Electric bicycles are gaining popularity, and consequently, a lot of individuals who operate on them are wondering, What are electric bike classes, and how are they different?
In North America, electric bikes (or e-bikes) are classified into three main categories, which determine the maximum speed of the bikes, the availability or lack of throttles, and the legal real-life locations where the bikes may be operated. These differences should be understood in order to choose the best ebike, commuting, going through the trails, or within the urban streets.
Understanding Electric Bicycle Classes
There are 3 major divisions of electric bikes, which are Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3. These categories are characterized by the methods of power delivery and the maximum speed limits. The different classes each have their own benefits based on the preferences given to riding, the local laws, and the type of terrain.
Class 1 Ebike
A Class 1 electric bike only gives pedal-assist. In other words, the motor only activates when you are bicycling. The assistance goes off at 20 mph (32 km/h). They are the ideal bikes for urban commuters and casual riders who desire to have light exercise yet enjoy smooth pedaling.
Key Traits:
- Pedal-assist up to 20 mph (32 km/h).
- No throttle. You must use a pedal to switch on the motor.
- Able to legally ride on most regular bike trails.
- Giving a natural cycling experience with the added assistance.
Class 2 Ebike
Class 2 electric bikes have pedal assist mode in addition to throttle mode. Using the throttle enables the riders to ride it without pedaling gears, and this makes it ideal for stopping and passing traffic or even when the road is steep. The speed restriction is the same as Class 1. It has a limit of 20 mph (32 km/h) for motor assistance.
Key Traits:
- Provided with throttle and pedal-assist.
- Top assisted speed: 20 mph (32 km/h).
- Good with commuters, delivery riders, or individuals who would like to have more freedom in their decision of ride.
- Usually permitted in the majority of city streets and bike tracks.
Class 3 Ebike
Class 3 has the greatest performance in terms of the top speed with pedal-assistance, of up to 28 mph (45 km/h). They do not tend to possess throttles, meaning you will still be required to use the pedals to obtain acceleration of the motor. These bikes are perfect in case of an individual who travels long distances and performance enthusiasts.
Key Traits:
- Pedal-assist up to 28 mph (45 km/h).
- There is no throttle in most instances (peddling is required).
- Often, it is fitted with certain high-level safety measures like hydraulic brakes and strong headlights.
- Typically banned on the multi-use bike paths, but permitted on roads and bike lanes.
Differences Between Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3 Electric Bicycles
|
Feature |
Class 1 |
Class 2 |
Class 3 |
|
Motor Type |
Pedal-assist only |
Pedal-assist + throttle |
Pedal-assist only |
|
Max Speed |
20 mph (32 km/h) |
20 mph (32 km/h) |
28 mph (45 km/h) |
|
Throttle |
No |
Yes |
Usually No |
|
Typical Use |
City commuting, fitness rides |
Urban commuting, errands |
Long-distance commuting, high-speed travel |
|
Legal Access |
Bike paths & trails |
Bike paths (varies by city) |
Roads, bike lanes (some restrictions) |
|
Best For |
Beginners and casual riders |
Versatile commuters |
Performance riders & professionals |
Recommended Electric Bikes by Class
Here are our most recommended models for each class.
Best Class 1 Ebike: Trek FX+ 1 Midstep E-Bike
Trek FX+ 1 MidStep is an affordable e-bike featuring a smooth pedal-assist up to 32 km/h. It has an inbuilt battery and a powerful motor system that offers the experience of natural cycling. They work best when used by urban riders who enjoy the pleasure of a throttle-free ride with pedal assistance.
Best Class 2 Ebike: GOTRAX R2V2 Foldable Commuting Electric Bike
GOTRAX R2V2 is one of the trendiest folding electric bikes in Canada, which is offered in the pedal-assist mode with a throttle that offers the freedom of riding.
- Motor: 500 W front Hub motor (brushless) to accelerate fast.
- Battery: 48 Volt 10.4 Amps detachable battery, with a range of 64 km of pedal-help.
- Design: Fold within 10 seconds, and this makes it easy to pack.
- Tires: 20×3" fat tires and front suspension to make it more stable and comfortable.
- Payload: Supports up to 264 lbs (120 kg).
It is a Class 2 e-bike that is well-adjusted to commuters but not compromised in size, power, and ride comfort.
Currently, there are Black Friday and Cyber Monday discounts available, with the lowest prices of the year ($1019.99 CAD). You can purchase it if you are interested.
Best Class 3 Ebike: GOTRAX ALPINE All-terrain Electric Mountain Bike
The GOTRAX ALPINE establishes roughness in Class 3 e-bikes.
- Motor: 500 W rear hub motor with a range of 45km/h with pedal assist.
- Battery: 48-volt, 13.5 Ah (640 Wh) detachable battery and an actual range of 105 km.
- Brakes: Dual hydraulic disc brakes, which give good braking power under all conditions.
- Tires: 26×4" Kenda fat tires navigate snow, gravel, or the city streets.
- Extras: LED lighting system, full-color LCD, and front-back racks.
This motorcycle is the best motorbike to ride for individuals who seek the benefits of a long commuting distance motorbike, as well as those who need off-road adventure with a single long-lasting use.
We are currently offering Black Friday and Cyber Monday discounts ($1599 CAD). You can purchase it if you are interested, and please note that the stock is limited.
GOTRAX Canada is the place where you can find more e-bikes and accessories.
Laws and Regulations for Electric Bicycle Classes
As of now, Laws in Canada and the U.S classify electric bikes by individual provinces and states. However, in most instances, they use the three-class system:
- The most shared-use paths, trails, and bike lanes permit Class 1 and 2.
- Class 3 bikes, which have a higher speed, are usually limited to roads or special bike lanes.
- The riders who are below 16 are restricted in accordance with the local regulations.
- Class 3 e-bikes usually recommend the use of helmets and are sometimes mandatory.
Check your local traffic laws always before riding so that you are not violating traffic laws, and be safe.
FAQs
What class of e-bike goes the fastest?
Class 3 e-bikes are the quickest, and they achieve the peak speed of 28 mph (45 km/h) with pedaling.
Can I use a Class 2 e-bike without pedaling?
Yes, Class 2, one of which is the GOTRAX R2V2, has a throttle mode that permits it to be used in full motor mode without pedaling.
Do I need a license or registration for my e-bike?
Generally, No. Most Canadian provinces and U.S. states do not require any license or registration of electric bicycles, unless they do not meet the classification rules.
Conclusion
Knowing what electric bike classes are can also assist riders to make more intelligent decisions implied by speed, motor type, and the places to ride it. Class 1 bikes provide pedal-assisted, and Class 2 bike models have throttle flexibility, with Class 3 bikes having increased speeds and can be ridden by experienced users.
GOTRAX R2V2 Foldable Commuting Electric Bike and GOTRAX ALPINE All-terrain Electric Mountain Bike are outstanding Class 2 and Class 3 options, respectively, for those aiming to find a strong yet safe and practical solution. Riding in the city or going mountain climbing, you should always ride that type of e-bike that best suits you, meaning that you would be riding safely, efficiently, and confidently every day. VisitGOTRAX Canada in order to see the most recent models of all classes and rider types.