Best electric road bikes of 2023: Go farther, faster
Electric bikes are incredibly popular and a huge part of the cycling market these days. They can make cycling more accessible to a wider range of riders over different applications and terrains and are just downright fun to use. The best electric bikes can be used over a range of uses, including e-bike commuting and gravel riding. We will be taking a look a the best electric road bikes here, a category that has come a long way with the best models being very close to the best road bikes in terms of ride quality and looks whilst offering heaps of extra power when needed.
Electric road bikes can almost go unnoticed these days, so discreet they now look. They utilise a lot of the same components regular road bikes do, like the best road bike wheels and best road bike tyres most of which are rated for e-bike use these days.
E-bikes are now nearly universally accepted, the ‘cheating’ argument has fallen by the wayside as people have acknowledged how useful and varied e-bike uses can be. Whether that be aiding sustainable travel or helping groups of riders with varying fitness ride together.
We’ve gathered the best electric road bikes into this list, helping you analyse specifications and tech to help you make a more informed buying decision. If you still need a little more help, head to the bottom of the page to see our buying guide pointers.
Best electric road bikes available today
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Reasons to avoid
The Trek Domane SLR is the newest e-road bike from the US-based brand. Available in six different spec options but all based around a superlight weight Trek OCLV 800 carbon frame, this is the lightest e-road bike trek has ever produced.
The Domane SLR is aimed at performance road riders who want a little extra zip, it has a discreet motor and battery from German specialist TQ which offers a super smooth and quiet e-riding experience. The Domane SLR is lighter than the Trek Domane LT and has a non-removable battery whereas the LT’s is removable
You get a neatly integrated LCD display in the top tube, mode toggle buttons custom built into the shifters, and the lights and eTap charging can be wired in to run from the battery to simplify things. If you want a high-end lightweight electric road bike, the Domane SLR is one we’d be happy to recommend.
Reasons to avoid
Claimed to weigh 11kg, the Ribble Endurance SL e is one of the lightest e-road bikes currently available and, visually, the frame is almost identical to its non-assisted sibling, including the aggressive geometry.
Using the Mahle Ebikemotion system, the Endurance SL e doesn’t get a control unit, instead opting for a button on the top tube that cycles through the three levels of assistance. Hidden inside the downtube is a Panasonic 250Wh battery, which is connected to a rear hub-based motor said to provide 40Nm of torque. There is an accompanying app, too, which will provide additional information such as remaining battery life.
As Ribble is consumer direct, the pricing is competitive with the Tiagra build starting at £2,799, and the 105 build starting at £3,299 — every component can be upgraded through the brand’s ‘BikeBuilder’ program.
Reasons to avoid
Using the C64 as the backbone, Colnago has adapted its carbon racer into a pedal-assist roadie. Claimed to tip the scales at 12kg including the battery, Colnago says the rear hub-based motor only adds 3.7kg and it’s capable of delivering 250 watts of assistance.
With the battery housed in the downtube, the E64 doesn’t get a built-in head unit; instead, there is a button on the top tube that controls the electronics. The battery is stored in the downtube and is not removable, but Colnago says there is an auxiliary battery on the horizon which can be stored in one of the bottle cages to add range.
Although the E64 appears to be a carbon-lugged frame, it’s a visual illusion with these details being added in the paint shop. The bike comes with a Shimano Ultegra drivetrain, Deda finishing kit and Mavic Aksium Elite EVO UST wheels.
Reasons to avoid
With the IsoSpeed decoupler in the seat tube and room in the frame for 38c tyres, Trek’s Domane LT is probably the best electric road bike for comfort.
It comes with a 250w motor and 250Wh battery, so in terms of power and range, it’s on a par with many of the ‘secret e-bikes’ featured here, however, instead of having a battery permanently hidden inside the down tube, the Domane uses a removable battery. Batteries do degrade over time, so the option to replace them will be positive when it comes to long-term ownership or resale value.
The Domane LT features all the niceties of the pedal-powered Domane, including fender mounts, Blendr accessories, and endurance geometry. The carbon frame is fitted with a Shimano Ultegra 2×11 groupset, with a 50/34 chainset and 11-34 cassette.
Reasons to avoid
On the surface, the Nytro looks like any other Pinarello frame, complete with a wavy fork and aero tubing but hidden in the downtube are a Fazua drive unit and battery. The Nytro is claimed to have up to 250w of power and 55Nm of torque, and the battery can be dropped out of the downtube to make it just a normal road bike, weighing in at around 9kg without the battery.
The frame uses the brand’s F10 frameset as a starting point and adds a bit of length to the wheelbase and height to the head tube. Rest assured, Pinarello hasn’t forgotten to give the Nytro its trademark asymmetric tube treatment.
Built with a Shimano Ultegra Di2 11-speed drivetrain, the bike gets hydraulic disc brakes and rolls on Fulcrum Racing 5 wheels. It also comes with a Pinarello-sized price tag.
Reasons to avoid
Launched during the 2019 Tour de France is the latest addition to Specialized’s line-up of Turbo bikes, the Creo SL, is designed to be a high-performance e-road bike that’s powered by the brand’s own SL 1.1 drive system, it also uses the brand’s Futureshock 2.0 at the front. Instead of an aftermarket solution from Bosch, Fazua or Shimano, Specialized designed its own, which is claimed to weigh just 1.96kg.
The 320Wh battery itself weighs 1.8kg, and Specialized is also offering 60Wh extender packs which fit in a bottle cage — the extender packs are included with the S-Works and Founders edition, but not the Expert build.
With the Mission Control app, you can run diagnostics and customise the assistance levels. Specialized says you can customise them on the fly, which means in theory, you could tailor the wattage to help you keep up with friends on the climb while still getting a workout.
The Turbo Creo features a full carbon frame and is only available as a 1x setup, with the Expert edition using a Shimano Ultegra 11-speed Di2/XT Di2 mix drivetrain with Ultegra hydraulic disc brakes and Roval carbon wheels.
Reasons to avoid
The SuperSix EVO Neo features a ebike motion X35 motor, which offers 250w of assistance and up to 40Nm of torque (in the highest mode).
According to Cannondale, the 250Wh removable battery will take you around 75km on a single charge. The bike comes with 28mm slick Vittoria Rubino Pro tyres, and the frame features an integrated seat binder combined with a 27 KNØT seat post, designed to work together to absorb road bumps. The frame also features SAVE micro-suspension to smooth out most rides for added comfort.
