Understanding how fast do electric bikes go starts with knowing their restrictions and categories in the US. The speed varies by class, with Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes typically limited to 20 mph (32 km/h), making them ideal for leisurely rides or urban commuting. On the other hand, Class 3 e-bikes can reach speeds of 28 mph (45 km/h), offering a boost for those seeking quicker travel. While e-bikes are capable of going as fast as you can pedal, their system of motorized assistance plays a crucial role, especially on inclines or when you need to coast downhill.
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Pedal assist motor
The pedal assist system on e-bikes makes riding smoother and more enjoyable, but the actual speed often depends on the bike’s classification. For example, Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes provide motorized assistance up to 20 mph, while Class 3 e-bikes extend this to 28 mph, giving riders a noticeable boost.
However, even the fastest electric bikes on the market have limitations due to the current classification system. Personally, I’ve noticed that on a steep decline, the extra mass of e-bikes compared to non-electric bikes allows you to exceed these class-defined speeds through inertia alone, even without motor assistance. While this is thrilling, the pedal assistance stops above the designated speed, leaving the rest to your pedaling effort.
How fast do electric bikes go
In the U.S., e-bikes are categorized into three main classes, with most manufacturers and local states having adopted this system. The classes are designed to define these bikes as low-speed bicycles equipped with fully operational pedals and an electric motor that produces less than 750 watts (approximately 1 horsepower). This classification ensures that entities and riders alike can understand the performance limits and legal framework for e-bikes.
Class 1: These e-bikes provide assist when you pedal, supporting speeds up to 20 mph. Once you reach this limit, the motor will automatically cut off, and any higher speeds depend entirely on your pedaling effort.
Class 2: Similar to Class 1, these e-bikes also provide assistance up to 20 mph, but they include a throttle to engage the motor, giving a boost even if you are not actively pedaling. The motor stops helping at the same speed limit of 20 mph.
Class 3: Much like a Class 1 e-bike, the motor kicks in only when you are actively pedaling, but it continues to assist at faster speeds, stopping at 28 mph.
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Discover the motor systems and speeds
Class 1: Bosch Active Line (20mph)
The Active Line motor is a perfect entry-level introduction to e-bikes, designed for suburban riding, light city commutes, and gentle terrain. Offering pedal assistance up to 20 mph, it delivers 40 Nm of torque, ensuring smooth acceleration. The motor weighs just 6.3 lbs, making it exceptionally lightweight, with a reduced size that improves maneuverability. Its quiet and efficient operation ensures a seamless riding experience, whether you’re commuting or enjoying a leisurely ride.
Class 1: Bosch Active Line Plus (20mph)
The Active Line Plus motor is an excellent companion for smooth city commutes, relaxed suburban riding, or even light touring. Its small, powerful drive unit provides gentle acceleration up to 20 mph, delivering 50 Nm of torque for reliable performance. Weighing just 7.1 lbs, its lightweight and reduced size offer improved handling in various riding situations, making it both practical and quiet for everyday use.
Class 1: Bosch Performance Line (20mph)
The Bosch Drive Unit Performance Cruise is a versatile drive system perfect for sporty rides through the countryside, daily commuting to work, or cruising on a leisurely outing. It provides support up to 20 mph, ensuring a natural riding sensation with its quiet and lightweight design. With an impressive 65 Nm of torque, this system excels in mountainous terrain, making every ride feel effortless and enjoyable.
Class 3: Bosch Performance Line Speed (28mph)
The Bosch Performance Line Speed motor is designed to supercharge your daily routines, whether you’re commuting to work or exploring the countryside on a scenic tour. This versatile drive system provides pedal assistance up to 28 mph with an impressive 85 Nm of torque, enabling you to reach high speeds quickly. It offers powerful support, making steep climbs and long distances feel effortless, ensuring that no terrain poses a challenge.
