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Power on Demand versus Pedal Assist
TAG (Twist and Go) Or POD (Power on Demand), means that the e-bike has a throttle like a moped or motorcycle that can deliver instant power when the throttle is engaged. PAS (Pedal Assist or Pedalac) means that the e-bikes motor assist only when you are pedaling. Some e-bikes have only one mode of operation and some e-bikes offer both. Here is a basic understanding & the benefits of both types of operation, as well as an explanation of the two main types of pedal assist.
TAG-POD / Throttle
PAS Cadence Sensor
PAS Torque Sensor
The simplest way to operate an ebike is with a throttle. Twist a grip or push down on a thumb throttle and the bike goes. Let go and it stops. It’s simple and it works. We prefer 1/2 twist throttle to thumb throttles. Throttles are not only less complicated than PAS, but they are generally far less expensive.
There are benefits to have a throttle. For instance, when you are riding in suburban communities with lots of stop signs, a throttle can eliminate that awkward bicycles start. To smoothly get through an intersect, twist the throttle and once you are up to speed, start pedaling along.
The other benefit of the throttle is the choice not to pedal at all.
There may be times when you are tired, or need extra help getting up a hill...maybe you don't want to risk breaking a sweat on your way to work or to a job interview.
We sell e-bikes with throttle only and some with both throttles and PAS. We are happy to help guide you to a great e-bike fit for you.
Some Throttle e-bikes Chicagoland Electric Bikes recommends:
THOTTLE ONLY:
Prodeco Tech Stride 300 $1299 MSRP ProdecoTech Stride 500 $1499 MSRP
ProdecoTech Mariner 7 $1299 MSRP
ProdecoTech Phantom X2 $1499 MSRP
ProdecoTech Oasis Cruiser $1799 MSRP
PAS (pedal assist) has been described as like pedaling with bionic legs. You pedal and the motor automatically kicks in to help you. E-bikes with this type of sensor have anywhere for 3-5 levels of assist that you can set manually via a controller mounted on your handlebars.
The most economical type of PAS is a cadence sensor.
A cadence sensor is like a throttle operated by your feet. The design is simple: a magnet is attached to pedals and a sensor picks up the movement of the magnet as you pedal. Start pedaling and the sensor tells the motor to turn on. Cadence sensors are more intuitive than a throttle, but have severe limitations. The ride can feel jerky since the moment you start pedaling the motor wants to turn on at full power. Head up a hill and as your pedaling slows down the cadence sensor tells the motor to give less power when what you need is more.
Still we like having a PAS along with a throttle and the cadence senor can offer a good value. If the terrain you typically ride on is not especially steep, then a cadence sensor may be a good option.
All in all, a cadence sensor, is nice to have in addition to a throttle, but there are more intuitive solutions.
Some cadence sensors e-bikes Chicagoland Electric Bikes recommends. Most ebikes in this group have throttles & PAS:
EG (all)
IZIP (many)
Surface 604 Element fat tire $1999
Torque sensor e-bikes are cream of the crop. The best electric bikes are the ones that form a seamless hybrid between your pedaling and the motor. The only way to make that happen is to have a torque sensor.
Torque sensors measure how hard you are pressing on the pedals, and tell the motor how much to turn on based on pedal pressure. Head up a hill and the torque sensor knows you’re working harder and tells the motor to chip in. The true magic happens when a torque sensor is combined with a speed and cadence sensor. This trio is able to give the motor controller a complete picture of how you are riding so that it can give power in just the right amount at just the right time. The result is intuitive operation, smooth performance, and outstanding efficiency.
Some Torque sensors e-bikes Chicagoland Electric Bikes recommends:
Easy Motion ebikes (all)
Stromer ST1 (no throttle)
Stromer ST2 (no throttle)
Haibikes (all)
IZIP Dash
IZIP Peak
Eflow
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