Outside of an electric bike being, well, electric, we’re diving into the key differences between electric bikes and acoustic bikes. An acoustic bike (or what we may all consider to be a “regular” bike) is a bike with no motor, similar to how we would compare electric and acoustic guitars. Keep reading to learn more about the differences between electric bikes vs regular bikes.
Riding experience
Acoustic bikes: You probably grew up riding acoustic bikes. These are what we would consider regular or conventional bikes. Riders pedal to go, and there are no electrical components. They are great for individuals to hop on for quick commutes or for exercise.
Electric bikes: Flyer™ eBikes are a great option for longer commutes or trips because of the integrated electrical components. Riders can use pedal assist or throttle only modes to ride faster and longer distances. Flyer™ eBikes have a 30-50 mile range per charge and a top speed of 20 MPH. You also always have the option to ride your Flyer™ eBike like a regular bike with no electrical assistance!
Electric bikes also make it easier to haul additional weight or passengers in tow. The Kid & Cargo Carrier is one accessory that makes eBikes great for multipurpose adventures. Additionally, the use cases and hauling options make an electric bike a more versitile option for passenger transportation compared to conventional bikes (Weber et al. (2022)).
Maintenance
Acoustic bikes: Regular bike maintenance involves pumping the tires and seasonal tune ups at your local bike shop.
Electric bikes: In addition to the steps above, be sure to charge the your eBike battery before use. The battery ranges 30-50+ miles per charge and charges in 5-10 hours.
Speed
Acoustic bikes: These bikes can travel as fast as your legs can pedal – cruise as you please or pedal like a racer!
Electric bikes: Flyer™ eBikes have a top speed of 20 MPH, which is the max speed of Class 2 electric bikes. Class 2 electric bikes do not require registration or permits to ride, but Radio Flyer recommends riders always check their local guidelines before riding.
Safety
Acoustic bikes: Individuals riding bikes can take action to ensure safe riding. Those include wearing a helmet, riding in designated bike lanes, and riding in dry weather conditions.
Electric bikes: Flyer™ eBikes were designed with safety as a top priority. Along with the above actions and integrated safety features like high-intensity LED headlight, taillight, brake lights, UL 2271 Tested Battery, and automatic motor cut off, riders can ride confidently with emphasized visibility and safety.
Mechanics
Acoustic bikes: These are equipped with all of the components that are a hallmark of a conventional pedal bike: wheels, handlebars, and frame along with traditional mechanics like brakes and pedals.
Electric bikes: eBikes utilize all of the same mechanics and features noted above with the addition of an electrical drive system. On Flyer™ eBikes, this includes a 500W brushless motor, a UL 2271 Tested Lithium-Ion Battery, and an LCD display screen. These components work together to deliver power & offers assistance as you pedal.
Appearance:
Acoustic bikes: Bikes without motors can vary in design depending on their purpose. For instance, a mountain bike will look very different to a cruiser bike in tire size and frame design.
Electric bike: Electric bikes also vary in appearance depending on the type of bike. Flyer™ L885 and M880 models are cargo bikes and feature puncture resistant tires and a sleek, matte aluminum frame. Flyer™ eBikes can also be customized with accessories and three frame sizes in small, medium, and large.
Price
Acoustic bike: Bikes without motors range in prices and can be purchased at local retailers or ordered specialty online.
Electric bikes: Flyer™ eBikes are sold on flyer.radioflyer.com and start at $1,799 for the M880 model with the option to add custom accessories. Flyer™ eBikes are competitively priced to other Class 2 cargo models with 30-50 mile range.
Now that you know the difference between an electric bike and a regular bike, you’re ready to hit the road and take flight with Flyer™ eBikes. Learn more about Flyer™ L885 and M880 eBike models.
