The pedals were functional, but on mine some screws fell out (vibration I guess) and rather than repair budget pedals I just replaced them (with larger ones). Loctite would be your friend - if you were to apply it before they drop out! Yes, it can be ridden as a normal bike (with the caveat that it is heavier than any normal bike, but the gearing is good). The boost is available in stages from modest assist for hills to 100% electronic drive. As for carrying it, again it's the weight that is the issue and I would certainly not like to carry it far. That battery is heavy too and adds to the overall weight, but it folds easily with just one quick-release catch being all that's required. It does fit in the back of my car when folded without havng to remove wheels etc. The new seat was a must-have as far as I was concerned, after the first trial ride with the original I was walking like John Wayne...