The maximum speed of an e-bike is not determined by manufacturers, but by legislation
Three, two, one, start. Among passionate cyclists, there is probably no one who did not race at speed on a bicycle at least as a child. Mostly downhill, so that you don't have to put so much energy into the pedals from the start. However, it will still be needed on the finish line. You can ride slowly or very fast on a classic bike. It all depends on the power you put into the pedals. You have full control over your speed. Today, however, electric bikes are in fashion.
The legislation is clear
But what about e-bikes, which help cyclists and use the motor instead of the human to do most of the work? E-bikes are programmed for a specific maximum speed. This is indicated by valid European legislation. In Europe, an e-bike can travel at a maximum speed of 25 km/h and its maximum power can be 250 watts. In the US, the rules are a bit more benevolent. Of course we are talking about the speed you can develop by the engine.
The e-bike can exceed the maximum permitted speed if you help it. However, the engine will stop supporting you at such a moment. Bottom line, you can reach higher speeds if you're physically up to it. So you can push your limits even on an electric bike. It should be said that you can also activate the electric motor with a button, but only up to a speed of 6 km/h. We are talking about the so-called walking assistant. This helps with handling when you are leading the bike or when starting off. It cannot be used any other time.
E-bike through the eyes of the law
A vehicle that has an engine and is driven on public roads must meet certain conditions. Electric bikes are an exception specified by the directive of the European Parliament. It says that the law treats electric bicycles with a power of up to 250 watts as a regular bicycle. As a result, a driver's license is not required for an electric bicycle, and a helmet is only required for up to 18 years of age.
However, it must be remembered that falling from a bicycle at a speed of 25 km/h is equivalent to falling from 2.5 meters.
And without a helmet, it probably not only hurts a lot, but also endangers health. If you think you're driving carefully and nothing can happen to you, realize that you may not be the only one to blame. Technical problem. Car crash with someone driving next to you. A dog that runs right under your wheels. Any fall from the bike can be fatal without a helmet. In addition, insurance companies are considering reducing the insurance payout if a cyclist without a helmet is injured.
Of course, the decree also states that the electric motor may only assist the athlete in his performance. The cyclist thus activates it by pedaling and the motor then helps him, but always only up to a speed of 25 km/h. Then it has to give up its activity. Likewise, the motor must stop working when the cyclist brakes or stops pedaling. In short, a fair division of effort. And of course also safety restrictions that think about your health.
The tuning of e-bikes is illegal
Rules are meant to be broken. This sentence is probably followed by many cyclists who want to enjoy rides with a motorized unit instead of sports. The popularity of e-bikes has also brought with it very frequent violations of the rules. At the same time, electric bikes, which have higher limits, are already classified by law as small scooters. Therefore, their driver must have a driver's license, the vehicle must have a registration plate and also insurance.
However, cyclists often rely on the police not to check them, let alone measure their speed. For that reason, they modify their e-bikes in different ways. Unfortunately, not only the "athletes" themselves are behind the illegal behavior, but also the sellers. Some also offer electric bikes with a power of up to 1000 watts. Such bikes do not have speed limiters and sometimes even allow riding without pedaling. That definitely does not belong on the road or bike path.
These are illegal electric bikes, and in the event of an accident on such a means of transport, there is a risk of criminal prosecution. However, high speeds are not mentioned primarily because of fines and non-compliance with the law, but mainly because serious traffic accidents can happen on faster bikes. And cyclists endanger not only their own health, but also the health of everyone around them. And health should always come first.
And how to recognize a legal bike? On the frame you will find information about the manufacturer, the CE symbol and the characters 250W, 25 km/h, EPAC or PEDELEC.
Of course, our e-bikes fully comply with the law, take a look to see if you can find yours there.