It’s powered by a respectable Shimano 105 R7000 hydraulic groupset, with 2×11 gearing. Up front the FSA crank features 50/34 chainrings, paired with an 11-34 cassette at the rear, offering a massive range of gears.
As part of Cannondale’s e-bike range, the SuperSix Evo Neo 3 Disc benefits from the brand’s integrated wheel sensor, which delivers accurate speed, route and distance information, registers your bike, reminds you when you need service, and more.
Reasons to avoid
There’s no denying that the Revolt E carries more of an electric bike aesthetic than some others here, but within its oversized down tube comes a large battery and a motor with a lot of torque.
Powering it is the Shimano EP8-powered SyncDrive Pro pedal-assist system, which promises smooth acceleration (thanks to its 85Nm of maximum torque). Meanwhile, the Shimano GRX Di2 1×11 electronic groupset and 40mm tyres make it all-road ready if you plan to mix things up a bit. There are also mounts for mudguards and racks.
The system is simple to use, and the motor comes with a SmartAssist mode that automatically adapts to your cadence and ride style, tuning the amount of assistance to the levels you actually need. This means you don’t need to think about anything and can pedal without thinking about it.
How to choose the best electric road bike for you
Your riding demands will dictate which e-road bike is best for you. Hopefully, this guide should have given you an idea of what’s out there. Next, You should consider how you may want to use your e-bike: are you commuting to work, adventuring and discovering new terrain or simply adding a new bike to your fleet? Your requirements will dictate weight, gearing, range, prince point etc. Test ride a bike if you can and chat with manufacturers about which e-bike is best for you.
What do I need to know about the drive system?
With the electric bike market continually growing, more and more brands are getting on board and developing newer and better technology all the time. The best electric road bike will likely come with a powerful and reliable drive system, including one of the best e-bike motors from the likes of Bosch, Yamaha, and Shimano, while some feature integrated units from Ebikemotion and Fazua.
These systems place the motor either at the bottom bracket or the rear hub and vary in weight. In fact, some of the integrated systems are surprisingly light. The power they offer is an important factor, and most hover between 250w and 500w.
What’s the best wattage for an electric bike battery?
How long is a piece of string? It all depends on how much you’re riding, and how much you care about your electric road bike’s aesthetic.
When e-bikes started to gain popularity, the batteries were bulbous, and almost appeared to be haphazardly bolted on wherever there was space. Now we are seeing brands working to integrate them into the frame seamlessly.
Unfortunately, the smaller the battery, the smaller the capacity. which is measured in watt-hours (Wh). While some brands are quick to make claims about how far certain Wh batteries will take their bikes, these figures can vary greatly depending on the level of boost, the terrain and even the weight of the rider. Bosch has put together a handy Range Assistant, which can provide a good idea of how much mileage you can expect to achieve, depending on your riding habits.
While some bikes have removable batteries which allow you to keep a spare, others with hidden battery packs look much cleaner.
Are electric road bikes unisex?
As a general rule of thumb, most e-road bikes are made to be unisex, while having multiple size options that should work for most people. The saddle, which is the key contact area that needs some tailoring to fit the users, is easily swapped out for one of the best women’s road bike saddles if need be.
If you would prefer a women’s specific model, be sure to check out our list of the best women’s electric bikes.
Regional restrictions
Most e-bikes use one of three e-bike systems, however, depending on where you live, the level of assistance as well as whether you need a license and insurance will vary. Here’s a breakdown of all the e-bike restrictions in place in the UK, US and Australia.
The UK adopted a lot of the EU’s regulations regarding e-bikes but with Brexit, it’s hard to say if that may change.
All of the bikes featured here fall under ‘The Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycle (EPAC) Amendment Regulations’ mandates; electric assistance can only provide 250 watts of aid and must cut out at 25kph. It also stipulates the rider must be in motion for the motor to kick in and be at least 14 years old.
Electric bikes (and riders) that meet these standards have the same legal standing as regular bicycles and are allowed on roads and bike paths.
In Europe, a new class of speed-pedelecs or s-pedelecs are gaining popularity that are capable of providing assistance up to 45kph. You still need to pedal for the motor to kick in, however, under UK law these are considered two-wheel mopeds and require insurance, a legally certified helmet and a qualifying driver’s license.
In the US, rules for e-bikes vary from state to state; 30 states classify e-bikes as ordinary bicycles, while the remaining 20 label e-bikes as mopeds, scooters or something else altogether.
Federal law defines an electric bicycle as a two- or three-wheeled vehicle with fully operable pedals and an electric motor of fewer than 750 watts, whose maximum speed on a paved level surface, when powered solely by such a motor while ridden by an operator who weighs 170 pounds, is less than 20mph.’
It’s worth noting this statute defines the maximum assisted speed of the bike when being only powered by the motor, not when it’s being pedalled. To make things more confusing, state regulations can supersede the federal statute.
The Bicycle Product Suppliers Association has proposed a three-class system which divides electric bikes up based on their maximum assisted speed:
Class 1: the motor provides assistance only when the rider is pedalling and cuts out a 20mph
Class 2: the motor can contribute regardless of pedalling but is governed to 20mph
Class 3: the motor provides assistance when the rider is pedalling but cuts out at 28mph and must be equipped with a speedometer.
For all three classes, the motor can only put out a max of 750 watts, and the class needs to be clearly labelled. This system also defines where the bikes can be ridden; classes 1 and 2 are permitted anywhere bikes are allowed, while class 3 can be ridden on roads and bike lanes but not multi-use paths, and may be subject to minimum user age and helmet requirements.
So far, 22 states have legislation creating a class system and our friends over at People for Bikes has put together a full state-by-state run down.
In Australia, e-bikes are split into throttle-operated and pedal-assist. Both systems must be limited to 25kph, and the throttle-operated motors can only output 200 watts while pedal assist is legal up to 250 watts. Anything that exceeds these figures is considered a motorbike and must be licensed and insured.
High Power Electric Bikes at High Country E Bikes in Utah
Electric bicycles are growing in popularity in Salt Lake City. They have a small motor on the rear-hub or a mid-drive motor in-between the pedals. They perform better than traditional bikes, giving you more riding options, whether you’re off-road or on the street.
