When considering the purchase of an e-bike, the speed and features of a bike are determined by class. E-bikes are divided into three classes: Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3.
At Electrified E-bikes, when a customer asks, “How fast does an electric bike go?” we break it down by class.
Electric Bike Classes – How fast does an electric bike go?
Class 1 E-bikes: Top speed 20 mph.
This class of bikes has pedal assist, meaning the motor adds assistance to your forward movement only when you pedal. Once you reach a speed of 20 mph, the motor shuts off.
Some class 1 e-bikes have a booster, meaning you don’t have to pedal super hard to reach your top speed, but you can’t be completely passive.
Pros: Greatest acceptance by cities, counties, and state parks, efficient motors, and anyone can ride them.
Cons: Only allowed in some places. You must pedal, requiring greater effort, so if you are looking for a bike to do most of the hill work, a class 1 e-bike isn’t for you. They only have a top-assisted speed of 20 mph.
Class 2 E-bikes: Top speed 20 mph.
Class 2 e-bikes have a throttle. With a throttle-assisted motor, you can move forward without pedaling by just using the motor alone. Like the class 1 bikes, the motor shuts off when you reach 20 mph.
It’s important to remember that with a class 2 e-bike, a combination of pedaling and using the motor assist function is best. If you use the motor too much, the battery will drain quickly.
Pros: Widely accepted like Class 1 bikes, less effort to ride, and anyone can ride them.
Cons: Class 2 e-bikes are only allowed in some places. Some national state parks have rules against them because they can damage natural surface trails. It is easy to lose focus, and having a throttle means the battery drains quicker and is less efficient.
Class 3 E-bikes: Top speed 28 mph.
Class 3 e-bikes have pedal assist motors like Class 1 bikes, but their motors are much more powerful. The motor can assist the rider up to 28 mph. Class 3 is the ultimate commuter bike because it can quickly keep up with traffic and move through a city or town.
Pros: Fast, perfect commuter bike, more efficient than other classes, less confusing bike regulations. Class 3 bikes can only be ridden on the roadways or trails a motor vehicle can travel on.
Cons: More speed, more restrictions. No state park trails. Class 3 e-bikes are considered motor vehicles, so they can only be ridden where cars are allowed. The bikes are required to have a speedometer, and they are more expensive and can be more dangerous than class 1 and class 2 e-bikes. Most states require the rider to be 14 or older and wear a helmet.
Finding the perfect e-bike
At Electrified E-bikes, we have what you’re looking for. Want a road bike? We’ve got you covered. If you are looking for an off-road or compact, foldable bike, no problem. Need to carry cargo or zip around the city? We can outfit you with the bike you need.
Our Velotric and Jupiter e-bike lines offer a wide variety of bikes to choose from.
It isn’t always about how fast an electric bike can go. It’s about what suits your needs, lifestyle, and budget. We’re here to answer any questions about our extensive line of electric bikes.
Get the ride you’re looking for. Get Electrified!
