Meet our boy Dropsy, he's not your average schnauzer. He’s blue, he’s got pipes, and he's obsessed with e-bikes and camping. One minute he’s belting out ballads about ebiking or camping, the next he’s delivering reviews (some serious… others, let’s just say questionable), then promptly collapses from "creative burnout". And when he’s not performing? He’s on covert stakeouts, keeping an eye on the eBike world from the bushes. Think of him as your furry, slightly dramatic tour guide through all things eBike & camping...what's he up to now?
Pssst… don’t forget to sneak a peek at Dropsy's tips below!
Shop 'till you drop...then zoom off or camp in style
Dropsy's Tips n Resources
Watts What
Now that you're thinking about jumping on the e-bike bandwagon, you’re in for an awesome ride! ebikes (short for electric bikes) are like regular bicycles... but with a little zoom zoom. Whether you're commuting to work, cruising through the neighborhood, or just enjoying the ride, e-bikes make cycling easier, faster, and way more fun.
This guide will walk you through what e-bikes are, how to choose the right one, and what to know before your first ride. Let’s roll!
What Kind of eBike Should I Get?
There’s no “one-size-fits-all” when it comes to e-bikes—and that’s the fun part! Here are a few popular styles that are perfect for beginners:
Commuter / Hybrid eBikes
Great for city streets, bike lanes, and daily errands. These bikes usually have a comfy upright ride and often come with fenders, lights, and racks.
Folding eBikes
Need to save space or take your bike on the go? Folding e-bikes are perfect for apartments, RVs, car trunks, and office commutes.
Cruiser eBikes
Relaxed, stylish, and easy to ride. Perfect for beach boardwalks, park paths, and weekend joyrides. Think big seats, wide handlebars, and good vibes.
Step-Thru eBikes
Designed for easy on-and-off access. Great for new riders, anyone with mobility challenges, or if you just don’t want to swing your leg over a tall frame.
eBike Classes: What Do They Mean?
ebikes are grouped into 3 “classes” based on how fast they go and how the motor works. (Generally, classes 1 and 2 are allowed on the roads, however it's important to remember that regulations can vary by location).
Class 1: Pedal-assist only, up to 20 mph. Most beginner-friendly and allowed on most bike paths.
- Class 2: Pedal-assist + throttle, up to 20 mph. You can coast without pedaling if you want.
- Class 3: Pedal-assist only, up to 28 mph. Faster, but not allowed on every path or trail
- Beginner Tip: Start with Class 1 or 2—they’re easier to ride, easier to manage, and welcome in more places.
Beginner-Friendly Features to Look For
Look for features that make your ride smoother, safer, and more comfortable:
- Adjustable Pedal Assist: Choose how much help you get from the motor.
- Upright Seating & Wide Handlebars: Less strain, more comfort.
- Step-Through Frame: Easy to mount/dismount.
- Front Suspension: Absorbs bumps and rough roads.
- Lights & Reflectors: Stay visible day or night.
- Fenders & Racks: Great for commuting, groceries, or a picnic in the park.
What Makes an eBike “Electric”?
Imagine your legs got a power-up. That’s what an e-bike does. It still feels like a bike—you just don’t have to work as hard. Here’s how it works:
Motor + Battery = Boost Mode
The motor gives you power. The battery stores the energy. Together, they help you climb hills, cruise longer distances, or just take it easy.
Two Ways to Power Up:
- Pedal-Assist (PAS): You pedal, and the motor gives you a boost. It feels natural, just easier.
- Throttle: Press a button or twist the grip and zoom away—no pedaling needed.
More Cool eBike Stuff You Should Know
Assist Modes
Most bikes let you choose your power level:
- Lower Power Modes: Gentle boost, saves battery.
- Higher Power Modes: All the power—for hills, wind, or just because.
What About the Weight?
Yes, e-bikes are heavier than regular bikes (because of the battery + motor). But don’t worry—you’ll barely notice thanks to that sweet, sweet electric assist.
How Far Can I Ride?
