What Are
Electric Bikes?

Electric bikes are relatively new and the technology is constantly changing with new innovative ideas to make them more efficient and affordable options for everyone.

Making Life Easier

On an electric bike, you'll find a number of extra components in comparison to a regular bike; a motor, a battery and a controller all integrated into the design. It's just like a regular bike in that you still need to pedal and steer with the handles. The idea of the electric motor is to assist, not completely replace pedalling. It means that hills and headwind are much more approachable and manageable, meaning you can travel further without getting tired and sweaty – perfect for a morning commute!

We understand that people still want to know a lot about ebikes and our aim is to answer all your questions so you can make an informed decision on which electric bikes you'd like to purchase. Read more below as we answer questions around electric bikes!

How Does an Electric Bike Work?

Each ebike motor system we have on Raleigh bikes have difference pedal assist parts, but the way they work in general is all very similar. All our ebikes are simply activated by pedalling. The motor will kick in when you start to pedal, this is due to it triggering a sensor placed on the bike; this can be found in different places on each varying system. Ebikes can have three types of sensor, speed, cadence and torque. Each ebike will have a chosen sensor that is ideally suited to the type of bike and it's usage. The battery on the ebike gives consistent electrical energy to the motor.

How Does an Electric Bike Controller Work?

Not all of our ebikes have the same motor system, meaning they don't all have the same controller. Whilst looking different they all have the same primary functions of turning the system on and off and setting the motor assistance level.

Raleigh ebike controller types

Do You Still Have To Pedal an Electric Bike?

Yes. In accordance to UK law, all electric bikes must use pedal power to work. You can read more about this on our electric bike laws page. That's exactly why we believe electric bikes are still exercise, you still need to put in some pedal power!

How Do You Ride an Electric Bike?

The answer to this question is very simple: just like a regular bike! The answer to this question is very simple: just like a regular bike! The answer to this question is very simple: just like a regular bike! The answer to this question is very simple: just like a regular bike! The answer to this question is very simple: just like a regular bike! The answer to this question is very simple: just like a regular bike! The answer to this question is very simple: just like a regular bike! The answer to this question is very simple: just like a regular bike!

The answer to this question is very simple: just like a regular bike! The answer to this question is very simple: just like a regular bike! The answer to this question is very simple: just like a regular bike! The answer to this question is very simple: just like a regular bike! The answer to this question is very simple: just like a regular bike! The answer to this question is very simple: just like a regular bike! The answer to this question is very simple: just like a regular bike! The answer to this question is very simple: just like a regular bike!

There are a couple of tips and tricks that can aid the range that your bike will take you.

  • Cadence: Slow pedalling is costly in terms of energy, whereas keeping your cadence above 50 revolutions per minute can optimise your drive unit.

  • Weight: Less luggage will keep the total weight of the bike down and keep your ebike running for longer.

  • Starting & braking: Just like a car, it's more effective to keep going the longer distance with a constant similar speed.

  • Gear shifting: Keeping in the correct gear will ensure the bike is more efficient, some of our ebikes do this automatically.

  • Tyre pressure: Always inflate tyres to the maximum permissible tyre pressure.