E-bikes are rapidly gaining popularity in Canada because they are environmentally friendly, convenient, and affordable. However, many people have questions about the legality of 750-watt e-bikes. According to federal regulations in Canada, the maximum permissible power of an e-bike is usually 500 watts and the maximum speed must not exceed 32 km per hour.
However, regulations may vary from province to province, and some jurisdictions allow higher-powered e-bikes, but may require additional registration or insurance. Therefore, it is important to know the local regulations in advance before buying or using a 750W e-bike. In this article, we'll break down the legality of 750W e-bikes in Canada and how the regulations may affect your choice.
Federal Regulations on eBikes in Canada
At the federal level, eBikes are regulated under the Motor Vehicle Safety Regulations (MVSR) by Transport Canada. According to these regulations, an eBike (also referred to as a "power-assisted bicycle") must meet the following criteria to be considered legal:
- Maximum Motor Power: The motor must not exceed 500W.
- Speed Limit: The motor should assist only up to 32 KPH on level ground.
- Pedal Requirement: The eBike must have operable pedals.
- Throttle Usage: Throttles are allowed, but the bike must still comply with speed and power limitations.
Since 750W eBikes exceed the federal 500W limit, they are technically not classified as legal power-assisted bicycles in Canada. Instead, they could be categorized as motorcycles or mopeds, requiring additional licensing, insurance, and registration depending on provincial rules.
Are 750 watt e-bikes legal in Canada?
In Canada, e-bikes have a motor power limit of 500 watts and a maximum speed of 32 km per hour.
Therefore, an e-bike with a 750 watt motor does not meet the definition of federal regulations in Canada and may be considered a motor vehicle and subject to motor vehicle regulations, including requirements for a driver's licence, vehicle registration and insurance.
In addition, regulations for e-bikes may vary from province to province. For example, Ontario requires that e-bikes have a motor power of no more than 500 watts and a maximum speed of no more than 32 km per hour.
Therefore, it is recommended that you check your local regulations before using an e-bike to ensure compliance.
Provincial Regulations on eBikes
Each province and territory has its eBike laws that align with or expand upon federal guidelines. Let’s take a closer look at how different provinces handle the legality of 750W eBikes:
Ontario
- Ontario follows the 500W power limit rule.
- eBikes must have functioning pedals and cannot exceed 32 KPH.
- No driver’s license, insurance, or vehicle registration is required for legal eBikes.
- 750W eBikes would be considered illegal unless modified to comply with the 500W limit.
British Columbia
- BC’s eBike regulations also adhere to the 500W power limit.
- eBikes are allowed on most roads and bike paths but must meet speed restrictions.
- Higher-power eBikes (750W and above) may be classified as Limited Speed Motorcycles, requiring insurance and registration.
Alberta
- Alberta follows the 500W maximum power regulation.
- eBikes must be limited to 32 KPH and have functional pedals.
- 750W eBikes are not legally classified as bicycles, meaning they may require different licensing.
Quebec
- Quebec allows eBikes with motors up to 500W.
- Riders must be at least 14 years old and wear a helmet.
- 750W eBikes are not legally recognized as power-assisted bicycles.
Other Provinces (Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Nova Scotia, etc.)
- The majority of provinces enforce the same 500W power limit as the federal rule.
- Some provinces have additional requirements, such as age restrictions and helmet laws.
- 750W eBikes are generally not considered legal unless detuned or classified differently.
Can You Use a 750W eBike in Canada?
Despite the federal and provincial limits, some riders still use 750W eBikes in Canada. Here are a few workarounds:
- Detuning the Motor: Some 750W eBikes can be electronically limited to 500W output. If modified to comply with the power limit, they may be considered legal.
- Private Property Use: If you ride solely on private land, the restrictions do not apply.
- Registration as a Moped or Scooter: In some provinces, a 750W eBike might be classified as a moped or limited-speed motorcycle, requiring insurance, registration, and a driver’s license.
Risks of Using an Overpowered eBike
If you ride a 750W eBike in Canada without proper classification, you may face:
- Fines or Penalties for riding an illegal vehicle.
- Confiscation of the eBike if caught violating regulations.
- No Insurance Coverage in case of accidents.
Which Electric Bikes Are the Best Choice?
As electric transportation becomes more popular, more Canadians are choosing e-bikes for commuting and leisure. The following GOTRAX electric bikes meet Canadian regulations, ensuring a legal, safe, and high-performance ride while offering convenience for different riders.
1. F3V2 Fat Tire Folding E-Bike
The F3V2 is a foldable fat-tire e-bike designed for versatility and all-terrain performance.
🔹 Motor Power: 500W
🔹 Top Speed: 32 KPH (compliant with Canadian regulations)
🔹 Range: Up to 98 km per charge
🔹 Battery: 48V 13Ah removable battery for easy charging
🔹 Tires: 20" x 3" fat tires, ideal for various terrains
🔹 Gearing: 7-speed Shimano drivetrain for enhanced control
🔹 Foldable Design: Easy storage for apartments and car trunks
🔹 Suspension: Front fork shock absorption for a smoother ride
🔹 Brakes: Dual disc brakes for reliable stopping power
🚲 Best for:
- Riders looking for long-range city commutes
- Those who enjoy off-road adventures (snow, dirt trails)
- Cyclists who need a compact, foldable bike
2. F2V2 Foldable Electric Bike
A lightweight, foldable e-bike perfect for urban commuting.
🔹 Motor Power: 500W
🔹 Top Speed: 32 KPH
🔹 Range: Up to 64 km per charge
🔹 Battery: 48V 10.4Ah removable battery
🔹 Tires: 20" x 2.6", suitable for city streets and light trails
🔹 Gearing: 7-speed Shimano drivetrain for adaptive riding
🔹 Frame: Lightweight aluminum, easy to carry when folded
🔹 LED Display: F2V2 foldable electric bike can real-time speed and battery status tracking
🚲 Best for:
- Daily urban commuters
- Riders who need a compact bike for public transport
- Cyclists looking for easy storage and portability
3. F1V2 Folding Electric Bike
An entry-level e-bike with essential features for city riding.
🔹 Motor Power: 350W
🔹 Top Speed: 32 KPH
🔹 Range: Up to 64 km per charge
🔹 Battery: 48V 10Ah removable lithium battery
🔹 Tires: 20" x 2.6", ideal for smooth urban roads
🔹 Gearing: 7-speed Shimano drivetrain
🔹 Lightweight Design: Easy to store and carry when folded
🔹 LED Display: F1V2 folding electric bike can monitor speed and battery life
🚲 Best for:
- Budget-conscious riders looking for an e-bike experience
- Short-distance urban commuters
- Students and office workers
If you’re looking for longer range and better off-road performance, the F3V2 is the best choice. For balanced range and urban commuting convenience, go for the F2V2. And if you need an affordable, compact e-bike for short-distance travel, the F1V2 is a great option.
Conclusion
In Canada, 750W eBikes exceed the federally mandated 500W limit, meaning they are not legal as standard eBikes in most provinces. If you want to ride legally, consider purchasing a 500W eBike or ensuring your 750W model can be adjusted to meet regulations. Always check with local authorities to avoid fines or legal issues.
Click to learn: What Are the Types of Bikes?