At our bike shop, we have some excellent high-power e bike options, with strong motors for quick, torque-filled riding experiences. Ride in Utah on the mountain or road.
Electric bike motors provide either a pedal-assist or a pedal-free throttle. Some give both; some have one or the other.
Amounts of Power on Your Electric Bike
We should say, starting out here, that there is some question about the actual power offered on a lot of these favorite bicycle motors. There’s confusing and conflicting information online, including on the manufacturer’s sites.
The truth is that these are pretty sophisticated motors that are capable of performing better than laws will allow. The bicycle manufactures actually have to create technology that limits their performance, to comply with local laws.
Don’t Get Bogged Down by Motor Power
A low-power motor like the German-made Brose on the iZip E3 Moda only has 250-mph, but it’s so well-built and has a high watt-hour battery, providing an optimal commuting range. It maxes out at 28-mph, the speed limit for e bikes, so it’s not like you’re sacrificing performance on this mid-drive hybrid.
A good analogy when thinking about electric bike motor power is the history of automobiles. It used to be that you had to have at least an 8-cylinder engine to be considered a “fast car.” But car manufacturers are now making speedy 4-cylinder vehicles.
The same goes for ebikes. The size of and power of the motor isn’t necessarily a good indicator of performance.
Utah Laws
The laws in Utah on city streets designates that a street legal e bike must not exceed 28-mph with pedal-assist and 20-mph with a throttle. These are called class 3 pedelecs.
Maximum power-systems allowed on Utah roads is 750-watts.
Amounts of Power on Street-Legal E Bikes
There are few classifications of e bikes that are legal on Utah roads. Class 1: Pedal-Assists offer pedal-assist only. All Haibikes with Bosch and Yamaha motors fit into this classification.
Class 2: Throttle On Demand classified bikes allow for pedal-free throttle, and can go as fast as 20-mph. Many of our iZip and Magnum road bikes fit this category.
And Class 3: Speed Pedelec bicycles are often hybrid-style electric bikes and can go as fast as 28-mph with pedal-assist, and 20-mph with a throttle.
Here are some standard size motors on these three classes of road-worthy and mountain-legal e bikes.
500-Watt Yamaha Motors
The majority of the motors we sell at High Country are Yamaha torque-sensing systems, with 500-watts of electricity. That’s the average usage of these systems, but they have peak power-output at 750-watts.
350-Watt Bosch-Power Systems
We also sell Bosch power-systems. This manufacturer offers multiple options to e bike brands, but all the models that we carry have 350-watts of power.
350-Watt Hybrids and Cruiser-Style E Bikes
A number of our hybrid e bikes have 350-watt mid-drive motors by Currie. We also sell the iZip E3 Vibe, a well-liked, extra-small road bike, and the Raleigh Retroglide IE, a gorgeous beach cruiser, both of which come with these lower-powered motors.
We also sell the Magnum Ui5 with a 350-watt Bafang hub-drive built in China.
500-Watt Hub-Drives
We also offer hub-drive e bikes with 500-watt motors, like the Das-kit on the Magnum Metro and the Currie hub-drive on the iZip E3 Zuma.
250-Watt Mid-Drive Motors
As mentioned earlier, we sell the iZip E3 Moda with a Brose 250-watt motor. Shimano Steps also produces a 250-watt motor offered on the Raleigh Detour found in our store.
Again, we wouldn’t dismiss these lower-wattage motors like these. We very regularly have customers try these motors, and they’re blown away by the speed and torque. If you’re unfamiliar with bicycles with electric motors, these can be excellent starter e bikes.
Too Fast for Prime Time
We do carry some e bikes with really powerful motors that are not, technically, road legal. So buyers beware.
750-Watt/3,000-Watt Crystalyte Motors on the Vintage Electric Bikes
Vintage Electric Bikes are riding a delicate line between legal and illegal. They offer street road and race mode (for customers that want to ride on the wild-side).
With street mode, your motor will max-out at the legal limit, with 750-watts and 28-mph. The race mode pumps up your power to almost 3,000-watts, giving you speeds up to 40-mph.
750 to 3,000 Bafang Motors on HPC
Hi-Power Cycles (HPC) at High Country E Bikes are the hot-rods of electric bikes. They are ideal for those accustomed to insane amounts of speed on motorcycles but want an electric motor.
Some HPC models, like the Enduro, come with Bafang motors that can be as powerful as 3,000-watts. They’re fastReally fast!
4,500 to 8,000-Watt Crystalyte Motors on HPC
If you want an even faster electric bike experience, and you’d like to try to die young, then you want an Hi-Power Cycles Revolution, with a motor that’s as powerful as 8,000-watts. These are pretty crazy. We’re not going to lie. With an e bike like this, you can go as fast as 80-mph.
High Country E Bikes in the Salt Lake City area has the biggest selection of electric bicycles in the state of Utah. These are some of our most popular models.
See us in Utah or call to order one of our best high-power electric bikes. We’ll find the right model for you, at a reasonable price.
How Fast Can a 1500-Watt Ebike Go? Find Out The Speed Potential
Apart from this, it’s also important to know the legal requirements for 1500w ebikes in your country and whether you are allowed to ride such bikes in your city, and so on.
The purpose of this article is to explore the 1500w electric bike speed potential for adults, along with important factors that can influence it, and safety considerations.
So, let’s dive in and find out how fast can a 1500W electric bike really go! Is this ebike faster than a 1000w ebike’s speed?
What Does a 1500W Electric Bike Mean?
An electric bike that has a motor generating 1500 watts of power is called a 1500-watt ebike. 1500-watt bikes are one of the highest-wattage e-bikes available on the market. These e-bikes are designed to give riders thrilling and adventurous riding experiences.
As you already know that higher wattage ebikes offer higher speeds and vice-versa. So the 1500w ebikes are. Also, they have more than 100 NM torque and higher acceleration compared to lower-wattage e-bikes.
These bikes perform excellently on hills and reach a much higher speed of about 40-43 mph than lower-watt ebikes because of their high motor wattage. However, this speed is lower than the 2000w ebike top speed.
How does a 1500-watt motor work on an e-bike?
