Electric bikes (e-bikes) typically have speed limits based on their class and local regulations:
- Class 1 e-bikes provide pedal-assist only up to 20 mph (32 km/h). The motor stops assisting beyond this speed, but you can pedal faster if you wish
- Class 2 e-bikes also assist up to 20 mph but include a throttle for motor power without pedaling, cutting off at 20 mph as well
- Class 3 e-bikes offer pedal-assist up to 28 mph (45 km/h), with no throttle. Assistance stops above 28 mph, but you can pedal faster manually
Some high-performance or modified e-bikes can exceed these speeds significantly, with motor powers ranging from 1000 watts to 10,000 watts reaching speeds from 35 mph up to 85 mph, though these are not street-legal in many areas and fall outside typical classifications
. In general, e-bikes allow riders to sustain speeds of 20-28 mph with less effort compared to conventional bikes, which average around 12-15 mph on flat terrain
Summary:
- Legal assisted speeds: 15.5 mph (UK limit), 20 mph (Class 1 & 2 US), 28 mph (Class 3 US)
- Higher speeds possible with more powerful motors or downhill coasting
- Typical top assisted speed range: 20-28 mph
- Pedaling can push speeds beyond motor assistance limits
This makes e-bikes faster and less physically demanding than traditional bicycles, especially useful for commuting and hilly terrain
