If you’re wondering about the type of roads that an electric bike can go on, here’s a short answer. E-bikes are similar enough to normal bikes that they can go on all of the same roads as non-motorized bikes. In fact, e-bikes can often make pedaling on roads over hills and other uneven terrain even easier than a normal bike. However, there are a few things to know about before picking an e-bike, so make sure you consider the following before switching over to an e-bike.
E-bike regulations vary greatly by country and state
As e-bikes are so brand new, there isn’t a universal, worldwide system of rules yet regulating e-bike usage. However, Europe, America, and other Western countries typically follow the same 3 category system for classifying e-bikes and their areas of use. These 3 classes of E-bikes are the most common at retail, and can also be purchased and used by anyone above the age of 16 without a license. They are as follows
Class I E-Bikes
Class I e-bikes have pedal assist motors that go up to 20 MPH. These are the most widely accepted e-bikes, and are allowed almost everywhere normal bikes are permitted. City streets, bike paths, mountain biking trails, and other roads are permitted for travel with a Class I e-bike.
Class II E-Bikes
Class II e-bikes have a motor assist up to 20 MPH as well, but feature a throttle instead of pedal assist or a combination of the two. Class II E-Bikes are generally allowed in the same places as Class I E-Bikes, but are less common than Class I E-bikes.
Class III E-Bikes
Class III e-bikes motors will assist bikers up to 28 MPH, and are the best suited for roads, especially those with heavy and fast moving traffic. While Class III E-bikes are well suited for city and urban areas, they tend to be banned from use on mountain biking trails.
Local towns and trails may have additional e-bikes regulation, so always make sure to check with your local authorities before purchase. The growing popularity of E-bikes also means that they’re becoming more popular at traditional large chain retail stores, so be sure to consult with your local retailer as well.
What kind of E-bikes are best for Roads
Road bikes have their own distinct features and characteristics that set them apart from traditional bikes, and e-bikes are no different. Referred to as eRoad bikes, the key things you’ll want to look out for include:
- A lightweight frame, wheels, and other key components. Typically narrow wheels, tire, and seat as well.
- Typically, a drop/curled handlebar, though some eRoad bikes may use a flat bar for comfort.
- No suspension, or a partial suspension for a more hybrid type of eRoad bike.
- Carbon-fiber bike frames, though aluminum is a less performative option for a more inexpensive eRoad bike.
If you’re unsure of how something will perform, even after reading reviews, try to see if you can demo a eRoad bike with a local retailer. If they don’t have the one you want to try in stock, many manufacturers offer 30 to 60 day guarantees for trying their e-bikes out. That way, you can get a good idea if an e-bike is well suited for you before having to commit to your purchase.
Conclusion: An E-bike can go wherever a normal Bike Can
While the overall performance of your e-bike will vary, a e-bike will behave similarly to a normal, motorless bike on the road. As long as your e-bike is under the 28 mph / 45 kph limit for many Western countries, you’ll even be able to use one without any sort of license. You’ll still need to obey traffic laws and follow proper biking etiquette, but you’ll be able to go almost anywhere a normal bike can with an e-Bike.
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