What are the pros and cons of having a throttle on an electric bike? In what kinds of situations is a throttle helpful? Can a throttle be dangerous?
A throttle on an electric bike provides riders with the ability to control speed and acceleration easily, but it also brings both practical benefits and notable drawbacks, as well as safety considerations in specific scenarios.
Pros of Having a Throttle
- Immediate acceleration: Riders can quickly get moving from a standstill. This is a safety feature for urban riding (being able to quickly get moving at a stop sign or traffic light for example). It can also be hugely helpful when tackling steep hills, offering your legs some extra assistance.
- Less physical effort: Useful for those with limited mobility, fatigue, or in need of a break on long rides, as pedaling isn’t required to propel the bike.
- Versatile riding options: Riders can choose between throttle, pedal-assist, or manual pedaling as needed for their journey.
Cons of Having a Throttle
- Reduced battery efficiency: Continuous throttle use drains the battery faster compared to pedal assist, shortening ride durations.
- Less exercise: Reliance on a throttle reduces physical activity, which may be undesirable for fitness-focused riders.
- Control challenges: Sudden or excessive throttle application can cause loss of traction, skidding, or reduce brake and gear longevity.
Situations Where a Throttle Is Helpful
- Starting from a standstill: When in a high gear or unable to pedal easily, a throttle offers a smooth and easy way to get moving.
- Uphill terrain or steep ramps: It provides extra boost for climbing without exerting much effort.
- Navigating traffic stops: Quick acceleration from a stop light or congested area improves flow and safety.
- Helping with carrying loads: Useful for transporting groceries or cargo, especially up inclines or when tired.
Can a Throttle Be Dangerous?
Yes, throttles can pose risks if used improperly:
- Accidental engagement: Sudden, unintended activation—such as during mounting/dismounting or maneuvering—may cause loss of control and accidents, particularly if the bike surges forward unexpectedly.
- Overuse at incorrect times: Applying too much throttle from a standstill or during turns increases the risk of skidding and losing control.
Proper training, along with familiarity of where the throttle is located on your handlebars, minimises the risks associated with a throttle. Furthermore, if a bike comes with a throttle but you would rather not ever use it, your agent can disable the throttle for you.
Summary Table
| Pros | Cons | Safety Concerns | Ideal Situations |
| Instant acceleration | Drains battery quicker | Accidental engagement | Starting in high gear |
| Less physical effort | Less exercise | Skidding/loss of control | Climbing hills |
| Versatile ride modes | Not allowed in some areas | Regulatory issues | Urban stop-and-go |
| Easier with heavy loads | Handling challenges | Battery depletion | Carrying cargo, riding when fatigued |
FAQ
Are throttles available only on ebikes with hub motors?
No. Some bikes with mid-drive motors, such as those from MeloYelo, are also fitted with throttles.
What if the bike I like has a throttle, but I don’t want a throttle?
Your agent can disable the throttle.
Will having a throttle make me lazy?
That’s entirely on you. Most people who have throttles love them, and wouldn’t buy another ebike that didn’t have one. They don’t use the throttle regularly, but love it for getting moving from a standstill and for an extra boost of assistance when climbing steep hills.
Why don’t European bikes have throttles?
Throttles are illegal in Europe. So, European ebike brands sold in NZ will not have a throttle.
