Throttle vs pedal assist which do you actually use more?
Posted by JackKhan1346@reddit | ebikes | View on Reddit | 206 comments
I see mixed opinions online. If you have both, do you find yourself using throttle most of the time or sticking with pedal assist for better range and exercise?
ImMikeJamesB1@reddit
I have a pretty long commute that I try and do as quickly as possible since I work all the time and try to maximize time with my family. I keep my bike on assist level 1 and run the throttle 100% of the time lol
Exactly the opposite of what I had planned to do.
m12y_@reddit
Throttle to get going from a stop (especially to clear intersections ASAP), otherwise pedals
BWWFC@reddit
wow... literally the most energy demanding part is getting going. me, hate charging batteries or low mileage out of a charge, so 100% would flip that... peddle to get started and then the juice to keep cruising.
plus all the high current for fast starts? seems a recipe for equipment stress/failure. but just imho
terraherts@reddit
It's a safety thing when riding on roads through intersections - the less time spent in intersection, the better. Safety > battery life.
Even more so for hub motors (especially without a torque sensor) as the pedal input amplifies with motor output rather than being on the same drive train.
BWWFC@reddit
fast start from dead stop you say o_O what is your competition vespas on roman vias? lol then the case for "it's NOT a vehicle" gets harder, esp with the kicker "it's a safety thing." and most? news to me, this state/county/city DGAF if riding an analog peddle bike, stop is stop. good luck, ride UN-distracted, courteous, and safe!
terraherts@reddit
Stop sign as yield: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Idaho_stop
The stats show that cyclist safety increased after the passage of those laws.
The rest of your post is too incoherent to even guess at, you sound drunk/high.
BWWFC@reddit
how we slide from "why many states" to a wiki idaho? who's drunk and incoherent?
and when ready, let's talk about a michigan left lolzzz ride UN-distracted, courteous, and safe!
terraherts@reddit
I don't know if English is just not your first language or what, but I honestly have no idea what you're even trying to say. It's like you're just vomiting words onto the screen with no care for it making sense to anyone else.
BWWFC@reddit
so seems we share 'it'... is there a point or question there?
topic is "throttle vs pedal assist" but you seem safety oriented so...
let's do this... https://www.nhtsa.gov/es/seguridad-vial/seguridad-de-las-bicicletas
E-bicycle injuries are currently counted as motorcycle injuries: see motorcycle safety page.
About 59% of bicyclist deaths occur on sections of roads away from intersections (where higher speeds might occur) and 29% occur at intersections.
Unsafe speed was the most common primary crash factor in bicycle FSI crashes in 2021 making up 17.5 percent, followed by improper turning and automobile right of way, accounting for 17.1 and 15.8 percent respectively.
Lower speed limits can increase reaction time for both drivers and cyclists resulting in fewer crashes and less severe cyclist injuries when crashes occur.
Ride responsibly, and remember: All states require bicyclists on the roadway to follow the same rules and responsibilities as motorists.
(same for automobiles, right of way can only be given, never taken)
BWWFC@reddit
so seems we share 'it'... is there a point or question there?
Fragrant_Explorer_62@reddit
If you want to save battery you should be doing the opposite
ToyFan4Life@reddit
Or halfway up a really steep hill at the end of a ride
BWWFC@reddit
yeah, this is where i peddle with max assist. this pain is the same for all!
CuriousMe6987@reddit
Same, I use the throttle to get going, but start pedalling immediately.
micahbudd@reddit
I ride a cargo and I also use throttle to get off the line especially when in traffic, otherwise pedal assist. Most common exception is sometimes I'll use throttle when navigating through tight spaces so I can maximize my balance by not having to pedal.
roughtimes@reddit
I use gears and pretty much the opposite. Especially when trying to conserve power.
manowin@reddit
This is exactly my use case as well, throttle to start up, and pedal for everything else.
Gobbelcoque@reddit
Throttle is exclusively for getting my bike rolling off a light, no more than 1-3mph, or if I'm in eco mode and don't want to bump it to touring just for a short hill and want just a little boost.
Every time I have messed around and tried to ride it on throttle only, it felt downright dirty doing so.
hughkuhn@reddit
Pedal assist if you actually enjoy biking. Throttle if you want to pretend you are riding a bike.
Inciteful_Analysis@reddit
There are many valid uses for a throttle even for those who pedal 99% of the time.
E28forever@reddit
So how come European E-bikes don’t have throttle?
Inciteful_Analysis@reddit
Stupidity? Arrogance? Ignorance?
Congested cities that make throttles a greater concern than typical usage in the US?
Bosch lobbying against devices that would make their premium priced mid-drives less desirable?
Don't know and don't particularly care.
E28forever@reddit
Learn to properly ride a bike and you won’t need throttle.
Bosch is delivering some great stuff by the way, plenty of torque.
Inciteful_Analysis@reddit
I can ride a bike just fine. Mountain or road. Decades of experience. Throttles still have useful advantages. Learn to think beyond your tiny little bubble.
