Some say pedal-assist bicycles are cheating. Some think they ride themselves. Others believe that e-bikes are killing the true cycling culture. Take a minute to think: do you agree with that or not? Or perhaps you just find it difficult to answer, because you’re not totally sure either?

The thing is that most of those myths and misconceptions come from outside the saddle, from people who have never covered 50 miles sweat-free or hit a hill with a smile when the assist kicked in at the right moment. In this post, we’re going to clarify things by exploring how e-bicycles actually work, including pedal assist cargo bikes that are becoming increasingly popular now.

What Is Pedal Assist Electric Bike?

Let’s start with the simplest – answering the question "what is pedal assist on an electric bike?" A pedal assist system (PAS) is an operating mode on e-bicycles that helps you cycle more easily. You still hit the pedals, steer, and brake, just like on a regular bike. This is what makes it different from throttle-controlled cycles that work similarly to a motorcycle or electric scooter and don’t require you to pedal at all. You just need to turn a grip or push a button, and the motor will do the rest. With PAS, the motor kicks in only when you are hitting the pedals.

Here are the key components of electric bikes with pedal assist:

• Cadence and torque sensors: tell the PAS when to engage the motor and how much assistance you need.

• Mid-drive or hub motor: the heart of an electric bike that gives you a boost when pedaling.

• Controller: the brain of an e-bicycle that handles sensor data and regulates power delivery from the battery to the motor.

• Rechargeable battery: powers the motor during rides.

• Display: a handlebar-mounted screen showing speed, battery level, assist mode, and the distance you have already covered. It may also have buttons for adjusting pedal assist levels. 

Read Also: Why Battery Quality Matters More Than Ever When Choosing an E-Bike

How Does Pedal Assist Work?

How do ebikes do pedal assist? Once you turn on the PAS mode, the cadence sensor determines when you begin to ride, sends a signal to the controller, and monitors your speed. Now, let’s imagine you are climbing a steep hill and start pedaling harder. At this moment, the torque sensor kicks in. It detects an increased force applied to the pedals and tells the controller that you need assistance. The controller sends more energy from the battery to the motor, which gives you a more powerful boost and helps go up the hill with no extra effort.

As soon as you get on the level road and start pedaling with a light force, the controller reduces the motor power to save the battery. So, the components of an electric pedal assisted bike integrate with each other continuously to keep the ride as stable and efficient as possible.

E Bike Pedal Assist Levels

Most electric pedal assist bikes offer several assist levels, and each increases your pedaling power by a certain percentage. For example, the lowest level may give you a 25-50% boost, while the highest – 100%+. Here’s how they work:

• Eco/low level: gives minimum assistance, saving more battery for longer rides.

• Tour/mid level: balances efficiency and power, which makes it suitable for moderate hills.

• Sport/high level: provides a strong push for tackling steeper climbs, headwinds, and huge loads.

• Turbo/boost level: maximizes motor power for the easiest rides and fastest acceleration. 

How to Tell if Pedal Assist Is Working

1. Make sure that the battery is charged and turn on your electric assist pedal bike.

2. Switch to a mid- or high assist level (e.g., Tour, Sport, or Turbo).

3. Start pedaling. If the e bikes pedal assist is working, you'll feel a smooth boost or a gentle push. Pedaling will become significantly easier, and you'll also accelerate faster than on a regular bike.

Types of Pedal Assist Electric Bicycles

• Standard e-bikes: the most common pedal assist e bikes for different cycling needs, from leisure and fitness rides to daily errands. They typically feature 250-500W motors, good ergonomics, and average-width tires for mixed terrains. 

• Pedal assist electric bike cargo models: more durable pedal assist e bikes with an extended rear rack or spacious cargo box for hauling heavy loads or passengers. They have reinforced, step-through frames and powerful motors (500-750W), as well as support a variety of accessories (e.g., child seats and rain canopies). This makes them perfect for family rides, grocery runs, and pet transportation.