Almost all e-bike motors work the same way. A 1500-watt ebike motor starts assisting when using throttle mode or pedal assist mode. Since this motor is very powerful and capable of giving much higher wattage and speed to the e-bike.
Mainly there are two kinds of e-bikes motor used in 1500w ebikes i.e., Hub motors and Mid-drive motors. Mid-drive motors are more powerful than a hub motor as their weight is centralized providing more torque.
What voltage battery to use on a 1500w ebike for the best performance?
It is very important to use the right size electric bike battery which is compatible with your 1500w motor if you want to achieve its maximum speed for longer distances. If you get the wrong voltage battery, your motor may not work properly or get damaged.
So before you choose a battery for a 1500w ebike, make sure to check the power rating, which is given in voltage. Make sure your battery’s voltage is equal to the motor’s required voltage.
For a 1500w ebike, it is recommended to use a 1500 WH battery i.e., 48V 32 Ah or 52V 30Ah lithium-ion battery to get the best performance. Usually, the higher the voltage of the battery, the faster the bike will run but don’t use much voltage.
Who should ride a 1500w ebike?
Electric bikes with 1500-watt motors are designed for all those riders who like more thrilling, high-speed adventure rides on all types of terrain or roads. You should ride this electric bike if you want the best performance and a faster speed of 40 to 45 miles per hour or more on flat roads and hilltops.
If you are a beginner, don’t ride a 1500w electric bike as it is very fast making it unsafe for newbies. Also, a rider needs a license for riding more than 750w electric bikes. As well as they are heavy and expensive.
Pros and Cons of Riding a 1500-Watt Electric Bike
Before you get a 1500w electric bike, you must know the pros and cons of a 1500-watt electric bike:
Pros of riding a 1500W e-bike
- The biggest advantage of riding these electric bikes is that they have very high motor power, which gives the rider high speed, torque, and acceleration.
- Comes with two or more pedal assistance options, which give the rider freedom to choose how much they want to pedal and how much electric assistance they need for their ride.
- These bikes are well preferred and liked for making riding a more thrilling and adventurous experience for the rider and helping to relax and calm the mood.
- Very powerful and give good performance on all types of terrain, on flat roads or smooth terrains, and for riding on top of hills or rough terrains with good and fast speed.
- Great fit for long rides as they have a much higher battery capacity, which makes them ideal to travel to another city or out of town.
- Eco-friendly as they don’t use any fuel, which can lead to global warming, and they are quiet, meaning they don’t make unnecessary noise while riding them.
- Built using high-quality materials and have thicker tires, which makes riding this bike in bad weather on rough terrain easy and gives more stability to the rider.
- Another advantage of these electric bikes is that they are great for heavy riders too, unlike other low-wattage ebikes, and they are strong enough to carry heavy luggage on a bike as well as give good speed.
Cons of riding a 1500W e-bike
- These electric bikes are more expensive than low-wattage electric bikes, and because of that, many people don’t like investing this much in an electric bike and go for affordable bikes.
- The maximum speed of this bike exceeds the legal limit (28 mph), hence you need a license and all documents that a motorbike needs.
- Because of their high speed, these bikes are not easily controlled by beginner riders or new riders and may lead to an accident.
- Much heavier than low-wattage e-bikes because they have been built using heavy metal components and materials.
- The ebike battery gets discharged quickly because of the higher-wattage motor.
How Fast Does a 1500W Electric Bike Go?
As I have already mentioned that ebike speed depends upon many factors such as the type of motor, the terrain you ride on, and the bike type. Let’s see how fast is a 1500w ebike on various cases:
1500-watt ebike hub motor top speed
As we discussed above, hub motors are present in the hub of a wheel. These kinds of motors are cheap, easy to replace, and easy to repair. These motors can easily fit in any bike frame.
When it comes to its maximum speed, electric bikes with 1500-watt hub motors generally give a top speed of 35 miles per hour or 56 km/h on plane roads and this speed reduces to 20 mph while climbing hills.
1500w ebike mid-drive motor top speed
As we discussed above, mid-drive motors are placed in the middle or center of an e-bike (attached to the crank). These kinds of motors are known for giving better performance and torque compared to hub motors.
Therefore, 1500-watt mid-drive motors generally give a top speed of 40 miles per hour or 64 kilometers per hour and this speed reduces to 25 mph while climbing hills. Make sure to follow all the traffic rules.
1500-watt electric mountain bike top speed
Electric Mountain bikes are also known as “SUV Ebike” These bikes are designed specifically for adventures, hunting in forests, and climbing hills. That’s why their build quality is very heavy making them perfect for off-roading.
Such electric bikes with a 1500-watt motor run at a top speed of 32 mph on hills or 50 km/h. However, this speed may vary due to various factors, be with me to know them.
Factors Affecting the Speed of a 1500w Ebike
There are so many factors that can impact the speed of a 1500-watt electric bike and reduce/increase the bike speed and they are:
Ways of riding
The way the rider rides the e-bike also affects its speed. If a rider is using the bike’s brakes frequently, it will reduce the speed of the e-bike as well the battery will be discharged quickly.
Type of terrain
The place or road where you are riding a bike can also impact the 1500-watt e-bike speed. If you are riding the bike uphill, you will get less speed, whereas if you are using the bike on smooth terrain or downhill, you will get a better speed.
Battery voltage, charging level quality
If your 1500w ebike is not paired with a correct voltage battery, you would not get its top speed (45 mph). Generally, a 1500-watt ebike is equipped with a 52v or 60v lithium battery.
Always keep your ebike battery charged otherwise you would get less speed because a low-charged battery has a lower voltage. Apart from this, the quality of the battery affects the speed, If the battery has some problems, it will reduce the bike’s speed or may catch fire in some cases.
If you want to improve the battery performance and increase its lifespan, always charge an ebike battery to 80 percent level.
Weight on bike
The weight of the rider and luggage also impacts the performance and speed of the 1500 watt electric bike. If a rider is very heavy as well as carrying heavy luggage on the bike, it will reduce the speed of the e-bike.
Environmental conditions
External environmental conditions can also affect the 1500w ebike top speed. If there is a strong wind while the rider is riding or if the rider is riding in an extremely cold environment, it will reduce the performance and speed of an e-bike.
Legal Restrictions on 1500W Ebike Speeds
It is very important and essential to understand the electric bike riding laws and restrictions in your state or town. In the United States, there is a law that says that class 1 and 2 electric bikes can be ridden up to 20 mph.