E28forever@reddit
Legs can do the same thing, combined with gears. No need for a silly throttle.
Inciteful_Analysis@reddit
I gave you a dozen reasons why throttle is beneficial. Done with your ignorance and arrogance.
UrbanEconomist@reddit
As an American, I have no idea. Using throttle to maintain balance at very low speeds is genuinely game-changing. I never would have thought about using it that way if I didn’t have a throttle, and I don’t see people talk about it much—it’s just something I figured out by riding. Makes passing through narrow gaps or slowing way down around people on narrow trails radically easier and safer. Also using throttle to get the heck out of any American-style intersection faster is an unambiguous safety improvement. I don’t like eMotos. I hate mopeds. I’m constantly annoyed by overpowered e-bikes blasting down quiet trails. But don’t blame the throttle for bad behavior or overpowered junk—it’s a great safety and quality of life feature.
E28forever@reddit
You could just shift down, that’s what your bike has gears for…
UrbanEconomist@reddit
Bikes have gears?!?! How have I never noticed???I’m shocked at this revelation! Truly you are wise in the ways of bikes, sir. I yield to your superior wisdom.
Appropriate-Top-1863@reddit
Exactly
Abigailey2701@reddit
I’ve never used my throttle, but now I’m thinking I should use it to get going from a stop. That’s the hardest thing for me.
hughkuhn@reddit
Or, now hear me out, shift into a lower gear before you stop to be ready to restart like bike riders do.
Inciteful_Analysis@reddit
You don't seem to be listening to throttle users. A throttle allows you to clear an intersection faster even versus being in an optimum lower gear and pedaling only.
It absolutely is a safety device when used properly. Making class 3 throttle bans idiotic and dangerous.
NewKitchenFixtures@reddit
Bikes (real bikes, not mopeds) start going faster than cars. The rider just has to be paying attention. And usually intersections either have traffic you are next to - or are empty and you wait to go until it’s clear.
This justification seems like a red herring when obviously ebike riders mostly just throttle their bikes and often have bikes grossly exceeding the normal class 3 classification.
Inciteful_Analysis@reddit
You speak from a position of ignorance.
Many cars, particularly EVs, cross intersections before bikes. This applies even more so for wider intersections.
The less time spent in an intersection, the less window for being hit. This should be common sense.
Almost no rider is going to out accelerate a bike like the Velotric Summit being throttled from a stop.
This is more purist bullshit rather than acknowledge that throttles have legit uses beyond being lazy. And this attitude leads to dangerous regulations.
OkTale8@reddit
I almost always put accelerate cars through intersections on my regular bike. They have to really stomp on it for me to not get across first… and that almost never happens.
Inciteful_Analysis@reddit
Congratulations.
Now what about the elderly or those with health conditions or those who simply aren't elite cyclists. Are they not worthy of a safety device that can get them out of the road faster?
E28forever@reddit
Isn’t the fact that the bike is ELECTRIC not enough for you guys?
People used to ride non electric bikes for ages, old and young.
Inciteful_Analysis@reddit
No, senior citizens riding bikes were not a common sight in the late 20th century. It is more common now because of ebikes.
You don't have to have a throttle. Quit caring that others find them useful. It's like telling Coca Cola drinkers that they don't actually like it and should drink Pepsi instead. Presumptuous.
E28forever@reddit
Having a throttle on a bike is ridiculous, use your damned legs and gears, or buy a decent bike that has some torque.
Inciteful_Analysis@reddit
Use your damn legs and walk, cheater. Quit being a wheelist.
I have a high torque eMTB without a throttle. The person speaking from ignorance is you.
E28forever@reddit
You make exaggeration an art form.
Inciteful_Analysis@reddit
No, that would be those contending that the mere existence of a throttle transforms an ebike into a moped.
stormdelta@reddit
Maybe a very fit rider could with correct gearing, but even then, mistakes happen or you need to accelerate unexpectedly where you don't have time/opportunity to shift gears perfectly.
Either way, a throttle will still allow faster acceleration from stop in a wider variety of conditions, especially for hub motors and non-torque-sensing bikes.
Cars turn when they're not supposed to, without signals, or blow through red lights all the time. It doesn't matter that the driver was wrong, you'll still get hurt/killed. And the numbers back that up - less time spent in intersection greatly increases cyclist safety, regardless of bike type.
That's a wild and unsupported generalization on your part
E28forever@reddit
A decent electric bike is plenty fast without throttle.
Stop buying junk.
stormdelta@reddit
What does a throttle have to do with maximum speed? Those are separate things. And what does a throttle have to do with something junk? Plenty of quality bikes have throttles.
It feels like many of you are complaining about throttles as a proxy for unrelated issues.
Inciteful_Analysis@reddit
E28forever is have troubling distinguishing acceleration from speed.
E28forever@reddit
Fast in accelerating, is what I meant. What kind of crappy bikes are you riding that you desperately need throttle? Afraid of breaking a sweat?
