Electric bicycles, or e-bikes, have become a popular choice for eco-conscious commuters and adventure seekers alike. These bikes blend traditional cycling with modern technology, offering an efficient and sustainable way to travel. But what exactly makes an e-bike work? Understanding the key technical terms—volts, watts, and amp hours—is essential for anyone looking to buy or use one.

At the heart of every e-bike is its motor, which provides assistance while you pedal. Some models also feature a throttle that allows you to ride without pedaling at all. This added flexibility can be great for short trips or when you need a quick boost. E-bikes are not just convenient—they're also a great way to stay active while reducing your carbon footprint.

To truly understand how these bikes operate, it's important to know the basic electrical units that define their performance. The most common ones are volts, watts, and amp hours. Each plays a unique role in determining how fast, far, and efficiently your e-bike can go.

What Are Watts?

Watts (W) measure power, and in the context of e-bikes, they indicate how much force the motor can deliver. A higher watt rating means more power, which translates into faster speeds and better hill-climbing ability. Most e-bike motors range from 250 to 300 watts, but some high-performance models can go much higher.

There are two types of watt ratings you should pay attention to: continuous and peak. Continuous wattage shows the motor’s regular output during normal riding, while peak wattage represents the maximum power it can produce, usually for short bursts like climbing steep hills.

Another important unit related to watts is the watt-hour (Wh). This tells you how much energy the battery can store. A higher Wh rating means a longer range before you need to recharge. For example, a 500Wh battery can power a 250W motor for about two hours.

What Are Volts?

Voltage (V) measures the electrical pressure that drives current through the system. In e-bikes, voltages typically range from 36V to 48V. Higher voltage allows the motor to perform more efficiently, using less current and generating less heat. This leads to better performance and longer-lasting components.

The relationship between volts, amps, and watts is crucial. Power (in watts) equals volts multiplied by amps. So, a 36V battery with 10A of current provides 360W of power. This is a common setup for many e-bikes today.

Higher voltage systems also allow for thinner wires and smaller electronics, making the bike lighter and more compact. That’s why many modern e-bikes use 48V batteries instead of lower voltages.

What Are Amp Hours?

Amp hours (Ah) measure the capacity of a battery. It tells you how long the battery can supply a certain amount of current. For instance, a 10Ah battery can provide 10 amps for one hour or 1 amp for ten hours.

However, Ah alone isn’t enough to compare batteries effectively. You also need to consider the voltage. That’s where watt-hours (Wh) come in handy. By multiplying Ah by volts, you get the total energy storage capacity of the battery. A 36V, 10Ah battery has 360Wh, which is a standard capacity for many e-bikes.

Delfast: A Leader in High-Performance E-Bikes

Delfast stands out in the e-bike market with its advanced battery technology. Their electric bikes are equipped with high-capacity 72V, 48Ah lithium-ion batteries, equivalent to 3456Wh. This impressive capacity ensures long-range rides and extended battery life, with up to 3000 charge cycles—far exceeding the average of 1000 cycles found in most e-bikes.

Conclusion

Understanding volts, watts, and amp hours helps you make informed decisions when choosing an e-bike. Watts determine motor power, volts influence efficiency and performance, and amp hours (or watt-hours) tell you how long the battery will last. Whether you're commuting to work or exploring new trails, knowing these specifications will help you find the perfect e-bike for your needs.