Class 3 bikes (up to 750 watts) are limited to being ridden up to 28 mph. There are 6 states (Georgia, Kansas, Minnesota, Oklahoma, Oregon, and Virginia) that allow ebikes of up to 1000 watts.
There are only two states Florida and Mississippi have no maximum power limit for electric bikes. So what about a 1500w electric bike, will it be considered an ebike or an e-motorbike with pedals?
Except in Florida and Mississippi, 1500w electric bikes will be considered electric motorbikes because of their high motor wattage and a top speed of up to 45 mph.
That’s why there is a legal restriction on riding these bikes in the United States without permission from the authority (registration number, license, and insurance).
All riders must follow riding laws and rules given by states to ensure their safety. Here are some rules for riding an ebike:
- Riders must educate themselves, understand the laws and restrictions, and follow them while riding an e-bike.
- In 8 states of the US, a rider must be at least 14 years old to be able to ride, and in 6 states, above 15, and in 15 states, above 16. Source
- You must wear a helmet while riding a class 3 or any ebike having a top speed of above 20 mph.
- In most states of the United States, class 3 e-bikes are not allowed to be ridden on sidewalks and bike paths.
Conclusion on The 1500 Watt Electric Bike Top Speed
Overall, the speed of a 1500w ebike is faster than 1000w ebike speed which can be a thrilling experience for those who enjoy a fast-paced ride. These bikes have a higher top speed of about 40 to 45 mph.
So, it’s crucial for you to ride responsibly and stay aware of your surroundings to ensure a safe and enjoyable ride because 1500w ebikes come with their own risks and responsibilities, it’s important to follow traffic rules and wear protective gear to stay safe.
If you are a beginner, you should not ride this bike as it is unsafe for you.
Thanks for reading this article till the end, If you have any doubts ask in the comment below! Keep riding Stay Safe!
FAQs: How Fast Can a 1500w Ebike Go?
How fast is a 1500-watt electric bike in mph?
1500-watt electric bikes are faster than lower-wattage ebikes because of their high power and torque. It has a maximum speed of 45 mph (miles per hour) on plane roads and it is limited to 25 mph on hills.
Are 1500 watts enough for an ebike?
Yes! 1500-watt motor power is more than enough for an electric bike. No matter what your purpose is, this bike is perfect for all purposes such as commuting at high speeds, climbing hills, carrying heavy loads, and so on.
Can a 1500w electric bike climb hills?
Yes! An ebike with a 1500w motor (hub or mid-drive) can easily climb hills as it has excellent power (torque) and speed on hills as well.
Is it legal to ride a 1500w electric bike in the USA?
1500-watt electric bikes are classified as e-scooter or motorbikes. You can ride these bikes as well but you need to follow certain rules such as you need a license, insurance, and registration number on your bike and must be wearing a helmet. Make sure you don’t ride this bike on the bicycle lane.
Do I need a license to ride a 1500w electric bike?
Yes! You need a license for riding any ebike above 1000 watts in the USA ( rules may vary in some states). Also, you are bound to follow all the traffic rules that a car follows.
s:
Bittoo Gupta
I am the founder and editor of The Bike Fetcher, a passionate E-Biker. My passion for E-bikes led me to build this blog site where I share electric bike news updates, my e-biking experience, e-biking tips, e-bike battery tips and help people to get the best e-bike. Feel free to contact me on my social accounts or through the contact form.
U.S. Electric Bike Regulations
What makes a bike street legal? Do I need a license for an electric bike? Access QuietKat’s helpful guide to Class 3 Electric Bike Laws and the latest US Electric Regulations to get answers to all your questions.
Whether you’re a seasoned eBiker or a newbie, every rider should be aware of the local and U.S electric bike regulations in their state.
Anyone who is considering purchasing an electric bicycle should understand their legal riding limits. Even veteran eBikers may benefit from a refresher on eBike regulations, as several states have changed their classifications as recently as 2020.
If you’re new to eBiking, you’re not alone; eBikes have become increasingly popular across the U.S. in the last decade. E-Bike popularity has outpaced U.S electric bike regulations and left many states playing catch-up.
E-Bikes have grown in popularity as a fun way to explore outside and an eco-friendly alternative to car-based trips. Electric bikes are popular for recreation, fitness, and commuting. Bikes like those from QuietKat can even go off-road as high-performance electric mountain bikes. E-Bikes are increasingly replacing ATVs as the vehicle of choice for hunting, angling, or Overlanding.
The eBike market grew over 23%-over-year in 2020, with the market projected to grow even more in the next ten years. People across the country continue to discover the benefits of electric bikes to enhance their everyday activities or as an opportunity to explore new terrain. Public Lands organizations also acknowledge the benefits of eBikes and are expanding access to riders across national parks, forests and wilderness areas.
Several U.S. states are still adapting to this Rapid growth in popularity and are navigating the implementation of eBike regulations and classifications. Some states have strict laws for electric bikes. while in other states, eBikes lack a specific vehicle classification, and it’s not clear how they are regulated.
Before you hop on your QuietKat eBike, be sure you understand the current regulations in your state and for anywhere else you plan to ride. QuietKat bikes are great for all-terrain riding, and in most states, they can go almost anywhere off-road vehicles can go. However, if you want to commute on your eBike or ride in the city, you may face a different set of regulations.
Overview of U.S. electric bike regulations
Which states define an electric bicycle?
E-Bike definitions and classification is becoming increasingly common across the U.S. 48 states currently have definitions for eBikes. State legislation usually focuses on whether eBikes classify as traditional bikes, mopeds, or scooters, but definitions still vary across other states.
Adoption of a board tired classification is growing across the country. These 39 states now define eBikes within three standard classes : Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, North Dakota, Missouri, New Mexico, Minnesota, Idaho, Nebraska, Kansas, Alabama, Massachusetts, Mississippi, New Hampshire, Nevada, New Jersey, Delaware, New Jersey, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.
Eighteen states classify eBikes using unique definitions; these states are Hawaii, Oregon, Montana, Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, Washington DC, and Rhode Island.
Eleven states or territories currently have no definitions for eBikes.
Alaska, Puerto Rico, U.S Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, and the Northern Mariana Islands.
What are the different eBike classifications?