Inciteful_Analysis@reddit
I'd like to see one of these arrogant "throttles are never good" kids race something like a Velotric Summit through an intersection from a stop.
That they don't seem to comprehend that minimizing time in an intersection reduces the opportunity for being hit is sad.
Composed_Cicada2428@reddit
God some of you are insufferable tools
unicyclegamer@reddit
This sounds like an exaggeration to me. Before commuting with my e bike, I used my road bike and never really had issues clearing intersections from a stop. Proper gearing and riding out of the saddle for a few seconds was all I needed. Now with the e bike, I don’t even need to get out of the saddle.
Like I suppose I could get through even faster, but I don’t really see the benefit of it.
E28forever@reddit
Exactly.
Composed_Cicada2428@reddit
Nah, they’re just an elitist prick
stormdelta@reddit
A throttle is still better and faster for that, requires less experience or situational awareness, and works even if you have to accelerate unexpectedly (ie weren't able to downshift first).
E28forever@reddit
“Accelerate unexpectedly” is the key excuse here.
God bless the poor people that ride regular bikes.
They apparently die at every street corner in the US.
stormdelta@reddit
Side note, do you even live in the US, or are you another European who has zero clue what cycling and cycling infrastructure look like in the US?
stormdelta@reddit
Reducing time in intersection is shown to improve cyclist safety even on regular bikes - that's literally why more and more states are adopting the Safety Stop rule.
And pedestrian and cyclist deaths have increased significantly the last decade, almost entirely due to modern cars being much less safe, so anything we can do to improve safety is a win.
I genuinely have no idea what point you think you're making here, but I'll say I've used bikes as my primary transit my entire adult life, over two decades. I'm not an inexperienced rider.
Significant_Tie_3994@reddit
One word: derailleurs. Derailleurs require the bike to be in motion when you change gears, and when you get that Yellow light "shoot or get off the pot" moment, you don't have any motion left to shift with
stormdelta@reddit
That's also a big increase in safety if you use it that way - intersections are the most dangerous for cyclists, and the less time you spend in one trying to get up to speed from a stop the better.
Spiritual-Chameleon@reddit
It's a game changer. Especially useful for helping to clearing an intersection from a cold stop
sshoihet@reddit
I have 2 mid drive bikes, they ride like regular bikes so I almost never have any reason to use the throttle. Only time I ever use throttle is in deep snow and especially icy/snowy hills where I can't easily just get on and start pedalling. Sometimes I need to use the throttle while I push the bike too.
BoatOk6311@reddit
97 percent throttle.I only help it up major inclines.
BVLsolarEV@reddit
Throttle is great to get going from a stop, when one foot is still on the ground and the pedals may not be aligned ideally. The throttle can safely get through an intersection with more precision and control than pedal power.
Throttle is also useful as a boost to low pedal assist. While pedaling on PAS-1 at a short incline, instead of downshifting or briefly switching to PAS-2 just apply some throttle to maintain speed up the hill.
Pedal assist is ideal for for energy saving and long rides, in stop and go traffic it can feel a bit jerky and even waste energy. Pedal assist really shines when it's tuned to the bikes gearing and the rider's preferred cadence. Some cheap bikes and conversion kits are over-tuned and/or under-geared, resulting in the phenomenon known as "ghost pedaling" where the motor spins at a faster rate than the pedaling.
OneEyedJedi@reddit
I bought a lectric xp3 and the throttle is basically worthless except for taking off from a stop. Amd even that it only works half the time. I need to pedal a rotation before the throttle works. So yeah, pedals all the way
rcroche01@reddit
I only use throttle to get started from a stop. Otherwise it's pedal assist the whole way.
bigDpelican42@reddit
PAS >80% of time. Throttle for extra boost up steep hills.
InterestingMess6711@reddit
Pedal assist
Honest_Nathan@reddit
Pedal Assist 99.9% of the time. Might use the throttle to jump off a stop light
eStiloTV@reddit
I'm a proud owner of a Wired Predator and I'm all throttle all the time except when I want to be a bike then I'm peddle assist
1) 0-10 trail/parking lot/people traffic 2) 0-28 bike lane/off-road/residential streets 3) Setup as the Wired Freedom 4-5) Setup as the Wired Worrier
pedal assist four and five you're going to fast so I usually just use the throttle
KostyaFedot@reddit
I have throttle on 50cc Vespa, which is legally moped. Registration plates, insurance and license.
If I would have throttle on my ebike, it would be also a moped.
But I have no idea why stand-on scooters are with throttle, but not even helmet required. :)
CuriousMe6987@reddit
Class 2 e-bikes are both pedal-assist and have a throttle. The motor won't assist over 20 mph.....it's not a moped, and insisting it is just makes you look foolish.
Now, if a bike exceeds the specifications of a Class 1, 2, or 3 bike....yes, it may be a moped. But Class 2 e-bikes are e-bikes.