• Electric pedal assist bicycles for commuting: efficient pedal assist electric bicycles that prioritize speed and practicality in urban environments. They come with mudguards, rear racks, puncture-resistant tires, and powerful mid-drive motors for quick acceleration. Commuter bikes are designed to help you get to work faster while staying fresh and saving money on fuel.

Benefits of Pedal Assist Cargo Bikes

Pedal assist cargo bikes have seen a rapid growth in popularity during recent years, and for a good reason. They deliver a wide range of benefits for those seeking to make their cycling experience safer and more convenient while carrying loads. Check out the advantages of cargo electric bicycles with pedal assist:

• Sweat-free pedaling when fully loaded

• Reduced rider fatigue during long trips

• Increased payload capacity of up to 250-600 lbs, depending on the bike model

• More space to accommodate both goods and passengers at the same time

• Stable bicycle construction to prevent rollovers under heavy loads

• Support for different add-ons and accessories

• Eco-friendly transportation with zero emissions

How Fast and Powerful Are Electric Pedal Assist Bicycles?

How fast can you go on a bike with pedal assist? It’s a common question among novice cyclists. In the US, electric assisted pedal bikes are categorized as Class 1 or Class 3 cycles, and can reach 20 mph or 28 mph, respectively. Once you hit that speed, the motor cuts off, but you can continue pedaling faster on your own. Still, most people ride at a comfortable average of 15-20 mph, even though the bike can go faster.

Another popular question is "how many horsepowers does an assisted pedal bike have?" The power of a pedal assist electric bike is measured in watts and cannot exceed 750W in the US. Many popular models, including commuters and cargo bicycles, use 500-750W motors, while some cycles are limited to 250W.

Tips for Buying a Pedal Assist Cargo Bike

When looking for a reliable pedal assist cargo bike for sale that matches your cycling needs, consider the following:

• Determine how you are going to use your pedal assisted electric bicycle (carry your kids or dogs, run personal errands, conduct business deliveries, etc.).

• Verify local e-bike regulations regarding motor power and speed limits.

• Choose a bike with a mid-drive motor if you ride in hilly areas and with a hub motor if your routes are mostly flat.

• Consider battery capacity and range based on the distance of your trips.

• Prioritize safety features (e.g., hydraulic disc brakes, sturdy frames, and integrated LED lights).

• Make sure that the payload capacity withstands your typical cargo weight.

• Arrange a test ride or rent a bike if possible to check its comfort, balance, and ease of handling.

• Confirm warranty coverage and after-sales support from the manufacturer.

How Much Is a Pedal Assist Bike?

An electric bike with pedal assist typically costs anywhere from $1,500 to $3,000 for standard commuter models, while cargo bicycles range between $2,000 and $5,000+. The price depends on the motor type and power, battery range, frame strength, and included accessories. Want to get the most affordable yet quality e-bike? Check our Ferla Outlet for used models with great discounts.

How to Easily Build a Pedal Assisted Bike

To build an electric pedal assist bike yourself, you should first purchase an e-bicycle conversion kit, which includes a motor, battery, controller, display, sensors, and all the needed cables. Hence, you can turn a regular two-wheeler into an e pedal assist bike without building it from scratch. However, the process requires certain technical skills and knowledge, so many cyclists still opt for brand-new electric bikes.

Maintenance Tips

Pedal assist electric bicycles are easy to maintain. You just need to follow some basic tips so that your bike delivers the best performance for a long time:

• Charge your bicycle’s battery with the manufacturer’s charger

• Avoid overcharging the battery

• Don’t ride through deep water to protect electrical components

• Clean your bicycle regularly so that the accumulated dirt and debris don’t affect the motor or sensor system

• Arrange periodic check-ups with a professional to make sure that all the electrical components of your bike are in good condition

• Store your bicycle in a dry, cool place without exposing it to extreme temperatures

Conclusion

Pedal assist doesn’t replace cycling, but enhances it. It backs you up at the moment of need, making your riding experience more enjoyable and manageable, whatever distance, terrain, or load you’re dealing with. So, go ahead and try an electric pedal assisted bike firsthand to see what a great difference it can bring to your cycling routine!