What is a pedelec? Understanding This Popular Type of E-Bike

Pedelecs are a class of electric bicycles – e-bikes – that are common across Europe. While researching for an e-bike, you might have come across the term “pedelec.” But what is a pedelec, and how is it different from an ordinary Elektromos kerékpár (e-bike)?

In this article, we explain what a pedelec is and the reasons it is becoming increasingly popular among riders in rural or urban areas of low-income countries like Hungary, where eco-friendly machines are gaining significance.

What Does “Pedelec” Mean?

What is a pedelec? Pedal electric cycle. Pedelec is a short form for that. It is a type of electric bike with a pedal-assist feature. This means motor assistance only kicks in when a rider begins pedaling.

This means that when a rider uses a throttle-based e-bike, they can sit back and relax. In the case of a pedelec, human effort is a requirement. You get help when you pedal, so if you want assistance going up, a small electric motor is activated and makes climbing, riding for extended distances, or going faster much easier.

What is a Pedelec and Why Is It Important?  

Motor power should not exceed 250 watts.  

Maximum assisted speed should not exceed 25 km per hour or 15.5 mph.  

The motor level can only activate while the user is pedaling.  

There is no throttle, only pedal assistance.  

No license, insurance, or registration is mandated in EU countries.  

These features render a pedelec legal in EU nations, including Hungary, where they are ridden like standard bicycles on public roads and cycling paths.  

How Does a Pedelec Work?  

In essence,  pedelcs are outfitted with cadence sensors, torque sensors, or both that pick up if a rider is pedaling and how much energy they’re putting into the pedal. This input dictates how much power the motor delivers.  

This is how the basic process of the pedelec system works:  

• You begin the motion of pedaling.  
• Movements and or force are detected by the sensors.  
• Assistance is provided once the motor has automatically been activated.  
• When pedaling stops or when you reach the 25km/h mark, the motor will turn off.  

This system creates the most enjoyable cycling experience because power is only given when needed.  

Differences Between Pedelec and Other Types of E-Bikes:  

While exploring different kinds of bikes, one would find it difficult to identify the differences. Out of all types of bicycles found in Europe, such as pedals and throttle, the most common form of e-bikes is speed pedelecs, which possess unique qualities.

A pedelec works on a pedal-assist system, which means that the motor only works when you are pedaling. The motor supports you or assists you up to a speed of 25 kilometers per hour. The motor power is capped at 250 watts, which ensures compliance with European regulations. You do not need a driver’s license, insurance, or vehicle registration to ride one, and it can be used on bike lanes and public roads just like a regular bicycle.

On the flip side, a throttle-controlled e-bike enables riders to activate the pedal-free motor by twisting a grip or pressing a button. These models often exceed the 250-watt power limit and can go faster than 25 kilometers per hour, depending on the manufacturer. As a result, they may be subject to additional legal restrictions based on local laws. In some cases, you may not be permitted to ride them on cycling paths or may require a license or insurance.

There is also the speed pedelec, or “s-pedelec,” which is simply a faster version of the pedelec. Its motor assistance is normally capped off at 45 km/h and usually has a more powerful motor than a standard s-pedelec. Due to this power and speed, however, an s-pedelec is classified as a moped more often in EU countries. This entails that you will need a license, registration, and insurance, and in addition to that, you will be restricted to roads no copyrighted bike lanes.

In summary, if you’re seeking a legal and uncomplicated solution to ride without trouble, a standard pedelec is the best option. It provides the rider with motorized assistance but still preserves the feeling of conventional cycling.

Advantages of Riding a Pedelec

Because of the design features and engineering of the pedelec, it is ideal for using the electric bicycle as a workout or physical activity:  

Commuters: Fights fatigue and allows you to arrive looking fresh to work, even in the case of long rides.  

Older riders: A way to stay fit while keeping active without too much stress.  

Recreational cyclists: Longer rides become possible, and are able to explore more challenging terrain.  

Eco-conscious users: Aiding in the reduction of car use and emissions.  

Since the motor only provides assistance as you pedal, active engagement is still required whilst expending less energy, particularly when going uphill or facing headwinds.

Do Pedal Assist Bikes Have Legal Restrictions In Hungary?

In Hungary, the law recognizes Pedelecs that adhere to European Union standards (250 watts maximum power output, 25 km/h maximum speed when the motor is on, needs the pedals to be turned) as fully legal and usable just like any other traditional bicycle. 

There are no restrictions on Pedelecs with regards to:

• Helheless drivers licenses
• Registration and Insurance
• Access to bike lanes, parks, public roads 

Regardless of these liberties, other common biking laws, such as the ones below,w also apply: 

• The use of bike lights and reflectors at night
• Bicycle safety helmets are mandatory outside urban built areas.
• General traffic and road signage

Is A Pedelec Suitable For You?

Those seeking a hassle-free, legally compliant electric bicycle that at the same time encourages pedaling but doesn’t take complete control of it are likely best served by a pedelec. In combination with other features, it is ideal for the more active riders looking to make a change to their carbon/biodiesel footprint in Hungary.

Conclusion

Pedelecs are revolutionizing traditional cycling by effortlessly blending it with electric biking. These bicycles assist users while also requiring some level of physical effort. This makes it easier for users to travel in urban cities or in rural nature. If you’re looking for a legal and environmentally friendly way to travel in Hungary, learning about what a pedelec is offers a good starting point for switching to electric biking. 

If you want to know more about pedal-assisted bicycles offered in Hungary, you can visit the website that provides numerous options for both urban and off-road electric bicycles at https://hu.engwe.com/.