Oil Springer Suspension vs. Air Suspension on E-Bikes: Which One Is Right for You?

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The Ride Starts Here

When it comes to e-bikes built for adventure, suspension isn’t just about comfort — it’s about control, capability, and getting the most out of every ride. Curious about the differences between oil springer suspension vs air suspension? Choosing between oil springer suspension vs air suspension can dramatically change how your bike feels on the trail or street.

So, which suspension system is right for you?
Let’s break it down.

What Is Oil Springer Suspension?

An oil springer suspension uses a traditional coil spring paired with oil dampening to control shock movement.
You’ll often find this system on rugged, durable e-bikes designed for tough conditions.

Key Components:

  • Coil spring: absorbs impacts.
  • Oil damper: controls rebound speed and prevents harsh bounces.

Advantages of Oil Springer Suspension

  • Toughness: Handles heavy loads and rough trails without fading.
  • Consistency: Performs predictably in all temperatures and conditions.
  • Durability: Fewer air seals mean fewer maintenance headaches.
  • Cost-effective: Usually more affordable upfront than high-end air suspension.

Disadvantages of Oil Springer Suspension

  • Weight: Coil systems are heavier — adding 1-2 lbs more than air systems.
  • Adjustability: Requires mechanical spring changes (or pre-load adjusters) to alter ride feel.
  • Less fine-tuning: Can’t dial in pressure for rider weight with a pump — fixed spring rates.
E-bike riding through rugged trails with oil springer suspension

What Is Air Suspension?

Air suspension uses a pressurized air chamber instead of a coil spring to provide shock absorption.
This is a popular choice for performance e-bikes and high-end off-road models.

Key Components:

  • Air spring chamber: provides adjustable shock absorption.
  • Oil damper: (still present) controls rebound and compression.

Advantages of Air Suspension

  • Lightweight: Shaves crucial pounds off your bike — better for agility and climbing.
  • Adjustable: Fine-tune pressure based on rider weight, cargo load, and riding style with a simple pump.
  • Progressive feel: Air springs naturally stiffen deeper into the stroke — perfect for aggressive riding.
  • Performance: Smoother ride at high speeds over technical terrain.

Disadvantages of Air Suspension

  • Maintenance-sensitive: Requires periodic checks for air pressure and seal integrity.
  • Temperature sensitivity: Air pressure can fluctuate with big temperature swings.
  • Cost: Generally more expensive up front and if repairs are needed.
E-bike riding through rugged trails with oil springer suspension

Maintenance Tips for Each Suspension Type

SuspensionMaintenance FocusTools Needed
Oil SpringerInspect seals, change oil annually or every 100-150 hoursShock pump (for dampers), basic wrench set
Air SuspensionCheck air pressure monthly, replace seals yearly, clean stanchionsHigh-pressure shock pump, seal kit, Allen wrenches

Quick Tip:

  • Springer riders: Listen for squishy, inconsistent rebound — it’s a sign the oil needs service.
  • Air riders: Always check pressure before long rides — losing just 10 PSI can change the whole feel.

Matching Suspension to Your Riding Style

Riding StyleBest Suspension Type
Heavy Trail Rider, Carrying GearOil Springer
Lightweight Rider, Fast Climbs, Aggressive DownhillAir Suspension
All-Season CommutingOil Springer (consistency)
Competitive or Technical Trail RidingAir Suspension (adjustability)

Which Suspension Wins?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer.
If you value reliability, ruggedness, and simplicity, an oil springer suspension is hard to beat — especially for heavy riders, hunting bikes, and long-range trekking.

If you want peak performance, lightweight handling, and the ability to dial your ride perfectly, an air suspension setup will elevate your ride.

At JoltBike, we match your bike to your lifestyle —
whether you’re bombing backwoods trails or cruising open roads.

Ready to Find Your Perfect Ride?

Come test ride e-bikes with both oil springer and air suspension setups at JoltBike’s 100 acre private trail system!
Our expert team will help you feel the difference — so you can ride further, faster, and smarter.

Understanding E-Bike Throttle Usage and Regulations

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Understanding E-Bike Classes and Throttle Usage

Understanding E-Bike Throttle Usage and Regulations is important for e-bikes, which are generally categorized into three classes:

  • Class 1: Pedal-assist only; the motor provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling and stops assisting at 20 mph.
  • Class 2: Throttle-assisted; the motor can propel the bike without pedaling but is limited to 20 mph.
  • Class 3: Pedal-assist only; the motor assists up to 28 mph and must be equipped with a speedometer.