KostyaFedot@reddit
Lol. Everything which is not American way is foolish.
https://amplerbikes.com/en-BE/blog/can-you-ride-an-ebike-without-pedaling
E-bikes with throttles, which can propel the bike forward without pedaling, are generally not classified as bicycles in the EU. Instead, they fall under the category of electric mopeds or motorcycles. This means: They require registration, insurance, and often a driving license under current EU regulations.
stormdelta@reddit
Speaking as someone that's ridden e-bikes in both the US and EU... the EU is very different. The EU has far more cycling infrastructure, a lot of roads you'd use a bike on have lower speed limits (not just legally, but via road design/width/etc), and many places are much denser or closer together.
By comparison, many US cities have barely any cycling infrastructure, meaning we often need to ride on or near roads that are higher speed. We have larger intersections that take longer to cross at lower speeds / acceleration. Travel distances are often much higher due to lower density and poor urban planning / suburban sprawl. Trains/buses are less available to fill gaps or cover larger distances. Etc.
And to be honest, I think even the EU should allow throttles. You're still capped by speed and power regardless after all.
KostyaFedot@reddit
I have been in many cities in USA, Canada, EU. Different ways of transportation including longboarding :) I did bicycle, train, longboard commute for several years in GTA, for example.
People go long distances in EU as well. Cars, public transit, bicycles.
We are paid here for commute on bicycle.
Longer you go , more you paid :)
From moped and e-bike experience, I feel more connected, secured if cycling. Throttle is not cycling. At all.
stormdelta@reddit
The fact that you even mention trains tells me how few US cities you've actually been in.
CuriousMe6987@reddit
LOL...So, everything that is not the EU way is foolish?!?!
In the US, class 2 bikes are considered E-bikes....so need none of what you listed.
geisterscheinwerfer@reddit
pedal!
throttle is when the traffic's yellow almost turn to red
Spara-Extreme@reddit
Throttle is a moped. Pedal assist is a proper ebike.
Yeti_of_the_Flow@reddit
Ableist nonsense.
Spara-Extreme@reddit
You don’t know what ableist means. Sit down.
Yeti_of_the_Flow@reddit
I very much do. Trying to restrict accessibility for practical or necessary reason is ableist.
Spara-Extreme@reddit
How am I “trying to restrict accessibility” ?
Yeti_of_the_Flow@reddit
Trying to call e-bikes something else that falls under a different category that isn't accessible? It's really not that difficult to understand what you're doing.
Spara-Extreme@reddit
Mopeds are accessible. Furthermore the trash most people here buy are not e-bikes and calling the e-bikes Is actually causing restrictions on real e-bikes.
If anyone is ableist, by your incorrect definition, it’s You. The incorrect classification of mopeds as “e-bikes” is causing municipalities around the country to ban all e-bikes on trails or restrict their use in public.
Yeti_of_the_Flow@reddit
"The trash". Mate, either you're a weekend warrior who doesn't get that people use these vehicles for actual commuting, or you're so entrenched in what has been you don't know what actually is.
Tell me, do you need a license to ride a moped? (I already know the answer, but I want you to try and weasel your way out of your nonsense).
Spara-Extreme@reddit
Yes- and it makes sense that anything that’s going 40+ mph on public roads needs a license.
Don’t “mate” me either, trash like that doesn’t need to be anywhere near a bike lane, terrorizing actual cyclists.
stormdelta@reddit
Your personal preference isn't an argument.
Who said anything about 40mph? A throttle can be speed-restricted exactly the same way pedal assist is.
CuriousMe6987@reddit
Class 2 e-bikes are both pedal assist and have a throttle. The motor won't assist over 20 mph.....it's not a moped, and insisting it is just makes you look foolish.
Now, if a bike exceeds the specifications of a Class 1, 2, or 3 bike....yes, it may be a moped. But Class 2 e-bikes are e-bikes.
Yeti_of_the_Flow@reddit
You have something you need to work out, bud.
E28forever@reddit
Exactly.
Accurate_View_2455@reddit
I mainly use throttle when im stopped at a light
crustyedges@reddit
I am so glad I no longer have a throttle. I used to have a throttle and used it all the time on a lower quality bike with cadence sensing. Now that I have a higher quality torque-sensing Bosch mid drive, I’ve never once wanted to use a throttle. Cannot recommend a good torque-sensing bike enough— it’s as good as it gets in terms of ride feel. At risk of sounding cheesy, it’s way more “in-tune” or “connected” with the bike and the road, and you can dial in the amount of exertion and range you want for that particular ride in a way that is difficult to do with a throttle (especially without the torque-sensing).
unicyclegamer@reddit
I assume pretty much all the pro-throttle people aren’t running torque sensing bikes. Everyone I know who has a proper torque sensing bike and knows how to use gears doesn’t see the point of a throttle. Different approaches to cycling I suppose.