It depends! Most e-bikes can go 20 to 100+ miles per charge. Your range depends on:
- Battery size
- Power level you’re using
- Terrain
- How much you pedal
- And how many snack breaks you take
- Wind conditions & temperature
eBikes Are Built for All Kinds of Adventures
You can do way more with an e-bike than just cruise:
- Commute: Beat traffic, arrive sweat-free.
- Recreation: Ride longer, explore farther.
- Cargo: Carry groceries, gear, or even your pup.
- Mountain Trails: Yep, electric mountain bikes exist too!
Safety First (But Make It Fun)
eBikes are a blast, but a few safety basics will keep your ride worry-free:
✅ Wear a Helmet – Always. No excuses.
✅ Know the Rules – Obey traffic signs and bike laws.
✅ Stay Visible – Wear bright clothes and use lights.
✅ Watch Your Speed – Practice braking and be mindful of your surroundings.
✅ Check Your Ride – Make sure your tires are full, brakes work, and your battery’s charged before every ride.
Final Thought
eBikes aren’t just a trend—they’re a fun, practical, and eco-friendly way to get around. Whether you’re replacing a car, upgrading your commute, or just looking for a new way to enjoy the outdoors, there’s an electric bike out there for you.
So charge up, buckle your helmet, and get ready to ride electric.
Let the good rides roll!
What Size eBike Do I Need?
How to Size an eBike (Without Overthinking It)
Getting the right eBike size makes huge difference in comfort, control, and confidence. The good news? You don’t need a PhD in bike geometry—just a couple quick measurements.
Step 1: Measure Your Inseam (The Golden Rule)
Your inseam is the distance from the ground to your crotch, measured while standing in socks with your feet about shoulder-width apart. (Pro tip: a book pressed gently upward works great.)
Why inseam matters: it helps determine standover height, meaning you should be able to stand over the bike frame with a little clearance—no awkward tiptoeing or frame-to-thigh encounters 😅
Rule of thumb:
You want 1–2 inches of clearance between you and the top tube when standing over the bike.
Step 2: Match It to the Frame Size
Most eBike brands size frames by rider height, but inseam fine-tunes the fit. If you’re between sizes, your inseam usually tells you whether to size up or down.
- Longer inseam → you may be more comfortable sizing up
- Shorter inseam → sizing down often feels better
Many eBikes also have adjustable seats and handlebars, so there’s wiggle room—but starting with the right frame is key.
Step 3: Comfort Check
When seated:
- You should be able to place the balls of your feet on the ground
- Your leg should have a slight bend at the bottom of a pedal stroke
- You shouldn’t feel stretched or cramped reaching the handlebars
One More Thing…
eBikes are heavier than regular bikes, so feeling stable when stopping matters even more. If you’re unsure between sizes, the slightly smaller frame is often easier to handle.
eBike Basics: Start Here
Everything You Need to Know Before You Ride
Thinking about hopping on the e-bike bandwagon? Excellent choice. E-bikes (short for electric bikes) look like regular bicycles, but with a little built-in zoom-zoom. They make riding easier, faster, and way more fun—whether you’re commuting, cruising the neighborhood, or exploring farther than ever before.
This guide covers the basics: how e-bikes work, the different styles, what features matter most, and how to ride safely and confidently. Let’s roll.
What Makes an eBike “Electric”?
An e-bike still feels like a bike—your legs do the work—but the motor gives you a boost when you need it.
Motor + Battery = Easy Mode
- The motor provides power
- The battery stores energy
Together, they help flatten hills, extend your range, and take the edge off longer rides.
Two Ways to Ride
- Pedal Assist (PAS): You pedal, the bike boosts your effort. Smooth and natural.
- Throttle (on some models): Press a button or twist a grip for power without pedaling.
Choosing the Right Type of eBike
There’s no one “best” e-bike—just the one that fits your lifestyle.
Commuter / Hybrid eBikes
Built for city streets, bike lanes, and errands. Comfortable upright riding, often with lights, racks, and fenders.
Folding eBikes
Compact and portable. Great for apartments, RVs, offices, and tossing in the trunk.
Cruiser eBikes
Relaxed, stylish, and smooth. Big seats, wide handlebars, and pure good-vibe riding.
