Electric Bike Classifications

There's a ton of variety in the wild world of e-bikes. Electric bikes fall into several different classes depending on their max assist speed and whether or not they include a throttle. Class 1 electric bikes use a battery and an electric motor to provide assistance up to 20 miles an hour. Class 1 electric bikes cannot have a throttle. They only provide assistance when the rider's pedaling. Class 2 electric bikes also top out at 20 miles an hour. The difference is with class 2 bikes they have a throttle which can carry the rider up to that 20 mile per hour max assist speed without the need for pedaling at all. Class 3 electric bikes have a max assist speed of 28 miles per hour. The faster assist speeds of a class 3 electric bike make them ideal for commuters who want to make good time over long stretches of open road. Why do these classes exist and why do you need to know about them? Well in general regulations around electric bike usage varies state by state. However, these classes 1, 2, and 3 play a big role. Depending on where you live class 3 electric bikes may not be allowed on bicycle paths or multi-use trails or they might have a minimum age requirement for the rider. Peopleforbikes.org is a great resource. Check it out for an overview of the electric bike laws in your state, get involved in e-bike advocacy, and learn about electric bikes in general.