E-bikes are becoming increasingly popular and serve as practical everyday helpers for many people. They can even be used to cover longer distances for the daily commute to work and to run small errands in the city at the weekend. In this way, you can make an important contribution to the mobility revolution, whilst staying fit at the same time. But how fast do e-bikes actually go?
There are some significant factors, guidelines, and restrictions on the subject of e-bike speed in order to enable all road users to ride safely. In this article, we’ll explain everything you need to know.
A Brief Overview of E-Bike Classifications
The term e-bike is often used as a collective term for several different types of electric bikes, which can differ greatly from each other in terms of speed and type of motor. How fast an e-bike will ultimately go depends largely on the type of motor.
There are usually the following three distinctions:
- Pedelec: The biggest difference between a pedelec and an e-bike is that the pedelec cannot accelerate independently. It does, however, provide practical pedalling assistance up to a speed of 25 km/h (15.5 m/h). Legally, it is treated like a conventional bicycle in almost all European countries.
- S-Pedelec: In principle, it works just like a pedelec. The only difference is that an S-pedelec can reach a maximum speed of 45 km/h (28 m/h). From a legal perspective, this means that it is no longer considered a regular bicycle, but a moped, so you require a driving licence, due to the maximum speed of this bike.
- Moped: With this variant, the motor can accelerate on its own. It is therefore an e-bike without pedalling, which is legally classed as a moped, and riders also need an appropriate driving licence to ride this e-bike at a speed limit of up to 45 km/h (28 m/h).
Please also note any associated restrictions that apply to S-pedelecs and e-bikes in particular at speeds between 25 and 45 km/h (15.5 – 28 m/h). A driving licence and registration is required, and riding on cycle paths at higher speeds on these fast e-bikes is generally not permitted.
The legal maximum speed for the respective bikes
We have prepared a practical table for you so that you can see at a glance how fast e-bikes go and what the speed limit is for the respective electric bikes.
| Pedelec | S-Pedelec | Moped | |
| Motor | Only while pedalling | Only while pedalling | Without pedalling |
| Speed | max. 25 km/h (15.5 m/h) | max. 45 km/h (28 m/h) | max. 45 km/h (28 m/h) |
| Legal classification | Bicycle | Moped | Moped |
Naturally, this doesn’t mean that you can’t go any faster than 25 km/h (15.5 m/h) on a pedelec. The motor only provides pedalling assistance up to 25 km/h (15.5 m/h), but if you are very fit, higher speeds are possible. It is particularly relevant that a pedelec, like all Ampler models, offers no noticeable resistance when the motor is switched off.
These Factors Determine the Speed of Your E-Bike
How fast e-bikes go depends on a few more factors. A lightweight and ergonomic frame makes pedalling easier on a pedelec, and a good build quality as well as regular maintenance help to minimise frictional resistance. This enables the rider to accelerate quickly even in difficult terrain and to reach a high average speed after a short time.
Other factors can be the levels of motor support when you are pedalling. The number of different gears can also play a role, to cope better with steep ascents. The motor power is limited for all variants and therefore plays a rather subordinate role. A pedelec is legally permitted to have a 250 watt motor, while S-pedelec and moped can have a maximum of 500 watts.
Don’t Even Think About Pimping Your Bike!
Some people are not satisfied with how fast their e-bikes go and resort to so-called pimping. Perhaps you are familiar with this concept, if you own a moped or owned one as a youth. However, deliberately undermining sensible restrictions is not only illegal, but also very dangerous.
In addition, you practically always lose all your rights to a legal warranty and may even be personally liable in the event of damage. We strongly advise against it.
This Is How You Can Legally Speed Up Your E-Bike
Instead, you can make use of the many legal possibilities to positively influence the speed of your e-bike. The most important thing in this regard is regular and proactive maintenance. This can offer you many advantages and even increase the service life of your e-bike or pedelec.
Ensure optimal performance with the following measures:
- Clean the chain regularly and apply oil and rust preventative to reduce friction and protect it from rust for a long time. This makes pedalling easier.
- Ensure optimal tyre pressure, as this can significantly improve the quality of the ride and stability. Riding comfort and speed often go hand in hand.
- Store your e-bike indoors in freezing weather to protect the battery. It will then perform well in the long term.
The Bottom Line
Ultimately, several critical factors influence how fast e-bikes go. Above all, the type of the bike and the type of motor are decisive. The maximum speed for an S-pedelecs or e-bike is up to 45 km/h (28 m/h), and thus they are legally considered mopeds. A pedelec, on the other hand, provides reliable pedal assistance up to 25 km/h (15.5 m/h), but in the legal sense it is treated as a regular bicycle.
All the stylish Ampler e-bikes are pedelecs with pedal assistance of up to 25 km/h (15.5 m/h). This means that you don’t need a driving licence or a licence plate – so you can just get on and ride off into the sunset.
Schedule your test ride now or contact us if you have any questions
