Coaster brake on e-bikes: Useful or outdated?

Anyone who buys an e-bike will at some point face the question: with or without a coaster brake? While older generations of bicycles were almost exclusively equipped with coaster brakes, many modern e-bikes today rely on rim or disc brakes. But which is really better? And for whom is a coaster brake still a sensible option?

Von Isatou Schulz | 2 minutes read time

About the author Isatou Schulz

Growing up in the bicycle city of Münster (Germany), Isatou developed a deep passion for bicycles from an early age, which has been an integral part of her life ever since. This enthusiasm accompanies her every day and is now reflected in her job. Her extensive expertise in the field of bicycles and e-bikes makes her the ideal contact for anyone who values quality and innovation. Isatou combines her personal passion with professional know-how and is committed to making the world of cycling more accessible and exciting for others.

Published: December 6, 2025

In this article, we take a current look at the topic – and thus follow up on our article from 2021: E-bike with or without coaster brake?

What is a coaster brake and how does it work?

The coaster brake is a type of hub brake and is activated by pedaling backward. Unlike handbrakes on the handlebars, deceleration is initiated by leg movement – a technique many people are familiar with from childhood and can use intuitively.

The advantages of the coaster brake

The coaster brake continues to have its strengths, especially in everyday urban life:

Easy to use: No need to change your grip, no need to think – just step back.
Low maintenance: Because it is housed in a closed hub shell, it is hardly susceptible to dirt or weather.
Safe for beginners: Those who have little experience with handbrakes often feel more comfortable with the backpedal brake.
Hands free when braking: Especially practical for people who often have to give hand signals while driving – for example in city traffic.

The disadvantages: Why many manufacturers are switching

Despite its simplicity, the coaster brake also has clear weaknesses:

No braking if the pedal is incorrectly positioned: If the pedal is at the top or bottom, backpedaling is difficult or even impossible.
No combination with derailleur gears: Backpedaling only works with hub gears, which limits the choice of models.
Less braking power on steep descents: Especially on heavier e-bikes, a coaster brake alone can reach its limits.
Not finely adjustable: Lacks precision for sporty or technical driving.

For these reasons, many manufacturers—including MYVELO with its current e-bikes —consistently rely on modern disc brakes . They offer reliable braking performance in all weather conditions and can be finely tuned.

For whom is the coaster brake still worthwhile?

Nevertheless, the coaster brake still has its place . Especially for the following target groups:

Seniors who feel comfortable with technology and value simplicity
Novice drivers who prefer an intuitive braking solution
City drivers who travel short distances with many stops
People with limited hand strength , e.g. due to arthrosis or after injuries

In combination with an additional handbrake, the backpedal brake can even provide additional safety.

Conclusion: Coaster brake – useful or outdated?

The coaster brake isn't a relic of the past, but it's not suitable for every purpose either. For relaxed city rides where ease of use and maintenance-free operation are paramount, it can certainly be useful. However, those who value flexibility, braking power, and a sporty ride will find modern disc brakes—like those used on MYVELO—a much better option.

💡 Tip: If you are unsure, you should pay attention to the braking feel during the test drive – because comfort and control start with the brakes.