Twenty-six states have adopted a three-tiered classification that designates eBikes as either Class 1, 2, or 3. E-bikes span a wide gap between analog bikes and dirt bikes, and the tiered system of eBike regulations recognizes this. It differentiates between eBike models with varying speed and power capabilities.
Class 1 and 2 bikes are the most common class of eBikes for recreational riders who enjoy mountain biking, hunting, or exploring outdoors. Class 3 eBikes are typically designed to replace a moped or motorcycle and are best suited to urban road use.
States which use the three-tiered classification have near-identical definitions for eBikes, as well as eBike safety and operation requirements.
Three-Tiered Classification:
An eBike is considered Class 1 when it has a top speed of 20 miles per hour and an electric motor that works only with pedaling (pedal assist).
An eBike will fall into Class 2 if equipped with a throttle-actuated motor. That motor must cease to assist when the eBike reaches 20 miles per hour.
A Class 3 eBike is a bicycle with a motor that provides assistance only if the rider is pedaling and should cease to assist when the eBike reaches 28 miles per hour. Class 3 eBikes are also known as pedelec bikes. Class 3 is the most restricted classification, and some states impose additional safety restrictions for riders on Class 3 cycles.
Is there a speed limit on eBikes in the United States?
Are you feeling a need for speed? The federal speed limit for eBikes is 20 miles per hour or less under motor power alone.
The tiered classification system, adopted by many states, also specifies this speed limit. That classification sets 20 miles per hour as the legal limit for Class 1 2 bikes. Class 3 bikes are limited to speeds up to 28 miles per hour.
The federal law acknowledges and allows for eBikes to travel faster when the rider uses a combination of human pedal and motor power. Local speed restrictions may also apply in specific areas.
Although some states have a specific speed limit for electric bikes, riders should also observe the local speed limits when on roads. Although many bikes can reach 30 miles per hour, you should follow the local limits if they are lower in areas such as school zones.
How old do you have to be to ride an eBike?
Age restrictions for eBikes vary from state to state and are often only applicable to Class 2 or Class 3 electric bikes.
It is best to check the laws specific to your state to see age restrictions. Some states require riders to be over a certain age, while other states only have age requirements for certain classes of eBikes, and some states have no age restrictions.
What states enforce eBike registration?
Most states that define eBikes as vehicles or on the same basis as mopeds will require riders to meet the state’s specific registration requirements. States currently requiring eBike registration are Alabama, Alaska, Hawaii, Louisiana, Massachusetts, New Mexico, North Dakota, Wisconsin, and West Virginia.
Which states have helmet requirements?
Within the U.S.A, 25 states and Washington D.C. currently have helmet requirements for eBike riders and passengers. Five states, Connecticut, Maryland, West Virginia, Massachusetts, and Louisiana, require helmets for all ages and across all eBike classes and bicycles.
Electric bicycle helmet laws across other states can be confusing as they are often specific to particular eBike classes or age groups. However, 25 states have no helmet requirements for any class of eBike or riders of any age.
Typically, states which follow the tiered classification system require helmets at minimum for anyone riding a Class 3 eBike. But helmets are often required for younger riders on other bike classes as well.
Most states which require helmets will accept bicycle helmets. However, Alabama requires a motorcycle helmet because it defines every eBike as a motor-driven cycle. While helmets aren’t legally required in all states, QuietKat does recommend helmets for all eBike riders in the interest of eBike safety.
Helmet laws by age
Around half the states in the U.S currently require children to wear helmets on eBikes at least until they reach a certain age. Helmet regulations most commonly apply only when the rider is under 21, but usually specifically for riders under 14 or 16. Around half of the states in the U.S. require children and teenagers to wear helmets, although we recommend that all children wear helmets even if not legally required.
Delaware, Florida, Maine, North Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia and Maryland, and Montana require any eBike Rider or their passenger under 16 years of age to wear a helmet.
Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, and New Mexico require anyone under 18 to wear a helmet when on an electric bicycle.
Other states differ on the age up to which they require helmets. Oklahoma has a helmet law for anyone under the age of 19. In New Jersey, all bike riders under 17 must wear a helmet. In West Virginia, bike riders under 15 must wear a helmet and, in New York, bicycle riders under 14 are required to wear a helmet. In Louisiana and Pennsylvania, riders under the age of 12 must wear a helmet.
What states require a license to ride an eBike?
In States where eBikes are classified as mopeds or scooters, they usually require licensing and registration. Alabama, Alaska, Massachusetts, Missouri, New Mexico, Wisconsin, and North Dakota currently require a license to operate an eBike. States using the three-tiered classification system usually exempt electric bikes from registration, licensure, or insurance requirements.
Do I need insurance to ride an eBike?
States which consider eBikes as distinct from motor vehicles do not require the insurance requirements that standard motor vehicles are subject to.
Several states see eBikes as motor vehicles akin to mopeds and require the same license and registration requirements. However, most of those states do not require eBike insurance. Although driver’s insurance is rarely needed, you may wish to add your electric bike to your home and contents insurance to protect against theft or damage.
Where can I use my electric bike?
Each state has different rules about eBike access, and federal land rules also vary.
Roads, sidewalks, and bike paths
Delaware, Iowa and Nebraska, and Vermont all define electric bicycles as on-par with bicycles. Therefore eBikes can operate on any trails and paths where bicycles are allowed. Hawaii’s law does not have any specific restrictions on where e-bikes can be used.
Of the 43 states and D.C. that define eBikes. some state laws, such as in Arizona, Minnesota, Utah, and Washington, specifically allow for eBikes to operate on sidewalks and bicycle paths. However, local governments in these states have the power to impose additional restrictions. Class 3 bikes are more commonly restricted on bike paths and sidewalks as these bikes are allowed to go faster, making them better suited to road use and popular with eBike commuters.
In the following states, eBikes may be operated on roads but can not be used on sidewalks or bike paths: Alabama, Alaska, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin. Some cities or local authorities may have exceptions to these regulations.
In Florida, eBikes are allowed on sidewalks but are not permitted on bike paths when using human power alone.
Where can electric mountain bikes and electric hunting bikes ride?
Off-road areas are different from pavements. So, where can electric mountain bikes ride? Generally, any natural surface trail designated for motorized and non-motorized use is open to electric mountain bikes (eMBTs). Natural surface trails can include motorized singletrack, doubletrack, and primitive roads.
