What is an Ebike?

An Ebike is a bicycle with a lightweight electric motor.

This motor has regulations and different classifications -

Class 1, 2, and 3

• The motor cannot have power that exceeds 750 watts of power or essentially 1 horsepower.
• There are a couple of key motors- Hub Based system and a Center Drive/Mid-Mount Ebike must have 2 or 3 wheels, pedals, seat, handlebars etc. to be classified as an E-Bike
• Class 1 and 3 are pedal assisted – Meaning you must pedal to use the motor.
• Class 2 is solely powered by Throttle but to extend the distance traveled with a charge you must also pedal but this is not necessary- More…

When shopping for an ebike, it’s important to make sure that the brand and model you choose is safe, legal, and appropriate for the places you plan to ride. In the United States, many states and municipalities have adopted the Class I, II, III ebike classification system. Ebike manufacturers are required to label their products with the appropriate Class I, II, III labels in those states, making it easy for customers to understand the capabilities of specific models.

Class I Ebikes 

Class I ebikes use a battery and electric motor to provide assistance at up to 20 MPH when the rider is pedaling (pedal assist). Class I ebikes can go faster than 20 MPH, for example, when going downhill, but the electric motor will stop provide assistance once 20 MPH is reached. 

Ebikes with throttles can turn on the electric motor and propel the bike without the rider pedaling. Class I ebikes cannot have a throttle - they can only provide assistance when the rider is pedaling.

Class II Ebikes

Class II ebikes work in two ways. First, the electric motor provides assistance at up to 20 MPH when the rider is pedaling, just like a Class I ebike. Second, Class II ebikes include a throttle, which can go up to 20 MPH without the rider pedaling.

This flexibility is ideal for many riders. On a Class II ebike, the rider can pedal for fun, exercise, and fitness, but retain the ability use the throttle for help when desired without pedaling - like getting over a challenging hill.

Class II ebikes cannot be used in some regions. Off-road riding, like mountain bike trails, often permit only Class I ebikes. Class II ebikes with throttles cannot be used. In a pinch? Some makes and models of Class II ebikes will continue to operate on pedal assist with the throttle unplugged and removed, effectively turning them temporarily into Class I models.

Class III Ebikes

Class III ebikes provide pedal assist at up to 28 MPH. These higher-speed electric bicycles 

You’ll notice that some Class III ebikes have a throttle, and others do not. When Class III ebikes include a throttle, they are usually limited to 20 MPH maximum speed on throttle (even though the bike can go faster when the rider is pedaling).

The law in this area varies; for example, Class III ebikes are not permitted to have a throttle in California, but are allowed in some other states, so you should check before purchasing a Class III ebike with a throttle.

Class III ebikes are primarily intended for higher-speed riding on streets and roads, making them ideal for bicycle commuters who want to arrive at work or school without breaking a sweat. You’ll find Class III ebikes are commonly disallowed on bicycle paths, trails, bikeways, horse trails, and hiking trails.

“Speed Pedalec” is sometimes used - most often in Europe - to describe bikes of this type.

Class IV "Ebikes", Mopeds, And Electric Motorcycles

What about “Class IV”, mopeds, and other battery or gas-powered two-wheeled vehicles?

What Class I, II, and III ebikes have in common are pedals - they look and work like traditional bicycles. Mopeds, electric scooters, and other wheeled vehicles without pedals aren’t ebikes and aren’t covered by these Class I, II, and III classifications. 

Some states call those types of devices “Class IV”. You may also find the Class IV label used on ebikes that go much faster than the 20 / 28 MPH limits. 

You may also need a driver’s license or motorcycle license to use a Class IV vehicle. Generally, they aren’t considered bicycles like Class I, II, and III ebikes are, and may need to be registered with the DMV, insured, and so on.

Types Of Ebikes To Avoid

Generally, you should avoid any ebike that doesn’t carry a Class I, II, or III designation. Such models may not actually be legal in some places. Purchasing a Class I, II, or III labeled ebike means you can easily understand its capabilities, features, and limitations. 

Check with local authorities or visit People for Bikes to learn about the rules and regulations in your area.