Most models in the United States are pedal-assist e-bikes — they provide an electric boost only when the rider is pedaling, unlike throttle e-bikes, which can provide assistance even when the rider isn’t pedaling. Pedal-assist bikes are available in every bike category to appeal to every type of rider. But now even advocacy groups like the International Mountain Bicycling Association have abandoned their anti-e-bike stance and now support the use of pedal-assist bikes on some trails. Most notably, there is the criticism of throttle e-bikes, which can reach speeds of 28 m.p.h. About a half-dozen states have instituted rules recognizing different classes of e-bikes and allowing pedal-assist bikes that are limited to 20 m.p.h.

Source: New York Times November 23, 2017 21:56 UTC