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PART 2
Understanding E-bikes
138692 Rev 0 (04/22)
Section A. Important Safety Information
GT Bicycle Owner’s Manual
Understanding E-bikes
What is an E-bike?
Electric bikes, also known as “E-Bikes” are bicycles equipped with an electric pedal assist drive system. An
E-Bike IS NOT a moped or motorcycle. E-bikes share components common with pedal-only bikes.
What is a Drive System?
The drive-assist system consists of a drive unit, a battery, a computer control, and various electronic
components (harness wires, sensors, and switches). There are many different drive-assist systems for
differing uses and bike types. Likewise there are various drive-assist system manufacturers (Shimano,
BOSCH, Bafang, Yamaha, etc.)
How does the Drive System work?
A Drive System can be throttle based, pedal assist based, or both.
Throttle Controlled Drive
For a drive system equipped with a throttle, it is important to know that when the drive-assist system is
turned ON, the drive unit engages to provide power when the throttle is pressed.
Pedal Assisted Drive
For a drive system that is pedal assist only, It is important to know that when the drive-assist system is
turned ON, the drive unit engages to provide power only while you are pedaling. The amount of power
provided by the drive unit depends on your pedaling force and the assistance mode/level you set with the
handlebar control unit. With a pedal-assist system, if you stop pedaling, the drive-assist will disengage.
Limit Assistance / Maximum Speed Allowable
The drive-assist system power reduces progressively and cuts off as the bike reaches a the maximum
allowable speed. The drive-assist re-engages when speed drops below the maximum allowable speed as
long as the pedals are turning. Whenever the drive-assist system is turned OFF, you can pedal the bike
normally. The drive system will not engage.