It’s important to note that Class 3 e-bikes typically do not include throttles. These classifications help standardize e-bike regulations, though each state may apply its own unique laws governing their use.

DOWNLOAD THE 50 STATE EBIKE LAW SUMMARY HERE

E-Bike Laws in Pennsylvania

In Pennsylvania, e-bikes are defined as “pedalcycles with electric assist” and must meet the following criteria:

  • Weigh no more than 100 pounds
  • Have operable pedals
  • Be equipped with an electric motor of 750 watts or less
  • Only assist up to speeds of 20 mph

E-bikes meeting these criteria are generally allowed on roadways and trails where traditional bicycles are permitted. However, throttle usage is subject to certain restrictions:

  • On non-motorized trails managed by the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), riders must pedal. Throttle-only usage is not allowed.
  • On motorized trails and public-use roads, e-bikes are typically allowed unless specifically prohibited.
  • Pennsylvania State Game Lands do not allow e-bikes, even on roads open to motor vehicles.

It’s crucial for riders to check with local municipalities and land managers, as local rules may be more restrictive.

Throttle as a Safety Feature

For many older adults and riders with physical limitations, a throttle is more than a convenience — it’s a lifeline. The ability to start from a stop or accelerate quickly without pedaling can:

  • Prevent tipping or falling
  • Reduce strain on joints
  • Help riders handle steep inclines
  • Provide a backup in emergencies

This function allows more people — especially those who may have stopped riding years ago — to return to trails with confidence and control.

Understanding E-Bike Classes and Throttle Usage

State-by-State Variations

Throttle laws and e-bike classifications vary widely across the U.S. Here are a few examples:

  • California: Uses the three-class system and permits Class 2 (throttle) e-bikes on most bike paths, though local rules may vary.
  • New York: Follows the three-class system, but cities like New York have additional restrictions.
  • Oregon: Does not allow throttles on Class 3 e-bikes and limits motors to 750 watts.

Riders should always verify local laws before heading out — especially when riding across state lines or on managed lands.

While throttles on e-bikes can raise regulatory questions, they also serve a meaningful purpose — especially for aging riders and those with mobility challenges. In Pennsylvania, Class 2 throttle-equipped bikes are legal in many areas, but riders should stay informed and respect local trail rules.

E-bikes open new doors — just be sure to know where those doors are allowed to open.

Electric bicycle (e-bike) laws in the United States vary significantly by state, encompassing definitions, classifications, operational restrictions, and equipment requirements. Understanding these regulations is crucial for e-bike riders to ensure compliance and safe operation. Below is an overview of e-bike laws across various states:​

E-Bike Laws by State (A–K)

You can download the whole 50 state list HERE

Alabama

  • Definition: E-bikes are classified as motor-driven cycles.
  • Requirements: Class M driver’s license required; motorcycle helmet required.
  • Age Restriction: Minimum age 14.

Alaska

  • Definition: Considered motor-driven cycles.
  • Requirements: M-class endorsement on driver’s license required.
  • Age Restriction: Minimum age 14.

Arizona

  • Definition: Termed motorized electric bicycles or tricycles.
  • Requirements: No license required; allowed on roadways and bike lanes unless locally prohibited.
  • Speed Limit: Assistance ceases at 20 mph.

Arkansas

  • Definition: Recognized as electric bicycles.
  • Requirements: No license required; helmets mandatory for Class 3 riders under 21.
  • Age Restriction: Minimum age 16 for Class 3.

California

  • Definition: Categorized into three classes:
    • Class 1: Pedal-assist only, up to 20 mph.
    • Class 2: Throttle-assisted, up to 20 mph.
    • Class 3: Pedal-assist only, up to 28 mph with speedometer.
  • Requirements: Class 3 requires helmets; may be restricted on some bike paths by local ordinance.

Colorado

  • Definition: Electrical assisted bicycles; follows three-class system.
  • Requirements: No license required; Class 3 restricted from bike paths unless approved locally.

Connecticut

  • Definition: Bicycles with helper motors.
  • Requirements: Operators must be at least 16; helmets required.
  • Speed Limit: Assistance ceases at 20 mph.

Delaware

  • Definition: Recognized as bicycles.
  • Requirements: No license required; helmets required for riders under 16.
  • Speed Limit: Assistance ceases at 20 mph.