Step-Thru eBikes
Easy on, easy off. Perfect for beginners, anyone with limited mobility, or riders who value comfort and convenience.
eBike Classes (The Speed Stuff)
E-bikes are grouped into three classes based on speed and motor behavior. Local rules can vary, but here’s the general idea:
- Class 1: Pedal-assist only, up to 20 mph
Beginner-friendly and allowed on most bike paths. - Class 2: Pedal-assist + throttle, up to 20 mph
Extra flexibility with the option to coast. - Class 3: Pedal-assist only, up to 28 mph
Faster, but not allowed everywhere.
Beginner Tip: Class 1 or 2 is usually the easiest and most versatile place to start.
Beginner-Friendly Features to Look For
These features make riding smoother, safer, and more comfortable:
- Adjustable pedal-assist levels
- Upright seating and wide handlebars
- Step-through frame
- Front suspension for bumps and rough roads
- Built-in lights and reflectors
- Fenders and racks for commuting or errands
How Far Can an eBike Go?
Most e-bikes range anywhere from 20 to 100+ miles per charge, depending on:
- Battery size
- Assist level used
- Terrain and hills
Wind and temperature
- How much you pedal
- Snack breaks (important)
Read 'How Far Can You Ride?' to learn more about range.
Riding Tips for Smooth, Confident Cruising
- Use lower assist levels when possible to extend battery life
- Let the motor assist—don’t let it do all the work
- Keep a relaxed posture with slightly bent elbows and knees
- Stay alert for cars, pedestrians, potholes, and surprise squirrels
- Choose bike-friendly routes using cycling maps or apps
Quick Pre-Ride Check (Takes 30 Seconds)
Before every ride:
- Tires inflated
- Brakes working
- Battery charged
- Nothing loose or rattling
If everything checks out—you’re good to go.
Safety First (Still Fun, Promise)
- Always wear a helmet
- Follow traffic rules and use hand signals
- Stay visible with lights and bright or reflective clothing
- Practice braking and speed control before longer rides
Why People Love eBikes
E-bikes aren’t just a trend—they’re practical, eco-friendly, and ridiculously fun.
- Commute without the sweat
- Ride farther and longer
- Carry groceries, gear, or even your pup
- Explore trails, parks, and new places with ease
Final Thought
Riding an e-bike is freedom with a power boost. Learn the basics, choose the right ride, and before you know it, you’ll be cruising like it’s second nature.
Charge up, strap on that helmet, and enjoy the ride.
Let the good rides roll.
Pedal Assist Made Easy
Let’s Talk eBike Superpowers
So, what makes an electric bike feel like a magic carpet on two wheels? It’s not just the battery or motor — it’s how that power kicks in. That smooth boost you feel when you start pedaling? That’s thanks to pedal assist and the clever little sensors working behind the scenes.
Before we get into the nuts and bolts, let’s break down what pedal assist actually is — and how cadence and torque sensors decide just how much zoom you get. Ready? Let’s go!
Power Up Your Ride: What’s the Deal with Pedal Assist?
One of the best things about riding an electric bike? You get to choose your vibe — break a sweat or take it easy. Whether you're in the mood for a workout or a breezy cruise, your e-bike’s got your back (and your legs!).
What Is Pedal Assist?
Pedal assist is like having a secret riding buddy who gives you a gentle push every time you pedal. It’s an e-bike mode that activates the motor while you're pedaling, making it way easier to move — especially uphill or on long rides.
Once it’s turned on, you’ll feel that glorious little boost — like you suddenly got superpowers (without needing a cape).
How Does It Work?
You can usually pick your pedal assist level — low for a light boost, high for full-on "let’s fly!" mode. Want to cruise at 15 mph without gasping for air? Just dial in the assist and go!
Pedal assist settings help you:
- Ride longer distances without tiring out
- Climb hills without turning into a sweaty mess
- Keep up with faster friends
- Have more fun, with less effort
Torque vs. Cadence Sensors — What’s the Difference?
When you hop on an electric bike, the motor doesn’t just guess when to help you—it relies on sensors. Two of the most common types are torque sensors and cadence sensors, and they each create a slightly different riding experience.
