Understanding the Average Speed of Electric Bikes: A Comprehensive Guide

Electric bikes, commonly referred to as e-bikes, have surged in popularity as a versatile mode of transportation that combines the physical benefits of cycling with the added boost from an electric motor. When considering the purchase or use of an e-bike, potential users often have a common inquiry: What is the average speed of an electric bike?

The average speed of an electric bike can vary widely depending on several factors such as motor power, bike design, rider input, and terrain. Generally, most e-bikes offer assistance up to 20 mph (32 km/h), which is the maximum speed allowed by law in many regions for pedal-assist e-bikes, also known as Class 1 and Class 3 e-bikes. Class 1 e-bikes stop assisting at 20 mph, while Class 3 e-bikes may provide pedal assistance up to 28 mph (45 km/h).

Pedal assist levels play a crucial role in determining how fast you can go. The more you pedal, the greater the assist and the faster you'll move, up to the bike's maximum assisted speed. Furthermore, throttle-controlled e-bikes (Class 2) can typically go up to 20 mph without the need for pedaling.

It's important to note that you can still exceed these speeds by pedaling harder, just as you would on a traditional bicycle, but the electric motor won't assist beyond its designed