Florida

  • Definition: Termed electric-assist bicycles.
  • Requirements: Minimum age 16; no license required.
  • Speed Limit: Assistance ceases at 20 mph.

Georgia

  • Definition: Defined as electric bicycles.
  • Requirements: No license required; helmets required for riders under 16.
  • Speed Limit: Assistance ceases at 20 mph.

Hawaii

  • Definition: Classified as mopeds.
  • Requirements: Minimum age 15; no license required.
  • Speed Limit: Assistance ceases at 30 mph.

Idaho

  • Definition: Termed motorized electric bicycles.
  • Requirements: Minimum age 16; Class D driver’s license required.
  • Speed Limit: Assistance ceases at 30 mph.

Illinois

  • Definition: Categorized as low-speed electric bicycles; follows three-class system.
  • Requirements: No license required; helmets required for Class 3 riders under 16.
  • Age Restriction: Minimum age 16 for Class 3.

Indiana

  • Definition: Classified as motorized bicycles.
  • Requirements: Minimum age 15; ID card required.
  • Speed Limit: Assistance ceases at 25 mph.

Iowa

  • Definition: Recognized as electric bicycles.
  • Requirements: No license or age restrictions.
  • Speed Limit: Assistance ceases at 20 mph.

Kansas

  • Definition: Defined as electric-assisted bicycles.
  • Requirements: No license required; helmets required under age 18.
  • Speed Limit: Assistance ceases at 20 mph.

Kentucky

  • Definition: Classified as motorized bicycles.
  • Requirements: Minimum age 16; driver’s license required; helmets required under age 18.

E-Bike Prices in 2025: Are Tariffs About to Change the Game?

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The U.S. electric bike (e-bike) market is experiencing significant changes due to newly imposed tariffs on imports, particularly from China. These tariffs are expected to influence e-bike prices, market dynamics, and consumer behavior in the coming months. This article explores how new tariffs are influencing electric bike prices in the U.S., the anticipated effects of these tariffs, current pricing trends, and provides key market statistics to offer a comprehensive overview of the evolving e-bike landscape in the United States.​

Understanding the New Tariffs

In early 2025, the U.S. administration announced a 10% tariff on imports from China, including e-bikes and related components. This policy aims to address trade imbalances but has raised concerns within the e-bike industry about potential price increases and market disruptions. Manufacturers and retailers now face decisions on whether to absorb these additional costs or pass them on to consumers. Understanding how new tariffs are influencing electric bike prices in the U.S. is crucial for market stakeholders.

Impact on E-Bike Prices

The introduction of these tariffs is likely to lead to higher retail prices for e-bikes in the U.S. Given that a significant portion of e-bikes sold in the country are imported from China, the added costs from tariffs may be transferred to consumers. This situation mirrors previous instances where tariffs resulted in increased prices for imported goods, showing how new tariffs are influencing electric bike prices in the U.S.​

Current Pricing Trends

The e-bike market has seen a shift towards more affordable models to cater to a broader consumer base. High-end e-bikes can still command prices upwards of $3,000, but there is a growing presence of budget-friendly options in the $1,200–$2,000 range. This trend indicates an effort to make e-bikes accessible to a wider audience and to counteract how new tariffs are influencing electric bike prices in the U.S., despite potential cost increases due to tariffs.

Market Statistics and Growth

The U.S. e-bike market has been on an upward trajectory:​

  • Market Value: Valued at approximately $1.04 billion in 2024, with projections estimating growth to $2.51 billion by 2033, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.78%. This growth is occurring despite how new tariffs are influencing electric bike prices in the U.S. ​
  • Unit Sales: Around 500,000 e-bikes were sold in 2022, with expectations of surpassing 700,000 units annually by 2025. ​
  • Market Share: E-bikes accounted for 28% of the U.S. bicycle market, indicating a significant presence and growing consumer interest. ​

Consumer Considerations

With the anticipated price increases due to tariffs, consumers may consider:

  • Purchasing Timing: Buying e-bikes before price hikes take effect, as a strategy considering how new tariffs are influencing electric bike prices in the U.S.
  • Exploring Alternatives: Considering brands or models not affected by tariffs.​
  • Secondhand Market: Looking into used e-bikes as a cost-effective option.​

The imposition of new tariffs on e-bike imports is poised to impact prices and market dynamics in the U.S. While the market has shown resilience and growth, consumers and industry stakeholders must navigate these changes strategically. Staying informed about market trends and exploring various purchasing options can help mitigate the financial impact of these tariffs. It’s clear how new tariffs are influencing electric bike prices in the U.S., and these insights are crucial for making informed decisions in the evolving market landscape.

