Throttle mode only?

[bode]

I am sure I could find this information by trawling through this forum, but am being lazy in hoping that somebody knows the answer off the top of their head. Is there a folding e-bike on which one can disable the pedal assist mode and just use the throttle when wanted? And yes, I am aware of the ban on throttles in the forthcoming stricter adherence to the EU regulations; I am talking about bikes as they exist now.

I ask because I already have an electric bike, and want to get one for my wife. However, she does not like the feeling of pedal assist (which you cannot turn off on my bike), and would prefer just being able to add a touch of throttle when she feels she needs the help.

 

[flecc]

20" wheel bikes to match your one:

The Powacycle Lynx has triple mode operation including throttle only.

So has the eZee Quando at a higher price but only single gear. It is however faster and a lot more powerful than the Lynx.
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[rooel]

I think you will find that C H White's Dahon conversions are all at present throttle only (see Electric Bikes) but that will probably change when the EU regulations are incorporated into UK law.

I have fitted the pedelec to my own Dahon conversions (using the Alien 24 volt system) and find that as it never calls for full power from the battery it is a useful economy mode, with the throttle always available for occasions when more power is required. However, it would be quite easy to disable the pedelec mode by simply disconnecting it at the controller box.

 

[bode]

20" wheel bikes to match your one:

The Powacycle Lynx has triple mode operation including throttle only.

I emailed Powacycle, and they replied: Unfortunately all electric bicycles operate with pedal assist. You can however disconnect the pedal sensor, or if you wanted to you could put a switch on the cable running to the pedal sensor that would then allow you to turn this function off.

I have, however, discovered this one: Electric Folding Bike - *New 2009 Model*, and they have confirmed by email that you can definitely use the throttle without pedal assist.
Trouble, is, I've never heard of them. Has anyone else?

 

[flecc]

It looks similar to many of these Chinese folders, with all the usual "parts bin" components. They are usually quite sound but tend to be very low geared so difficult to keep up to a good speed on the pedals, and many only power to about 12/13 mph anyway.

If you want a named bike, try the Synergie Vivace though I'm not sure if it's throttle only operation, in the site click Enter and then click Synergie to see this folder. It's also sold by Sustain Cycles as the Sustain Edison at £599.
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[bode]

If you want a named bike, try the Synergie Vivace though I'm not sure if it's throttle only operation, in the site click Enter and then click Synergie to see this folder. It's also sold by Sustain Cycles as the Sustain Edison at £599.

Thanks, Flecc. That's on my list to investigate. I did try one last year, when ETS used to sell it (actually the first e-bike I rode), but, having tried a good few since, I have forgotten what it was like!

 

[flecc]

Thanks, Flecc. That's on my list to investigate. I did try one last year, when ETS used to sell it (actually the first e-bike I rode), but, having tried a good few since, I have forgotten what it was like!

Me too, I tried the Sustain version ages ago and remember it was quite good, but I can't remember if it had a throttle only mode!
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