However, riders shouldn’t assume that eclectic mountain bikes are allowed everywhere traditional mountain bikes are. Access on singletrack is usually regulated differently from access to paved and soft surface bike lanes or bike paths. People For Bikes have compiled a handy eMBT ride finder with over 42,000 miles of fun routes and trails cataloged to help riders find tracks.
eBike usage amongst hunters is steadily increasing as enthusiasts discover the benefits of eBiking for off-road excursions. Electric bikes allow hunters or anglers to stealthily access more remote areas which would otherwise be out of limits.
If you enjoy using an electric hunting bike, you may wonder what rules apply and how they differ from an ATV or a quad bike. Most states allow bikes in class 1 and class 2 for hunting areas. However, in Pennsylvania, only class 1 bikes are allowed. QuietKat hunting bikes are ideal for use when hunting or Overlanding and are built to go almost anywhere an ATV can go.
In national parks, electric bicycles are usually allowed wherever traditional bicycles are also allowed. However, the access allowed for cyclists varies from one park to another. Usage rules by the state are complex and varied, so it’s worth checking your local guidelines. Don’t ride your eMTB in wilderness areas where the local regulations are unclear. Ride legally and safely only on authorized trails.
What are the rules for electric bikes in National Forest, BLM land, and National Parks?
Until recently, most non-motorized routes within federal lands prohibited bikes with electric motors.
However, in 2019 several agencies expanded access to eBikes on public lands ; these included The Bureau of Land Management (BLM), National Park Service (NPS), Fish and Wildlife Service, and Bureau of Reclamation. From August 29th, 2019, all eBikes up to 750 watts (class 1 class 2) can now access Federal Lands and national parks.
E-bikes advance the NPS’s “Healthy Parks Healthy People” goals and have been acknowledged as a positive way to expand access to national parks. They are also viewed as being a beneficial way to reduce congestion and vehicle emissions in national parks.
Generally, electric bikes in national parks and public lands are now allowed access wherever traditional bicycles are permitted. Under Federal statute, both conventional bicycles and electric bikes remain prohibited in wilderness areas within national parks.
Bicycles are also allowed on administrative roads, which may be closed to public motor vehicles but open to motor vehicle use by the NPS. Access to these roads is determined on a per park basis, where local superintendents have decided eclectic bikes will not disturb wildlife or park resources. Some parks also allow additional access to eBikes on paths where mobility devices like wheelchairs are permitted.
Despite expanded recreational opportunities and accessibility rules for electric bikes on public lands, they still vary for specific trails and classes of eBike.
Riders should follow local jurisdictions’ rules and look up the rules for specific national parks and forests when planning their trips.
In which states are 1000W Ebikes legal?
Six states specifically allow eBikes to have a max power of 1000W; these are Georgia, Kansas, Minnesota, Oklahoma, Oregon, and Virginia. Only two states, Florida Mississippi, currently have no max power limit for electric bikes.
High-powered eBike motors are available, ranging from 1000W-6000W. However, most states cap power at either 750W or 1000W. Once an electric bicycle reaches 1000w. it is more likely to be classified as a moped or scooter. Therefore, many states cap eBike outputs at less than 1000W.
Sixteen states cap eBikes at a max power of 750W; these are; Arkansas, California, Colorado, Delaware, Iowa, Maine, Michigan, Missouri, Nevada, New Hampshire, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Texas, Utah, Washington, and Wisconsin. Maryland has one of the strictest limits, at 500W.
Other safety considerations
It’s worth adopting the three-tiered system for general electric bike safety if you are in a state with no current electric bike regulations. Helmets are also highly recommended for riders of all ages, even if your state does not legally require them.
Riders of both electric and traditional bikes should make themselves highly visible, especially if you plan to use busy roads. Remember that electric bikes are still relatively new, so other motorists may not be used to sharing the road with eBikes and may struggle to gauge how fast you are traveling.
We highly recommend wearing a reflective vest and using flashing headlights and tail lights when riding at night. Bright clothing can also help make you more visible to other motorists during the daytime.
Whenever you use an electric bike on the road, you should observe local road rules, such as stopping entirely at stop signs, keeping a safe distance from other vehicles, and using your hand signals when turning.
With rules and regulations changing rapidly, the eclectic bike community as a whole must show consideration for other cyclists, pedestrians, trail, and road users. Take care of slower-moving vehicles or pedestrians, and be sure to share trails and paths. A good reputation will help electric bike riders advocate for greater access to public spaces.
Ready to ride?
eBike regulations are complex, but once you’ve done your research, you can hit the trails or road with confidence, knowing that you’re not breaking any rules.
QuietKat bikes are best suited to off-road terrain, where riders have more freedom from regulations. Although our bikes are certainly street-worthy, they’re equipped for Overlanding adventures. Our bikes vary from class 1 to class 3, with modifications available on some models. Our range offers our riders the greatest flexibility in choosing a bike that is both trail and street legal in their state. Explore the full range now.
E-Bike definitions classifications by state:
An overview of the definitions per state is provided below, but further information on state-by-state safety and eBike regulations is found elsewhere in this article.
Alaska : Alaska considers electric bicycles as a “motor-driven cycle” and requires a license and registration.
Alabama: Alabama uses the three-tiered classification of eBikes. Electric bicycles are regulated like traditional bicycles.
Arkansas: Arkansas uses the three-tiered classification of eBikes. Electric bicycles are regulated in the same manner as traditional bikes.
Arizona: Arizona adheres to the three-tiered classification of eBikes. Electric bicycles are regulated like traditional bicycles.
California: California adheres to the three-tiered classification of eBikes. E-Bikes are regulated in the same way as traditional bicycles.
Colorado: Colorado uses the three-tiered classification of eBikes. Electric bicycles are regulated in the same way as traditional bicycles.
Connecticut: Connecticut uses the three-tiered classification of eBikes. Electric bicycles are regulated in the same manner as traditional bikes.
Delaware: Delaware uses the three-tiered classification of eBikes. Electric bicycles are regulated in the same manner as traditional bikes.
Florida: Florida uses the three-tiered classification of eBikes. Electric bicycles are regulated in the same manner as traditional bikes.
