In the last decade, electric bicycles have become an extremely popular means of transportation, both in urban and rural environments. This trend is not only a consequence of technological advances, but also of a growing awareness of sustainability and the need for alternative forms of mobility. Electric bicycles combine comfort, speed and energy efficiency with the benefits of physical activity, providing a unique solution to everyday transportation challenges. To better understand how an electric bicycle works, it is necessary to analyze the basic components that enable their operation, the technological principles on which they are based, and the benefits they bring to users in different contexts.
Basic components of an electric bicycle
An electric bicycle is basically a classic bicycle enhanced with advanced electrical components that provide assistance during riding. Regardless of differences in design, all electric bicycles have several key elements. The basic part of the system is an electric motor, located in the hub of the front or rear wheel (hub motor) or in the central part of the bicycle (central motor), which converts electrical energy into mechanical power. The energy for operation is provided by a lithium-ion battery, known for its durability, low weight and high capacity, which allows for a longer driving range. The bicycle also uses a speed sensor that precisely monitors the movement of the wheels and adjusts the level of assistance to ensure optimal and safe riding.
Battery:
The battery is a key component of an electric bicycle, providing the energy needed to operate the motor and enabling electric-powered riding. Modern electric bicycles almost exclusively use lithium-ion batteries due to their exceptional energy density, low weight and long life compared to other battery types. These batteries allow for greater range with minimal added weight to the bicycle, making them an ideal choice for mobile applications. Charging the battery is simple and can be done at home (portable battery as shown), via a standard electrical network or at increasingly common public charging stations. Battery life and performance depend on a number of factors, including the level of assistance, type of terrain, aerodynamic drag, rider weight and riding style. In addition, advanced battery management systems (Battery Management System – BMS) ensure safety and efficiency, preventing overcharging or discharging and extending the battery’s service life.
Electric Motor :
The electric drive motor is located in one of three possible locations on the bicycle: in the front or rear wheel or in the center (central motor integrated with the pedals). The motor helps provide assistance when pedaling, making the ride easier, faster and less tiring. Depending on the model, the motor can provide different levels of assistance, allowing the cyclist to choose the desired power depending on the riding conditions.
Speed sensor and torque sensor :
Electric bikes typically use sensors to detect the speed and force the cyclist applies to the pedals. Based on this data, the system decides how much power to deliver to the motor. In some models, the sensors can detect how hard the cyclist is pedaling and adjust the amount of assistance the motor provides accordingly. Learn more about sensor types in this post: Which is better for your electric bike: torque sensor or speed sensor?
Controller :
The controller is the “brain” of an electric bike. It regulates the motor based on data it receives from the pedal and speed sensors, as well as the settings the cyclist selects via the handlebars. The controller also regulates the flow of energy from the battery to the motor, ensuring optimal efficiency and battery life.
Handlebar and display : Electric bikes usually have a display on the handlebars that displays important information such as speed, remaining battery capacity, riding mode and mileage. The cyclist can use this display to adjust various settings, such as the amount of assistance provided by the motor, or to select different riding modes. Many modern electric bikes come with built-in Bluetooth connectivity in the display that allows them to connect to a dedicated mobile app. Through the app, users can adjust bike settings, such as assistance level, speed limit or motor mode, and monitor data such as remaining battery capacity, range and real-time riding statistics. A good example of electric bikes that use the advanced Bikewise PRO app are the Ms Energy C300 , C30 and C40 !
Advantages of an electric bike
Electric bicycles bring many benefits to users. Some of the most important include:
- Acceleration of riding : Electric bikes allow for faster riding, especially on uphill climbs or longer distances. The motor assistance makes riding less strenuous, so cyclists can reach their destination faster without feeling exhausted.
- Reduced effort : Using an electric bike makes riding easier, as the motor assists with pedaling. It is the perfect solution for people who want to enjoy cycling but have physical limitations or don’t want to put in too much effort.
- Greener transportation : Electric bikes reduce the need for cars, thereby reducing air pollution and carbon dioxide emissions. They represent a more sustainable mode of transportation, ideal for cities seeking to reduce emissions and promote green alternatives.
- Health and fitness : Although an electric bike offers assistance, users still have to pedal. This means that an electric bike still provides physical activity that contributes to health and fitness, but with less effort than a regular bike.
- Saving time and money : Using an electric bicycle can be faster than using a car in heavy city traffic, and it is significantly cheaper in terms of maintenance and fuel compared to cars.
Conclusion: Electric bicycles as the future of transportation
Electric bicycles are becoming increasingly popular in urban areas due to their practicality, environmental friendliness and comfort. With a combination of electric assistance and physical activity, they offer users a fast, efficient and healthy way to get around. Through its basic components such as a motor, battery, sensors and controller, an electric bicycle offers comfort and flexibility, while reducing the need for cars, making cities cleaner and more sustainable.
Given all these advantages, it is not surprising that electric bicycles will play a key role in shaping more sustainable and healthier cities in the future.