Let’s break it down:
Torque Sensors: Effort-Based Assist
Think of torque sensors like a riding buddy who pays attention to how hard you’re pedaling.
- How it works: The sensor measures the pressure or force (torque) you apply to the pedals. The harder you push, the more the motor helps out.
- How it feels: Super smooth and responsive. It mimics the feel of a regular bike, just with some extra “oomph” when you need it.
- Great for: Riders who want a more natural, connected feel—especially if you’re used to traditional bikes or like riding varied terrain.
- Pros:
✅ Feels intuitive and effortless
✅ Helps save battery by only using power when you’re really working
✅ Especially useful for hills or stop-and-go city riding - Cons:
⛔ Usually found on higher-end bikes, so it can cost more
Cadence Sensors: Speed-Based Assist
Cadence sensors are a bit more laid-back. Instead of measuring how hard you're pedaling, they measure how fast you're spinning the pedals (your pedal rotations per minute).
- How it works: Once you start pedaling, the sensor tells the motor to kick in. It doesn’t care if you’re barely pushing or going full beast mode—if the pedals are moving, the motor helps.
- How it feels: A little more “on/off” than torque sensors. You’ll still get that electric boost, but it may feel less precise or smooth, especially at low speeds or when starting from a stop.
- Great for: Casual riders, people new to biking, or anyone who just wants an easy, breezy way to cruise around.
- Pros:
✅ Simple and reliable
✅ Usually more budget-friendly
✅ Great for flat terrain and relaxed riding - Cons:
⛔ Less responsive to how hard you’re pedaling
⛔ Not as ideal for hilly or technical terrain
How Far Can You Ride?
How Far Can You Go On That eBike?
So you’re eyeing a sweet e-bike and wondering:
"How far can this thing actually go?"
Great question. The answer?
It depends on your battery, your terrain... and maybe how many donuts you had for breakfast.
Let’s break it down in a way that even Scoots (our sleepy blue schnauzer) could understand — if he weren’t napping on the charger.
Step 1: Watt-Hours Are the Real MVP
You’ll hear people talk about Amp-hours (Ah) — but don’t stop there. It’s only half the story.
Think of Ah as the snack size of your battery...
…but if you want to know how much energy your e-bike is really packin’, you need Watt-hours (Wh) — the full lunchbox.
Fancy-Sounding Formula:
Watt-hours (Wh) = Voltage (V) × Amp-hours (Ah)
Example:
If your bike has a 48V – 10Ah battery, you get:
48 × 10
Be eBike Savvy
So, you’ve got an e-bike (or you’re thinking about it)? Nice! Becoming electric bike savvy isn’t just about knowing how to hit the throttle — it’s about understanding your ride, staying safe, and being the kind of rider who turns heads and signals their turns.
Let’s break it down into five easy, breezy steps.
1. Know Your eBike (It’s More Than Just Pedals + Power)
Read the Manual
Yes, the manual. (We know, we know.) But it’s packed with golden nuggets: how your assist levels work, where your battery life shows up, what that mystery button does, and more.
🔧 Understand the Big Parts
- Motor: Mid-drive or hub? Either way, this is your boost button.
- Battery: The power pack. Learn its range, how to charge it, and how not to kill it early.
- Controller: The brain behind the magic.
- Sensors: These detect how hard or fast you’re pedaling and tell the motor to step in (like a good co-pilot).
- Classes: Know the difference between Class 1, 2, and 3. Especially if you’re going fast — some places don’t allow Class 3s on bike paths.
Pre-Ride Check = Peace of Mind
Tires full? Brakes tight? Chain clean? Quick once-over before every ride keeps things rolling smoothly.
2. Master Safe Riding Practices (Like a Pro, But With More Style)
Suit Up
Helmet = a must. Bonus points for gloves, shades, and anything reflective. Looking like a Tron character is just a bonus.
Be Seen, Be Heard
Use front and rear lights (white in the front, red in the back), add a bell, and maybe throw on a neon jacket if you’re feeling flashy.
