Can Electric Bikes Be Used Manually?

Published on January 24, 2023

Electric bikes, otherwise known as cruiser e-bikes, are becoming increasingly popular for good reason. We all know bikes are a great mode of transportation—they get us to where we need to go, help us stay fit, and are good for the environment. E-bikes take it one step further by giving cyclists a little more out of their ride. We’re talking about the electric motor found in e-bikes that provide assistance with pedaling–although, yes, you can use an e-bike manually, as well!

The term ‘electric bike’ might spark a few questions. Are all electric bikes pedal-assist? Do you need gears on your electric bike? We hear you! Here at Ride1UP, we take pride in providing quality products and quality service, and we know that shopping for an electric bike is an investment, so we’re here to help you every step of the way.

What Is an E-Bike?

An electric bike is like any other bike, except that it has been fitted with a battery-powered motor. Depending on the model, there might be other features present, like a throttle. Most e-bikes come with several power modes. Off-mode allows the bike to behave like a traditional bike. Low-levels offer some assistance with pedaling, and high-levels provide all assistance available from the motor. As you can see, e-bikes offer versatile rides that allow them to be enjoyed by people of different ages and fitness levels.

Unlike traditional bikes, electric bikes can cruise up hills easily and bike over rocky terrain with more power. This not only reduces the amount of effort and energy the rider exerts, it also leaves you less sweaty and tired. Combine this with the countless benefits that come from cycling, and you’ll understand the hype surrounding e-bikes. 

Using E-Bikes Manually

If you’re considering purchasing an electric bike, you might be wondering if it can be used like a traditional bike. Maybe you want to preserve your bike’s battery during a ride, or maybe you want to push yourself harder the next time you take your e-bike for a spin. Fortunately, it’s easy to use electric bikes manually. 

The great thing about electric bikes is that they offer the best of both worlds. You can use the motor to get a little assistance when biking, or you can turn it off and use the bike as if it were a traditional bike.

We do want to address one important factor to keep in mind: while an e-bike is still a bike at the end of the day, the motor and battery make it weigh more than a regular bike. Please keep this in mind, as you’re likely to experience a slightly different ride given its weight, especially uphill. 

Another important thing to remember is that you need to have a fully charged battery before you leave, just in case you decide you’ve had enough manual riding and want to use the benefits of your e-bike on your ride home! 

In Summary

E-bikes can be ridden either manually or with pedal-assist, offering you convenience, comfort, and versatility while you exercise and get around town.

While you continue your hunt for an e-bike, remember that here at Ride1UP, we value quality and service. If you’re tired of searching alone, we can get you the information you need to find the model that’s perfect for what you’re looking for!