magicnubs@reddit
My bike (Velotric Fold 1 Plus) has a torque sensor and I use the throttle a fair bit, but mostly for just two scenarios that I happen to encounter a lot.
unicyclegamer@reddit
I’m confused, does your bike not provide all the torque when you’re pedaling such that you need the throttle for full power? My bike will give full power with not even that much torque input on the cranks depending on the assist level.
magicnubs@reddit
It can do so if I crank up the assist level, but there is a small delay between starting pedaling and the assist kicking in, and if I'm trying to clear an intersection or get out of the way of cars as quickly as possible I want to avoid that
unicyclegamer@reddit
Fair enough, my bike has a pretty instantaneous assist time and I always run it at high assist.
magicnubs@reddit
I see! Yeah that makes sense. I keep it at low to mid assist when I can
Composed_Cicada2428@reddit
And a torque sensor bike with a throttle? Perfection
dont_remember_eatin@reddit
I've described the sensation as "like you're always going slightly down hill" except on steeper climbs.
phishwhistle@reddit
agreed. i was always "ghost pedaling" on my cadence Discover 1. I hated not feeling i was doing anything. and PAS above 3, you might as well throttle. Now i have a Pace 500.3 and the torque is a much better ride. but you are not doing 25+ unless you're pushing yourself.
dont_remember_eatin@reddit
My wife has a Pace 500.2 with the cadence sensor. She is an intentionally slow rider and only ever uses PAS 1. Battery lasts ages!
Meanwhile I'm burn through 50% of my battery on the morning half of my commute because I'm still waking up and using level 3 or 4 (only 4 on my Bosch). But because I still have to pedal and apply some torque, I do get the blood flowing and wake up.
On the way home I use 1 and 2 and use that 45 minutes as my exercise time for the day.
cookiesandartbutt@reddit
I throttle to get going at a red light from a complete stop then we pedal again. Also I’m weird turns or spots I need balance going slow
highlander666666@reddit
Peddle assist allwAys I ride for exercise.
polarplasma@reddit
I use throttle most of the time because I’m lazy 😊
metrictime@reddit
Cargo bike. Throttle from 0-5 km/h then pedal assist from there.
illeix@reddit
Depends. Going over 20 on a road? Pedal. Mixed use path? Set the governor to the speed limit (usually 15 in my area) and throttle.
Maadmin@reddit
It depends. If I'm riding for fun and exercise, I only use the throttle to get going from a dead stop. If I'm commuting, I'm 100% throttle on the way in and less to almost none on the way home depending on my mood.
Westflung@reddit
I use the throttle almost exclusively for two things. First is getting started, a little blip of throttle makes sure I get going safely. The other is up hills. I find on my bike (KBO Breeze) pedal assist 1 is perfect for me, until I have to go uphill. But PA 2 is often more power than I want. So going uphill I'll often dial in just a little throttle, effectively giving me the equivalent of PA 1.5
Yankee-Velo-Foxtrot@reddit
I purposely bought an ebike that is pedal assist only because I despise throttles. Well, let me qualify that: throttles are great for getting going but should cutoff at 10mph and everything else be pedal assist. Otherwise just buy a moped. So, I used pedal assist fully and can get up to 28-30mph if I work for it.
Daboujieboo89@reddit
My pedal assist doesn't seem to cut the mustard on steep hills, wish pedaling didn't cut off the throttle...if it didn't id pedal more
SamanthaJaneyCake@reddit
Throttle and I vary the speed to best suit my cycle rhythm and the terrain.
bettaboy123@reddit
I use my throttle similarly to others, for getting through intersections faster or navigating tight spaces. My new bike has such a gentle power curve when I press it that it’s often not super useful for me, so I’ve considered removing it to unlock class 3 speeds with PAS only.
But one of the things it helps with that I haven’t seen mentioned is for icy patches. In January, when there’s a patch of really bad ice, you can give the throttle as little as you can, and put your legs out a bit to catch yourself if things slide around too much.
unseenmover@reddit
pedal assist. I just use all the PAS levels and change gears depending on how i feel or how fast/slow i need to go.
MRenaeH@reddit
Pedal assist. Only used throttle when it started to rain.
MerbleTheGnome@reddit
Throttle to start getting moving from a stop, or when going up hill.
All other times is pedal assist
Significant_Tie_3994@reddit
Throttle to break inertia, then PAS
flovarian@reddit
I use the throttle rarely but it’s great when starting up at an intersection with a lot of traffic. I was happy to see that on my bike, in the phone app that pairs with it, I can tweak the rate the pedal assist kicks in on the different assist modes. In general I don’t love the lurch forward from a stop (like the throttle gives you), so I made the assistance come on more gradually. I use the throttle only when I want that immediate surge in power.
Muramusaa@reddit
I use throttle to get the torque jump to 15mph then pedal to coast and workout a but. I have a middrive so its very good at low end 😀 need it for hills but I pedal for hills unless I need that jump as the pedal assist doesn't work right away if it did id pedal more. Its all about comfortable riding.