Obey the Rules
You may feel like a superhero on wheels, but you still have to stop at stop signs and red lights. Signal your turns like you mean it!
Respect the Speed
E-bikes are fast. And heavier than regular bikes. So give yourself room to brake early, turn gently, and glide instead of skid.
Brake Like a Boss
Even pressure on both brakes = smooth stops. No surprise slides, please.
Be a Good Road Buddy
Smile at pedestrians. Pass with space. Say “on your left.” Make the e-bike world proud.
Stay Alert
Look out for opening car doors, wandering toddlers, rogue squirrels, and all the unexpected fun life throws your way.
No Distracted Riding
Save the selfies and texts for after your ride. Keep your head up and your eyes on the road.
Know Your Bike’s Weight
E-bikes are chunkier than your average cruiser. Be extra mindful when lifting, loading, or stopping fast.
Off-Road? Know Your Limits
Don’t go full explorer unless you’re sure your battery (and your legs) can get you back.
Got a Front Hub Motor?
Torque arms = your best friend. They help prevent fork failure and keep things tight when the front wheel does the heavy lifting.
3. Battery Care = E-Bike Longevity
Charge Smart: Keep It Between 20% and 80%
Full charges and full drains can shorten battery life over time. Think of it like stretching before a workout — keep it flexible.
Keep It Cool
Batteries hate heat and extreme cold. Store in a cool, dry place (aka not the trunk in summer or a frozen garage).
Use the Right Charger
No off-brand guesswork. Always use the charger that came with your bike.
Watch for Red Flags
If your range drops, charging takes forever, or your bike’s acting sluggish — it might be time to check (or replace) your battery.
Clean Connections
Every now and then, unplug and clean your battery terminals. A little maintenance = a lot of power.
4. Know the Laws (Because They’re Not the Same Everywhere)
Local Laws Matter
E-bike rules can change from state to state — even city to city. Helmet requirements, speed limits, where you can ride — know what’s cool in your area.
Understand Your Class
Class 1 and 2 bikes are usually fine on bike paths. Class 3s? Not always.
Example: In Pennsylvania, your e-bike must:
- Weigh under 100 lbs
- Not exceed 20 mph using the motor
- Have a motor under 750 watts
- Have pedals that actually work
- And you must be at least 16 years old
Check your local DMV or bike advocacy group for details near you!
5. Be Emergency-Ready (You’re Basically a Road Warrior Now)
Pack a Repair Kit
Flat tires happen. Be ready with a multi-tool, tire levers, a patch kit, and a mini pump. Bonus: It makes you feel like MacGyver.
Know When to Turn Back
Don’t push past your battery’s range unless you really like pedaling a heavy bike home.
Carry Essentials
Phone, ID, small first aid kit, and snacks (yes, snacks). Always ride prepared — and fueled.
Final Thought: Ride Smart, Ride Happy
Being electric bike savvy means riding with confidence, knowing your gear, and keeping it safe without losing the fun. The more you learn, the better your rides get — and trust us, you’ll never want to go back.
So read up, gear up, charge up… and get out there. You’ve got places to be and trails to conquer.
How Electric Bikes Work (and Where the Motor Magic Happens)
Welcome to the electric side of cycling — where hills feel flatter, rides go farther, and you're always just one pedal away from feeling like a superhero.
If you’ve ever wondered how e-bikes work or where that glorious motor power comes from, buckle up (or, well...helmet on) — we’re diving in!
E-Bike Basics: What Makes It Go Vroom-Vroom (Kinda)
An electric bike is like a regular bike… but supercharged. It combines:
- Your own pedaling power (yes, you're still involved)
- A motor (hello, boost!)
- A battery (rechargeable, of course)
- And a little help from brains (the controller and sensors)
Together, these parts work like a team to give you extra speed, less sweat, and more riding joy. Here’s how:
Key Components of an E-Bike
1. Battery (Your Portable Power Plant)
- Stores the energy to run the motor, display, and lights.
- Usually lithium-ion (like your phone, but way more fun).
- Capacity (measured in Amp-hours or Watt-hours) = how far you can ride.
- Usually mounted low and centered for better balance and stability.
