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Electric bikes - basic concepts, types and equipment
With the rapidly growing popularity of electric bikes and electric motors in various vehicles, interest in the technical side of these machines is also increasing. Given the incredible surge in interest that electrically powered vehicles have experienced in recent years, it is no surprise that more and more people are showing interest in their technical aspects. To ensure that you invest in the right equipment, it is important to understand some basic concepts behind these machines, such as how to read the technical data of a specific model, its motor, or its battery. Electric bikes use complex systems to provide highly efficient propulsion, and you are likely interested in how it all works. Knowledge of how to interpret technical specifications can greatly help in finding an electric bike or motor that best suits your needs.
Electric Bikes - two types
Electric bikes, also known as e-bikes, are quickly gaining popularity due to their practicality, convenience, and many other benefits. The vast majority of electric bikes fall into two distinct types: pedal-assisted and throttle-controlled (hub motor). Pedal-assisted electric bikes require the rider to pedal to engage the motor, which then assists the pedalling and provides additional power. Throttle-controlled electric bikes (with the motor usually mounted on the wheel) work similarly to the very popular electric scooters today and provide a power boost when the rider presses the throttle button located on the bike's handlebar. Both types offer a fast and enjoyable way to get around the city or explore uncharted areas. Whether the bike is pedal-assisted or throttle-controlled, electric bikes offer riders the opportunity to enjoy a comfortable ride without excessive effort.
E-bikes - key concepts
Electric bikes offer consumers an environmentally friendly mode of transport. Read on to learn more about the concepts you will encounter when looking for an electric bike.
The electric motor in an electric bike provides the power to drive the bike. As mentioned above, there are two different types of motors used in electric bikes: hub motors, which are located on the wheel, and pedal-assist motors. These motors vary in power, from 100W to 1000W in specialized high-power hub models. According to Polish law, with powers above 250W and maximum speeds exceeding 25 km/h, the bike is considered a moped.
Batteries power the emission-free electric motor in an electric bike and can be recharged multiple times. But how do these batteries work? There are several types of batteries used in electric bikes, including:
- Nickel-metal hydride (NiMH)
- Lithium-ion (Li-Ion - the most popular)
- Lead-acid (SLA);
Each of them offers a different set of specifications and features that determine their compatibility with an electric bike. The voltage of the battery (V - volts) essentially determines the maximum speed and power of the electric bike, while its capacity (Ah - ampere-hours) indicates how far you can travel on a single charge. Many current models have a capacity ranging from 2Ah to 25Ah, offering durability and performance regardless of the terrain or type of ride.
The battery charger is a basic accessory for an electric bike and plays a crucial role in the usage process. Depending on the type and power of the battery, the charger's voltage will range from 24V to 72V in the case of electric bikes powered by a very high-power motor.