Ranccor@reddit
I think I’ve used my throttle like 4 times in the 3000 miles I’ve got on my bike.
JeremyFromKenosha@reddit
Pedal assist.
It depends on the bike though. When I had an eMoped, I used more throttle and only used pedal assist to make others on the bike path feel good. ;-)
Nowadays, I have a proper scooter, (300 cc) so don't bother with an eMoped any more.
hysterical-laughter@reddit
Pedal assist. I almost only use the throttle when I’m absolutely dead and just trying to get home. Occasionally for the fun of increasing my speed without effort, or as a reward for getting up a huge hill
aikijo@reddit
If you use throttles more, you’re riding a moped.
Born-Tumbleweed7772@reddit
Took my throttle off because I just never used it.
stormdelta@reddit
For commuting/transit: on slower paths / multiuse / etc, pedal. Otherwise, it's usually throttle.
For recreation or mountain/forest paths, pretty much always pedal unless I'm trying to get out of a rainstorm or something.
AMC879@reddit
I got an ebike for health reasons so I need to use the throttle to get going from a stop and I use it as slow speed in more technical areas. I pedal most of the time but the throttle is a must as I would not be able to ride without it. I also have had to use it continuously for miles if I overdue it and have too much pain to continue pedaling. Overall, I probably pedal around 90% of the time I'm on the bike not counting coasting with no assist at all.
unicyclegamer@reddit
I don’t have a throttle and it doesn’t bother me at all. I don’t understand the starting from a stop comments either. I go into a lower gear when I stop so it’s pretty easy to get up to speed with just pedal assist for me. I have a mid drive class 1 e-bike.
ArseOfValhalla@reddit
I like the throttle because I feel like I can control the speed more as I like to constantly use the pedals.
BWWFC@reddit
100% pedal... i'm on a bike, i perform bike duties. it's also my workout... and i hate charging batteries.
Appropriate-Top-1863@reddit
The throttle really changed, in all good ways, how I get around by ebike. Having the ability to use it at dead stops, are t that are tight, and where there are people that I need to maneuver around is amazing. A purist might say it's cheating or whatever, but I just see it as enjoying and safely commuting the twelve mile ride to work and back, going for a grocery run, and picking up my kid at pre-k.
And while I totally get the dislike of emoto type bikes out there, but when you have people trying to earn a living off of only tips by delivering your food to you, I'm not sure what else you would expect to happen.
NewsreelWatcher@reddit
When heavily loaded the throttle works well a low speed when managing a series of obstacle, like a construction zone. I lack the skill to stand on the pedals to both balance and control the pedals.
Electronic_Cream_780@reddit
Throttle. I pedal all the time and if I need a bit of extra boost add the throttle
Jbikecommuter@reddit
Pedal assist is way better only use throttle when starting from a dead stop heading uphill
cecirdr@reddit
Pedal assist. I got a specilized bike, there's not throttle, but I don't miss it at all.
ironicalusername@reddit
A twist throttle is a really great rider aid. I generally keep my bike set on a low level of pedal assist and add throttle as needed.
jkartx@reddit
Pedal assist since I don’t have a throttle.
FaithlessnessRich490@reddit
Throttle 100% my next bike won't even have pedal assist. I don't live in an area where they care about those things. And I dont care for the pedal assist bikes when I can just feather in the throttle as needed.
Magneto-Rex@reddit
throttle to take off and then always pedal from there
BASSdabs@reddit
Throttle is good for starting at an intersection thats about it really
VRedd1t@reddit
Throttle is not an ebike…
thirtynation@reddit
Peda, since I use bicycle infrastructure.
scots@reddit
Took the throttle OFF my bike, PAS only.
buzz-a@reddit
I don't really use PAS at all.
I use throttle when accelerating from a stop or going up hill.
Rest of the time I pedal unassisted.
davpad12@reddit
Pedal assist all the time, hardly ever throttle. I'm doing it for exercise as well as transportation.
Negative-Wishbone634@reddit
99% PAS
freddbare@reddit
By the sound of it it depends on the sensor first and the skill of rider second.
libbuge@reddit
I use pedal assist mostly. I only use the throttle to start quickly or on the steepest part of a hill. I never use it without pedaling too.
wlexxx2@reddit
i would always use throttle
why?
control of power and timing
cannot stand pedelec for that reason
plus i used to have motorcycles
EngineerBoy00@reddit
It's not either/or, both pedal-assist and throttle are just tools. I, and many others, use the appropriate tool for the job:
My very strong recommendation is to get both pedal assist and throttle, because why not? Having the throttle when you want it is remarkably convenient and often fun.
DragonXIIIThirteen@reddit
Pedal assist.
stephenmakesart@reddit
I just pedal mostly. I will use the throttle for rough sections of trail off road or muddy conditions.
Sotyka94@reddit
99% pedal, 1% throttle is my use case.
