Electric bikes, or e-bikes, have revolutionized how we think about cycling—providing a blend of exercise and effortless travel. Many cyclists wonder exactly how fast these motorized bicycles can go.
The answer depends on several factors, including bike class, motor power, and rider effort. 1
With over 10 years in the biking industry, I’ve tested numerous electric bicycles and explored various terrains. This experience equips me to provide accurate insights into e-bike speeds based on their classifications and key contributing factors.
Stick around for detailed information on how different types of electric bikes perform! 2 3
Key Takeaways
Electric Bike Speed Classes: Electric bikes come in three classes. Class 1 bikes reach up to 20 mph with pedal assist. Class 2 bikes also cap at 20 mph but include a throttle for ease of use. Class 3 bikes provide speeds up to 28 mph with pedal assist.
Motor Power and Type Influence on Speed: The power of the motor, measured in watts, significantly affects speed and acceleration. Higher wattage motors, like those found in Qiolor Tiger electric bicycles, offer faster speeds but consume more battery life. Hub motors maintain steady speed, while mid-drive motors excel at hill climbing due to better balance.
Rider Weight and Skill Impact Speeds: Heavier riders or loads reduce an e-bike’s acceleration and climbing ability, as more energy is needed for movement. Skilled riders who know how to manage pedal-assist settings can conserve battery life and achieve quicker travel times across varied terrains.
Table of Contents
Exploring Electric Bike Speed Classes
Electric bikes come in different speed classes. These classes help you know what to expect from a commuter electric bike…
Class 1: Pedal Assist with a Limit of 20 mph
Class 1 electric bikes help you pedal up to 20 mph. 1 The motor turns off once the speed limit is reached, ensuring safe rides on bike paths and trails. These e-bikes provide pedal assistance with a maximum wattage of 750W. 1 A helmet must be worn for safety, and riders should follow traffic rules.
These e-bikes are designed for urban commuters seeking efficient transportation in city environments. They offer reliable performance without needing a driver’s license or registration like motorcycles or mopeds. 2
Safety first – always wear your helmet while riding.
Class 2: Throttle-Operated Speeds up to 20 mph
Class 2 electric bikes reach speeds of up to 20 miles per hour and feature a throttle for added convenience. 1 These bikes offer both throttle and pedal assistance, which means riders can enjoy riding with little to no pedaling effort. 3 With the push of a throttle, you can go as fast as Class 1 pedal-assist e-bikes, but without constant pedaling.
Riders find class 2 ebikes perfect for urban commutes or casual rides on bike lanes. Legal speed limits may vary by location, so knowing local rules is key. They often weigh more due to their motor and battery components but provide reliable transportation options like the Qiolor Tiger electric bicycle or Husqvarna models.
Class 3: Pedal Assist Performance up to 28 mph
Class 3 electric bikes provide thrilling speeds up to 28 mph with pedal assist. 3 The motor propels you forward, but you must be actively pedaling. Once you hit 28 mph, the motor cuts off to keep things safe.
These bikes are great for trail riding and sustainable transportation. They offer a feel of freedom unlike any other. 4 Choosing between Class 1, 2, or 3 can be confusing… A Class 3 e-bike ensures pure exhilaration and speed on your rides.
Key Factors That Affect Electric Bike Speed
Key Factors That Affect Electric Bike Speed
Motor power and type greatly influence how fast an electric bike can go… A strong rider with good skills can make the Qiolor electric bicycle run even faster, depending on their weight and fitness level.
Impact of Motor Power and Type on Speed
E-bikes thrive on different motor powers. A 750W motor, like on the Qiolor Tiger electric bicycle, provides strong acceleration. That’s why it can handle off-road conditions well.
This shows that higher wattage means more power and quicker speeds. 5 However, using more power drains the battery faster.
Motors also come in various types—hub motors and mid-drive motors are common choices. Hub motors sit in the wheels; they offer steady speed but less torque for climbing hills. Mid-drive motors position near the pedal area—they provide better balance and superior hill-climbing ability due to their central location.
Each type influences how fast your e-bike goes and how efficiently it uses its energy. 6
How Rider Weight and Skill Influence Speed
Motor power impacts speed, but so does the rider’s weight. A heavier rider or a load limits acceleration and climbing ability. An electric-bike will need more energy to move if it carries a heavier person or cargo. 8 For better performance, it’s best to keep the total weight low.
Rider skill matters too. Skilled riders handle tricky terrain better and pedal efficiently, which boosts speed. Knowing when to use pedal assist helps conserve battery life—essential for longer rides on single-speed e-bikes. 7 Rider experience ensures smoother motion over different surfaces, leading to quicker travel times overall.
People Also Ask
How fast can an electric bike go?
An electric bike, or e-bike, can reach speeds up to 28 mph for speed pedelecs. Regular e-bikes often top out at 20 mph.
Does rider weight affect the speed of an e-bike?
Yes, a heavier rider will slow down the bike due to increased rolling resistance and wind resistance.
Are there different classes of electric bikes with varying speeds?
Yes! Class 1 e-bikes assist up to 20 mph, Class 2 also assists up to 20 mph but has a throttle mode, and Class 3 assists up to 28 mph.
Can you get a speeding ticket on an electric bike?
Yes, if you exceed local speed limits or ride in areas where high-speed riding is restricted.
What factors influence the reliability of an e-bike’s speed?
Factors include motor power (measured in watts), battery charge level from its charger, aerodynamics of the bike design, and overall maintenance.
References
- ^ https://getwhizz.com/blog/all-about-e-bikes/how-fast-is-an-electric-bike/ (2022-05-27)
- ^ https://pedegoelectricbikes.com/blog/ebike-classes/ (2023-06-16)
- ^ https://www.aventon.com/blogs/aventon_bikes/difference-between-a-class-123-ebike
- ^ https://leoguarbikes.com/blogs/news/three-classes-electric-bikes (2024-04-25)
- ^ https://faymyers.com/how-fast-can-electric-bike-go/
- ^ https://fucarebike.com/blogs/news/how-fast-does-an-electric-bike-go
- ^ https://assets.bouldercounty.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/e-bike-literature-review.pdf
- ^ https://www.hovsco.com/blogs/blogs/how-fast-do-electric-bikes-go-exploring-the-speed-limits-and-factors-influencing-electric-bike-speed (2023-06-27)
