Electric bikes are increasingly finding their place in the daily lives of many city dwellers. Gentle, economical, and ecological mobility is appealing to more and more people. Electric-assist bikes often save time and help their users stay in shape.
What is the maximum speed of an electric bike? This is what we will focus on in this article. It is important to understand how an electric bike works and more precisely the maximum speed it can reach. European regulations are very clear on the subject, so it's essential to know what the limits are!
What does European legislation say about the maximum speed of electric-assist bikes?
Electric bikes, or electric-assist bikes (EABs), fall into the general category of bicycles. Therefore, for electric bike maximum speed, Directive 2002/24/CE of the European Parliament stipulates several rules, namely:
- The cyclist must pedal for the electric assistance to activate.
- The electric motor cannot exceed a power of 250 Watts.
- Electric assistance stops when the speed reaches 25 km/hour, with a tolerance of 10% (i.e., 27.5 km/h).
What is the maximum speed of an electric bike? According to European regulations, the speed of an electric bike is limited to 25 km/h.
This regulation applies to countries that are members of the European Union. In the United States, for example, electric bikes can travel at a maximum speed of 32 km/h (20 miles/h); in Switzerland, the regulation is different.
So it must be understood that even if the maximum speed of an electric bike is regulated, an electric bike can theoretically go beyond 25 km/hour. It's the electric assistance that cuts off when this speed threshold is reached. Beyond that, you have to rely on your leg strength and pedal harder.
Is 25 km/hour on an electric bike sufficient?
A majority of people travel less than 10 km daily to get to work. In the city, and considering traffic, especially during peak hours, car speeds do not exceed 30 km/hour. In fact, traffic at 30 km/hour is already common in large cities like Paris, Lille, Toulouse, Lyon.
However, for those who travel longer distances every day, a fast EAB might be more appropriate.
Theoretical travel times for a constant speed of 25 km/h:
| Distance to cover | Travel time at 25km/h |
|---|---|
| 5 km | 12 min |
| 10 km | 24 min |
| 20 km | 48 min |
| 30 km | 1h 12 min |
What are the risks for a cyclist in case of excessive speed?
Although rare, electric bike speeding is subject to city speed limits of 30 or 50 km/h. A cyclist, like a motorist, must respect the imposed limits.
If they don't, they face a fine of €35, or even €135 if the speed is inappropriate given the circumstances, for example, excessive speed at pedestrian crossings or on bends.
Derestricting your bike to go faster: a very bad idea!
Yes, EAB motors are necessarily restricted so that electric assistance stops once the 25 km/h limit is reached.
And yes, a bike motor can propel the machine well beyond this limit, up to 45 km/h. This is why some people bypass the restrictions and prefer to derestrict their bike to go faster. However, derestricting only has negative consequences, so it's not a good idea at all!
It's illegal, that's the first fact. Then, in case of a check, you face a fine of up to 30,000 euros, your bike will be confiscated, you will no longer be insured, and you even risk up to a year in prison.
So, you've been warned!
More than 25 km/h: A quick word on Speed Bikes
The speed bike is the model that can go beyond 25 km/h; it can reach 45 km/h, but it is no longer considered a bicycle but a moped, just like a moped or a scooter. What does the regulation say about speed bikes:
- The speed bike can activate its electric assistance up to 45 km/h.
- This type of bicycle cannot use cycle paths. It must ride on the road, with cars and public transport.
- The cyclist must register their fast EAB.
- The fast electric bike must be insured.
- The cyclist must be at least 14 years old and hold an AM license (Apprentice motorcyclist). A and B licenses are sufficient for older cyclists.
- The user must wear a helmet and gloves approved for moped riding.
Conclusion
If you mainly ride in urban areas, the speed limit of 25 km/h is largely sufficient. Furthermore, by opting for this type of electric bike, you save on insurance costs and avoid the prohibition of using cycle paths. This speed of 25 km/h is already sufficient for urban environments. For more ecological and economical commuting, and to stay active every day, the electric bike is a great alternative.
Also take the time to discover the cargo bike offered by BatooBike for family trips, another great alternative!
If you believe that a speed bike is more suitable for your needs, be aware that this type of vehicle is more expensive and more restrictive. Be careful with either of these bikes and remember to wear a helmet, even at 25 km/hour.
FAQs
What is the fastest electric bike?
In the EAB category, speed bikes are undoubtedly the fastest and most powerful. They assist the cyclist up to 45 km/h using a more powerful motor, generally 500 W, but under French legislation, they are then considered light mopeds.
What is the maximum authorized speed for an electric bike?
In France, it's 25 km/h, which corresponds to a maximum motor power of 250 watts and electric assistance up to a maximum speed of 25 km/h. This electric-assist bike falls into the bicycle category. You do not need to register it for use.
What is the speed of a 48V 500w electric bike?
The power and voltage of an electric bike's motor greatly determine its top speed. For example, a 48V motor combined with different power outputs can achieve variable speeds. A 500W motor can reach approximately 32 km/h, while a more powerful 1,500W motor can approach 48 km/h.
What is the maximum speed limit for a bicycle?
The maximum motor power is 250 watts and electric assistance is up to a maximum speed of 25 km/h. On another note, the maximum speed reached by a cyclist, Denise Mueller-Korenek, shielded behind a vehicle, is 296 km/h. No one has gone faster yet!