I have a motorcycle. If I want to stay on throttle, I go with that. ebike should be pedaled. I only use throttle when I have to quickly start, and forget/too lazy to shift down gears. Or when I'm "towing" another cyclist up a hill.
Nicky2Nuts@reddit
I pedal on hills to keep my speed up. Otherwise all throttle. I here for travel not exercise!
Few-Anywhere607@reddit
Throttle. I have the PAS disconnected on a few of my bikes. I live in the city, between the traffic, and pedestrians, I've had a few close calls where the bike just takes off. I mostly pedal, using the Throttle for take offs at lights, and steep hills.
DubSaqCookie@reddit
Throttle then peddle assist to 28mph
E28forever@reddit
Pedal
Fetz-@reddit
I once installed a pedal sensor on my ebike, but it was so infuriatingly bad that I ripped it out after a week and I only have a throttle installed now despite that being illegal where I live.
I always pedal, but I want to Habe fine control over when the motor does what. I want to control the motor independently from how much I pedal.
Default_WLG@reddit
I hardly ever use my throttle, but I'd still miss it if I didn't have it. The throttle is great for things like taking off uphill with a heavy load, taking off in the wrong gear (e.g. because I stopped quite quickly without time to downshift), walking my bike up a hill while towing a trailer etc (I can just feather the throttle). It's also useful for extended regen braking downhill (I have a bidirectional twist throttle that lets me control regen too).
For pretty much everything else - 99% of the riding time - I use pedal assist only.
rexicle@reddit
Long-tail Cargo bike: throttle to get going - especially with a full load of groceries or a passenger. I still pedal but it negates the need to be in a super low gear.
I really enjoy having it.
timthebass@reddit
100% - I’m almost always carrying either my kid or stuff, and throttle out of the gate from a dead stop makes life much easier. I’m always pedaling, but rarely take it over 2/5, unless I’m on a busy road
Japparbyn@reddit
Throttle all the way. Just using the e-bike for transport and not as excersize
tomxp411@reddit
Pedal assist. The throttle on my City Commuter works fine, but it does this thing where it drops the power by about half after a few seconds, and it just makes it kind of frustrating to use. So I will set PAS 2 when riding in my private streets (10MPH limit) and then PAS 4 (17MPH) when riding on the public roads.
The Velotric Breeze has a torque sensor, so I just start at power level 2 take off in 3rd gear. I cruise in 7th gear (out of 8) at about 17MPH. If I start getting tired, I'll turn on the cruise control for a minute or two and rest my legs.
Iuslez@reddit
Only pedal assist. But I've only ridden bikes in my life, never a motorbike, so that may be why.
confused_engine90@reddit
I have a hub drive and a mid drive ebike,I mainly use my hub drive with throttle because my knee is bad(Had surgery in August) ,but occassionally I'll use my mid drive when my hub drive ebike is either being worked on or has a problem,or if its too cold outside
One has a cadence sensor and the other torque sensor,I like the responsiveness of a torque sensor than a cadence
DangerPony87@reddit
I use my throttle when I can’t pedal because I will hit something with my pedals on a trail. I am usually in PAS 3 so if I am coming at an obstacle or rough section I get my pedals level and get to the right rolling speed and then I can fling my bike into, up, or over things with a throttle burst because my throttle is 100% power and basically binary, no gradient.
I guess if your throttle is bound to PAS levels it doesn’t make any difference if the cadence sensor or the throttle is keeping the power on but having your throttle be full power always is a lot more useful to be able to use it as a boost in little intervals for obstacles and hills and then resume at a moderate PAS level, without having to mess with any settings.
Reversing your brake levers and moving them way in is a big advantage too.
Zeppelin702@reddit
My bike is only pedal assist and I’ve lost 60 lbs
donaldgoldsr@reddit
I take off with throttle, at about 10mph or so I switch to pedal assist. It keeps the strain off my knees.
Proxy345@reddit
Throttle to max speed. I love the sound of my slick fat tires spinning.
LargeNerdKid@reddit
I leave the bike in top gear so I use the throttle when taking off and then start peddling. At traffic lights when I have to take off all of a sudden I use the throttle other than that I rarely use it
yarn_slinger@reddit
My husband also leaves my bike in top gear so when I ride it, I have to use the throttle just so I can gear down enough so I can pedal it.
futafrenzy@reddit
Sometimes use throttle to start and whenever I'm on the regular road and PAS on trails
NuclearFoodie@reddit
Throttle to start, but other 99% pedal assist since I am doing it for exercise
Sufficient_Hunter734@reddit
All throttle baby
Lower_Band8719@reddit
I also find throttle to be really good for slow speeds as well so use that when I have to go slow
chuckwolf@reddit
Pedal assist, I only use my throttle to start out if I forgot to downshift at a red light
VariousAd5939@reddit
I mostly use pedal assist to show off that, yes, I am working out with an electric bike. Also, pedaling is the only way to achieve speeds above 20mph on most e-bikes. I use throttle to start rolling from a stop, and when I need to squeeze by tight spaces or passing near organic beings
wendyd4rl1ng@reddit
I use the throttle for "launch" and when I'm slowly navigating pedestrian paths/areas and pedal assist the rest of the time. So I use pedal assist more often overall.
