Why Do E-Bikes Have Gears? (Even With Pedal Assist)

June 19, 2025

At Jesse’s E-Rides, we hear this question all the time:
“If my e-bike has pedal assist, do I really need to worry about gears?”

The short answer? Yes—absolutely.
While pedal assist gives you a powerful boost, gears are what give you control. And when you know how and when to shift, every ride becomes smoother, more efficient, and way more fun.

Let’s break down why gears still matter—whether you're riding up hills, rolling through town, or just cruising with the family.

Climb Hills with Ease 🏔️

You don’t have to dread the uphill anymore.
Even with pedal assist, lower gears reduce strain and make pedaling feel lighter and smoother. This is especially helpful when you're tackling hills or starting from a full stop.

💡 Pro tip: Drop to a lower gear before a steep incline so your motor doesn’t have to work as hard—and neither do you.

Save Battery Power 🔋

Your battery will thank you.
Using the right gear takes pressure off your motor and keeps your e-bike from burning through charge unnecessarily. It’s a smart way to get the most out of every ride—and every battery cycle.

👉 Riding smarter means charging less.

Ride at Your Own Pace 🚲

Every rider, every ride, every road—gears help you dial it in.
Match your gear to your speed and terrain so you stay comfortable and in control, whether you’re cruising flat trails or winding through neighborhood streets.

Smooth Starts 🚦

Starting from a stop—especially with cargo or a passenger—can be tricky.
Shifting into a lower gear makes takeoff easier and smoother, reducing jerky motions and keeping the ride steady right from the start.

So, Why Do E-Bikes Have Gears?

Here’s the simplest way to think about it:

Pedal assist gives you power.
Gears give you control.

Used together, they create a smarter, smoother, and way more enjoyable ride.

🧰 Want help learning how to shift gears the right way?
We offer one-on-one training sessions for riders of all skill levels. It’s all part of our mission to make electric mobility accessible, safe, and easy for everyone.

🎥 Check out our YouTube guide on gears and pedal assist below!