What is a 25 km/h e-bike in Switzerland?
In Switzerland, the "classic" electric bike, known as a 25 km/h e-bike, is a bike whose assistance cuts off at 25 km/h and whose motor power does not exceed 500 W. It remains in the category of "slow" electric bikes according to the BPA and the TCS, with a status close to that of a non-motorized bicycle.
Specifically, a 25-kilometer e-bike:
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does not need registration or a license plate;
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does not require a license from the age of 16 (between 14 and 16 years old, an M license is required);
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does not legally mandate the wearing of helmets, although it is strongly recommended.
When in use, a 25 km/h e-bike is permitted on cycle paths, cycle lanes and roads open to cyclists. It is ridden like a “normal” bicycle, with the same priorities and basic rules.
This is the typical choice for commuting, leisurely rides, cycling to work in the city or hiking, especially if you want to keep things simple, without administrative procedures.
What is a 45 km/h speed bike (speed pedelec)?
The 45 km/h speed bike, also called a speed pedelec or S-pedelec, is a fast electric bicycle. The assistance system operates up to 45 km/h and the motor power can reach up to 1000 W. It then falls into the category of fast electric bicycles , similar to electric mopeds.
Unlike a 25cc e-bike, a speed bike must:
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be registered with a yellow license plate and an insurance sticker;
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to be driven with a category M licence at a minimum , regardless of age;
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comply with the helmet requirement (EN 1078 bicycle helmet or speed-pedelec / motorcycle helmet);
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be equipped with a speedometer , a rearview mirror and lights on.
In summary, the speed bike is much closer to a lightweight scooter than a simple bicycle. It is designed for fast commuting on suitable routes, with a higher level of responsibility and equipment.
The main differences between a 25 km/h e-bike and a 45 km/h speed bike
Although visually the two look similar, they do not offer the same experience or the same legal framework at all.
Technically speaking, a 25 km/h e-bike limits assistance to 25 km/h. Beyond that speed, you rely solely on leg power. The motor is limited to 500 W, which is more than enough for most daily commutes, even those with some inclines.
A 45 km/h speed bike, on the other hand, continues to assist you up to 45 km/h, with a more powerful motor. At the same speed, you arrive faster and maintain a high average speed on flat sections, especially beyond 10–15 km.
From a legal and administrative standpoint, the difference is even more pronounced:
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The VAE 25 has no license plate, no sticker, and no driving licence requirement from age 16;
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The speed bike must be registered, insured and driven with at least an M license , even for an adult;
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Helmets are recommended for everyone, but only really mandatory for fast bikes.
From a safety perspective, the energy involved in a fall at 45 km/h is very different from a fall at 25 km/h. This justifies the requirement for a helmet, speedometer, rearview mirror, and, in practice, more protective gloves and clothing on a speed bike.
What license is required for a speed pedelec, and from what age?
Switzerland sets a minimum age of 14 for all electric bikes, whether they are 25 or 45 km/h.
Between the ages of 14 and 16, a category M license is required for a 25 km/h e-bike. From age 16 onwards, it is no longer required for 25 km/h bikes.
However, for a speed pedelec (45 km/h), a license remains mandatory at any age. The minimum is category M , but a higher category license (A1, B, etc.) also allows you to ride a speed pedelec.
In the event of a car licence withdrawal, the right to drive a speed bike also falls, while a 25 km/h e-bike remains usable (always subject to other traffic rules, of course).
Can a 25 km/h e-bike be transformed into a 45 km/h speed bike?
A common question is: “Can I derestrict my e-bike so that it goes 40–45 km/h like a speed bike?”
In practice, the answer is no if you want to remain within the law . Unlocking a 25 km/h e-bike is tantamount to transforming it into an unregistered moped. It no longer complies with the speed limit, power requirements, or the homologation conditions stipulated for e-bikes.
Consequences :
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the bicycle loses its e-bike certification ;
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The manufacturer's warranty is voided;
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In the event of an accident, the insurance company may refuse to cover the damages, since the vehicle no longer corresponds to what was declared;
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You risk penalties if you are stopped (fine, impoundment).
If you really need a bike that legally goes 45 km/h, it's better to buy a certified speed bike directly, registered and insured as such, rather than modifying a 25 e-bike.
What type of bicycle should you choose for your journeys?
If your daily commute is between 5 and 15 km, with a mix of city and suburban driving, a good 25 km/h e-bike is often more than enough. You get a simple frame, no license plate or permit to worry about from age 16, and the ride is similar to a regular bicycle.
A comfortable trekking e-bike like the NCM Milano Plus allows you, for example, to commute, shop and go on weekend outings, while respecting the 25 km/h speed limit and the power allowed in Switzerland.
For sportier journeys or more technical paths, a 25 km/h electric mountain bike like the NCM Moscow Plus offers a more dynamic position and better off-road capability, while remaining in the “slow” e-bike category.
If you often combine train + bike or are short on space, an electric folding bike like the NCM Paris remains in the 25 km/h category, while being easy to store at home or in the office.
A speed bike at 45 km/h becomes interesting if:
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you make long commutes (15–30 km);
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you often drive on wide open roads;
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You are comfortable with the idea of wearing a more protective helmet, managing a license plate, dedicated insurance and an M license.
In any case, it is useful to reread official sources such as the BPA/BFU guide “Electric bike: what does the law say?” or the TCS dossier “Electric bike: the regulations” to check the current rules.
FAQ – VAE 25 km/h vs speed bike 45 km/h
What is a speed pedelec compared to a normal e-bike?
A standard e-bike provides assistance up to 25 km/h with a motor limited to 500W, and requires no license plate or permit from age 16. A speed pedelec provides assistance up to 45 km/h, with a more powerful motor, a yellow license plate, an insurance sticker, and a mandatory M license.
How does a speed bike differ technically from a 25 km/h e-bike?
The speed bike has more powerful assistance, which continues up to 45 km/h. It must be equipped with a speedometer, a rearview mirror, permanent lights, and a helmet is mandatory for the rider. The 25 km/h e-bike, on the other hand, is simpler: assistance cuts off at 25 km/h, equipment similar to a regular bicycle, helmet only recommended.
What license is required to drive a speed pedelec?
A minimum of an M license (moped) is required. A more comprehensive license such as A1 or B also allows you to ride a speed bike. For e-bikes with a top speed of 25 km/h, an M license is only required between the ages of 14 and 16; from age 16 onwards, no license is required.
Is it legal to convert a 25 km/h e-bike to 45 km/h?
No. Unlocking a 25 km/h e-bike puts it in the category of unregistered mopeds, voiding the warranty, risking insurance refusal, and potentially leading to penalties if stopped by the police. If you want to ride at 45 km/h with assistance, you need a registered, road-legal, and insured speed bike.
