If you are shopping around for a brand new personal transportation vehicle, you may be comparing thumb throttle vs twist throttle for electric bikes. The best electric bikes, after all, tend to feature one of these throttle mechanisms. So if you are in the market for a bike with one of these, check out the highest-rated throttle electric bikes. What are the key differences? Keep reading to find out.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- Thumb ebike throttles are located away from the edges of handlebars, freeing up space for various accessories and getting out of the way of the brake lever.
- Twist-throttle mechanisms operate in an extremely similar manner to motorcycle throttle mechanisms, where you use your wrist to rotate the throttle, so the learning curve could be slightly easier.
- When it comes to control, they both offer nuanced and gradual acceleration, so it boils down to personal preference when it comes to these throttle types.
Differences Between Thumb Throttle and Twist Throttle
The most obvious difference is how acceleration is handled and whether you throttle by pushing a thumb lever or by twisting around a throttle mechanism. Thumb throttles feature a small lever that extends from the handlebar, and pushing it causes the bike to accelerate. Twist throttles come in two related categories, half-twist throttles, and full-twist throttles, each offering a throttle grip and a decent amount of nuance when it comes to control. When it comes to throttle mode, you want analog control so a bond can be formed between the rider and the throttle mechanism, which is something a sensor cannot provide, in case you are comparing a speed vs torque-sensing electric bike. Additionally, if you are curious about other features of electric bikes, you can read about electric bicycles that charge while pedaling.
The throttle mechanism is a matter of personal choice, as both thumb and twist are good options. Here are some more differences between the two to help you make that decision.
Positioning
An electric bike’s handlebars can become cluttered with various accessories, added features, and control assistance devices. The extremities of these handlebars are especially susceptible to clutter, so the relatively centrally located thumb throttle may be a better fit for some electric bike riders. Twist throttles, on the other hand, could get in the way of some of these accessories, adding to some confusion for new riders. Obviously, this is not ideal for an unprepared rider when they are out riding on the road and are trying to control their speed and deal with other factors, such as rough terrain,
INSIDER TIP
If you simply aren’t sure which throttle type to choose, give each a try at your nearly electric bike retail outlet.
Ease-of-Learning
If you are already familiar with the motorcycle and motorbike control, a twist throttle will be the way to go, as it will feel extremely familiar to use your wrist to turn the throttle. If you have never ridden an e-bike or a motorbike, then you will learn at the same pace no matter which you choose.
Control
Again, this will come down to preference. Both types of throttle allow for gradual and nuanced control. Pick the one you feel most comfortable with, though you may want to avoid a third throttle option called push throttle. This throttle is activated by pushing a button and does not allow for any nuance when it comes to acceleration. While both are easy to learn and control, if you are not used to the actions, there can be some slight problems you develop. The downsides to thumb throttles can be the development of a frozen thumb, where it feels like your thumb is locked in a position and won’t easily bend or straighten. Twist-style throttles can result in wrist fatigue, where your wrist muscles are used more than they are used to, and you have a sore wrist.
Whether you have a throttle on your e-bike or not, you should always remember to store it properly. A folding electric bike will save you the most space and be the easiest to store if you are space conscious. Additionally, it may reduce your need for one of the best bike racks for electric bikes.
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