How Fast does an Ebike Go? Can I ride everywhere?
Ebikes are rated into 3 classes based on electrical assistance and top speed. Please note, traditional bicycles and Ebikes will go as fast as the rider can pedal, but this class guide dictates the maximum "assisted" speed.
- Class 1: Pedal-assist only, with no non-pedal throttle propulsion. These Ebikes have a max assisted speed of 20 mph.
- Class 2: Pedal-assist and a throttle that can provide non-pedal propulsion. These Ebikes have a max assisted speed of 20 mph.
- Class 3: Pedal-assist and may have throttle. These Ebikes have a max assisted speed of 20 mph with the throttle and up to 28 mph only with pedal assist. Without pedaling, assist cuts off at 20 mph.
In general, Most Ebikes can be ridden anywhere a traditional bike can go. Some municipalities have rules for the use of Ebikes, but in general, here are the guidelines for where Ebikes can be ridden (please check your local state and city ordinances for any differences from the following, and check with the park services for riding on certain trails):
- Class 1 EBikes are treated by most municipalities just like traditional bicycles, legally allowed to ride wherever standard bicycles are permitted, including bike lanes, roads, multiuse trails and bike-only paths.
- Class 2 EBikes are allowed most places a traditional bicycle can go, though some additional restrictions exist on certain singletrack trails in public parklands — it has been shown that throttle-actuated tire spinning can pose physical environmental damage to sensitive nature trails.
- Class 3 EBikes are typically allowed on roads and on-road bike lanes (“curb to curb” infrastructure), but some municipalities prohibit them from off street bike trails and multiuse paths shared with pedestrians, skaters and scooters. The 28 mph top-assisted speed of a Class 3 EBike may be too fast for bike paths and trails that are often shared with other trail users.
