How Fast Do Electric Bikes Go?

Most people consider electric bikes as bikes. It is true, but considering the power they provide, I think they are more like the lesser version of electric vehicles. Well, it kind of sounds like an exaggeration for those who have never tried an ebike. If so, how fast do electric bikes go?

The answer to this question depends on a number of factors, including the type of electric bike, the size of the battery, and the rider's weight and pedaling effort. In this article, we will walk you through all the details about how fast an electric bike can go. Let’s get it.

Factors Influencing Electric Bike Speed

Motor Power: The motor serves as the heart of an electric bike and plays a key role in its speed. Higher-powered motors generally provide greater acceleration and top speed. You can see different power levels of ebike motors while shopping around, like 500W, 750W or 1000W.

If you are not sure which power level is the best fit for you, please try it out.

Battery Capacity: The battery's capacity affects the power output and range of an electric bike, just like many other electric devices. For example, in some cases, a phone with a lower battery will not perform as smoothly as when it is fully charged. In general, a larger capacity ebike battery can sustain higher speeds for covering longer distances.

A battery can provide different levels of power based on its voltage. For instance, a 52V battery performs better in terms of power and battery efficiency compared with 48V batteries.

Rider Weight: The weight of the rider can greatly influence an ebike's speed. Heavier riders may experience slightly slower acceleration and a slight reduction in top speed compared to lighter riders.

However, it does not mean that heavy riders can’t ride an ebike. Read the Magicycle blog to learn the best practice of riding ebikes for heavy riders.

Terrain Conditions: Uphill or downhill terrain, wind resistance, and road conditions can affect an e-bike's speed. Climbing steep hills or facing strong headwinds can reduce speed, while downhill rides or favorable wind conditions can increase it.

Legal Limitations and Classifications

The speed of electric bikes for adults is typically regulated by local laws and regulations. Many countries classify ebikes into different categories based on their maximum speed. The most common categories include:

Class 1: PAS Only - These ebikes provide power assistance only when the rider is pedaling and have a maximum speed of around 20 mph (32 km/h).

Class 2: Throttle Assist - These ebikes can be used without pedaling, with a similar top speed as Class 1 models.

Class 3: Speed Pedelecs - These ebikes offer PAS up to a higher maximum speed, typically around 28 mph (45 km/h).

Top Speeds for Different Types of Electric Bikes

The top speeds of electric bikes can vary depending on their class and purpose. Here are some approximate top speeds you can expect from common ebike models:

Commuter Ebikes: Designed for city commuting, commuter ebikes often have a top speed ranging between 15-28 mph (25-45 km/h), depending on the class and local regulations. 

Electric Mountain Bikes: Electric mountain bikes are always called Emtbs, which are built for rough terrains. They can commonly reach a higher speed than commuter ebikes considering their uses.

Full Suspension Ebikes: Full suspension ebikes come with both front and rear shock absorbers. They can absorb shocks effectively, which has a huge impact on the speed of every electric bike. So, with a decent motor, a full suspension is supposed to reach an impressive speed.

Here are Some Additional Things to Consider When Choosing an Electric Bike

1. The type of terrain you will be riding on. If you will be riding mostly on flat roads, you will not need as powerful of an electric bike as if you were riding on hills.

2. The distance you will be riding. If you plan on riding long distances, you will need a long-range electric bike.

3. Your weight and pedaling effort. If you are a heavier rider or if you do not plan on pedaling much, you will need an electric bike with a more powerful motor.

4. The price. Electric bikes can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. It is important to set a budget before you start shopping.

Once you have considered all of these factors, you will be able to choose the right electric bikes for sale.