Types of E-Bikes: A Complete Buyer’s Guide

Electric bikes have become one of the fastest-growing forms of personal transportation. But if you’re new to e-bikes, you may be wondering: What are the different types of electric bikes? How do you choose the right one? This guide breaks down the different types of e-bikes based on design, motor system, usage, pedal assistance, power levels, and more—so you can make a confident decision.

Introduction to Electric Bikes

Electric bikes (or e-bikes) combine traditional bicycle components with an electric motor, battery, and controller. This gives riders extra assistance when pedaling or, in some models, the ability to ride using a throttle.

Understanding the types of e-bikes available will help you choose a model that suits your lifestyle, riding habits, and terrain.

How Electric Bikes Work

All e-bikes share three core components:

• Motor (hub or mid-drive): provides assistance
• Battery: supplies power
• Controller: manages speed and motor output

Depending on the model, an e-bike provides power through pedal assistance, throttle control, or both.

Electric Bike Classes Explained

In many countries (including the U.S.), e-bikes are categorized into three classes:

Class 1

• Pedal assist only
• Up to 20 mph (32 km/h)
• Legal on most bike paths

Class 2

• Pedal assist + throttle
• Up to 20 mph (32 km/h)
• The Lacros Pinecone (folding e-bike) belongs to Class 2, making it more flexible and ideal for daily commuting or urban riding.

Class 3

• Pedal assist only
• Up to 28 mph (45 km/h)
• Often restricted from certain bike paths.
• The Lacros Cyclone and Thunder fall under Class 3, making them suitable for riders who want higher speed and stronger performance.

Understanding e-bike classes helps ensure you choose a bike that is legally permitted in your region.

Also read: Exploring the Types of Suspension Systems in Electric Bikes

Also read: What Are the Different Types of Bike Brakes?

Types of E-Bikes by Design and Motor Placement

1. Hub-Drive E-Bikes

The motor sits inside the wheel hub (front or rear).

Pros: affordable, easy to maintain, simple design
Best for: commuting, leisure riding

2. Mid-Drive E-Bikes

The motor is built into the crank area.

Pros: natural ride feel, better hill climbing, efficient power
Best for: mountain biking, long-distance riding, premium bikes

Types of E-Bikes by Pedal Assistance

1. Pedal Assist (Pedelec)

You pedal, and the motor assists proportionally.

2. Throttle-Enabled E-Bikes

Ride without pedaling by using a throttle.

3. Dual-Mode E-Bikes

Include both pedal assist and throttle—flexible and beginner-friendly.

The Lacros Pinecone, Cyclone, and Thunder are all Dual-Mode e-bikes, offering both pedal assist and throttle operation for more versatile riding scenarios.

Types of E-Bikes by Usage and Riding Scenarios

If you’re asking “What are the different types of electric bikes?”, the answer often depends on how you plan to ride.

1. Commuter / City E-Bikes

Built for daily riding and paved roads. The Lacros Cyclone is an excellent choice for city commuting.
Features: fenders, racks, comfortable seats

2. Mountain E-Bikes (E-MTBs)

Designed for off-road terrain. The Lacros Thunder fits this category, offering stronger power and better terrain adaptability.
Features: powerful motors, suspension systems, durable frames

3. Cargo E-Bikes

Built for carrying heavy loads or transporting children.

4. Folding E-Bikes

Compact and easy to carry. The Lacros Pinecone is a classic folding e-bike, ideal for city use, commuting, and riders needing portability.
Features: foldable frame, lightweight design

5. Fat Tire E-Bikes

Large tires for sand, snow, gravel, or rugged terrain. The Pinecone, Cyclone, and Thunder all feature fat tires, offering better stability and off-road capability.

6. Road / Performance E-Bikes

Sleek, lightweight designs optimized for speed.

Types of E-Bikes by Power and Speed

Low-power (250W–350W)
Best for flat terrain and short commutes.

Mid-power (500W–750W)
Great for mixed terrain, hills, and everyday riding.

High-power (1000W+)
Ideal for steep hills and adventure riding. (Check local laws before purchasing.)

Also read: Best Electric Bikes for Adults: How to Choose the Right One

How to Choose the Right Lacros E-Bike for Your Needs

Lacros offers several versatile e-bike models designed for different riding styles and environments, including Pinecone, Cyclone, and Thunder. If you're considering a Lacros ebike but aren’t sure which one fits your lifestyle, this guide will help you select the perfect model based on your needs, terrain, and riding habits.

1. Choose Based on Your Riding Purpose

Different needs call for different bikes. Here’s what each Lacros model is best suited for:

• Urban commuting / daily travel
  You want something lightweight, compact, and easy to maneuver → Pinecone (Class 2 Foldable)
• Comfortable city rides for all riders
  You prefer an easy-entry frame and relaxed riding position → Cyclone (Class 3 Step-Thru)
• Off-road, hills, adventure, or high-performance riding
  You want stronger power and better traction → Thunder (Class 3 EMTB Step-Over)

2. Choose Based on the Terrain You Ride On

Typical riding surface is one of the most important factors when choosing a Lacros e-bike:

• Smooth roads/city paths → Pinecone or Cyclone
• Occasional gravel or steeper roads → Cyclone
• Mountain trails / rough terrain / unpaved routes → Thunder

All Lacros models use fat tires, making them stable and safe on sand, gravel, snow, or wet surfaces.

3. Understand Local E-Bike Class Requirements

Lacros bikes fall into the following e-bike classes:

• Pinecone → Class 2 (Throttle + assist, 20 mph) — great for most cities and mixed bike paths
• Cyclone → Class 3 (Assist, 28 mph)
• Thunder → Class 3 (Assist, 28 mph) — ideal for faster commuting and fitness riding

Always check your local regulations to ensure Class 3 bikes are allowed on specific bike lanes or trails.

4. Consider Power and Battery Performance

All Lacros bikes belong to the mid-power e-bike category, offering a balanced combination of strong acceleration, smooth hill climbing, and reliable mileage.

5. Choose the Right Frame Style for Comfort

Lacros bikes come in three designs:

• Step-Thru (Cyclone) — easy to mount, ideal for all genders, heights, and clothing styles.
• Step-Over (Thunder) — provides better control and stability for sporty or rugged riding.
• Foldable (Pinecone) — compact, portable, perfect for commuters or travelers.

6. Budget and Long-Term Use

Lacros models vary slightly in price based on frame structure, battery size, power output, and intended use (Class 2 vs Class 3). Start by identifying your main daily use case—this makes choosing the right Lacros model much easier.

Quick Summary: The Easiest Way to Choose

All Lacros ebikes feature fat tires and mid-power systems with dual-mode throttle and pedal assist, making them ideal for riders who want versatility from city streets to outdoor exploration.

Ready to find your perfect ride? Explore the full Lacros ebike lineup and choose the model that matches your lifestyle today.

FAQs

Q: What are the different types of electric bikes?
A: They can be categorized by class, motor placement, assistance type, usage, and power level.

Q: Which type of e-bike is best for beginners?
A: City or commuter e-bikes with pedal assist.

Q: Are mid-drive or hub-drive motors better?
A: Mid-drive motors provide better performance, while hub motors are more affordable.