BwanaPC@reddit
Mostly pedal, assist for hills and to get through vehicle traffic.
Killer7_2@reddit
I swap back and forth as I ride. Is the throttle to get going or when I'm tired or my knees start to bug me.
BlankBB@reddit
Throttle for quick starts at a stop light or when going through long turns so I don't pedal strike, otherwise pedaling the rest if the way
aluminumpork@reddit
Only use throttle to get going at intersections, especially with kids on the back.
Huge-Community-1324@reddit
Like to use both and chill . The way to go and use the battery 🪫 as long as you can ! No need for speed when it is unnecessary unless you wanna race with a kid to show him you have a faster e-bike
WaterWurkz@reddit
Mostly throttle for long rides, just really like to chill and not get too worked up.
gregoryofthehighgods@reddit
Throttle to town pedal in town
Rcdriftchaser@reddit
Cruise control FTW
OkFortune7651@reddit
Since I use my ebike for everything- commuting, exercise, dog's exercise, errands, I use different means of getting there. I use throttle a lot when the dog runs next to the bike, so as not to have the "lurching" from cadence sensor pedaling. For exercise, obvs, I use a very low assist. When I'm just running down to the farmer's market, I use a combo of both, but mostly assist.
FlatDiscussion4649@reddit
I would use the PAS more if my gearing was different, I'm comfortable pedaling at 12-14 MPH but I max out at about 20, so faster than that is pure throttle.
Fassbendr@reddit
Throttle to start then pedaling with no-assist if on level ground, pedal-assist for hills or to extend length of ride.
Significant-Pen-6049@reddit
Torque sensing rarely use throttle
jms1228@reddit
Throttle assist is great for anyone coming off of an injury….. nowadays, I usually just pedal assist on Eco mode.
serialband@reddit
I pedal most of it, probably 80%-90% I mainly use my throttle to help climb the steeper hills and to start from stops, since it's immediate, while the pedaling has a noticeable 1/2 second lag. My throttle also gives me full power, while my max setting with pedal assist only gives me about 1/3.
TheIrishBastards@reddit
I use both, but I also hit the gym and ride my normal mountain bike too.
Away-Revolution2816@reddit
A balance issue had me stop riding my regular bike and driving. Taking off was the problem, once moving I'm fine. So I primarily use my throttle to take off, after that pedal assist.
defiantcross@reddit
Similar for me. And with my aventon the throttle is pretty gentle so i am not even jolting forward suddenly when taking off from stop
InevitableMeh@reddit
99% pedal. I use throttle mostly to help moving the bike on stairs etc. if I want things easier I can crank up the pedal assist until there is nearly no resistance in pedaling if I need to.
I ride at bicycle speed.
FederalLobster5665@reddit
I almost never use throttle, except when at a light with traffic, and I want to accelerate fast to get thru the light. otherwise, on my Velotric, the throttle just eats up too much battery.
Historical-Weird7773@reddit
I’ve only had mine for a few months, but I’ve never used the throttle
whateverusayboi@reddit
The xp is mainly throttle, going to the mailbox or local exploring if out traveling with the RV. The ccx is pedal assist everywhere, rides from home, 22,30 and 43 mile routes.
Realistic-Crew3127@reddit
Healthy mix of both. I will admit that I ride my ebike more like moped, but its my main form of transportation so that works for me. I pedal while accelerating and then use throttle as cruise once I reach my top speed.
igoatedyourmom@reddit
Depends on my mood and how tired I am. I'll cover ≈ 9 miles on my way home from work and will barely pedal at all. Other times I'm pedaling nearly the whole way. Definitely not an even split. Probably about 70 throttle/ 30 pedal.
lita_atx@reddit
My throttle is super low speed, so I only use it to get a quick burst of power from a stop in traffic (like waiting at a red light and it turns green) or when I need a low speed to navigate around an obstacle carefully. Other than those brief uses, always pedal assist.
Yeti_of_the_Flow@reddit
Throttle is mostly used from a stop, but it’s extremely nice to be able to straighten out your legs for a bit. Or adjust your position in your saddle to give your tuches a break.
KhaosGuy01@reddit
When I vesc swapped mine, I couldn’t quite get the pedal assist working so it’s been throttle only but it’s also a fat tire single speed (probably 80+lbs) so pedaling is pretty much out of the question
wedstrom@reddit
I really like using throttle on my fat tire bike (I prefer using my acoustic bike for exercise), but I find that I mostly pedal now, because of the speed limit.
Complete-Equipment90@reddit
E-bikes are mostly pedal assist. I use my throttle for starting on technical trails, from a stop.
rackman1@reddit
I have both and hardly ever use the throttle