E-bikes vs. Mopeds: A Detailed Comparison

E-bikes and mopeds are small, lightweight vehicles that use a motor to move them forward. The primary distinction is that e-bikes have pedals and may be propelled ahead only by the rider's pedaling. This defining feature is absent from mopeds.

E-bikes and mopeds also differ in other aspects, such as size and regulation. The riding experience varies based on the vehicle. Understanding these distinctions will help to determine if a moped or an e-bike is right for you.

What is an Electric Bicycle?

Electric bicycles are two or three wheeler with the following three key characteristics.

Motor

The electric motor distinguishes an electric bicycle from a moped. The motor can include a pedal assist system (PAS), which propels the bike ahead as you peddle. Some e-bike motors also feature throttle assist, which propels the bike ahead even when the rider is not pedaling.

Speed

The motor can not go faster than 20 miles per hour (mph). The wattage of an e-bike motor indicates its power; the higher the wattage, the more powerful the motor. A basic e-bike motor will not produce more than 750W. To be termed an e-bike, the engine should not give "propulsion assistance" at speeds greater than 20 mph. It means that throttle assist cannot solely move the bike faster than 20 mph. However, using pedal assist (or merely pedaling), you can go faster than 20 mph.

Pedals

Under Canadian law, a lightweight open-air vehicle that lacks pedals is not considered an e-bike. A motorized bike is only regarded as an electric bike if it contains the following features: working pedals, handlebars for steering, and a power output of less than or equal to 500 Watts.

What are Mopeds?

Mopeds are two or three-wheeled passenger vehicles. They have an automated transmission and engines with cylinder displacements of 50 cc or smaller. A class 6D license is required to operate a moped in Canada. Mopeds lack pedals.
The average moped weighs between 150 and 200 pounds. It is another point where mopeds resemble vehicles that Canada mandates liability insurance for mopeds.

Comparing E-bikes and Mopeds: Key Aspects

Let us take a quick look at the electric bike vs. moped crucial differences to help you make the best option possible.

Power Source

Ebikes are also a more environmentally friendly option to a gas-powered moped because they emit no greenhouse gasses or toxic emissions.

Speed

E-bikes are slower than mopeds. Most mopeds with 50cc engines can attain top speeds of roughly 30 mph (48 kph). The top speed of most electric bikes is electronically limited. E-bikes in classes 1 and 2 have a top speed of 20 mph (32 kph). When you hit 20 mph, the motor gradually slows down until it no longer assists. The motor will re-engage once your speed falls below 20 mph. When the motor disengages, you can keep pedaling. The maximum speed limit for e-bikes in Canada is 32km/h.

Maintenance

They both have standard maintenance fees, but each alternative is far less expensive than a standard vehicle, truck, or SUV. When comparing the e-bike versus electric moped, ebikes have significantly cheaper maintenance expenses than mopeds.

Accessibility

Because an electric bicycle is considered to be similar to a standard bike, riders will be able to enter most parks and motor-restricted areas, and they can also be used to travel within and outside a city or to use some off-and-on-bike lanes; mopeds are limited because they can only travel on regular roads.

Parking

While bike parking is not as common as car parking, most places have a spot for your electric bicycle. Ebikes are compact, and various foldable e-bike models can fit comfortably in car trunks and cramped apartments. You cannot park mopeds in bicycle parking spaces.

License and Registration

Mopeds in Canada frequently require a license and registration, but electric bicycles are not required to have a license, registration, or insurance.

Range

E-bikes have a shorter range than mopeds. Most mopeds have a modest gas engine and a 1.3 gallon (5 liters) gas tank. The engines consume very little fuel. If you obtain 100 miles per gallon, you may travel up to 130 miles on a single gas tank. In comparison, most e-bikes range 25-50 kilometers on a single charge. When your battery dies, you must charge it for a few hours.

Health Benefits

Surprisingly, e-bikes do not impair physical fitness. Even with the help of the electric motor, pedaling may provide a satisfying and comprehensive workout. An electric bike with a pedal assist system increased the heart rate sufficiently to qualify as moderate physical exercise. An e-bike is not as severe as riding a regular bike, but it is still considered exercise. An electric bike provides a surprising amount of exercise. An electric bike is a great option to lose weight or get in shape. Riding a moped requires little physical exertion. While riding, you can sit back and relax.

Insurance

In most places, having insurance for an e-bike is not necessary. Most places treat e-bikes the same as traditional bicycles. There could be some exceptions. To be sure, check your local Canadian laws. You must have insurance to legally ride a moped. Insurance is not needed in areas if your moped is less than 50cc. It is best to verify whether you need moped insurance before purchasing one. Look at the cost of insurance in your area as well. It could influence your decision.

Choose What's Best for You

Both alternatives are certainly worth considering. Yet mopeds have long been the most popular mode of transportation for commuters, while electric bicycles combine cutting-edge technology with greener technology to provide users with a thrilling ride.

Finally, which alternative delivers the most benefits for your needs and lifestyle will determine. Whichever alternative you choose, odds are it will be a far greener, healthier, and more fun option than driving and sitting in traffic, and less stressful and anxiety-inducing than public transportation.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are numerous distinctions between e-bikes and mopeds. Regardless of the ebike or moped you select, we believe you will be pleased with your decision.