Class 1: Shimano Steps E6100 (20mph)
The Shimano Steps E6100 is a premium e-bike system that provides an enhanced riding experience by combining advanced technologies with a versatile design. Weighing just 6.4lbs, the motor offers smooth and intelligent pedaling support, ensuring an effortless ride. Its narrow pedal-to-frame width creates a natural riding feel and improves comfort, making it ideal for both beginners and seasoned riders. Inspired by the eMTB system, an industry benchmark, this motor reflects Shimano’s commitment to excellence.
What sets this system apart is its sleek, compact, and integrated design, which blends seamlessly into the bike frame for a polished look. The Shimano E6000 adds durability to the mix, performing reliably in all weather conditions.
So, how does the electrical assistance work?
Electric bikes offer two main types of electrical assistance: pedal assistance and throttle assistance. With pedal assistance, the motor provides extra power as you pedal, creating a smooth and efficient experience. In contrast, throttle assistance, similar to operating a motorbike, lets the motor drive the bike without pedaling. Most modern e-bikes, including ours, rely on pedal assistance, combining the rider’s effort with motorized support for a natural and seamless riding experience.
Which level should you choose?
Pedal-assisted E-bikes offer multiple levels of support from the motor, allowing riders to customize their experience based on terrain and effort. The lowest assistance setting relies mainly on your legs for power, making it perfect for easy, flat terrains, or when you’re looking for a workout during your ride. On the other hand, higher assistance settings deliver more help from the motor, allowing you to reach your destination faster and with less effort. For example, when tackling a large hill or avoiding sweat, opting for a higher setting ensures an easier ride.
However, keep in mind that using higher assistance levels will cause the battery to run down more quickly, especially on tough terrain or with additional weight. The juice needed by the motor depends heavily on these factors. Even if the battery drains completely, you can still pedal the rest of the way until your next charge, ensuring you’re never stuck without a way to continue your journey.
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Your ideal E-bike’s speed depends on you and your needs!
Choosing the right E-bike depends on your needs and priorities, whether you’re commuting, exploring the city, or tackling hills. If your goal is efficient commuting, the Transend E+ is an excellent option. Its SyncDrive Life motor and integrated EnergyPak 500 battery deliver seamless power up to 28 mph, while its 105-mile range (170 km) ensures you’ll reach your destination with ease. Need a quick recharge? In just 2 hours of charging, you’ll be ready to ride another 87 miles (140 km), making it perfect for busy schedules or after-work plans.
If comfort is more important than speed, the Vida E+ is designed for you. Its upright position and comfy seat let you relax and enjoy time outdoors with friends or family. With six levels of pedal assistance, you can stay sweat-free while cruising or conquer hills faster without effort.
For those needing utility, the Pakyak E+, an electric cargo bike, is the ultimate solution. Equipped with a SyncDrive Pro motor, a 500 Wh battery, and sturdy mounts to carry up to 355 lbs (161 kg), it’s perfect for carrying groceries, taking kids to school, or running errands. As a Class 3 bike, it provides assistance up to 28 mph, and with an optional second battery, you can even double your range for longer trips, making it both practical and reliable.
Race Track Mode: The Fastest Electric Bike Setting
When operating your e-bike on private property or a closed circuit race track, activating Race Track Mode unleashes its full potential. Using the LCD display, you can select this assist mode, which is similar to Class 3 operation but without the 28 mph speed limit. The system boosts power levels to their highest levels, enabling the bike to achieve its top speeds. Factors like rider strength, tire pressure, wind, and ambient temperature can influence the maximum speed, but the final top speed depends on the combined power of the motor and the rider’s pedaling efforts.
In Race Track Mode, the electronics handle an increased load, causing a rise in system temperatures. To maintain reliability, onboard sensors automatically reduce power if needed. This mode is perfect for testing your model’s capabilities on safe terrain. It’s an exciting option for riders who want to experience a faster ride and push their e-bike’s performance to the limit.
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