake. electric bike use the same type of brakes, while normal bike offer multiple brakes depending on the needs of the consumer.
- Commuting: Both normal bike and electric bike are very suitable for short-distance commuting and are environmentally friendly means of transportation. Especially during rush hour, their flexibility and convenience can be better demonstrated.
So what is the difference between the two?
- Power: normal bike rely entirely on human power to move forward, while electric bike have built-in motors and batteries that can provide auxiliary or fully automatic drive, greatly reducing the burden on riders.
- Weight: Because of the built-in battery and motor, electric bike are usually much heavier than normal bike. Although this does not have much impact when riding, it will be a little difficult to carry or push in situations where it is necessary.
- Riding method: electric bike usually provide multiple modes, such as pure electric, power-assisted riding and pedaling. Users can switch freely according to different needs; while normal bike only have one mode - relying on your own legs.
- Maintenance cost: In addition to regular maintenance of tires, brakes and other parts, electric bike also need to consider battery life and motor maintenance, and their maintenance costs and complexity will increase accordingly. However, in return, it can save you manpower, time and refueling costs, etc.
So can you "ride an electric bike like normal bike"?
My answer is: Yes, but the experience will be completely different.
You can ride an electric bike like a normal bike, especially when choosing pedal or power-assisted mode, and its operation is almost the same as that of a normal bike; but in terms of experience, it is easier, more efficient and more modern.
For some office workers, electric bike are an ideal choice to save energy and shorten commuting time, while for those who pursue exercise and a simple lifestyle, normal bike may be more suitable.
However, riding an electric bike can also help you exercise. If the battery is low, you can turn off the motor and continue riding by pedaling. However, due to the presence of the motor and battery, the weight will also increase. So it is best to keep the battery fully charged.
Final words
No matter which one you choose, two-wheeled riding is a green, free and enjoyable way of traveling. Electric bike are not a replacement for normal bike, but a new choice.
I hope this article can help you understand their differences and connections more clearly and find the riding method that suits you best.