E-Bike Price Comparison: 2024 vs. 2025 After Tariffs

Here’s an updated comparison of e-bike prices from various companies between 2024 and 2025, illustrating the impact of tariffs on pricing. I’ve included a model from Velotric as requested:

Brand & Model2024 Price2025 PricePrice IncreaseNotes
Lectric XP Lite 2.0$799$999$200 (25%)Budget-friendly folding e-bike; price increased due to tariffs.
Aventon Level 3 Commuter$1,799$2,249$450 (25%)Popular commuter e-bike; price hike reflects increased import duties.
Rad Power Bikes RadRover 6 Plus$1,999$2,499$500 (25%)Fat tire commuter e-bike; tariff impact on pricing.
Vvolt Alpha$1,399$1,749$350 (25%)Entry-level e-bike; price adjusted due to new tariffs.
Wallke H9 AWD$1,749$2,186$437 (25%)Folding e-bike with dual motors; price increase following tariff implementation.
Velotric Discover 1$1,299$1,624$325 (25%)Versatile city e-bike; price adjusted due to tariff reinstatement.

National Park Service Announces Policy for Electric Bicycle Use in National Parks

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Date: August 30, 2019
Contact: NewsMedia@nps.gov
Credit: https://www.nps.gov/orgs/1207/ebikepolicy.htm

Use of e-bikes will increase access to recreational opportunities in parks

WASHINGTON – On August 30, the National Park Service announced a new electric bicycle (e-bike) policy for national parks, expanding recreational opportunities and accessibility. The policy supports Secretary’s Order 3376, signed by U.S. Secretary of the Interior David Bernhardt on August 29, that directs Department of the Interior (DOI) bureaus to create a clear and consistent e-bike policy on all federal lands managed by the Department. The policy also supports Secretary’s Order 3366 to increase recreational opportunities on public lands.

A majority of states have adopted e-bike policies, most following model legislation that allows for the 3 classes of e-bikes to have access to bicycle trails. The NPS e-bike policy seeks to provide some consistency with the state rules applying where park units are located.

“As more Americans are using e-bikes to enjoy the great outdoors, national parks should be responsive to visitors’ interest in using this new technology wherever it is safe and appropriate to do so,” said National Park Service Deputy Director P. Daniel Smith. “They make bicycle travel easier and more efficient, and they provide an option for people who want to ride a bicycle but might not otherwise do so because of physical fitness, age, disability, or convenience, especially at high altitudes or in hilly or strenuous terrain.”

This new policy will enable visitors to use e-bikes, low-speed electric bicycles with power assistance, in the same manner as traditional bicycles, allowing them on park roads, paved or hardened trails, areas designated for off-road motor vehicle use and administrative roads where traditional bikes are allowed. The operator of an e-bike may only use the motor to assist pedal propulsion. The motor may not be used to propel an e-bike without the rider also pedaling, except in locations open to public motor vehicle traffic. 

Similar to traditional bicycles, e-bikes are not allowed in designated wilderness areas. Park superintendents will retain the right to limit, restrict, or impose conditions of bicycle use and e-bike use in order to ensure visitor safety and resource protection. Over the coming month, superintendents will work with their local communities, staff and partners to determine best practices and guidance for e-bike use in their parks. Visitors should check the website of the park they plan to visit for details about where e-bikes are permitted and any other considerations specific to that park.

E-bikes make bicycle travel easier and more efficient, because they allow bicyclists to travel farther with less effort. When used as an alternative to gasoline- or diesel-powered modes of transportation, e-bikes can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and fossil fuel consumption, improve air quality, and support active modes of transportation for park staff and visitors. Similar to traditional bicycles, e-bikes can decrease traffic congestion, reduce the demand for vehicle parking spaces, and increase the number and visibility of cyclists on the road. 

A copy of the National Park Service’s new e-bike policy is available online.

Safety information and Frequently Asked Questions are on the Electric Bicycles (e-bikes) in National Parks website. 

www.nps.gov

About the National Park Service. More than 20,000 National Park Service employees care for America’s 419 national parks and work with communities across the nation to help preserve local history and create close-to-home recreational opportunities. Learn more at www.nps.gov, and on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.