Electric bikes (e-bikes) vary widely in their top speeds depending on their motor power, classification, and local regulations.
Typical Speed Ranges by Class and Law
- Class 1 e-bikes provide pedal assist up to 20 mph (32 km/h). The motor cuts off assistance beyond this speed, but the rider can pedal faster on their own
- Class 2 e-bikes also assist up to 20 mph but include a throttle feature that can provide 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, and assistance stops at that speed
Motor Power and Potential Top Speeds
- In the UK, legal e-bikes are limited to 250 watts motor power and 15.5 mph (25 km/h) assistance speed
- High-powered e-bikes with more powerful motors can reach much higher speeds on flat terrain without pedaling:
- 1000W motor: up to 45 mph (72 km/h)
- 3000W motor: up to 48 mph (77 km/h)
- 5000W motor: up to 60 mph (97 km/h)
- 8000W motor: up to 68 mph (109 km/h)
- 10000W motor: up to 85 mph (137 km/h)
- Some specialized e-bikes, like the Hi Power Cycles Revolution X9, can reach speeds over 64 mph (104 km/h) but are heavy, expensive, and not typical for everyday use
Summary
- Legally, most e-bikes assist riders up to 15.5 mph (UK), 20 mph (US Class 1 and 2), or 28 mph (US Class 3).
- Beyond these limits, the motor stops assisting, but riders can pedal faster if able.
- High-performance e-bikes with powerful motors can exceed these speeds significantly but may not be street-legal or require special licensing
In general, typical consumer e-bikes go between 15.5 mph and 28 mph with motor assistance, while specialized models can go much faster.