Georgia: Georgia uses the three-tiered classification of eBikes. Electric bikes are regulated in the same way as traditional bikes.
Hawaii: Hawaii classifies electric bikes as “low-speed electric bicycles” when used with a max speed of 20 mph.
Iowa: Iowa uses the three-tiered classification of eBikes. Electric bikes are regulated in the same way as traditional bikes.
Idaho : Idaho uses the three-tiered classification of eBikes. E-Bikes are regulated in the same way as traditional bikes.
Illinois: Illinois adheres to the three-tiered classification of eBikes.Electric bikes are regulated in the same way as traditional bikes.
Indiana: Indiana uses the three-tiered classification of eBikes. E-Bikes are regulated in the same way as traditional bikes.
Kansas: The state of Kansas uses the three-tiered classification of eBikes. E-Bikes are regulated in the same way as traditional bikes.
Kentucky: In Kentucky, an electric bicycle is considered a “bicycle” as long it has operable pedals.
Louisiana: Louisiana uses the three-tiered classification of eBikes. E-Bikes are regulated in the same way as traditional bikes.
Massachusetts: The state of Massachusetts defines an eBike as a “motorized bicycle” as long as the bike does not exceed a maximum speed of 25 mph. Riders must carry a license and may be subject to registration requirements.
Maryland: Maryland uses the three-tiered classification of eBikes. Electric bikes are regulated in the same way as traditional bikes.
Maine: Maine adheres to the three-tiered classification of eBikes. E-Bikes are regulated in the same way as traditional bikes.
Michigan: Michigan regulates eBikes like traditional bicycles, and the three-tiered classification is used for electric bikes.
Minnesota: Minnesota uses the three-tiered classification of eBikes. Electric bikes are regulated in the same way as traditional bikes.
Missouri: Missouri uses the three-tiered classification of eBikes. Electric bikes are regulated in the same way as traditional bikes.
Mississippi: Mississippi uses the three-tiered classification of eBikes. Electric bikes are regulated in the same way as traditional bikes.
Montana: Montana defines an electric bicycle as an “electric-assisted bicycle.” A bike can be placed in this category if it has a maximum speed of 20 mph. The same rules of the road apply to both electric bicycles and human-powered bicycles.
North Carolina: North Carolina defines e-bikes as “electric-assisted bicycles,” so long as the electric bicycle’s motor is under 750w, has a maximum speed of 20mph, and has operable pedals. The same rules of the road apply to both electric bicycles and human-powered bicycles.
North Dakota: The state of North Dakota uses the three-tiered classification of eBikes. Electric bikes are regulated in the same way as traditional bikes.
Nebraska: Nebraska defines eBikes as an “electric-assisted bicycle.” Bikes in this category must have a motor under 750w, and a maximum speed of 20 mph, with pedals operated by human power. The same rules of the road apply to both electric bicycles and human-powered bicycles.
New Hampshire: New Hampshire follows the three-tiered classification of electric bikes. E-Bikes are regulated like traditional bicycles.
New Jersey: The NJ definition includes only the first two tiers of classifications used by other states. The legislature also defines “motorized bicycles” as a device that operates over 20 mph with a maximum motor-assisted speed of 28 miles per hour. This definition closely aligns with the Class 3 definition used in other states.
New Mexico: New Mexico uses the three-tiered classification of eBikes. Electric bikes are regulated in the same way as traditional bikes.
Nevada: The state of Nevada uses the three-tiered classification of eBikes. Electric bikes are regulated in the same way as traditional bikes.
New York: New York State uses the three-tiered classification of eBikes. The first two classes follow the industry standard and the third class is defined as “s olely within a city having a population of one million or more, a bicycle with electric assist having an electric motor that may be used exclusively to propel such bicycle, and that is not capable of providing assistance when such bicycle reaches a speed of twenty-five miles per hour. Electric bikes are regulated in the same way as traditional bikes.
Ohio: In Ohio, the three-tiered classification is used for electric bicycles, with eBikes regulated like traditional bicycles.
Oklahoma: Oklahoma follows the three-tiered classification of eBikes. Electric bicycles are regulated in the same way as traditional bicycles.
Oregon: Oregon defines an eBike as an “electric-assisted bicycle” if the motor is under 1000w and the bike has a max speed of 20miles per hour.
Pennsylvania: Pennsylvania defines an electric bicycle as a “pedalcycle with electric assist.” An eBikes falls in this category if the motor is under 750w. It must have operable pedals but a maximum speed of 20 mph when powered solely by the engine. Additionally, the bike must weigh no more than 100 pounds and follow the road’s same rules as a traditional bicycle. E-Bikes that are 750w and below are allowed on any public trail a traditional bicycle is on DCNR lands.
Rhode Island: Rhode Island defines e-bikes as “electric motorized bicycles.” E-bikes must have fully operable pedals, a max power output of 1491w, and a top speed of 25 mph.
South Carolina: South Carolina currently has no specific classification for electric bikes. However, since eBikes are vehicles, they should follow standard vehicle road rules.
South Dakota: In South Dakota, the three-tiered classification is used for electric bicycles, with E-Bikes regulated like traditional bicycles.
Tennessee: Tennessee uses the three-tiered classifications for electric bicycles. E-Bikes are regulated like traditional bicycles.
Texas: The state of Texas uses the three-tiered classification for electric bicycles, with E-Bikes regulated like traditional bicycles.
Utah: In Utah, E-Bikes are regulated like traditional bicycles, and the three-tiered classification for electric bikes applies.
Virginia: Virginia uses the three-tiered classification for electric bicycles, with E-Bikes regulated like traditional bicycles.
Vermont: Vermont uses the three-tiered classification for electric bicycles, with E-Bikes regulated like traditional bicycles.
Washington: Washington state regulates eBikes like traditional bicycles, and the three-tiered classification is used for electric bikes.
Wisconsin: Wisconsin uses the three-tiered classification for electric bicycles, with E-Bikes regulated like traditional bicycles.
West Virginia: West Virginia uses the three-tiered classification for electric bicycles, with E-Bikes regulated like traditional bicycles.
Wyoming: Wyoming uses the three-tiered classification for electric bicycles, with E-Bikes regulated like traditional bicycles.
State electric bike rules and regulations change regularly. We recommend you check your local laws periodically so you can legally enjoy the benefits of riding your electric bicycle.