Electric bikes, or e-bikes, have revolutionised cycling, offering a more accessible, efficient, and enjoyable way to ride. However, with various classifications, it can be challenging to determine which type best suits your needs. In this guide, we’ll break down the classes of e-bikes, compare their key features, and help you decide which one is right for your journey.
What Are the Classes of Electric Bikes?
E-bikes are generally divided into three main classes based on their motor assistance capabilities, speed limits, and throttle usage:
- Class 1: Pedal-Assist E-Bikes
- How It Works: A Class 1 e-bike provides motor assistance only when you’re pedaling. There’s no throttle, so the motor activates as you pedal and cuts off once you reach a speed of 15.5 mph (25 km/h).
- Who It’s For: This type is ideal for commuters and recreational riders who want a natural biking experience with an added boost. They are often allowed on most bike paths and trails, as their assistance is limited to pedaling.
- Example: Many bikes available at Virtue Electric Bikes fall into this category, like the Kalkhoff Endeavour 5 – perfect for those looking to tackle hills without fully relying on the motor.
- Class 2: Throttle-Assist E-Bikes
- How It Works: Class 2 e-bikes offer both pedal-assist and a throttle that can propel the bike without pedaling, also limited to 15.5 mph. This allows riders to toggle between pedaling with assistance or using the throttle for an effortless ride.
- Who It’s For: Ideal for riders who might encounter mixed terrain or need occasional breaks from pedaling. The throttle option makes these e-bikes versatile for both commuting and casual rides.
- Example: E-bikes with throttle-assist, like the Wisper Tailwind Collection from Virtue Electric Bikes, are convenient for riders who want more control over their ride, especially useful in urban environments where stop-and-go movement is common
- Class 3: Speed Pedelec E-Bikes
- How It Works: Class 3 e-bikes, also known as speed pedelecs, offer pedal assistance up to 28 mph (45 km/h) but typically do not include a throttle. They are generally designed for faster commuting and can handle longer, more intense routes.
- Who It’s For: These e-bikes are best suited for experienced riders who want a more dynamic, fast-paced commute.
In the UK, Class 3 e-bikes (or speed pedelecs) are generally restricted on public roads unless they comply with specific regulations. Here’s a breakdown:
- Speed and Power Limit: To be legally ridden on public roads without a license or registration, e-bikes in the UK must not exceed a motor-assisted speed of 15.5 mph (25 km/h) and a power output of 250 watts. Class 3 e-bikes, which typically assist up to 28 mph (45 km/h), exceed this limit, which classifies them as "mopeds" in the UK.
- License and Registration: If you wish to ride a Class 3 e-bike (over 15.5 mph) on British roads, it would need to be registered, insured, and ridden by a licensed rider (similar to moped regulations). The rider would also need to wear a helmet and have appropriate vehicle insurance.
- Off-Road Use: Class 3 e-bikes can be used off-road on private property without restriction, but public trails and roads restrict them due to their higher speed.
In summary, standard Class 3 e-bikes aren’t permitted on UK public roads without meeting motor vehicle requirements. Most UK e-bike riders prefer Class 1 or Class 2 models for hassle-free road use.
While Virtue Electric Bikes focuses more on Class 1 and 2 options, certain high-performance models offer advanced motor support similar to what you’d find in Class 3 setups.