Fun Fact: Some batteries even lock to the frame for security and pop out for easy charging!
2. Motor (The Muscle Behind the Magic)
- Converts battery power into forward motion.
- Gives you that sweet, sweet pedal-assist or throttle-based zoom.
- Comes in three location flavors — more on that in a sec!
3. Controller (The Brainiac)
- Manages all the e-bike tech behind the scenes.
- Translates input from you (pedaling or throttle) into motor output.
- Basically the DJ of your bike’s power party.
4. Sensors (The Smart Sidekick)
- Help the controller know when and how much assistance to give.
- Cadence sensors: Detect how fast you’re pedaling.
- Torque sensors: Detect how hard you’re pedaling and adjust accordingly.
(Learn more about these sensors in 'Pedal Assist 101')
Pro Tip: Torque sensors feel more “natural” — it’s like the bike knows exactly how much help you need.
5. Display (Optional, but Fancy)
- Shows your speed, battery level, assist mode, and range.
- Some are super minimal. Others feel like tiny dashboards.
6. Throttle (Also Optional, But FUN)
- Push a button or twist a grip and you go — no pedaling needed.
- Great for takeoffs, hills, or just feeling extra cool.
Where’s the Motor? Let’s Talk Motor Locations
There are three main places motors like to hang out. Each one gives your ride a slightly different feel:
1. Mid-Drive Motors
Located at the center of the frame, near the pedals
- Drives the chain and gears, giving you efficient power through your drivetrain.
- Great for hills, trails, and technical riding.
Pros:
✅ Balanced weight
✅ Excellent hill climbing
✅ Efficient + responsive
Cons:
⛔ Pricier
⛔ More drivetrain wear
⛔ Requires more maintenance
Best For: Riders who want the most natural pedaling feel, off-roaders, hill conquerors.
2. Hub Motors
Located in the center of either the front or rear wheel
Rear-Hub:
- The most common type.
- Gives you that push-from-behind feeling, like a tailwind.
Front-Hub:
- Less common, but cool!
- Feels like you're being gently pulled along.
Pros:
✅ Simple + affordable
✅ Less wear on your bike’s chain
✅ Easy to install or replace
Cons:
⛔ Less torque (not great on big hills)
⛔ Slightly awkward weight distribution
⛔ Less efficient on rough terrain
Best For: Commuters, casual riders, city cruising.
3. Friction Drive Motors
The oddball — rolls against your tire like a tiny helper hand
- Usually part of a conversion kit.
- Simple, removable, and easy to add to a regular bike.
Pros:
✅ Easy to install
✅ Affordable
✅ Great for DIY fans
Cons:
⛔ Less efficient
⛔ Wears out your tire faster
⛔ Not great in rain or on bumpy roads
Best For: Occasional riders, budget-minded DIYers, tinkerers.
So… Which Motor Type is Best for You?
It depends! Ask yourself:
- Do you want max power for hills? → Mid-drive
- Just want a reliable commuter? → Rear-hub
- Need a budget-friendly kit? → Friction drive
- Going off-road or doing serious touring? → Mid-drive all day
Final Thought: Ride Smart, Pick Your Power
Understanding how your e-bike works and where the motor sits gives you a serious edge. You’ll feel more in control, know what to expect from your ride, and—let’s be honest—impress your friends with how much you know.
So go ahead: pick your motor flavor, charge up, and hit the road like the e-bike expert you’re becoming.
Parks, Trails & E-Bikes: Know Before You Go
This page breaks down the e-bike rules for big federal lands — we’re talking National Parks, BLM areas, Fish & Wildlife spots, and more — with links to all the official policy docs and even a cheat-sheet spreadsheet showing how e-bike access works at different parks. Perfect for planning your next ride! CLICK HERE
E-Bike Laws: The State-by-State Breakdown
E-bike laws aren’t one-size-fits-all — every state has its own rules, and yeah… it can get confusing fast. Whether you’re a rider, or just e-bike curious, PeopleForBikes helps make sense of it all. CLICK HERE and then select your state to see the rules that apply where you ride, so you can cruise confidently and skip the guesswork.
